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Few scams

Southeast Europe

Tourist scams in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Most transactions in Bosnia and Herzegovina are honest, and violent crime is uncommon. Taxi scams are common in Sarajevo, especially at the airport and main stations. Other concerns include pickpockets, inflated market prices, inflated station charges and pressure for police bribes.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonTaxi overcharging and false airport feesA driver refuses to use the meter, shows a made-up fixed price list or adds a false airport supplement. Some ask foreign visitors for about twice the normal airport fare. Even a taxi that looks legitimate may overcharge.Sarajevo 3Read
  2. 2 Buses and trainsCommonInflated or unreceipted station taxStaff ask tourists for twice the station tax or collect the money without issuing the proper receipt and keep it themselves.Sarajevo 2Read
  3. 3 TheftOccasionalPickpocketingThieves take wallets, phones or other belongings from pockets and bags. Crowded transport and tightly packed tourist areas give them opportunities.Sarajevo, Mostar, Banja Luka 3Read
  4. 4 ShoppingOccasionalHigher market prices for foreign visitorsA seller judges how much a visitor appears able to pay and quotes a higher price. Foreign visitors, especially those who look wealthy, may be asked for more.Markets across the country. 2Read
  5. 5 Fake officialsOccasionalPressure for a police bribeDuring a police check, an officer may look for illegal items and use the prospect of taking a traveller to the station to seek a bribe. Random checks are described as common in these areas, especially for people who look like tourists or carry foreign passports. A check alone does not mean a bribe is being sought.At boundaries between ethnic regions and in cities of Republika Srpska. 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Sarajevo AirportTaxi drivers may refuse the meter, present false fixed prices or add a bogus airport supplement.
  • Main train and bus stations, SarajevoTaxi scams are especially common around these arrival points.
  • Sarajevo East Bus Station / Istočno / LukavicaStaff may inflate the station tax or collect it without the proper receipt.
  • Old centre, SarajevoPickpockets operate in this area.
  • Mostar BridgePickpockets target tightly packed groups of tourists around the bridge.
  • Cities of Republika Srpska and boundaries between ethnic regionsPolice checks may involve pressure for an unofficial payment.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Check for a TAXI roof sign, TA licence plates and a meter. These checks do not guarantee an honest fare.
  • Agree that the meter will be used before getting in.
  • Ask a trusted local to recommend a taxi service.
  • Pay in cash and request a receipt.

Money

  • Carry small KM notes. Small businesses may struggle to change large notes.
  • Check both the exchange rate and commission before handing over money.
  • Compare market prices and agree on the full amount before paying.
  • Keep receipts for disputed charges.

Cards and ATMs

  • Read the ATM fee screen before accepting a withdrawal. A stated withdrawal fee is not itself a scam.
  • The listed ATM fees date from 2022. Check the fee shown for your transaction.
  • Shield your PIN and keep your card in sight when paying.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere separate from your wallet.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and in front of you on Sarajevo public transport and in crowds.
  • Keep your phone and wallet in secure pockets.
  • Split your cash and cards between separate secure places.
  • Keep a secure copy of your passport details.

Police and officials

  • Stay calm during police checks and ask why you have been stopped.
  • Ask for official paperwork and a receipt for any claimed fine.
  • Do not offer unofficial payments.
  • Record the details of a troubling encounter once it is safe.

What travellers say about Bosnia and Herzegovina

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams widespread in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Most transactions are honest, and overcharging is generally uncommon. Sarajevo taxis are a clear exception. Pickpocketing, market price inflation and some station-tax and police-payment problems also occur.

How can I avoid a Sarajevo taxi scam?

Insist on the meter before leaving. Walk away if the driver refuses. A TAXI roof sign, TA plates and a meter are expected, but even legitimate-looking taxis can overcharge.

What should a taxi from Sarajevo Airport to the centre cost?

The stated fare should not exceed 20 KM. Some drivers ask about double. A claimed airport supplement is bogus. Use this figure as a reference and confirm the fare basis before travelling.

Is the Sarajevo East Bus Station tax real?

Yes. It is listed as 2 KM per person as of July 2024. The trick is to ask for twice that amount or collect the money without the proper receipt. Insist on a receipt showing the charge.

Where should I be most careful about pickpockets?

Watch your belongings in Sarajevo's old centre and on public transport, around Mostar Bridge and in tightly packed tourist areas. Pickpockets are also reported in Banja Luka.

Can market sellers quote higher prices to tourists?

Yes. Some sellers judge what a foreign visitor appears able to pay and quote more. Compare stalls, bargain politely and agree on the full price before paying.

Are ATM withdrawal fees a scam?

A stated ATM fee is not itself a scam. Many ATMs charge a substantial withdrawal fee. The listed bank fees date from 2022, so read the fee screen before accepting.

What should I check when exchanging money?

Check the exchange rate and commission before handing over cash. Ask for small KM notes, since smaller shops may not have change for large ones.

What if a police officer asks for an unofficial cash payment?

Stay calm, do not offer a bribe and ask for an official explanation and receipt. If safe, request a supervisor. Record the details afterwards and seek consular help if needed.

What should I do if my wallet or phone is stolen?

Move somewhere safe, freeze missing cards and secure your phone account. Report the theft to police and keep a written record for insurance. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is also missing.

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