Ultimate Guide to Visit Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Fredrik Wallgren — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:13:17 +0000

Introduction

Sarajevo is one of Europe’s most underrated gems — a city where East meets West, mosques stand beside Austro-Hungarian architecture, and café culture rivals that of Vienna. As a travel photographer, I find Sarajevo endlessly inspiring: the way the light hits Baščaršija’s cobblestone streets, the views from the hills, and the layered history that gives this city its soul.

In this Ultimate Guide to Visit Sarajevo, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from what to pack and where to stay, to the best tours, food, and photo spots.

What to Know Before You Go

Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Known as the “Jerusalem of Europe” due to its religious diversity.
Autumn and spring are the best times to avoid crowds.
It’s affordable compared to other European capitals.

Orientation

The city lies in a valley surrounded by the Dinaric Alps. The Miljacka River runs through its center, with Ottoman-era Baščaršija on one side and Austro-Hungarian Sarajevo on the other.

Language

Bosnian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learn these phrases:

Hello: Zdravo
Thank you: Hvala
Coffee: Kafa

Currency and Payment

The official currency is the Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM). Cash is king, though cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants. ATMs are easy to find.

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes (Sarajevo’s old town streets are cobblestoned).
A light jacket or coat depending on the season.
Scarf/shawl for visiting religious sites.
Camera gear for cityscapes and street photography.

When to Go

Spring (April–June): Lush greenery, mild weather.
Summer (July–August): Hot, more tourists.
Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, colorful foliage.
Winter (December–February): Great for skiing nearby in Jahorina.

How Long to Stay

3–4 days is perfect for exploring Sarajevo itself, plus a day trip or two to the surrounding mountains and towns.

How to Get There

Air: Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ).
Train: The line from Mostar to Sarajevo is one of the most scenic in Europe.
Bus: Reliable connections across the Balkans.
Car: Driving is possible, but parking in Sarajevo can be tricky.

What to Do

Wander Baščaršija, Sarajevo’s old bazaar.
Visit the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque.
Step back in time at the Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated.
Explore the Tunnel of Hope, a lifeline during the Sarajevo Siege.
Ride the Sarajevo Cable Car to Trebević Mountain for panoramic views.

Best Tours

Sarajevo walking tours — learn about Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian history.
War history tours — visit key sites from the 1990s siege.
Food tours — sample ćevapi, burek, and Bosnian coffee culture.
Day trips — to Mostar, Travnik, or Sutjeska National Park.

What to Eat and Drink

Sarajevo is a foodie paradise.

Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat in somun bread.
Burek: Flaky pastry stuffed with meat, cheese, or spinach.
Begova Čorba: Hearty chicken and vegetable soup.
Baklava: Sweet Ottoman pastry.
Bosnian coffee: Served in a džezva (copper pot).

Where to Eat

Željo: Best place for ćevapi.
Inat Kuća: Historic restaurant with traditional Bosnian fare.
Avlija: Garden restaurant perfect in spring and summer.

Where to Drink

Baščaršija cafés for Bosnian coffee.
City pub scene for craft beer.
Sky Lounge at Hotel Hecco Deluxe for sunset cocktails with a view.

Where to Stay

Old Town: For charm and easy access to attractions.
Marijin Dvor: For modern hotels and shopping.
Bascarsija Boutique Hotels: Cozy and atmospheric.

How to Get Around

Walking

The best way to experience Sarajevo’s old town.

Public Transport

Trams and buses cover most areas.

Taxi

Affordable, but agree on price beforehand or ensure the meter is running.

Rent a Car

Useful for day trips, but not for city driving.

Bike

Limited cycle lanes, but possible along the Miljacka River.

What to Buy

Copper coffee sets from Baščaršija.
Handmade rugs and carpets.
Local honey and rakija (fruit brandy).

Best Photo Spots

Sebilj Fountain in Baščaršija — especially at sunrise when it’s quiet.
Latin Bridge — historic and photogenic.
Sarajevo Cable Car views — epic cityscapes.
Yellow Fortress — one of the best sunset spots.
Avaz Twist Tower — for panoramic views of the city.

Types of Trip

Girls Weekends

Coffee tours, shopping, and spa days.

Couple Getaways

Romantic strolls, sunsets at the Yellow Fortress, and mountain getaways.

Family Trips

Interactive museums, cable car rides, and easy city walks.

How Much Does It Cost?

Getting There

Flights from Europe: €70–200.

Sleeping

Budget: €20–30/night.
Mid-range: €50–80.
Luxury: €100+.

Activities

Walking tours: €10–20. Cable car: €5. Museums: €2–5.

Getting Around

Public transport: €0.80 per ride. Taxi: €5–10 within city.

Eating and Drinking

Meals: €5–10. Coffee: €1–2.

What a Trip Here Will Give You

A unique cultural mix of East and West.
Incredible photo opportunities in every season.
Warm hospitality and unforgettable food.

Should You Go? Why Go?

Absolutely. Sarajevo offers a blend of history, culture, food, and scenery at an affordable price. If you want a city break with soul, Sarajevo is it.

FAQs for Ultimate Guide to Visit Sarajevo

1. Is Sarajevo safe for tourists?
Yes — it’s very safe, with welcoming locals.

2. How many days should I spend in Sarajevo?
3–4 days is ideal.

3. Is Sarajevo expensive?
No — it’s one of Europe’s most affordable capitals.

4. Can I take day trips from Sarajevo?
Yes — Mostar, Travnik, and Sutjeska are all easy to reach.

5. What’s Sarajevo known for?
Its rich history, cultural mix, and coffee culture.

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