A historic part of Sarajevo, filled with traditional Bosnian architecture, shops, and restaurants.

Old Town, or Baščaršija, is the historic heart of Sarajevo, dating back to the 15th century. /n It's a place where East meets West, with a unique blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architectural styles. The area is filled with narrow winding streets, numerous mosques, traditional bazaars, and a variety of cafés and restaurants offering local Bosnian cuisine. /n The Old Town is also home to several important landmarks, including the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, and the Sebilj Fountain. It's a vibrant area, bustling with locals and tourists alike, and offers a unique cultural experience that is quintessentially Sarajevo.

Old Town is Sarajevo's historic heart, known for its unique blend of cultures and architectural styles.

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

The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religion. Built in the 16th century, it's one of the oldest and most significant Islamic structures in Bosnia and Herzegovina. /n The mosque is named after Gazi Husrev-beg, a Bosnian governor who contributed significantly to the development of Sarajevo. The mosque's stunning architecture, featuring a large central dome and a tall minaret, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the Ottoman era.

A 16th-century mosque in Sarajevo, known for its stunning Ottoman architecture and cultural significance.

The Sarajevo Museum offers a comprehensive history of the city, from its early days to the present, including the siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War.

The Sarajevo Museum is a cultural and historical hub, showcasing the city's rich past. It offers a comprehensive insight into the city's past, from its founding to the present day. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of Sarajevo's history, culture, and people. /n The museum's architecture is also noteworthy, with its blend of traditional Bosnian and modern design elements. The museum also hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a vibrant center of Sarajevo's cultural scene. Whether you're a history buff, a culture vulture, or just a curious traveler, the Sarajevo Museum is a must-visit when in the city.

The Sarajevo Museum is a cultural and historical hub, showcasing the city's rich past.

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

The Sarajevo Tunnel Museum is a poignant reminder of the city's turbulent past. During the Bosnian War, Sarajevo was under siege for nearly four years. /n The tunnel, dug by the city's residents, was a lifeline, providing food, supplies, and a way in and out of the city. Today, the museum offers a glimpse into this challenging period in Sarajevo's history.

A museum dedicated to the tunnel that provided a lifeline to Sarajevo during the Bosnian War.

A beautiful park located at the spring of the River Bosna, offering peaceful surroundings and natural beauty.

Vrelo Bosne, located at the foot of Mount Igman on the outskirts of Sarajevo, is a beautiful park known for its springs, greenery, and wildlife. The park features the spring of the River Bosna, beautiful meadows, and forests, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and nature walks. /n The park is home to several species of birds, and it's not uncommon to see horses grazing in the meadows. There are several walking paths, picnic spots, and even horse-drawn carriages for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat from the city or a chance to connect with nature, Vrelo Bosne is a must-visit.

Vrelo Bosne is a beautiful park known for its springs, greenery, and wildlife.

The Olympic Mountains are a mountain range on the Olympic Peninsula of western Washington. They are a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The mountains were the site of the 1984 Winter Olympics, giving them their name.

The Olympic Mountains, located near Sarajevo, are a major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. They offer a range of activities, from hiking and biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter. /n The mountains were the site of the 1984 Winter Olympics, and the facilities built for the games are still in use today. The mountains offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making them a popular spot for photography. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just a nature lover, the Olympic Mountains have something to offer for everyone.

The Olympic Mountains are a major attraction in Sarajevo, offering various outdoor activities.

A museum dedicated to the childhood experiences during the Bosnian War.

The War Childhood Museum in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, offers a poignant and powerful look at the Bosnian War through the eyes of children who lived through it. The museum collects and displays items, stories, and testimonies from people who were children during the war. /n Each item in the museum is accompanied by a personal story, providing a deeply human perspective on the war. The museum aims to promote dialogue, tolerance, and social awareness, and it serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of war on children. It's a moving and thought-provoking experience that shouldn't be missed when visiting Sarajevo.

The War Childhood Museum offers a poignant look at the Bosnian War through the eyes of children.

