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It’s hard to put into words my love for Sarajevo. After my trip to Bosnia & Herzegovina, it became one of my favorite cities. I’m not sure I can fully explain why I connected with it so deeply. Some places just resonate with you emotionally, and Sarajevo was one of those places for me.
There’s something profoundly beautiful about the city. Yes, it’s visually beautiful, with its mix of architectural influences and historic bazaar, but the beauty runs much deeper than that. There’s a lingering heaviness in the air from the Bosnian War, yet what stands out just as much is the warmth and kindness of the people who call the city home. The city carries its scars, but it also carries a resilience. There’s something deeply moving about that resilience, and I think that’s what makes Sarajevo so very special.
If you’re planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Sarajevo, this guide covers everything you need to know, from understanding the city’s history to where to stay, how to get around, and the attractions that make Sarajevo one of the most underrated destinations in Europe.
Where is Sarajevo
Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia & Herzegovina, a country located in the western Balkans in Southeast Europe. It sits in a narrow valley surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, which gives the city its beautiful landscape and unique atmosphere.
Geographically, Sarajevo is positioned roughly between Croatia to the west, Serbia to the east, and Montenegro to the southeast. This central location has played a major role in its history, making it a crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures for centuries.
The Miljacka River runs through the city, dividing Sarajevo into distinct neighborhoods that reflect its past, from Ottoman-era Bascarsija in the east to the Austro-Hungarian architecture in the west.
How to Get to Sarajevo
Sarajevo is served by Sarajevo International Airport, which has connections to major European cities, including Vienna, Istanbul, Munich, and Zagreb. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may need to connect through one of these hubs.
If you’re already exploring the Balkans, Sarajevo is also easily reached by bus. Many travelers combine Sarajevo with destinations such as Mostar, Dubrovnik, Kotor, or Belgrade. While train travel in Bosnia is limited, the country is connected by an extensive bus network that is generally affordable and reliable.
I arrived in Sarajevo after traveling through Croatia and stopping in Mostar. From there, I took the train to Sarajevo, a journey that takes about two hours and is quite scenic. The train typically runs twice daily, with a morning and an evening departure. If possible, I highly recommend taking the morning train so you can fully appreciate the views. The route winds through mountains, river valleys, and small villages, offering a glimpse of Bosnia & Herzegovina’s stunning landscapes beyond its cities.
How to Get Around Sarajevo
One of my favorite things about Sarajevo is how walkable it is. I spent most of my time exploring the city on foot. Many of the main attractions are concentrated around Bascarsija (the Old Bazaar), the Austro-Hungarian center, and the surrounding neighborhoods. Walking allows you to notice details you might otherwise miss: Ottoman-era courtyards tucked behind busy streets, Sarajevo Roses embedded in the sidewalks, and the seamless transition between East and West.
For destinations farther from the center, Sarajevo has an easy-to-use network of trams and trolleybuses. Taxis are also available and generally inexpensive compared to many Western European cities.
Understanding the History of Sarajevo
To truly appreciate Sarajevo, it’s important to understand at least some of its history. Few cities in the world have stood at the crossroads of so many cultures, religions, and empires. Over the centuries, Sarajevo was shaped by the Ottoman Empire and later the Austro-Hungarian Empire, creating the unique blend of architecture and traditions that are present today.
Unfortunately, Sarajevo is best known for its darker chapters in history. One significant event in Sarajevo’s history occurred in 1914, when Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated near the Latin Bridge. This is widely recognized as the event that sparked World War I.
More recently, Sarajevo endured the Siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War from 1992 to 1996. Sarajevo is a beautiful city, full of resilience and warmth, but reminders of the war are impossible to miss. You’ll encounter memorials, museums, and reminders throughout the city. However, Sarajevo doesn’t feel frozen by its past. Instead, it feels like a city that has chosen to move forward while honoring its history.
The Bosnian War began after the breakup of Yugoslavia. In 1992, Bosnia and Herzegovina voted for independence, but many Bosnian Serbs, backed by the Serbian government, opposed the move. The conflict lasted nearly four years. Alongside the war, a genocide was taking place, where Bosniak (Bosnian Muslim) civilians were subjected to mass killings and forced displacement.
The Siege of Sarajevo became the longest siege of a capital city in modern warfare and left deep scars on the city and its people. Along “Sniper Alley,” civilians risked their lives carrying out everyday tasks as snipers targeted movement across exposed streets. To survive the blockade, residents relied on the Tunnel of Hope, an underground passage that moved supplies from the UN into the city.
I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I knew very little about the Bosnian War before visiting Sarajevo. I was only 8 when the war began in 1992, and it’s not something I remember learning much about in school in the USA. While exploring the many things to do in Sarajevo, I gained a deeper understanding of this chapter of history. Several experiences on this list provide insight into the Bosnian War and its lasting impact on the city.
