A Complete Guide to Sarajevo: What to do in the Heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city that resonates with history, culture, and resilience. Nestled in a valley surrounded by picturesque mountains, this vibrant metropolis is a captivating blend of East and West, where centuries-old traditions harmonize with modern life. If you're planning a visit to Sarajevo, this complete guide will ensure you make the most of your time in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Sarajevo
By Air
You can catch a flight to Sarajevo International Airport from Dubai, Istanbul, Riyadh, Frankfurt, Zagreb, Cologne and Vienna.
We chose a flight route via Vienna due to the availability of multiple flights per day, ensuring that if our morning flight experienced any delays, we could hopefully catch the next available one.
From the airport, you can reach the city center by taxi or airport transfer. We booked a transfer through Funky Tours and they were exceptional.
By Train and Bus
Sarajevo has good rail and bus connections with neighboring countries. The main train and bus station are located close in the city centre, but we still took a taxi to our accomodation when we arrived to Sarajevo by train.
Where to Stay
We stayed at hotel Boss which is a short walk from the old town. It was clean and the staff were very friendly.
What to do
1. Explore the Old Town and Sarajevo city
Baščaršija: Begin your journey in the Old Town. Wander through cobblestone streets, admire Ottoman architecture, and shop for unique souvenirs.
Sebilj Fountain: Don't miss the iconic Sebilj Fountain, a symbol of Sarajevo.
Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque: Visit this historic mosque with its stunning architecture and explore the nearby Gazi Husrev-bey Bezistan (covered market).
Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica): Admire the architectural beauty of this historic building, which houses a library and museum.
Latin Bridge: Visit the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, a pivotal event leading to World War I.
Sarajevo Brewery: Learn about beer-making and enjoy a tasting session at the Sarajevo Brewery.
2: A bit further out of town
Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum: Gain a deeper understanding of Sarajevo's history at this museum, which includes a preserved section of the famous war tunnel.
Trebević Mountain: Take the cable car to the top of Trebević Mountain for hiking, breathtaking views, and a visit to the abandoned bobsled track from the 1984 Winter Olympics.
3: Consider a tour to make the most of your time
We decided to join a day tour (again with Funky Tours) known as the Sarajevo Total Siege Tour which was truely one of the best tours we had been on (not sponsored in any way).
We visited
Hotel Holiday Inn & Sniper Alley
Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum
Trebević Olympic Mountain
Olympic Bobsled
Jewish Cemetery
The guide not only led us to sites of historical significance related to the conflict as a whole but also shared personal stories about his own experiences.
Culinary Adventures
Sarajevo is a food lover's paradise. Be sure to try local dishes like ćevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (flaky pastry with meat or cheese), and baklava (sweet pastry). Sip on traditional Bosnian coffee or indulge in refreshing rakija (fruit brandy).
We can highly recommend Dveri - Nestled in the heart of Sarajevo's Old Town, Dveri is a culinary gem that encapsulates the essence of Bosnian cuisine and culture. You need to book because it is a small restaurant. Just visit their website and send them a message (make sure they confirm your booking).
I would also recommend attending a traditional Bosnian Dinner with a Host Family in Sarajevo. You can find companies offering this experience online.
Safety Tips
We found Sarajevo to be safe for tourists. Exercise standard precautions and be mindful of your belongings.
Watch out for landmines on the outskirts of Sarajevo and in some rural regions. We were advised never to stray from the paths.
Final Thoughts
Sarajevo's indomitable spirit, rich history, and warm hospitality make it a destination that leaves a lasting impression. This complete guide has provided you with a roadmap to explore the best of Sarajevo, but remember that the true magic of this city lies in its people, stories, and experiences waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags and immerse yourself in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the past and present converge in a captivating tapestry of culture and heritage.