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

The Avaz Twist Tower is a modern landmark in Sarajevo. Standing at 176 meters, it's the tallest skyscraper in Bosnia and Herzegovina. /n The tower's observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. The building's unique twisted design adds a touch of modernity to Sarajevo's skyline.

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.

Old Town

Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

Sarajevo Museum

Start your day with a visit to the Old Town, known as Baščaršija. This area is filled with traditional shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Don't miss the chance to try some traditional Bosnian coffee.

Enjoy a traditional Bosnian lunch in one of the local restaurants in the Old Town. Try dishes like cevapi, burek, or dolma.

After lunch, take a walk to the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, an important landmark of Islamic architecture. Then, visit the Sarajevo Museum to learn about the city's history.

For dinner, explore the modern part of the city and enjoy a meal in a restaurant offering international cuisine.

End your day with a relaxing stroll along the Miljacka River, enjoying the beautiful views of the city at night.

Exploring the Old Town and Modern City Center

Sarajevo Tunnel Museum

Vrelo Bosne

Start your second day with a visit to the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum. Learn about the city's struggle during the Bosnian War and the importance of this tunnel.

Have lunch in a restaurant near the museum. Try some local dishes like sarma or tufahija.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Vrelo Bosne park. Enjoy the beautiful nature, feed the swans, and take a boat ride on the lake.

Dine in a restaurant in the city center. Try some Bosnian wine along with your meal.

Spend the evening at a local theater or concert hall for some cultural entertainment.

History, Nature, and Culture

Olympic Mountains

War Childhood Museum

Avaz Twist Tower

On your last day, visit the Olympic Mountains. Enjoy the beautiful views and take a walk in the nature.

Have a picnic lunch in the mountains. Enjoy some traditional Bosnian pastries like pita or burek.

Visit the War Childhood Museum to learn about the impact of war on children. This unique museum offers a poignant look at the Bosnian War.

For your last dinner, choose a restaurant offering a fusion of Bosnian and international cuisine.

End your trip with a visit to the Avaz Twist Tower. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the top.

Mountains, Museums, and Panoramic Views

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Cevapi

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.

Burek

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.

Bosanski Lonac

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.

Sogan Dolma

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

Rakija

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.

Pita

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.

Pljeskavica

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.

Bosanska Kafa

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.

Sarma

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.

Tufahija

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.

Kajmak

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.

Salep

New Year's Day

New Year's (Day 2)

Independence Day (Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Labor Day

Labor Day (Day 2)

Known for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a reconstructed medieval arched bridge, and its beautiful old town.

Mostar

Historic town known for its fortress, old town, and beautiful mosques.

Travnik

Famous for its beautiful waterfall and historic fortress.

Jajce

A small town known for its old wooden bridge and Tito's nuclear bunker.

Konjic

A popular Catholic pilgrimage site with the reported apparitions of Virgin Mary to local children.

Medjugorje

The second largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its Kastel Fortress and Vrbas River.

Banja Luka

Known for the Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visegrad

A stunning Croatian city on the Adriatic Sea known for its distinctive Old Town.

Dubrovnik

The capital of Serbia, known for its vibrant nightlife and historic sites such as the Kalemegdan Fortress.

Belgrade

The capital of Croatia, known for its historic Upper Town and beautiful squares.

Zagreb

Buildings in Sarajevo over the river Miljacka

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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).

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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).

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

January is the coldest month in Sarajevo, with frequent snowfall and chilly temperatures.

February is still quite cold, but with slightly warmer temperatures and less snowfall than January.

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise and less frequent snowfall.

April is a mild month, with temperatures continuing to rise and the landscape starting to bloom.

May is a pleasant month, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities.

June marks the beginning of summer, with long sunny days and warm temperatures.

July is the hottest month in Sarajevo, with temperatures often reaching the mid-20s, perfect for exploring the city.

August is similar to July, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine, but with occasional rain showers.

September marks the beginning of autumn, with temperatures starting to drop and leaves starting to change color.

October is a mild month, with temperatures continuing to drop and the landscape turning into a palette of autumn colors.

November is a chilly month, with temperatures dropping further and the first signs of winter starting to appear.

December is a cold month, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and frequent snowfall, creating a winter wonderland.

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.

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About Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina