8 Nights in Bosnia and Herzegovina

About the destination: "Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with an estimated population of 369,534. The Sarajevo metropolitan area, including Sarajevo, East Sarajevo and surrounding municipalities inhabitants. Moreover, it is also the capita of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina entity, the capital of the Republika Srpska entity, and the center of the Sarajevo Canton. Sarajevo is the leading political, social and cultural center of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a prominent center of culture in the Balkans, with its region-wide influence in entertainment, media, fashion, and the arts. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Old Town. The cobbled streets, mosques and Oriental style shops at the heart the city are a world away from Europe, and when the call-to-prayer starts, one could be forgiven for thinking that they were actually in the Middle East. • Latin Bridge. Across the street from this bridge was the location of the 28 June 1914 assassination of Archduke of the Austrian Hungarian empire Franz Ferdinand, the event that sparked the beginning of World War I. A memorial to the assassin Gavrilo Princip, his footprints carved in stone and mounted in the sidewalk, used to be here but this was removed during the 1992-1995 War. • Yellow Fortress. The small fortress provides a great view of the city. Walk through the war cemetery at the eastern end of the old town. Another way is to follow the river upstream. • Markale Market Place. Marked the start of NATO intervention and thereby end of the war after a bombing which took the life of some 40 people. The main entrance is located on Ferhadija and backs onto Mula Mustafe Baseskije. The street that runs between the two roads is called Gajevo. • Vrelo Bosne. The beginning of the river Bosna where the water is pure and ice cold. In less than 20 minutes on foot from the city centre, you are out in the countryside, with no suburbs in between: unique for a large city. • Bosnian Historical Museum. The moving display on the siege of Sarajevo is a must-see - if you are able to cope with the pictures of the maimed citizens after shelling of markets. And you will be heartbroken by the pictures drawn by children. • National Museum. Static displays of the natural and human history of Bosnia and Herzegovina - including an exhibition of traditional Turkish style homes of Sarajevo prevalent in the nineteenth century, an extensive collection of insects and stuffed mammals and a large geology section with samples from around the world and a number of meteorites."

About the destination: "Mostar is a city and municipality in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina. Inhabited by 113,169 people, it is the most important city in the Herzegovina region, its cultural capital, and the center of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton of the Federation. Mostar is situated on the Neretva River and is the fifth-largest city in the country. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Stari Most - The Old Bridge. Originally built by the Turks in 1566, it was destroyed in 1993, but rebuilt in 2004. The bridge is the highlight of Mostar and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. • Old Bridge Museum. Includes exhibits on the history of the bridge, a panoramic view from the top, and entrance into the excavations below, along with a video detailing the reconstruction of the bridge. • Muslibegovica House. Constructed 300 years ago, it is considered the most beautiful house from Ottoman period in the Balkans. The house is comprised of separate quarters for women and men. Unlike earlier architectural styles, this house resembled a four-storey house built around the centre. • History Museum of Herzegovina. Has a small collection of photographs from various phases of Mostar history, including a small exhibit on a native son who appeared to have served as Tito's former Foreign Minister for a space. Also shows an excellent video on the recent history of the Old Bridge. • Koski Mehmed Pasina Dzamija. Small but simply pretty Ottoman mosque built in 1618. Climb to the minaret to see a great view over the town. • Karadozbegova Dzamija. A modest Ottoman mosque built in 1557. • Biscevica House. An Ottoman house, where you only can see the few rooms in upstairs."

About the destination: Explore Banja Luka: A Gem in Bosnia and Herzegovina Nestled along the verdant banks of the Vrbas River, Banja Luka is the second-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina and a destination brimming with cultural richness, natural beauty, and a fascinating history. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, this city invites travelers to explore its blend of traditional architecture and contemporary charm. Upon arriving in Banja Luka, visitors are often drawn to the imposing Kastel Fortress. This historic fortress, located in the heart of the city, dates back to Roman times and has witnessed numerous battles and sieges. Today, it stands as a silent guardian of the past, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls and cultural events. Inside its robust walls, one can often find festivals and concerts, breathing new life into the ancient stones. The city's religious heritage is beautifully showcased through its various places of worship. The Cathedral of Saint Bonaventure, with its soaring twin towers, is a must-see, representing a beacon of Catholic faith in the region. Equally captivating is the Ferhadija Mosque, a symbol of Banja Luka's Islamic heritage, which has been meticulously reconstructed after the war in the 1990s. Walking through the city's streets, visitors can sense the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures and religions. For the nature enthusiasts, Banja Luka does not disappoint. The Vrbas River offers a plethora of activities ranging from peaceful boat rides to the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting. Surrounding the city are the lush landscapes of Krupa Waterfalls and Banj Brdo hill, perfect for those seeking serenity or a panoramic view of the cityscape below. As evening falls, enjoy the vibrant café culture, savoring traditional Bosnian cuisine and sipping coffee like a local. Banja Luka, with its unique blend of history, culture, and nature, truly offers something for every traveler.

About the destination: Travnik (Bosnia) is a city and the administrative center of Central Bosnia Canton of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, an entity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is situated in central Bosnia and Herzegovina, 90 kilometres (56 miles) west of Sarajevo. As of 2013, city had a population of 16,534 inhabitants, while the municipality had 53,482 inhabitants. Historically, it was the capital city of the governors of Bosnia from 1699 to 1850, and has a cultural heritage dating from that period.