The pretty little town named the 'second most beautiful' place to visit in Europe

Many tourists heading to continental Europe visit popular destinations such as Italy, France, and Germany, but Bosnia and Herzegovina, with its hilltop houses surrounded by greenery, towering lakes, and a 22-metre waterfall, is also a destination full of charm. One of its most breathtaking towns is Jajce, which has become increasingly recognised for its beauty and history.

Known for its numerous glacial lakes, Bosnia and Herzegovina is rich in natural springs, many of which are tapped for bottled mineral water or for popular thermal spas. It's the perfect country for those who want to indulge in natural beauty, and Jajce embodies this like no other place. The town is not just a picturesque setting but a place where history and nature coexist, offering visitors a chance to walk among hills and lakes while admiring its medieval architecture.

While many holidaymakers still have to discover Bosnia and Herzegovina, hundreds of thousands of tourists enjoyed its stunning landscapes last year. In 2024, Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomed nearly 2 million tourist arrivals, marking a 10.3% increase from the previous year. Overnight stays exceeded 4 million, up 8.5% year-on-year. Among the many destinations to enjoy in this stunning country, experts at TimeOut have named Jajce one of the most beautiful places on the continent.

You can easily walk up some of the smaller hills to enjoy an amazing view of the city and its surrounding landscape. The town's charm lies in its simplicity, where the past and present coexist perfectly.

Jajce's beauty is enhanced by its natural wonders, such as the stunning Pliva Lakes and the iconic 22-meter-high waterfall, which cascades right in the heart of the town. Jajce's waterfall provides a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The best time to visit Jajce is during the summer, particularly June, when daytime temperatures reach 26°C, falling to 8°C at night-just enough to stay comfortable while exploring. Both Ryanair and Wizz Air operate direct flights from the UK to Bosnia's capital city, Sarajevo, with flights starting from £15 for a one-way ticket. The flight from the UK to Sarajevo takes roughly two hours and 40 minutes. Accommodation is also affordable, with overnight stays averaging £56 per night, according to research from Eurochange.

Bosnia and Herzegovina also boasts the sacred Krizevac mountain, where, according to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to six children to deliver a message of peace and prayer. Regardless of your faith, a four-hour hike up the rocky terrain will reward you with breathtaking views.

Another natural highlight is Kravice Falls, a beautiful natural wonder reminiscent of Niagara Falls and Jamaica's Dunn's River Falls. Visitors have described it as a "lovely place" with plenty of areas to eat next to the waterfall, making it an excellent spot for a peaceful day trip. The falls are tranquil, with well-marked paths and scenic lookout points.

Jajce and the surrounding area also offer a rich cultural experience, with historical landmarks like the Museum of Crimes against Humanity and Genocide 1992-1995 in Sarajevo. The museum, built by survivors of the war, serves to preserve the memory of the victims. The museum showcases a variety of photos and personal belongings, each holding a powerful story of resilience and tragedy.

Sarajevo's cultural diversity shines through. Because of its rich religious heritage, it's often referred to as the "Jerusalem of Europe." Some areas of the city have a very strong Turkish influence, a reminder of the 400 years under Ottoman rule. Walk just a few meters outside the old town, and you'll find Austro-Hungarian-inspired architecture, a legacy of Bosnia's time under Austro-Hungarian rule.

With so much history and culture, visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially Jajce, feels like more than just a vacation-it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in a place that offers natural beauty and a deep sense of heritage. Countless travel enthusiasts have praised this destination, many calling it the "most beautiful place on Earth." One traveller shared, "Been here, it was absolutely magical. I'd love to visit Bosnia again."