Best Time to Visit Sarajevo
The best time to visit Sarajevo is during spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the city is at its most comfortable for walking and sightseeing. These shoulder seasons are ideal for exploring the best things to do in Sarajevo, from wandering Bascarsija to visiting the surrounding mountains without the extreme heat or winter cold.
Summer (July and August) is the busiest time of year and can be quite warm, though it also brings the longest days. Winter brings a completely different atmosphere, with snow-covered rooftops and easy access to nearby ski areas, making it a good option if you enjoy winter landscapes and fewer crowds.
The Best Things to Do in Sarajevo: 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1 | Explore the Old Town (Bascarsija)
Start your morning in the heart of Sarajevo: Bascarsija. The city’s historic Ottoman bazaar is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, mosques, artisan shops, and cafes. It’s the perfect introduction to the best things to do in Sarajevo, especially if it’s your first time visiting.
Spend the rest of the day wandering without a set plan. Some of the best things to do in Sarajevo are simply walking, eating, and observing daily life in the Old Town. Enjoy a Bosnian coffee at one of the city’s many cafes. Some of my favorites are Cajdzinica Dzirlo-Tea House, Fabrica, Ministry of Cejf, and So i Cokolada (which also has incredible pastries).
People-Watch at Sebilj Fountain and “Pigeon Square”
Sebilj Fountain is one of Sarajevo’s most recognizable landmarks and sits at the center of Bascarsija’s main square. It’s often referred to as “Pigeon Square” because of the many pigeons that gather there. Built during the Ottoman era, the wooden fountain is the last of its kind in the city.
There’s a saying among travelers that if you drink from the fountain, you will return to Sarajevo, something that feels especially fitting once you’ve experienced the city’s charming atmosphere. The square is always lively, filled with vendors and cafes.
Shop on Kazandziluk Street
Kazandžiluk is one of the oldest streets in Sarajevo and a great example of the city’s Ottoman craftsmanship. Known as the “Coppersmith Street,” it’s lined with small workshops where artisans continue to make and sell handmade copper goods, from coffee sets to decorative plates. Walking through Kazandžiluk gives you a sense of how traditional crafts remain an important part of Sarajevo.
Visit Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is one of the most important Islamic buildings in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Built in the 16th century during the Ottoman period, it remains an active place of worship and an architectural highlight of Bascarsija. Visitors are welcome to explore outside of prayer times, and it offers a quiet escape from the busy surrounding streets.
Explore Latin Bridge and Its History
Latin Bridge is one of the most historically significant sites in Sarajevo. This modest Ottoman-era bridge spans the Miljacka River and is best known as the location where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914 by Gavrilo Princip, a member of a Bosnian Serb nationalist group. This event sparked World War I.
In response to the assassination, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, triggering a chain reaction of alliances across Europe that quickly escalated into a global conflict. Today, the site of the assassination remains one of Sarajevo’s most visited historical landmarks.
Stop at the Ruins of Taslihan
Taslihan is the remains of a 16th-century Ottoman caravanserai (roadside inn) that once served as a resting place for traders and travelers passing through Sarajevo. Although only ruins remain today, it offers an interesting glimpse into the city’s role as a trading hub along historic routes. Located just behind the Gazi Husrev-beg complex, it’s an easy but often overlooked stop.
Day 2 | Sarajevo’s History, Resilience & Austro-Hungarian Quarter
Sarajevo’s history is impossible to separate from its identity. A full day spent exploring its past will completely change how you experience the city and will deepen your understanding of the city. This is a day that can feel heavy at times, but it is also one of the most meaningful.
Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral
The Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the most important Catholic landmarks in Bosnia & Herzegovina and a symbol of Sarajevo’s religious diversity. Built in the Neo-Gothic style during the Austro-Hungarian period, it’s very different from the Ottoman architecture of nearby Bascarsija.
Learn about the Sarajevo Roses
Sarajevo Roses are one of the most haunting and meaningful sights in the city. These red, resin-filled marks in the pavement indicate where mortar shells struck civilians during the Siege of Sarajevo. They symbolize lives lost and are scattered across the city; one can be seen directly in front of Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Stroll by Sarajevo City Hall (Vijecnica)
Sarajevo City Hall, known as Vijecnica, is one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Originally built during the Austro-Hungarian era, it was heavily damaged during the Bosnian War and later beautifully restored.
Today, it is especially admired for its stunning Moorish Revival architecture and its breathtaking central atrium, which is open to visitors. The building is open to the public for a small admission fee of approximately 5 BAM.
Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide
The Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide offers a difficult but essential look into the Bosnian War. Many people fail to recognize that a genocide was occurring alongside the war. What began as a war quickly evolved into a campaign of ethnic cleansing and genocide against Bosniaks. Thousands of civilians were murdered, entire communities were destroyed, and countless people were forced from their homes. The scale of the atrocities was horrific, and their impact is still felt across Bosnia and Herzegovina today.
Through photographs, testimonies, and artifacts, the museum documents the realities of conflict and its impact on civilians. It is not an easy visit, but it is one of the most important things to do in Sarajevo if you want to understand the city.
