Is Bosnia and Herzegovina cashless?
Mixed#93 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #41 of 45 in Europe
Short answer: Plan to use cash every day. Cards are mainly for hotels and bigger businesses.
Cards are fine in Sarajevo and Mostar hotels and larger restaurants. Cafes, bakeries, taxis and rural areas mostly want cash.
Will my card work?
In cities and tourist areas. Hotels, chains and larger restaurants in Bosnia and Herzegovina take cards; smaller places often do not.
Do I need cash?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Local currency: Convertible mark (BAM)
How does tipping work?
Round up or leave around 10% in restaurants, in cash.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Good to know
- Euros are sometimes accepted, but change comes back in marks.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bosnia and Herzegovina cashless?
Bosnia and Herzegovina scores 48/100 on Cashlessy (mixed), ranking #93 of 197 countries. Cards are fine in Sarajevo and Mostar hotels and larger restaurants. Cafes, bakeries, taxis and rural areas mostly want cash.
Do I need cash in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Are credit cards accepted in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
In cities and tourist areas. Hotels, chains and larger restaurants in Bosnia and Herzegovina take cards; smaller places often do not.
Do you tip in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Round up or leave around 10% in restaurants, in cash.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Compare with Europe
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.