Visiting Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, means a captivating journey through history and culture. It’s bound to be an unforgettable experience, whether you are wandering through its cobbled streets, trying the delicious local cuisine, or exploring its natural beauty. For those of you who aren’t sure what to put on your itinerary, here’s a guide to 8 awesome things to do in Sarajevo!

Best things to do in Sarajevo

1. Stroll through Baščaršija

This is one thing everyone will tell you not to miss under any circumstances. Baščaršija, the old bazaar that forms the heart of Sarajevo’s historic center, is the perfect place to start your exploration from.

Baščaršija is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways lined with shops selling traditional crafts, souvenirs and delicacies. You’ll find artisans crafting copper wares, jewelry and textiles. Every corner offers something you can take home as a piece of Sarajevo’s art and heritage. 

And of course, don’t forget to sip a cup of Bosnian coffee, surrounded by the sights and sounds of this bustling market district.

2. Enjoy a stunning view 

Sarajevo is an incredible city to visit in the sense of architectural and historical richness. But what if you also added beautiful views to that equation? If that sounds appealing to you, we urge you to visit the Yellow and White Fortress (Žuta Tabija, Bijela Tabija).

Both bastions are significant remnants of Sarajevo’s past and have served as defensive positions. The Yellow Fortress is particularly compelling in terms of tradition; during Ramadan, every day a cannon is shot from there to formally announce the time for breaking the fast. The views from this spot are beautiful, especially at sunset.

The White Fortress is a National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina and dates back to the 15th century. It provides panoramic views of Sarajevo, allowing visitors to see the city sprawled out below, framed by the surrounding mountains. 

3. Visit the Latin Bridge

One of the essential things to do in Sarajevo is visit the Latin Bridge. This bridge, crossing the Miljacka River, is without a doubt one of the country’s most famous landmarks. This is where the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand took place in 1914, sparking the start of World War I. The bridge and the nearby museum provide insight into this moment in Sarajevo’s history and its global impact.

4. Ski on the slopes of Jahorina

For those more interested in outdoor activities and adrenaline boosts, winter sports are worth considering. Jahorina Mountain, which is just a short drive from Sarajevo, is perfect for that.

As one of the venues for the 1984 Winter Olympics, the mountain provides excellent facilities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. And of course, let’s not forget the fascinating mountain scenery absolutely on par with what you’d see in Austrian, Swiss or French resorts.

5. Explore Trebević Mountain 

Trebević Mountain is easily accessible from the city center. You can hike or take a cable car to the top, enjoying amazing views of Sarajevo along the way. The cable car itself represents an iconic symbol of the city. It was originally built in 1959, completely destroyed during the Bosnian War, and then reopened in 2018.

Once you’re up on the mountain, make sure to explore the remains of the bobsleigh track from the 1984 Winter Olympics, now adorned with vibrant street art and graffiti. 

6. Try Sarajevo’s culinary delights

Your visit would be totally incomplete if you didn’t try as many delicious specialties as possible. You can find traditional Bosnian foods like ćevapi, burek and baklava throughout the city. But for the most authentic experience, visit a local restaurant or café in the Baščaršija area.

7. Immerse yourself in art and culture

Another highlight of the city is the art scene. The National Museum and the Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina offer rich collections that stem from antiquity to modern times. 

To better understand the city’s recent past, make sure to visit the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, located near the airport. This museum preserves a section of the tunnel that was used to supply the city during the Siege of Sarajevo in the 1990s.

For a different museum experience, visit the Museum of Optical Illusions. You may also choose to see intriguing performances at some of Sarajevo’s many theaters. Furthermore, you can plan a visit to the city during the Sarajevo Film Festival hosted every year in August.

8. Take in Sarajevo’s natural allure

One of the favorite things to do in Sarajevo among both locals and tourists is visiting the Vrelo Bosne. This picturesque park is located at the spring of the River Bosna and offers a peaceful escape into nature.

You can expect walking and cycling paths, wooden bridges, and clear streams surrounded by lush greenery. Depending on the season, you can enjoy a stroll, have a picnic, or take a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. 

Conclusion

Of all the things to do in Sarajevo, which one are you most excited for? From historical roots to modern vibrancy, the city offers experiences that cater to all interests. Add these 8 things to your itinerary and enjoy a memorable visit to Bosnia’s capital. 

Need help organizing your trip? Reach out to us and we’ll make it easy. We can also help organize your trips to other cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.