Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia Herzegovina. Once thought of as Europe’s warzone, it is now a stunning, vibrant and diverse city. But is Sarajevo really worth visiting? We find out…
Exploring Sarajevo: Your Ultimate Guide to Bosnia’s Hidden Gem
Sarajevo, often referred to as the “Jerusalem of Europe,” is a city that embodies a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences to its resilient recovery from the 1990s war, Sarajevo offers an experience that is as rich in stories as it is in stunning architecture and cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, Sarajevo has something special for you. This guide will walk you through the best things to do in Sarajevo, the best time to visit, where to stay, and provide you with a budget and a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in this captivating city. Here’s why we think Sarajevo is worth visiting…
Why Visit Sarajevo?
Before diving into the specifics, you might be wondering: why visit Sarajevo? The city, located in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has a fascinating history shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. It was once the meeting point of East and West, where Ottoman mosques stood beside Austro-Hungarian palaces, and Orthodox churches coexisted with Catholic cathedrals. Sarajevo’s most defining moment, however, came in the 1990s during the Bosnian War, when it endured a brutal siege. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and unity.
It’s a city that invites exploration—not only through its narrow streets and historical landmarks but also through the stories shared by its people. Sarajevo is an eclectic mix of old-world charm and modern revival, making it an exciting destination for any type of traveller.
When to Visit Sarajevo
Sarajevo’s climate is continental, with hot summers and cold winters, so the best time to visit depends on what you want to do:
Summer (June to September): The most popular time to visit. With long, sunny days, it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions. The Sarajevo Film Festival, held every August, draws thousands of visitors and filmmakers, making it one of the city’s most significant cultural events. If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, this is the time to go.
Winter (December to February): If you’re a fan of skiing or snow sports, winter is the ideal time. Sarajevo is close to the Olympic mountains, and resorts like Jahorina and Bjelašnica offer great skiing options. The city itself is beautifully lit up for the holidays, and you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere with mulled wine and local delicacies.
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November): These shoulder seasons offer milder weather and fewer tourists. The city is peaceful, and you can enjoy its sights at a slower pace. The fall foliage is beautiful, especially in the nearby mountains, and spring offers a fresh and colourful landscape.
Best Things to Do in Sarajevo
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature, Sarajevo offers a little bit of everything. Here are some of the best things to do while visiting:
1. Walk Through Baščaršija: The Old Bazaar
The heart of Sarajevo is Baščaršija, a historic Ottoman-era bazaar. Wander through its winding cobbled streets, lined with shops selling traditional crafts, carpets, and jewellery. You’ll also find plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can try local delicacies like ćevapi (grilled minced meat) and burek (savory pastry). For us, the historic centre alone really makes Sarajevo worth visiting!
The centerpiece of Baščaršija is the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, one of the oldest and most important Ottoman buildings in Sarajevo. It’s a peaceful place where you can reflect and admire the intricate Islamic architecture.
2. Visit the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum
During the Bosnian War in the 1990s, Sarajevo was under siege for nearly four years, and the city’s residents built an underground tunnel to bring in supplies and escape the conflict. The Sarajevo Tunnel Museum offers a glimpse into this fascinating and moving piece of history. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the war and Sarajevo’s resilience.
3. Latin Bridge and the Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand
The Latin Bridge is where Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated in 1914, sparking the events that led to World War I. The bridge itself is a beautiful structure, and you can visit the nearby Museum of the Assassination to learn more about this historical event.
Sarajevo is Full of History!
The fist time we visited Sarajevo we were amazed at the amount of very recent history that you can still feel in the city.
4. Take in the View from the Yellow Fortress
For one of the best views of Sarajevo, head up to the Yellow Fortress (Žuta Tabija), located on a hill above the city. From here, you can see the entire city sprawled below, with the surrounding mountains in the background. It’s a great spot for photography and reflection.
5. Vrelo Bosne: Nature and Scenic Beauty
If you want to escape the city for a day, head to Vrelo Bosne, the spring of the Bosna River, located just outside Sarajevo. This picturesque nature park offers peaceful walking paths, horse-drawn carriage rides, and crystal-clear streams surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day in nature.
