Things To Do
in Sarajevo
Nestled within the heart of the Dinaric Alps, this historic city captivates with its unique blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences, mirrored in its architecture, cuisine, and multicultural spirit. Sarajevo bears deep historical significance, notably as the site of the 1914 assassination that sparked World War I, and has shown remarkable resilience, recovering from the scars of the late 20th-century conflicts.
Today, it stands as a vibrant cultural and economic center, offering visitors a rich tapestry of history, hospitality, and natural beauty.
- "Kako si?" - How are you?
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please
- "Dobar dan" - Good afternoon
- "Izvini" - Excuse me / Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Baščaršija, the old bazaar filled with traditional shops and coffee houses. Enjoy a cup of Bosnian coffee while soaking up the historical atmosphere.
Visit the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and its beautiful courtyard. Don't miss the nearby Gazi Husrev-beg Museum for a deeper understanding of the city’s history.
Stroll along Wilson’s Promenade for a scenic view of the Miljacka River. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes like ćevapi.
Visit the History Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina to understand the rich cultural heritage of the country. Take your time to explore various exhibits showcasing the past.
Head to Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, which played a crucial role during the siege. Gain insights into the war history and the resilience of the people.
Explore the vibrant nightlife in Bascarsija, sampling local wines and enjoying live music. Look out for cultural performances that showcase Bosnian art.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including a blend of Eastern and Western influences.
- Stunning natural surroundings, with the nearby Dinaric Alps and rivers.
- Affordability in terms of cost of living and travel.
- Warm and hospitable locals who are eager to share their culture.
- Vibrant food scene offering diverse local and international cuisines.
- Political instability and ethnic tensions that can affect daily life.
- Infrastructure challenges, including public transport and road conditions.
- Limited job opportunities and economic prospects for locals.
- Language barrier, as English may not be widely spoken outside urban areas.
- Potential safety concerns in certain areas due to past conflicts.
Best Activities in Sarajevo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hills and mountains surrounding Sarajevo through numerous hiking trails.
Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the nearby mountains during the winter season.
Experience the scenic countryside and local villages by cycling on the various routes available.
Venture outside of Sarajevo for exciting rafting opportunities on the Neretva and Una rivers.
Take in breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes by paragliding from nearby hills.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sarajevo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sarajevo
Visit one of these nice places.
A historical fortification offering panoramic views of Sarajevo and photo opportunities.
Another historical fortress with stunning views over Sarajevo, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Tall skyscraper offering a bird's-eye view of Sarajevo and great photo opportunities.
Ride to the top of Trebević Mountain for breathtaking views of the city and photo opportunities.
Food in Sarajevo
Sarajevo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled minced meat served in somun (flatbread) with diced onions and kaymak (a creamy dairy product). Must-try at Petica Cevabzinica.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked stew with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices, often enjoyed at restaurants like Ćevabdžinica Željo.
Flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach, available at Buregdžinica Bosna.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sarajevo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Sarajevo's largest and oldest markets offering a vibrant array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and meats.
This historic bazaar is a street food haven, where you can sample grilled meats, ćevapi, and delicious burek.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sarajevo, it is common to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time.
Showing respect for elders is important in Bosnian culture, so it is customary to greet them first and use formal titles.
When visiting religious sites or attending formal events, it's respectful to dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sarajevo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sarajevo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Sarajevo, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for good service. A tip of 10% is customary if the service charge is not included in the bill.
In Sarajevo, cash is widely used for everyday transactions, although credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in more touristy areas. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in more traditional establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sarajevo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
One of the best times to visit Sarajevo as the city comes to life with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's historical and cultural sites.
Summer brings warm weather to Sarajevo, making it an ideal time for outdoor festivals, hiking in the surrounding mountains, and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city's streets and parks.
Autumn offers beautiful foliage in the surrounding hills and a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere in the city. It's a great time for scenic drives and enjoying the local cuisine at cozy restaurants.
Winter transforms Sarajevo into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for skiing and other winter sports in the nearby mountains. The city's Christmas markets and cultural events also make it a charming winter destination.
Sarajevo at Night
Hiking in Sarajevo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular destination for hiking, offering beautiful views of Sarajevo, with well-marked trails and easy access.
Famous for its ski resorts, Jahorina also has numerous hiking trails that provide stunning landscapes and outdoor adventure.
Located southwest of Sarajevo, Bjelasnica is a great spot for hiking, especially during the summer months with its numerous trails.
Known for its striking views and natural beauty, Visočica offers hiking opportunities that cater to a range of skill levels.
A historical site near Sarajevo, providing a moderate hike with panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sarajevo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sarajevo by plane.
The main international airport serving Sarajevo, located about 6 kilometers from the city center.
The primary international airport in Belgrade, Serbia, approximately 230 kilometers from Sarajevo.
The main international airport in Zagreb, Croatia, located around 400 kilometers from Sarajevo.
The main international airport in Podgorica, Montenegro, roughly 200 kilometers from Sarajevo.
An international airport located about 120 kilometers from Sarajevo, serving low-cost carriers and charter flights.
An international airport serving Split, Croatia, located approximately 500 kilometers from Sarajevo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bosniaks are the largest ethnic group in Sarajevo and make up a significant portion of the overall population in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Serbs form the second largest ethnic group in Sarajevo, with a presence that has been historically significant in the region.
Croats are another important ethnic group in Sarajevo, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
This group includes various smaller ethnic communities such as Jews, Roma, and others, reflecting the multicultural history of Sarajevo.
The Soul of Sarajevo
Discover the essence of Sarajevo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Sarajevo, with a passionate fan base and local clubs such as FK Sarajevo and FKŽeljezničar.
Basketball has a strong following, with several clubs in the city and a history of success at both the national and regional levels.
Handball is widely played and followed in Sarajevo, with local teams competing in national leagues and international competitions.
Due to its mountainous terrain, winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are popular in the surrounding areas, particularly at the nearby Bjelašnica and Igman mountains.
Athletics enjoys popularity, with various events and competitions held throughout the year, showcasing local talent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarajevo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bosnian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Sarajevo offer delicious vegetarian options like stuffed peppers and eggplant dishes. Vegan options may be limited, but some places like Barhana provide plant-based offerings.
Gluten-free visitors can enjoy rice-based dishes like dolma (stuffed grape leaves) and grilled fish or meat without sauces. Several restaurants, such as Dzenita, cater to gluten-free diners.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sarajevo with these cultural adventures.
