Overview (for pilgrims)
Medjugorje: A world-renowned Marian shrine where apparitions have been reported since 1981; Apparition Hill (Podbrdo), Cross Mountain (Križevac), St. James Church, the evening prayer program, Adoration, and confessions.
Croatia: Rich Christian heritage; pilgrims often visit Split (Cathedral of St. Domnius), Zagreb (Cathedral and the Shrine of Our Lady of Remete), and the National Shrine of Our Lady of Marija Bistrica. Many pilgrimages also begin here, continuing on to Assisi, Rome, or other holy sites.
Overview (for pilgrims)
Before you go
What to pack (pilgrim-focused)
Language
Weather (quick guide)
Religious program & dress code
Getting around
Water, food & tipping
Etiquette in holy places
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Before you go
Documents & entry
U.S. citizens: No visa required for Bosnia and Herzegovina or Croatia for stays up to 90 days. Passport must be valid for the entire stay (recommended: at least 6 months).
EU/EEA citizens: May travel with a national ID card or passport.
UK/other nationals: Check current entry rules for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Schengen (Croatia).
Money & payments
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Convertible Mark (BAM). In Medjugorje, euros and cards are often accepted, but always carry some cash.
Croatia: Euro (€), cards widely accepted.
Electricity
Both BiH and Croatia: 230V/50Hz, plugs Type F/C. U.S. travelers need an adapter.
Emergency numbers
BiH: 124 (ambulance), 123 (fire), 122 (police).
Croatia: 112 (EU-wide emergency).
What to pack (pilgrim-focused)
Comfortable shoes for Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain (rocky, steep paths).
Rosary, Bible, or prayer book for personal devotion.
Light clothing in summer, layered clothing for autumn/winter; always modest for churches.
Umbrella or light rain jacket (weather changes quickly).
Water bottle; small daypack.
Language
BiH: Croatian/Bosnian; in Medjugorje, many speak English, Italian, German, and Spanish due to pilgrims.
Croatia: Croatian; in major shrines and cities, English is also widely spoken.
Weather (quick guide)
Medjugorje: Mediterranean climate – hot, dry summers; mild winters.
Croatia: Coast – Mediterranean climate; inland – continental, colder winters.
Religious program & dress code
Medjugorje: Evening prayer program (Rosary, Holy Mass, Adoration), confessions in many languages.
Modest clothing — shoulders and knees covered in churches and during outdoor prayer.
Silence and prayerful atmosphere are encouraged on Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain.
Getting around
Medjugorje: Most places (church, hills) are within walking distance.
Croatia: Public transport available in major cities; buses or van transfers are best for intercity travel.
Water, food & tipping
Tap water in both BiH and Croatia is generally safe to drink.
Tipping: Not required, but common to leave 5–10% in restaurants if satisfied.
Etiquette in holy places
Silence and prayerful atmosphere, especially at Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain.
Photos are allowed, but avoid during liturgy.
Modesty and respect toward pilgrims from all over the world.
FAQs
Do I need a visa?
U.S., EU, and most other travelers: No, for stays up to 90 days.
Can I climb Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain?
Yes, freely, but the terrain is demanding — wear good shoes and be cautious.
What is the main program in Medjugorje?
Daily evening Mass, Rosary, Adoration, confessions, Stations of the Cross on Cross Mountain.
Is it safe to travel in BiH and Croatia?
Yes, both are safe for pilgrims with normal awareness (pickpocketing may occur in larger cities).