things-to-do-in-Sarajevo

Exploring Sarajevo: A City of History, Culture & Charm

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city brimming with history, culture, and charm. Nestled amidst the Dinaric Alps, it offers a unique blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Here are some must-do activities for any tourist visiting Sarajevo:

Historical Landmarks:

  • Bascarsija: Stroll through this vibrant old bazaar, a labyrinthine maze of cobblestone streets lined with shops selling traditional crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
  • Latin Bridge: Witness the spot where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, sparking World War I. Visit the nearby museum for further insight into this pivotal event.
  • Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque: Admire the beautiful Ottoman architecture of this historic mosque, dating back to the 16th century.

Museums & Galleries:

  • Sarajevo Museum: Delve into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage through captivating exhibits.
  • War Childhood Museum: Experience a poignant journey through the Bosnian War (1992-1995) by exploring personal stories and artifacts from children who lived through the conflict.
  • Gallery 11/07/95: Explore contemporary art exhibitions in this unique gallery housed in a former military barracks.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Enjoy a traditional Bosnian meal: Savor dishes like ćevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (savory pastry), and baklava (sweet pastry) at one of Sarajevo’s many restaurants.
  • Sip Bosnian coffee: Relax in a traditional kafana (coffeehouse) and experience the ritualistic preparation and enjoyment of strong, aromatic Bosnian coffee.
  • Attend a performance at the National Theatre Sarajevo: Enjoy world-class opera, ballet, and theatre productions in this beautiful historical building.

Outdoor Activities:

  • Hike Mount Trebević: Take a cable car or hike up to the summit for breathtaking views of Sarajevo and its surroundings. Visit the abandoned Olympic bobsled track, a remnant from the 1984 Winter Olympics.
  • Explore Vrelo Bosne: Escape the city bustle and enjoy the serene beauty of this natural spring with lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.

Practical Information:

  • Currency: Convertible Mark (BAM)
  • Language: Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian; English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Getting Around: Sarajevo has a good public transportation system with trams and buses. Taxis are readily available.
  • Safety: Sarajevo is generally a safe city for tourists. Exercise common sense precautions as you would in any unfamiliar destination.

Enjoy your trip to Sarajevo, a city that will captivate your senses and leave a lasting impression.