Explore Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina in One Day

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

1 days

Tourist

Historical Mostar Bridge known also as Stari Most or Old Bridge in Mostar

About Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Discover Sarajevo, the captivating capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a city rich in history and culture. Nestled in the heart of the Dinaric Alps, Sarajevo offers a unique blend of East and West, with Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. Explore the historic Bascarsija district, with its bustling markets and ancient mosques, or visit the poignant War Tunnel Museum, a testament to the city's resilience. Enjoy traditional Bosnian cuisine, like cevapi and burek, in one of the many charming cafes. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant nightlife, and warm, hospitable locals, Sarajevo promises an unforgettable travel experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic and Modern Sides of Sarajevo

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Bascarsija, Sarajevo's old bazaar. This area is a cultural and historical center with numerous shops selling traditional Bosnian goods. Don't forget to visit the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, one of the most important architectural monuments in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Bosnian lunch in one of the many restaurants in the Bascarsija area. Try local specialties such as cevapi, pita, and Bosnian coffee.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum to learn about the city's history during the Bosnian War. Then, take a stroll along the Miljacka River and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.

Dinner

For dinner, explore the modern part of the city and choose a restaurant offering international cuisine. This area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, so it's a great place to spend the evening.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Avaz Twist Tower, the tallest tower in Bosnia and Herzegovina. From the observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of Sarajevo at night.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

1
Bascarsija

Bascarsija is Sarajevo's old bazaar and the historical and cultural center of the city. It was established in the 15th century and is a place where you can experience the traditional Bosnian atmosphere.

Attractions

Cultural Experiences

Neighborhoods

2
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

One of the most significant Islamic structures in Bosnia and Herzegovina, dating back to the 16th century.

Religious Sites

Architecture

Cultural Experiences

3
Sarajevo Tunnel Museum

A museum showcasing the tunnel that was used to supply the city during the Siege of Sarajevo.

Museums

Landmarks

Cultural Experiences

4
Miljacka River

A river that runs through the city of Sarajevo.

Attractions

Landmarks

5
Avaz Twist Tower

The tallest skyscraper in Bosnia and Herzegovina, offering panoramic views of Sarajevo.

Attractions

Architecture

Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Cevapi

Cevapi is a popular Bosnian dish made of small grilled sausages served in a flatbread. It is a must-try street food in Sarajevo.

Burek

Burek is a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach. It is a traditional Bosnian food that is often enjoyed for breakfast in Sarajevo.

Bosanski Lonac

Bosanski Lonac is a traditional Bosnian stew made with meat and vegetables. It is a hearty dish that is often enjoyed during the colder months in Sarajevo.

Sogan Dolma

Sogan Dolma is a traditional Bosnian dish made by stuffing onions with a mixture of meat and rice. It is a popular dish in Sarajevo.

Rakija

Rakija is a strong fruit brandy that is popular in Sarajevo and throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif.

Pita

Pita is a type of pie made with thin pastry and filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, spinach, or meat. It is a popular dish in Sarajevo.

Pljeskavica

Pljeskavica is a grilled dish made from a mixture of ground meats. It is often served with onions and ajvar, a type of relish, and is a popular street food in Sarajevo.

Bosanska Kafa

Bosanska Kafa is a traditional Bosnian coffee that is served in a dzezva, a special pot. It is a popular drink in Sarajevo and is often enjoyed in the morning.

Sarma

Sarma is a traditional Bosnian dish made by stuffing cabbage leaves with a mixture of meat and rice. It is a popular dish in Sarajevo, especially during the winter months.

Tufahija

Tufahija is a traditional Bosnian dessert made by stuffing apples with a mixture of walnuts and sugar, then baking them. It is a popular dessert in Sarajevo.

Kajmak

Kajmak is a creamy dairy product similar to clotted cream. It is often served with bread or used as a topping for grilled dishes in Sarajevo.

