Things to Do in Sarajevo, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина

Sarajevo, the captivating capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where East meets West in the most extraordinary way. Known as the 'Jerusalem of Europe,' this historic city bears the scars and stories of centuries of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav rule, creating a unique cultural tapestry that's unlike anywhere else in Europe. The city's old town, Baščaršija, with its cobblestone streets, traditional craft shops, and the aroma of Bosnian coffee, transports visitors back in time, while modern cafes and galleries showcase its contemporary spirit. Sarajevo's complex history is both tragic and inspiring, from its role as the spark that ignited World War I to its resilience during the 1992-1996 siege. Today, visitors can explore this layered past through its museums, monuments, and the famous Tunnel of Hope, while experiencing the warmth and hospitality of its people. The city offers an authentic Balkan experience with its diverse architecture, from Ottoman mosques and Catholic churches to Orthodox temples and Austro-Hungarian buildings, all within walking distance of each other.

Top Things to Do in Sarajevo

Explore Baščaršija Old Town

Wander through Sarajevo's Ottoman-era old bazaar, where traditional craftsmen still work in their shops and the call to prayer echoes from Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. The area is perfect for buying authentic Bosnian souvenirs, from hand-hammered copper coffee sets to traditional carpets and jewelry. Don't miss trying authentic Bosnian coffee served in traditional copper pots with Turkish delight.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but guided tours cost €15-25 per person. Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting and fewer crowds. Look for local guides who speak your language and have personal stories about the area.

Visit the Tunnel of Hope Museum

Experience one of the most moving historical sites in Sarajevo, the underground tunnel that served as a lifeline during the 1992-1996 siege. The museum preserves part of the original 800-meter tunnel and displays artifacts, photographs, and personal stories from the siege. This powerful experience provides essential context for understanding modern Sarajevo and Bosnia's recent history.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 10 BAM (€5). Located in Butmir suburb, taxi costs €15-20 from city center. Book guided tours for €30-40 per person including transport. Afternoon visits are less crowded, and the museum is closed on Mondays.

Take a War History Tour

Join a comprehensive tour that covers significant sites from the 1992-1996 siege, including sniper alleys, the marketplace where the breadline massacre occurred, and various viewpoints around the city. Local guides often have personal experiences to share, making these tours deeply educational and emotional. The tour typically includes visits to the War Childhood Museum and other conflict-related sites.

Booking Tip: Tours cost €25-40 per person and last 3-4 hours. Book with operators who employ local guides with firsthand experience. Afternoon tours often provide better photo opportunities. Wear comfortable walking shoes as tours involve significant walking.

Experience Traditional Bosnian Cuisine

Embark on a culinary journey through Sarajevo's diverse food scene, sampling traditional dishes like ćevapi, burek, and dolma while learning about the city's multicultural culinary heritage. Food tours often include visits to local markets, traditional restaurants, and family-run establishments. You'll also learn about Bosnian coffee culture and may visit a traditional coffee house.

Booking Tip: Food tours range from €35-60 per person including tastings. Book tours that include at least 5-6 different food stops. Morning tours often include market visits, while evening tours focus on restaurants and coffee houses. Inform guides of any dietary restrictions in advance.

Day Trip to Mostar and Herzegovina

Take a full-day excursion to the stunning city of Mostar, famous for its iconic Old Bridge (Stari Most) and Ottoman architecture. The journey through the Bosnian countryside offers beautiful mountain scenery, and you'll have time to explore Mostar's old town, watch bridge divers, and shop for local crafts. Some tours also include stops at the Dervish monastery in Blagaj or the medieval town of Počitelj.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost €45-70 per person including transport and guide. Tours run 10-12 hours with departure around 8 AM. Book small group tours (8-16 people) for a more personal experience. Bring comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones and cash for lunch and souvenirs.

Getting There

Sarajevo International Airport is located 12km southwest of the city center, with regular flights from major European cities including Vienna, Istanbul, Belgrade, and Frankfurt. The airport bus (€2) runs every 30 minutes to the city center, while taxis cost around €15-20. Alternatively, many visitors arrive by bus from neighboring countries - there are regular services from Zagreb (6 hours), Belgrade (5 hours), and Split (4 hours). The main bus station is centrally located and well-connected to the old town. Train connections are limited but scenic, with services from Zagreb and Belgrade taking 8-9 hours through beautiful mountain landscapes.

Getting Around

Sarajevo's compact city center is easily walkable, with most major attractions within a 2km radius of Baščaršija. The city operates an efficient tram and bus network with tickets costing 1.80 BAM (€0.90) for single journeys - buy tickets from kiosks or drivers. Taxis are affordable and readily available, with rides across the city center typically costing 5-10 BAM (€2.50-5). For longer distances or day trips, consider using ride-sharing apps or booking private transfers. The historic tram line 3 is particularly scenic and connects the old town with the newer parts of the city. Walking remains the best way to explore the atmospheric streets of the old town and discover hidden cafes and shops.

Where to Stay

Baščaršija (Old Town)

Marijin Dvor (City Center)

Ferhadija Street Area

Ilidža (Spa District)

Vratnik (Historic Hillside)

Novo Sarajevo (Modern District)

Food & Dining

Sarajevo's dining scene beautifully reflects its multicultural heritage, offering everything from traditional Bosnian cuisine to international options. The old town is perfect for authentic experiences - try ćevapi at Željo or Dženita, sample fresh burek from local bakeries, and enjoy traditional Bosnian coffee at Morica Han or Caffe Tito. For upscale dining, head to restaurants like Kibe Mahala or Dveri, which offer modern takes on Bosnian classics. The city is famous for its grilled meats, hearty stews, and delicious pastries. Vegetarians will find options like fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and cheese-filled pastries. Don't miss trying local specialties like begova čorba (bey's soup), klepe (Bosnian dumplings), and traditional sweets like baklava and tufahije.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Sarajevo is from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is warm and pleasant for walking around the city's historic streets. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather and longest days, perfect for outdoor dining and evening strolls, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) provide mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful colors in the surrounding mountains. Winter can be quite cold and snowy, but it offers a magical atmosphere in the old town and opportunities for skiing in nearby mountains. The city hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the Sarajevo Film Festival in August, which attracts international visitors and creates a vibrant atmosphere.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Bosnian phrases - locals greatly appreciate the effort and will often share more personal stories and recommendations

Always carry some cash (Bosnian Marks) as many smaller establishments, especially in the old town, don't accept credit cards

Respect the city's religious diversity - when visiting mosques, churches, or synagogues, dress modestly and follow local customs and visiting hours

Things to Do in Sarajevo