Hidden Gems in Sarajevo

Beyond the Baščaršija: Unearthing Sarajevo’s Hidden Gems

Sarajevo, the vibrant capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is renowned for its charming Ottoman-era Baščaršija market. But beyond this bustling hub, the city hides many treasures just waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers.

For the history buff:

  • The Tunnel of Hope: This underground tunnel served as a lifeline for Sarajevo during the Bosnian War. While the historic entrance is in the basement of the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina (a must-visit itself!), delve deeper into its significance at the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, located above the original entrance.

For the art enthusiast:

  • The Ars Aevi Collection: Housed within the Ars Aevi Art Gallery, this collection boasts works by contemporary artists from across the globe, with a focus on showcasing the diversity of artistic expression in the face of adversity.**
  • Gallery 11/7 for Contemporary Art: This hidden gem focuses on showcasing local Bosnian artists and is a great place to discover the vibrant contemporary art scene.

For the nature lover:

  • Trebević Mountain: While the city’s famous Olympic bobsleigh track is on the mountain, don’t just stop at the tourist spots. Explore the trails, visit the abandoned bobsleigh facilities for a glimpse into Sarajevo’s past, and soak in the stunning views of the city and beyond.
  • The Sarajevo War Tunnel:

For the adventurer:

  • Mount Igman: This mountain offers breathtaking hiking and biking trails through lush forests and picturesque valleys with panoramic views.

For the foodie:

  • Cevapić: This traditional Bosnian dish is a must-try for any visitor.

  • Burek: Savory, flaky pastries filled with meat, cheese, or spinach. It’s a delicious and affordable way to experience local cuisine.

  • Explore:

    • The Baščaršija, a bustling market with traditional crafts, cobblestone streets, and Ottoman-era architecture.

Beyond the Tourist Trail:

  • The Sarajevo Brewery (Sarajevska Pivara): Enjoy a tour of this historic brewery and learn about the brewing process while sampling some local beer.

For the history seeker:

  • Yellow Fortress (Žuta Tabija): This 16th-century Ottoman fortress offers amazing views of the city and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
  • The Latin Bridge: A historical landmark where World War I was ignited by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.

For the cultural explorer:

  • The National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina: Explore the rich history and culture of Sarajevo, from ancient artifacts to its time as host of the 1984 Winter Olympics.
  • Sarajevo’s museums:

For a taste of local life:

  • The War Childhood Museum: This unique museum offers a glimpse into the lives of children who grew up during the Bosnian War.

Off the beaten path:

  • The Abandoned Olympic Bobsleigh Track on Trebević Mountain: While the city itself has many charming aspects, this particular landmark is hidden away from the typical tourist routes and offers stunning views of Sarajevo.
  • Enjoy local cuisine:

Hidden Treasures:

  • The Museum of Literature: Explore the world of Bosnian literature through manuscripts, first editions, and literary artifacts.

For a taste of history:

Beyond the Museums:

  • The National Library: Discover the beauty of this historical building and its vast collection of books and documents.
  • Sarajevo’s Old Town (Stari Grad): Wander through the charming cobblestone streets and explore the historic mosques, churches, and bazaars.
  • The Sarajevo Tunnel Tour: This tour takes you to the abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track on Trebević Mountain, offering a chance to learn about its role during the Bosnian War

Beyond the Basics:

  • Sarajevo’s War Tunnels: Explore the network of tunnels used by Sarajevans during the Siege of Sarajevo.
  • The Abandoned Bobsleigh Track: A stark reminder of the war-torn past, the tour offers a glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the people who lived through the siege.

For a taste of the city’s history:

  • The Yellow Fortress (Žuta Tabija): This historical site takes you back to the 1984 Sarajevo Olympics and the impact it had on the city.
  • The Latin Bridge: A significant landmark with a fascinating history, and it is a great place for taking a walk through time.

Beyond the Museums:

  • Sarajevo’s historical resilience: The tour offers insights into the courage and perseverance of the people who lived through the war.
  • The Sarajevo Brewery (Sarajevska Pivara): Explore the history of this iconic brewery, which has been a part of Sarajevo for over 150 years.

Hidden Treasures:

  • Explore:

  • The National Museum: This is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the history and culture of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

  • The Abandoned Bobsleigh Track:

For a unique cultural experience:

  • Visit the Olympic Village: Explore the abandoned Sarajevo Olympics site, a testament to the city’s tumultuous past.
  • Take a tour of the Old Town: Learn about the history of the Bosnian War and its impact on the city through the lens of everyday life.**