Salep

Salep is a hot beverage made from the tubers of the orchid genus Orchis. It is a popular drink in Sarajevo, especially during the winter months.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina is from late spring to early fall, specifically between May and October. During these months, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with numerous cultural festivals and events taking place, such as the Sarajevo Film Festival in August. However, if you're a winter sports enthusiast, you might prefer visiting between December and February when the surrounding mountains offer excellent skiing opportunities.

How to get around

Tram

Sarajevo has a well-developed tram network that covers most parts of the city. It's a convenient and efficient way to get around, especially during peak hours when the roads can get congested.

Bus

Buses in Sarajevo are frequent and cover areas not reached by the tram network. They are a good option for reaching the outskirts of the city or for short trips within the city center.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Sarajevo and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They offer a convenient way to get around, especially if you're travelling with luggage or in a group.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt are available in Sarajevo. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

Car Rental

Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas of Sarajevo. However, keep in mind that driving in the city can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets.

Bicycle

Sarajevo is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike rental services. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace and get some exercise at the same time.

Foot

Many of Sarajevo's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the Old Town area. Walking is a great way to explore the city and soak in its atmosphere.

Cable Car

The recently restored cable car takes you from the city center to the top of Mount Trebević, offering stunning views of Sarajevo along the way. It's a must-do experience when visiting the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyKM BAM

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 124; Fire: 123; Police: 122

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina as a first time visitor

1

Bosnia and Herzegovina's official currency is the Bosnian Convertible Marka (BAM). It's advisable to have some local currency on hand for smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards.

2

The official language is Bosnian, but English is widely spoken in Sarajevo, especially by younger people and those working in tourism.

3

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a secular country with a diverse religious population, including Muslims, Orthodox Christians, and Catholics. Respect for all religious customs and traditions is expected.

4

Tipping is customary in Sarajevo. It's common to leave a 10% tip in restaurants and cafes, and to tip taxi drivers by rounding up the fare.

5

Sarajevo has a continental climate, with cold winters (average temperatures range from 20°F to 33°F / -6°C to 1°C) and warm summers (average temperatures range from 60°F to 78°F / 15°C to 25°C).

6

Public transportation in Sarajevo includes trams, buses, and taxis. Tickets for trams and buses can be purchased at kiosks or from the driver.

7

Smoking is very common in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and many bars and restaurants in Sarajevo allow smoking indoors.

8

Tap water in Sarajevo is safe to drink and of high quality, thanks to the city's mountainous location.

9

Sarajevo operates on Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time.

10

Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, Sarajevo has areas that are best avoided at night. Always be aware of your surroundings.

11

The country code for Bosnia and Herzegovina is +387. It's a good idea to have a local SIM card if you plan to make a lot of calls or use data.

12

Bosnian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Popular dishes include cevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (meat pie), and baklava (sweet pastry).

13

Sarajevo has a vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city is also known for its film and music festivals.

14

Shops in Sarajevo typically open from 9am to 8pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 3pm on Saturdays. Many shops are closed on Sundays.

15

The voltage in Bosnia and Herzegovina is 220V, and the plug type is F. You may need a voltage converter and plug adapter.

16

Healthcare facilities in Sarajevo are adequate for routine problems, but serious conditions may require evacuation to a country with higher-quality medical facilities. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

17

Bosnia and Herzegovina is part of the Balkans, a region known for its hospitality. Don't be surprised if locals invite you into their homes for a meal or coffee.

18

Sarajevo has a rich history and is known as the 'Jerusalem of Europe' due to its historical religious diversity. It's worth learning a bit about the city's past before your visit.

19

Bosnia and Herzegovina is not part of the European Union or the Schengen Area. Check visa requirements before you travel.

20

The local emergency number in Bosnia and Herzegovina is 112. It's a good idea to have this number saved in your phone.