6. Explore the Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica)
The Vijećnica is a stunning Austro-Hungarian building located along the Miljacka River. Originally built as a city hall, it’s now a cultural venue and museum. The architecture is breathtaking, and the interior is just as impressive, with intricate tile work and stained glass. Another beautiful piece of architecture that makes Sarajevo worth visiting.
7. Savour Bosnian Cuisine
Bosnian food is a delicious blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences. Be sure to try some local favourites, such as Ćevapi, a grilled minced meat served with flatbread and onions. Sogan-dolma, stuffed onions with minced meat and rice and Tufahija, asweet dessert made of stuffed apples, walnuts, and sugar.
Where to Stay in Sarajevo
Sarajevo offers a range of accommodations for every type of traveller, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. The wide variety of amazing places to stay is another thing that makes Sarajevo worth visiting.
Budget: If you’re traveling on a tight budget, there are several hostels in the city centre, such as Hostel 4u and Slog Hostel. These are great for meeting other travellers and exploring the city with ease.
Mid-Range: For a more comfortable stay, consider hotels like Hotel Europe, which is centrally located and offers great amenities. Another good option is Hotel Bristol, known for its modern facilities and excellent service.
Luxury: If you’re looking for a luxury experience, stay at Hotel Movenpick or Sarajevo Swissotel. Both offer top-notch services, spas, and stunning views of the city.
Now that you should be convinced that Sarajevo is worth visiting, here is a sample itinerary for some travel inspo.
7-Day Itinerary for your Visit to Sarajevo
Here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary for making the most of your time in Sarajevo:
Day 1: Arrival and Baščaršija Arrive in Sarajevo and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon wandering through Baščaršija, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. Visit the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and explore the narrow streets. Enjoy a traditional dinner of ćevapi.
Day 2: Historical Sarajevo Visit the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum in the morning. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of the city’s historical sites, including the Latin Bridge, Vijećnica, and Sebilj Fountain. End the day with a drink at one of the cafes with a view, like Avlija.
Day 3: Day Trip to Vrelo Bosne Take a full-day trip to Vrelo Bosne for a scenic nature walk and boat ride. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river or dine at one of the lakeside cafes.
Part 2 of your Visit to Sarajevo…
Day 4: The Sarajevo Film Festival and Modern Attractions If visiting during the summer, attend the Sarajevo Film Festival for a day of screenings and cultural events. Alternatively, explore modern Sarajevo, including Avlija and Sarajevo City Center (SCC) for shopping and dining.
Day 5: Sarajevo’s Surrounding Mountains Take a day trip to Jahorina or Bjelašnica for skiing (in winter) or hiking (in summer). If you’re not a fan of snow sports, you can simply enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery and fresh air.
Day 6: Sarajevo War Tunnel and Yellow Fortress Visit the Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum in the morning. In the afternoon, hike up to the Yellow Fortress for panoramic views of the city.
Day 7: Relax and Explore at Leisure Spend your last day exploring at your own pace. Visit a local market, grab a coffee at Café Avlija, or shop for souvenirs.
So, Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?
We absolutely say Sarajevo is worth visiting! If you like, food, history and hiking this is the city for you. And if you are a budget traveller, Sarajevo should be top of your list.
Finally, Here are a Few Bosnian Phrases to Try Out
Bosnian is the most commonly spoken language in Bosnia Herzegovina. Like most languages in the Balkans, it is not easy for English speakers. However, the locals really appreciate any attempt at their language and are always happy to help you out. Here are a few basic Bosnian phrases to get you started.
Dobar dan (DOH-bahr dahn) or Zdravo (ZDRAH-voh) / Hello
Hvala (HVAH-lah) / Thank You
Da (dah) and Ne (neh) / Yes and No
Molim (MOH-leem) / Please
Dovidenja (doh-vee-JEH-nyah) or Cao (chaoo) / Goodbye
Where to go next
Ready for another adventure? Why not try some of Albania’s incredible beaches? Or if you’ve decided Sarajevo is worth visiting immediately, here are some more amazing things to do in Sarajevo.
Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.
Have you visited Sarajevo or Bosnia already? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop us a message below, we would love to hear from you!
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