As you probably know, Europe is culturally a very diverse continent. Whether it’s France in the West, Norway in the North, Malta in the South or Romania in the East, you will find unbelievably different regions in every literal sense: people, nature, food, drinks, sights, animals and much more.
Among all of this diversity, some countries are more popular and well-known. Who does not know about Paris, France? Who would not be familiar with Rome, Italy? I’m sure you’ve heard of Barcelona, Spain, right?
But what about lesser-known regions in Europe? For example, Bosnia-Herzegovina. I have visited this heart-shaped country in the Balkan region and can confidently say: Tuzla is well worth a weekend getaway.
How and When to Get There
Getting to Tuzla is easy from many parts of Europe. For example, flight connections to Tuzla come from Dortmund, Basel, Memmingen, Vienna or Istanbul.
Another way to easily get there is to travel by car and combine your trip with another country or city close by, such as Sarajevo, Croatia, Serbia or Montenegro.
Deciding on the right time to go depends on your preferences. The weather in winter can be very cold, snowy and wet and summers in the Balkan region can be incredibly hot. The spring and fall seasons are generally pleasant, but the weather can still be unpredictable.
When I visited Tuzla in late spring, I was farewelled with snow on my way to the airport. But the days in Tuzla itself were blessed with sunshine and mild temperatures.
Tuzla itself is a very walkable city and you probably would not need to take a train or bus here. Renting a car makes sense if you would like to visit other cities or regions after your Tuzla experience. But for the city, it’s best to pack comfy shoes and walk.
Pannonica Salt Lakes
When researching sights in Tuzla, the Pannonica Salt Lakes are most likely the first attraction you will stumble across. The artificial small lakes are a byproduct of the local salt production. No wonder: “tuz” means “salt” in English and underlines the city’s close connection to the history of this mineral.
By the way, this is a one-and-only gem in Europe: no other city offers a salt lake in the middle of its city center between houses and buildings on one side and the mountains on the other.
The lakes are great for a relaxing swim or to lie on the white gravel beach and enjoy the scenery from late spring until the end of summer.
The entrance fee is very affordable and the lakes are loved by locals as well. If you decide to arrive by car, the site offers ample parking spaces nearby.
Old Town Tuzla
Tuzla’s heart is formed by a central marketplace and a little white Ferris wheel – the Panoramski točak – in the middle.
Bright-colored bands swing in the wind above the fountains, memorial plaques are on every corner of the city, and there is a small green park with the “I (Heart) Tuzla” sign. It is worth your time to take a stroll through the old town.
On weekends, a small market is held where you can purchase local specialties, including honey, carved wooden goods, and handmade jewelry – be sure to have some cash on hand.
Of course, many cafés and restaurants invite you to linger. The vegetables in Bosnia and Herzegovina are particularly delicious, and roasted peppers are a must-try in the region.
If you get hungry, the small, warm bakery on the edge of the old town, “Pekara Hukić,” is especially recommended by locals. It offers fresh pizzas from a stone oven and filled croissants – perfect for recharging your batteries.
Around the City
Two other areas in Tuzla are particularly recommended for beautiful walks. For a fun and colorful photo, consider visiting the Colorful Stairs.
The steps have a lost-place charm, thanks to faded paint and the overgrown forest. If you’re feeling energized, you can run up the stairs and – of course – back down again.
The Kicelj Panorama viewing platform also offers a stunning view of the city of Tuzla and the surrounding mountains. The climb is very steep, but there is a lovely footpath through the neighborhood. With a little luck, you might even get a visit from a cat that accompanies you part of the way.
It pays off to stop at the viewpoint for a while and take in the breathtaking view beneath the national flag. Be cautious if you plan to drive up there: the paths are very narrow and steep, and there are limited parking spaces on-site.
It can be very windy at the viewpoint, even on a good day, so remember to bring a jacket or scarf.
If You Go
- Weather: Tuzla has a continental climate with hot summers (June to August) and cold winters. In summer, temperatures can rise above 30°C, so do not forget your sunscreen. Even in the milder months, the weather can be changeable, so an umbrella or a light jacket is a smart idea. The city is compact, making it easy to explore on foot, even in light rain.
- Transportation: Tuzla is pedestrian-friendly, especially in the city center. A car is not essential. There are public buses connecting different areas of the city, and taxis are quite cheap compared to other larger Western European cities. For shorter distances, walking is recommended.
- Currency: The currency used in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Convertible Mark (BAM). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for markets or smaller shops.
- Safety: Tuzla is considered a safe city for travelers. As with anything else, you should, of course, keep an eye on your valuables. At night, it is safer to avoid more remote areas such as dark alleys, especially if you are traveling alone.
Salt in the air and lakes, warmth in the heart – start planning your trip to Tuzla!
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Author Bio: Vanessa Hagenschulte is a passionate traveller with a background in literature and linguistics. Currently pursuing her doctorate, she is travelling to different countries, regions, and cultures. And – of course – writing about them.
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