Basic Bosnian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Zdravo	Zdrah-voh	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Doviđenja	Doh-vee-jen-ya	Leaving or saying goodbye
Please	Molim	Moh-leem	Making a request
Thank you	Hvala	Hvah-la	Expressing gratitude
Yes	Da	Dah	Agreeing or confirming
No	Ne	Neh	Disagreeing or denying
Excuse me	Izvinite	Iz-vee-nee-teh	Getting attention or apologizing
I don't understand	Ne razumijem	Ne rah-zoo-mee-yem	When you don't understand what was said
Do you speak English?	Govorite li engleski?	Goh-voh-ree-teh lee eng-les-kee?	Trying to find someone who speaks English
I'm lost	Izgubljen sam	Iz-goo-blyen sam	When you're lost
Where is...?	Gdje je...?	Gdye ye...?	Asking for directions
Bathroom	Kupaonica	Koo-pah-on-ee-cha	Looking for the bathroom
Help	Pomoć	Poh-mohch	In case of emergency
Food	Hrana	Hrah-na	Looking for food
Water	Voda	Voh-da	Asking for water
Beer	Pivo	Pee-voh	Ordering a beer
Wine	Vino	Vee-no	Ordering wine
Check, please	Račun, molim	Rah-chun, moh-leem	Asking for the bill
How much does it cost?	Koliko košta?	Koh-lee-koh kosh-tah?	Asking the price of something
Good night	Laku noć	Lah-koo notch	Saying goodnight

Packing List

Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing
Warm layer (for cooler evenings)
Rain jacket or umbrella
Sunglasses
Hat or cap

Toiletries
Travel-size toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Face mask

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash (in local currency)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and addresses

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger and adapter
Headphones
Camera
Power bank

Miscellaneous items
Snacks and water bottle
Travel guidebook or map
Notebook and pen
Travel pillow
First-aid kit

Weather Conditions

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, each offering a unique charm to the city. In the winter months, from December to February, Sarajevo becomes a snowy wonderland with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging between -2°C (28°F) and 5°C (41°F). If you're planning a trip during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and boots. This is also a great time for winter sports enthusiasts as the nearby mountains offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual rise in temperature, with averages ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 20°C (68°F). This is a beautiful time to visit as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and green landscapes. Light jackets and rain gear are recommended as spring can be quite rainy. Summer, from June to August, is warm and sunny with temperatures often reaching up to 30°C (86°F). It's the perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's historical sites. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun. Autumn, from September to November, is characterized by cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), and vibrant fall foliage. It's a great time to visit if you prefer less crowded tourist spots. A light jacket or sweater would be sufficient for this weather. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to pack appropriately. Also, keep in mind that the weather can be quite different in the mountains surrounding Sarajevo, so if you plan to hike or ski, make sure to prepare for colder temperatures and possible sudden weather changes.

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	4° / -2°	January is the coldest month in Sarajevo, with frequent snowfall and chilly temperatures.
February	7° / -1°	February is still quite cold, but with slightly warmer temperatures and less snowfall than January.
March	12° / 2°	March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise and less frequent snowfall.
April	17° / 5°	April is a mild month, with temperatures continuing to rise and the landscape starting to bloom.
May	21° / 9°	May is a pleasant month, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities.
June	24° / 12°	June marks the beginning of summer, with long sunny days and warm temperatures.
July	26° / 14°	July is the hottest month in Sarajevo, with temperatures often reaching the mid-20s, perfect for exploring the city.
August	26° / 14°	August is similar to July, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine, but with occasional rain showers.
September	21° / 11°	September marks the beginning of autumn, with temperatures starting to drop and leaves starting to change color.
October	17° / 7°	October is a mild month, with temperatures continuing to drop and the landscape turning into a palette of autumn colors.
November	11° / 3°	November is a chilly month, with temperatures dropping further and the first signs of winter starting to appear.
December	5° / -1°	December is a cold month, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and frequent snowfall, creating a winter wonderland.

Did you know?

Did you know that Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina is often referred to as the 'Jerusalem of Europe' due to its historical diversity in religion and culture?