Things To Do
in Bihać

Bihać sits on the Una River in the northwest of Bosnia and Herzegovina, surrounded by forested hills and karst landscapes. The city blends Ottoman-era architecture with a lively riverside atmosphere and serves as a gateway to Una National Park. Its compact center is walkable, offering a mix of historic sites, markets, and welcoming cafés along the river.

Visitors come for nature escapes, cultural heritage, and warm Bosnian hospitality in a relaxed riverfront setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and City Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Bihać and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Bosnian pastries. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets, soaking in the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Una, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant with stunning views of the Una River. Explore the nearby Bihać Fortress, taking in panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

evening
:

Dine at a local eatery, enjoying some authentic Bosnian ćevapi. Spend the evening wandering along the riverbank as the sun sets, capturing beautiful photographs. Wrap up your day at a cozy café, sipping Bosnian coffee while listening to live traditional music.

day 2
Vrelo Una National Park
morning
:

After breakfast, head to Vrelo Una National Park, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and lush landscapes. Begin your exploration with a hike along the park's trails, where you'll encounter stunning views and diverse wildlife. Don't forget to capture the enchanting beauty of the waterfalls in your photos.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, taking a moment to relax by the water. Continue exploring the park, opting for activities like canoeing or swimming in the refreshing waters. The serene environment invites you to disconnect and appreciate the natural beauty.

evening
:

Return to Bihać and dine at a restaurant specializing in local cuisine. Spend your evening recounting stories from your day, perhaps over a game of chess with locals at a nearby park. As night falls, stroll along the river, reflecting on the stunning natural landscapes you've experienced.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🚍One-way local transport$0.60-1.50
🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant$12-20
🎟️Museum or activity ticket$3-8
Coffee/tea at a cafe$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming riverside setting and historical sites
  • Excellent base for Una National Park and nature trips
  • Affordability and welcoming locals
  • Walkable city center with easy day trips to nearby destinations
  • Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
  • Some language barriers for non-South Slavic speakers
  • Seasonal variability in tourist crowds
  • Smaller selection of international dining options
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day / Hello
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please
  • "Gdje je toalet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Bihać

Visit one of these nice places.

Bihać Old Town and Fortress

Ancient walls overlook the Una River; best captured at golden hour.

Una River Promenade

Wide river views, bridges, and reflections perfect for long-exposure shots.

Štrbački Buk Waterfall (Una National Park)

Spectacular waterfall and gorge; misty, dramatic photography opportunities.

Kučica Bridge and Riverside Promenade

Architectural lines along the riverbank with sunset backdrops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bihać

Bosnian cuisine in Bihać blends hearty grilled meats, bakeries, river fish, and fragrant coffee. Expect flavorful dishes influenced by Bosniak, Croatian, and Turkish traditions, with generous portions and communal dining vibes.

Bihać Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ćevapi

Small grilled minced meat fingers served with flatbread, onions, and kajmak or sour cream.

Must-Try!

Burek

Flaky pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach; a staple from local bakeries.

Šiška (Una fish)

Freshwater fish from the Una, often grilled with herbs.

Begova čorba

A rich Bosnian soup with meat, vegetables, and sometimes chickpeas.

Cicvara

A hearty cornmeal dish with cheese and butter, great for cool evenings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bihać Market (Pijaca Bihać)

Traditional market selling fresh produce, dairy, meat, baked goods, and locally produced crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bihać has a moderate continental climate with warm summers, cold winters, and distinct seasons. Spring and autumn bring mild days with rain, while summer can be hot and sunny along the Una River.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake with eye contact is standard; greet people with a polite 'Dobar dan' or 'Zdravo' in Bosnian.

Hospitality

Hospitality is valued; accepting offers of tea or coffee is polite and common.

Dress Code

Smart casual for most venues; modest clothing when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall safe for travelers; petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Stay aware of your belongings, use licensed transport, and follow local guidance, especially near water or in remote areas after dark.

Tipping in Bihać

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants and cafés, tipping around 5–10% is appreciated; rounding up is common in casual places.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants; small venues may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with highs around 25–32°C; occasional storms. River activities are popular and evenings are comfortable.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; great for walks and city sightseeing.

Winter

Cold with possible snow; some outdoor trails may be icy and require winter gear.

Spring

Green landscapes, blooming trees, and frequent rainfall; ideal for photography and hikes.

Nightlife Guide

Bihać at Night

Bihać offers a relaxed nightlife centered on riverside cafés, small bars, and casual eateries. The scene is friendly and low-key, with live music occasionally and a strong sense of community along the riverfront.

Hiking in Bihać

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Štrbački Buk via Una National Park Trail

Waterfall trek along the Una River with viewpoints.

Plitvice area day trips

Cross-border hiking with nearby national parks and trails in Croatia.

Airports

How to reach Bihać by plane.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

Major international hub in Croatia; accessible by road/train; numerous connections.

Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ)

Main international airport for Bosnia and Herzegovina; drive to Bihać takes several hours.

Banja Luka International Airport (BNX)

Northern BH airport; alternative gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bihać city center is compact and walkable, with most sights within a short stroll. Riverfront paths are pleasant and well-maintained, though some hillside lanes can be steep.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bosniaks

The largest ethnic group in the area.

Croats

A significant minority in the region.

Serbs

Small communities in the area.

Other

Expat residents and seasonal workers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport with local clubs and matches.

Basketball

Widely played in schools and clubs; community leagues exist.

Handball

Common in athletic clubs and youth programs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light in Bihać; the city relies on local buses and taxis. For trips to nearby towns or Croatia, driving or bus connections are common; border crossings can have waits during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bihać.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Bosnian dishes feature vegetables, dairy, and grains. Look for cheese pastries, grilled vegetables, and bean-based dishes; ask for no meat stock or sauces containing meat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public healthcare is available through local clinics; private clinics and pharmacies operate in the city. Bring travel insurance and your health card if applicable, and ask for English-speaking staff when needed.

Discover Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read more in our Bosnia and Herzegovina 2025 Travel Guide.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Guide