Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets for family travel. From fairytale bridges and lush forests to interactive museums and cozy riverside towns, it’s a country made for young adventurers and curious minds. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, tweens, or teens, there are endless kids activities Bosnia offers that are both enriching and fun.

Despite its complex history, Bosnia is now one of the safest and most affordable countries to visit in the Balkans. You’ll find child-friendly transportation, hospitable locals, and authentic experiences that go far beyond typical tourist routes. It’s a destination that rewards curiosity—perfect for families who want culture, nature, and memory-making moments.

Sarajevo – A Capital Full of Family Surprises

The capital city of Sarajevo is a vibrant blend of East and West, tradition and modernity—and it’s remarkably friendly to children. Whether your kids love scenic rides, outdoor play, or discovering new cultures, Sarajevo delivers one of the richest arrays of kids activities Bosnia has to offer.

Trebević Cable Car

Start with the Trebević cable car, which gently lifts families from the city center into the pine-covered slopes of Trebević Mountain. The panoramic views of Sarajevo are captivating for both adults and children. Once at the top, you’ll find shaded walking trails, a mountaintop playground, and the remnants of the 1984 Olympic bobsled track—great for photos and imagination-fueled play.

War Childhood Museum

One of the most impactful yet accessible museums for families is the War Childhood Museum. It shares real-life experiences of children who lived through war—through their drawings, toys, letters, and voices. Recommended for children over age 8, it’s a heartfelt experience that fosters empathy and understanding.

Vrelo Bosne Park

A favorite for local families, Vrelo Bosne is a park filled with spring-fed streams, ducks, small bridges, and nature trails. You can stroll with a stroller, ride a horse-drawn carriage, or picnic under the trees. This serene oasis is just a short drive or tram ride from the center and ideal for toddlers and young explorers.

Baščaršija and Ferhadija

Wander Sarajevo’s Old Bazaar, known as Baščaršija, where kids can snack on fresh pita, watch copper artisans work, or feed the ever-present pigeons around the Sebilj Fountain. Continue down Ferhadija Street, a wide, stroller-friendly pedestrian zone lined with shops, ice cream, and music.

Mostar – Bridges, Boats, and Bazaar Magic

Famed for its elegant stone bridge and riverside cafés, Mostar has become a must-visit for families. It’s compact, easy to walk, and full of visual intrigue for kids. Best of all, it offers some of the most memorable kids activities Bosnia families will encounter.

Watching the Stari Most Divers

Children are mesmerized by the local divers who leap from the 24-meter-high Stari Most into the icy Neretva River. These professionals put on an exciting show—complete with crowd build-up—and often encourage tourists (especially kids) to cheer them on.

Boat Tours Under the Bridge

Take a calm, guided boat ride on the Neretva River that glides right under the historic arch. Life vests are provided, and children often enjoy pretending to “steer” the boat. It’s a relaxing and unique view of the city.

Shopping and Street Performers

The Old Bazaar is like a living storybook. Kids can buy carved flutes, handmade puppets, and sweets, while street musicians fill the air with Balkan rhythms. Even picky eaters enjoy a crepe or baklava along the way.

Family Dining by the Water

Hindin Han and Šadrvan offer high chairs, kid-sized meals, and riverside seating. Traditional Bosnian meat platters and sweet desserts appeal to both adults and little ones.

Jajce – Waterfalls, Wooden Mills, and Fortress Views

Located in central Bosnia, Jajce is a storybook town that’s perfect for kids who love castles and natural wonders. It’s small and safe, making it ideal for slow-paced days full of exploration.

Pliva Waterfall

Few cities in the world have a full waterfall in the center of town. The Pliva Waterfall is loud, misty, and photogenic—and kids love the sensory rush. Walkways lead to platforms where families can take close-up photos or just cool off.

Mlinčići (Watermills)

Just outside town lie the Mlinčići—tiny, centuries-old watermills perched on little waterfalls. Kids adore jumping from stone to stone, splashing, and imagining what it was like to live there.

Jajce Fortress

Families with older kids should climb up to the 14th-century fortress. The views are incredible, and children often pretend to be knights or explorers as they roam the ancient walls.

Pliva Lakes

You can rent a paddle boat, go fishing, or swim in shallow areas of the lake. These spots are rarely crowded and perfect for a peaceful family afternoon.

Banja Luka – Castles and Riverside Adventures

Bosnia’s second city is often overlooked, but it’s a gem for families. With riverside trails, wide streets, and green parks, Banja Luka is a breath of fresh air—literally.

Kastel Fortress and Vrbas River

Kastel Fortress sits right next to the Vrbas River. The open grounds are perfect for picnics, play, and family photos. You can pair your visit with a scenic river walk lined with playgrounds and shaded benches.

Savica Gondola and Park

A short drive from the city is the Savica Gondola, which takes you to a small mountaintop park with panoramic views and walking trails. It’s quiet, clean, and refreshing—ideal for children who need open space to roam.

Cafés and Sweet Treats

Try pancakes or waffles at Marcafé, a local favorite that’s both kid-approved and affordable.

Nature Escapes – Outdoor Wonders for All Ages

Bosnia’s natural beauty is its greatest asset, especially for families. From waterfalls and forests to underground wonders, there’s something here for every kind of kid.

Kravice Waterfalls

These cascading falls near Ljubuški are perfect for swimming, splashing, or just relaxing by the shore. Kravice is one of the most popular day trips for families, with shaded picnic tables and food stands on site.

Skakavac Waterfall

Located near Sarajevo, Skakavac is one of the tallest waterfalls in the Balkans. A well-marked forest trail leads to the viewing area, making it a great light hike for families with older children.

Vjetrenica Cave

Bosnia’s largest cave is a hit with curious kids. Guided tours of Vjetrenica take families through vast underground chambers filled with stalactites and rare cave-dwelling creatures.

Food for Families – Fresh, Friendly, and Filling

Eating in Bosnia is easy with kids. Traditional food is flavorful but simple, and portions are generous. Most restaurants welcome families warmly.

• Buregdžinica Bosna (Sarajevo): Flaky pies filled with meat, spinach, or cheese.

• Ćevabdžinica Željo (Sarajevo): Famous for its mini sausages served in warm pita.

• Šadrvan (Mostar): Offers Bosnian samplers and fresh fruit juices.

• Kod Asima (Jajce): Known for its lakeside setting and family-style meals.

City Strolls and Playgrounds

Whether you’re walking Ferhadija Street in Sarajevo or the Old Bridge in Mostar, Bosnia’s towns are perfect for slow exploration with kids.

• Sarajevo: Flat pedestrian zones, street artists, and fountains.

• Mostar: Cobbled charm with puppet shops and crepes.

• Banja Luka: Open parks and riverside bike paths.

• Jajce: Lakeside walks with plenty of stone-skipping opportunities.

Every town has public playgrounds—usually clean, shaded, and filled with local kids.

Museums and Cultural Spots

• War Childhood Museum (Sarajevo): Real-life stories, toys, and letters from wartime childhoods.

• Tunnel of Hope (Sarajevo): A short, powerful tour showing life during the siege.

• Butterfly Garden (Sarajevo): Tropical butterflies, lizards, and fish.

• Ethno Village (Konjic): Reconstructed farmhouses and animal pens for hands-on learning.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Bosnia with Kids

<div style=”font-size: 1rem; margin-bottom: 1rem;”>Here are some of the most common questions parents ask when planning a family trip to Bosnia:</div>