We spent the month of July in Sarajevo. I’m not sure what we were expecting, but it exceeded all our expectations. The old town, known as Baščaršija, is a large pedestrian-only area with many shops and architectural attractions.

Notably, the weather and the number of tourists were both tolerable. Perhaps we were lucky, but the mornings were cool and provided enjoyable summer exploring experiences. We will almost certainly return to Sarajevo for another summer month in the future!

Below is a guide to our favorite food and architecture in Sarajevo, plus some additional travel tips and resources we picked up along the way. We hope this information will inspire you to plan your next trip!

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Sarajevo is a city that has seen its fair share of conflict, including the brutal Siege of Sarajevo during the collapse of Yugoslavia in the 1990s. Despite this dark history, the city is now emerging as a top tourist destination in the Balkans.

Visitors can learn about the scars of war by visiting places like the Tunnel of Hope, which was used as a lifeline during the siege, and the tunnel museum, or seeking out bullet holes in apartment buildings and the marks on the sidewalk filled with red resin called “Sarajevo Roses,” which represent where mortar shells exploded, or simply listening to personal stories from locals who lived through it.

Sarajevo also offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking in the nearby mountains or skiing at the nearby Jahorina ski resort. Overall, Sarajevo is a vibrant and welcoming city with plenty to offer visitors.

Sarajevo is famous for the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand on June 28, 1914. This event led to the start of World War I. The city has a museum that commemorates this event and exhibits the pistol used by Gavrilo Princip in the assassination. Sarajevo is a must-visit for history buffs who want to immerse themselves in the fascinating and complex history of the Balkans.

The city is also famous for hosting the 1984 Winter Olympics. The high altitude of Sarajevo ensures plenty of snowfall during winter months, making it an excellent destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Despite the damage caused by the Yugoslav wars of 1992-1995, the city has recovered and is now a popular tourist destination. The now abandoned bobsled track built for the Winter Olympics draws many tourists.

Yes, Sarajevo Old Town is very beautiful and memorable.

Yes, Sarajevo is definitely worth visiting. Known as the “Jerusalem of Europe,” Sarajevo is a city with a rich and fascinating history, blending Eastern and Western cultures. Visitors can explore the city’s Ottoman-era architecture, sample traditional Bosnian cuisine, and learn about the city’s struggles during the Bosnian War in the 1990s. We explored this question in depth in our article “Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?”

How many days travelers need in Sarajevo depends on interests and travel style. It is possible to explore Sarajevo Old Town, visit a few Mosques, have a Bosnian coffee at a cafe, and enjoy a meal of grilled meats and veggies in one day.

But to slow down, enjoy the city, and see additional sites, we recommend 2-3 days. For a list of the best things to see and a suggested walking tour, check out our article “10 Best Things to See in Sarajevo.”

We recommend visiting Sarajevo between May and September. The weather is lovely during these months, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to do. However, if you’re a winter sports fan, the nearby Jahorina ski resort makes Sarajevo a perfect destination during the colder months. Whenever you choose to visit, Sarajevo will impress you with its history, beauty, and welcoming atmosphere.

No, Sarajevo is not expensive. Sarajevo offers a beautiful Old Town destination at a great value. A grilled meat platter for two with two beers costs about $30. Both hotels and Airbnbs are some of the best value we have seen in Europe. However, the cost ultimately depends on the level of luxury required. We prepared a Budget for a Month in Sarajevo that analyzes all the necessary expenses.

Sarajevo is located in the Bosnia region of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

As of Summer 2023, US citizens are allowed to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, it’s important to check the most up-to-date information regarding entry requirements and any travel restrictions before planning your trip.

To get to Sarajevo, you can fly into the Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ) from various cities in Europe and the Middle East. You can get from the airport to the Old Town neighborhood by bus or taxi. Taxis are very affordable and are, therefore, our recommended method. Book a taxi or private transfer now with these highly-rated options!

Alternatively, you can take a bus or train from neighboring countries such as Croatia, Serbia, or Montenegro. If you are driving, several highways connect Sarajevo with other major cities in the region.