Bosnia and Herzegovina is a land of stunning contrasts, where dramatic mountain peaks meet serene river valleys and picturesque villages. Tucked away in the heart of the Balkans, this country offers some of the most breathtaking road trips in Southeast Europe—perfect for travelers who want to explore off-the-beaten-path routes and experience nature, culture, and history in a single drive.
If you’re planning a road trip through this beautiful country, here are the top scenic drives you absolutely must explore:
1. Sarajevo – Jahorina – Trebević: A Winter Wonderland Drive
This route takes you from the vibrant capital Sarajevo to the Olympic mountain Jahorina, and on to Trebević—a mountain with panoramic views just above the city. The drive winds through dense forests and mountain curves, with breathtaking views over Sarajevo, especially from the famous Trebević cable car or the abandoned Olympic bobsled track. In winter, snow-covered landscapes turn this route into a true alpine fairytale, while summer offers crisp mountain air and endless green.
2. Mostar – Blidinje Nature Park: From Stone Bridges to Alpine Valleys
Begin in the historic town of Mostar, famous for its iconic Old Bridge and Ottoman architecture, and head towards Blidinje Nature Park. The road takes you through wild limestone mountains, steep canyons, and wide open fields. As you climb higher, the Mediterranean vegetation gives way to pine forests and highland plateaus. Make a stop at Lake Blidinje and enjoy the peace of this lesser-known mountain gem.
3. Foča – Tjentište – Sutjeska National Park: Into the Heart of Wilderness
One of the most dramatic drives in the country, this route brings you deep into the Sutjeska National Park—home to Perućica, one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe. The road from Foča to Tjentište follows the emerald Drina River and then climbs into rugged mountains, past WW2 monuments and deep green valleys. Don’t miss a detour to the viewpoint over the Skakavac waterfall, hidden in the forest.
4. Konjic – Boračko Lake – Glavatičevo: Rivers, Lakes, and Tranquility
Leaving Konjic, a charming town famous for its old bridge and woodcraft, head toward Boračko Lake and the village of Glavatičevo. This is a peaceful drive along the Neretva River, where turquoise waters and towering cliffs create postcard-perfect scenes. The road hugs the riverbanks and winds through canyons, past small villages and campsites—a favorite route for rafters and nature lovers.
5. Trebinje – Vjetrenica Cave – Stolac: Southern Serenity
Explore the sun-soaked south by taking a drive from Trebinje, through the fertile Popovo Polje valley, and toward the ancient town of Stolac. Along the way, stop at the Vjetrenica Cave, the largest cave in Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its biodiversity and underground rivers. This route showcases the Herzegovinian karst landscape—arid, rocky, and dramatic—with historical surprises around every bend.
6. Banja Luka – Mrkonjić Grad – Šipovo: Through the Green Heart of Krajina
This scenic route through western Bosnia leads you along the Vrbas River canyon, one of the most impressive natural corridors in the region. With steep cliffs and emerald waters, the road is ideal for photographers and adventurers alike. Continue on to Mrkonjić Grad and then to Šipovo, where you’ll find hidden waterfalls, caves, and the calm beauty of Pliva lakes.