Things To Do
in Novi Travnik

Novi Travnik is a small town in central Bosnia and Herzegovina, just east of Travnik, set on gentle hills along the Lašva River. It blends Ottoman-influenced architecture with a modern Bosnian town vibe and welcomes visitors with a relaxed pace. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring the surrounding countryside, including Vlašić mountain, traditional villages, and nearby historical sites.

From lively markets to scenic viewpoints, Novi Travnik offers a gateway to central Bosnia's culture and nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of Novi Travnik
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast in a local café, savoring traditional Bosnian pastries. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque old town and admire the stunning Ottoman architecture that reflects the city’s rich history. Engage with friendly locals in the bustling market, where you can buy fresh produce and homemade goods.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the historic Novi Travnik Fortress, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills. Take a guided tour to learn about the fortress's significance during medieval times while capturing beautiful photos of the scenery. Later, enjoy a traditional Bosnian lunch at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like sarma or cevapi.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a charming courtyard café to unwind with a cup of Bosnian coffee or tea. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere as you listen to live local music while socializing with fellow travelers and residents. End your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, appreciating the serene beauty of Novi Travnik at night.

day 2
Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your morning with an early hike in the nearby mountains, where you can experience the breathtaking landscapes and fresh air. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints overlooking the lush valleys. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora that may grace your path.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon engaging in outdoor activities such as mountain biking or horseback riding through the trails. Guided tours may be available to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the hidden natural gems of the region. After an exhilarating afternoon, head back to town for a well-deserved late lunch at a family-run tavern.

evening
:

In the evening, relax in your accommodations or venture out to a local cultural event if available, immersing yourself further in the traditions of the area. Try a delightful dinner featuring fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding countryside, accompanied by a local wine or rakija. Conclude your day at a cozy bar, sharing stories with locals and travelers alike.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Cappuccino$1-2
🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night)$40-70
🚌Public transport day pass$1-3
🎟️Movie ticket$4-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Central location with easy access to Vlašić and Travnik
  • Affordable prices and friendly locals
  • Beautiful river scenery and Ottoman-era architecture
  • Good base for outdoor adventures in central Bosnia
  • Limited nightlife and large-scale entertainment
  • Some rural services and menus may have language gaps for non-Bosnian speakers
  • "Dobar dan" - Hello / Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gdje je... ?" - Where is... ?
  • "Izvinite" - Excuse me
  • "Da" - Yes
  • "Ne" - No
  • "Možete li mi pomoći?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Novi Travnik

Visit one of these nice places.

Lašva River Promenade and Historic Stone Bridges

Serene river scenes with old bridges, reflecting the town’s light-colored houses.

Novi Travnik Old Town Center

Narrow lanes and Ottoman-era architecture provide charming street photography opportunities.

Hilltop Viewpoint above the town

Sweeping views over Novi Travnik and surrounding hills, especially at sunset.

Countryside near Vlašić foothills

Pastoral fields, farmsteads, and mountain silhouettes—ideal for wide landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Novi Travnik

Novi Travnik sits in a region where hearty Bosnian cuisine shines: meat dishes, baked breads, cheeses, and fresh produce pair with strong coffee and local wines.

Novi Travnik Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ćevapi with lepinja

Grilled minced-meat fingers served with flatbread, onions, and kajmak; widely available at local fast-casual spots.

Must-Try!

Burek

Flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat, a common breakfast or snack from bakeries.

Klepe i sarmice (dumplings and stuffed cabbage)

Meat-filled dumplings and cabbage rolls found in traditional eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local farmers' market

Seasonal fruits, vegetables, dairy, and homemade preserves; great for fresh snacks.

Street pastry stalls

Burek and pies sold hot from ovens near central squares.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons: warm summers, cold winters with possible snow, and mild springs and autumns. Precipitation is highest in spring and autumn, with summer being drier but capable of sudden storms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

A firm handshake and eye contact are common; address people politely using titles when appropriate.

Dress and modesty

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; women may cover shoulders and knees.

Hospitality

Offering coffee or tea is a sign of hospitality; accept when offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for travelers; petty theft can occur in crowded markets, so keep valuables secure. Rural roads can be challenging in winter; use appropriate winter tires and check weather forecasts. Stay aware of traffic when hiking or driving on mountain roads.

Tipping in Novi Travnik

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A tip of 5-10% for good service in restaurants; round up to the nearest euro for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days; carry water, sun protection, and light clothing; afternoon storms are common in some years.

Winter

Cold temperatures with possible snowfall; roads to Vlašić and higher areas can be icy; bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes.

Spring

Mild days with showers; blossom-filled landscapes and comfortable hiking conditions.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and harvest markets; great for photography with autumn colors.

Nightlife Guide

Novi Travnik at Night

Novi Travnik’s nightlife is low-key, centered around local cafes and informal taverns; in nearby Travnik you’ll find more bars and live music on weekends. Expect relaxed atmospheres where locals gather for conversation over Bosnian coffee or raki.

Hiking in Novi Travnik

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Vlašić Mountain trails

Popular hiking routes on the Vlašić massif with forested slopes and alpine terrain.

Lašva River canyon rim hike

Scenic trails along the canyon with viewpoints over Novi Travnik.

Airports

How to reach Novi Travnik by plane.

Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ)

Main international gateway for Bosnia and Herzegovina; about 60-90 minutes by road from Novi Travnik depending on traffic.

Banja Luka International Airport (BNX)

Northern BiH gateway with occasional international flights; longer drive to Novi Travnik.

Mostar International Airport (OMO)

Southern BiH airport; a longer drive but feasible for a longer trip.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights within a short stroll. Some streets are hilly or cobbled, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bosniaks

Predominant in the area; many residents identify as Bosniak with cultural influences from Bosnian Muslim heritage.

Croats

A smaller minority in the central region; coexist with Bosniak communities.

Roma and others

Present in smaller numbers in some neighborhoods.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport; many locals play in clubs and on municipal fields.

Skiing on Vlašić Mountain

Winter sport popular in nearby Vlašić ski area.

Basketball/Handball

Common in schools and local clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads connect Novi Travnik with Travnik and Zenica; traffic is typically light outside peak hours. Public transport includes occasional local buses; for flexibility, a car is recommended for day trips to Vlašić and countryside.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Novi Travnik.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for vegetarian mains such as cheeses, legumes, and seasonal vegetables; many places offer veggie plates or salads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Primary healthcare is available in Novi Travnik through local clinics; for more advanced care and hospitals, Travnik or Zenica offer larger facilities. Bring any necessary medications and carry travel insurance.

Discover Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read more in our Bosnia and Herzegovina 2025 Travel Guide.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Guide