10-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina With Itinerary from Zagreb to Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, Split, Mostar, and Sarajevo
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Get ready for an exhilarating 10-day European road trip. This trip will take you through Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina and immerse you in the diverse tapestry of European culture.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 7 nights in Croatia and 2 nights in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Croatia, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Zagreb and begin your adventure from there. Explore Zagreb, Korenica, Plitvica Selo, Plitvička Jezera, Zadar, Split, and Trogir, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Bosnia & Herzegovina. Immerse yourself in the allure of Mostar, Ilidža, Sarajevo, and Jajce, where every street tells a story.
From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 10-day self-drive adventure in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Zagreb - Arrival day
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- Cathedral of Zagreb
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Zagreb in Croatia. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Zagreb for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Croatia to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Zagreb before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Zagreb is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Zagreb Cathedral, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zagreb. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Croatia. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Zagreb. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Zinfandel's Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Esplanade Zagreb Hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rougemarin City as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zagreb.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Tesla New Generation after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Caffe Bar Destino, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Booze And Blues also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Your multi-country road trip in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Zagreb
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Drive 14 km, 47 min
- Park Maksimir
- Zagreb Zoo
- Museum of Broken Relationships
- St. Mark's Church
- Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
- Ilica
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On day 2, you will wake up in Zagreb with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Zagreb before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Upper Town (Gornji Grad) is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Zagreb, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Ilica, a street that showcases another side of Zagreb.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zagreb, including a park, a zoo, a museum, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Park Maksimir. This interesting park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Zagreb Zoo located in Zagreb for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Museum Of Broken Relationships. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to St. Mark's Church. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this church.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Croatia's delectable cuisine at one of Zagreb's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restoran Taurus, a top-rated dining destination in Zagreb. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Trilogija - Vino & Kuhinja, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pizzeria Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zagreb this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Krolo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Kavana Corso, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Valhalla Beer Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 3
- Zagreb
- Plitvička Jezera
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Great Waterfall
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Korenica in Croatia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plitvička Jezera, your home for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zagreb, including a national park and a waterfall. Start your day with a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park. This timeless national park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Great Waterfall, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Plitvička Jezera of your choice.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the village of Plitvička Jezera boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Croatia.
Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Plitvička Jezera
- Zadar
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Drive 147 km, 2 hours 25 min
- Sea organ
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Roman Forum
- Archaeological Museum Zadar
- People's Square
- The Five Wells Square
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Today's main destinations are Zadar in Croatia, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zadar. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Plitvička Jezera covers several incredible sights, including an art installation, an archeological site, a museum, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Sea Organ. This impressive art installation is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Monument To The Sun, a must-see art installation in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Roman Forum. This curiosity-inducing archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Archaeological Museum Zadar, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Narodni Trg and The Five Wells Square. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Zadar. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Zadar. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria Šime, a popular restaurant in Zadar. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zadar at Harvatski restorant "Galiya", another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restoran Zadar - Jadera. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zadar tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Yachting Bar & Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Caffe Bar Porthos offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Factory Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the night falls in Zadar, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 5
- Zadar
- Split
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Drive 165 km, 2 hours 18 min
- Forest Park Marjan
- Diocletian's Palace
- Golden Gate
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On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Split in Croatia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Split, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zadar, including a park, a palace, and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Marjan. This notable park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Diocletian's Palace located in Zadar for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Golden Gate. Its photogenic features will captivate you.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Split. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Split. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nevera Tavern, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Perivoj restoran i kavana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konoba Laganini. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Split.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to La Linea, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Fabrique Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 6
- Split
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Drive 58 km, 1 hour 26 min
- Puerta de la Tierra
- Trogir Old Town
- City Loggia Trogir
- Kamerlengo Castle
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Greet day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Split for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Trogir in Croatia.
Today’s agenda in Split includes a historical landmark, a monument, and a castle. Sjeverna Vog is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Trogir Old Town, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to City Loggia Trogir, a grand monument, also available for your discovery today.
As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Split's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Croatia to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Split has them.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Babylon, a popular restaurant in Split. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Split at DeListes restaurant Split, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bokeria Kitchen & Wine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Split tonight.
Keep the evening going at Caffe Bar Mythos, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Caffe Bar Legis, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Caffe Bar Tik, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Take in the ambiance of Split as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 7
- Split
- Mostar
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Drive 192 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Fortica
- Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque
- Old Bridge Mostar
- Mostar Peace Bell Tower
- Park Zrinjevac
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On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mostar, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Split on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Fortica is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is your next stop. This intriguing mosque is one of the best-rated sights in Split.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Stari Most. This enchanting monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Mostar Peace Bell Tower and Park Zrinjevac.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Mostar’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Mostar’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Don’t miss out on dining at Verso Bar&Resto, a top-rated dining destination in Mostar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Blok bar & restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palačinka bar A&A. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Mostar this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Shankly's Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Hemingway Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Night Bar Duradzik offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take in the ambiance of Mostar as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 8
- Mostar
- Sarajevo
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Drive 141 km, 2 hours 44 min
- Vrelo Bosne
- Tunnel of Hope
- Latin Bridge
- Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
- Sebilj
- Baščaršija
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Ilidža in Bosnia & Herzegovina. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Sarajevo where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Mostar. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Vrelo Bosne is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most interesting places to visit in Mostar. Next, head to Sarajevo Tunnel, a curiosity-inducing museum, known for its visually striking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Latin Bridge. This historic historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and Sebilj In Sarajevo. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Baščaršija, a historic market in Mostar.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Sarajevo. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Bosnia & Herzegovina's delectable cuisine at one of Sarajevo's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Casa El Gitano, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mrvica? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mr Charlie Chaplin as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sarajevo.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Caffe Bar Izlog, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bure Bez Dna also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 9
- Sarajevo
- Zagreb
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Drive 422 km, 6 hours 20 min
- Pliva Waterfall
- Museum of the 2nd AVNOJ session
- Jajce Fortress
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Jajce in Bosnia & Herzegovina. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zagreb, your home for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Sarajevo, including a waterfall, a museum, and a castle. Start your day at Pliva Waterfall. This serene waterfall is a popular place to see in Sarajevo. Then, wander over to Museum Of The 2nd Avnoj Session. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Jajce Fortress. This grand castle is a favorite among visitors.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Zagreb.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Zagreb. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Roots - juice & cocktail bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Štruk is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tagliata. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zagreb tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting A’e Craft Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Budbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Mr. Fogg also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 10
- Zagreb - Departure day
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- Lower Town (Donji Grad)
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On day 10 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Zagreb before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Lower Town (Donji Grad), a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Zagreb. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Get a last taste of Croatia’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Zagreb and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
If you're eager to try something different, consider GOSTIONICA RESTORAN PURGER, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Zagreb for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 10-day European road trip in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina with fond memories. Safe travels!
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