Tour the Tunnel of Hope
The Tunnel of Hope is one of Sarajevo’s most significant wartime sites, and a must-visit on this list of things to do in Sarajevo. Built during the Siege of Sarajevo, it served as a lifeline connecting the city to the outside world, allowing food, supplies, and people to move in and out while Sarajevo was under complete blockade. It took more than six months to dig the tunnel, which was done using pickaxes and shovels. Today, visitors can walk through a preserved section of the tunnel, offering a look into the city’s survival under siege.
A tour of the Tunnel of Hope is the best way to visit. I visited with a guide who had actually fought in the war, and he shared firsthand stories as we drove through areas such as “Sniper Alley.” Hearing about what happened there was deeply moving and heartbreaking.
Sarajevo’s main boulevard became known as “Sniper Alley,” one of the most dangerous roads in the city during the siege. Civilians risked their lives simply crossing the street, as snipers positioned in the surrounding hills and high-rise buildings targeted people going about their daily lives.
The tunnel itself was built in a highly strategic location beneath Sarajevo Airport, which was controlled by the United Nations and declared neutral territory. Because the airport and its runway physically separated the besieged city from Bosnian-held territory on the other side, the tunnel was constructed underneath it.
Day 3 | Views, Nature & Olympic Sarajevo
Start your final day by taking the Sarajevo Cable Car up to Trebevic Mountain. This is one of the best things to do in Sarajevo for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The Olympic Bobsled Track on Trebevic Mountain
At the top of Trebevic Mountain, you can walk through forest trails in Trebevic Nature Park, take in sweeping viewpoints over Sarajevo, and visit the abandoned Olympic bobsled track. The bobsled track is one of Sarajevo’s reminders of both the 1984 Winter Olympics and the Bosnian War. The track hosted international bobsled and luge competitions and became a symbol of Sarajevo’s pride. The Olympics brought thousands of athletes and spectators to the city, showcasing the region to an international audience and marking a high point in Sarajevo’s history.
Sadly, less than a decade later, during the Siege of Sarajevo, the track was repurposed by Bosnian Serb forces as an artillery and military position overlooking the city. Today, the track is covered in graffiti and has been taken over by the surrounding forest. Visitors can reach it by taking the Trebevic cable car and walking a short distance through the woods.
While it is possible to explore independently, the best way to visit is with a local guide who can explain the Olympic legacy and its war history. If you are looking for something more active with a lighter mood, you can join a tour that allows you to ride the track in a luge-style sled.
Where to Stay in Sarajevo
Bascarsija (Old Town)
Bascarsija is ideal for first-time visitors. Staying here puts you within walking distance of many of the top attractions, restaurants, and historic sites. Sarajevo is a city best experienced on foot, and being close to the historic center makes exploration easy.
For travelers who want to stay in the heart of the action, Old Town Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Sarajevo. Located within the pedestrian-only streets of Bascarsija, the hotel is just steps away from many of the city’s top attractions, including Sebilj Fountain, Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, and the countless cafes and shops that make the Old Town so charming.
The hotel offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities. A complimentary buffet breakfast is included.
For a more unique experience, Isa Begov Hamam Hotel combines modern comfort with Ottoman heritage. Located near Sarajevo’s historic center, the hotel is inspired by traditional Ottoman design, featuring hand-carved wooden furnishings, handmade carpets, and elegant architectural details.
Guests can relax in the complimentary sauna and hot tub after a day of sightseeing, and a Turkish breakfast is included.
Marijin Dvor & City Center
Marijin Dvor is one of Sarajevo’s main modern districts, known for its shopping malls, business hotels, and administrative buildings. It has a more contemporary feel compared to the historic center, with office complexes and convenient transport links, including tram and bus connections across the city.
Originally built for the 1984 Winter Olympics as a Holiday Inn, the hotel gained international recognition during the Siege of Sarajevo when it remained open and served as a base for foreign journalists reporting on the war.
Despite being located near the front lines and sustaining damage during the conflict, the hotel continued operating throughout the siege. Today, the renovated property provides modern amenities.
Other Things to Know Before Visiting Sarajevo
Currency: Bosnia & Herzegovina uses the Convertible Mark (BAM). While some businesses may accept euros, it’s best to carry local currency for smaller purchases, cafes, and local shops. ATMs are available throughout the city.
Language: The primary language is Bosnian, though many people, especially younger residents and those working in tourism, speak English.
Cost: Sarajevo remains one of the best-value destinations in Europe. Accommodation, dining, transportation, and attractions are generally much more affordable than in Western Europe.
Safety: I found Sarajevo to be very safe and welcoming. As with any destination, use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, but most travelers should feel comfortable exploring independently.
Have you visited Bosnia & Herzegovina? What were your favorite things to do in Sarajevo? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. If you’ve enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below.
If you’re interested in learning more about places shaped by Ottoman history, Turkey is the perfect destination to explore. Continue to my post, “Balloons & Beyond: 12 Incredible Things to Do in Cappadocia“.
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