Top Things to Do in Sarajevo

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

About the City

Sarajevo, a charming mosaic of history: Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Sarajevo is a city where East meets West in a delightful dance of cultural fusion. As one strolls through Baščaršija, Sarajevo's old bazaar, the air is infused with the aroma of rich Bosnian coffee and freshly baked somun. The city, often dubbed as the 'Jerusalem of Europe,' is praised for its religious diversity, with minarets and church bells coexisting in harmony. However, the city bears the scars of its tumultuous past, with remnants of the siege during the 1990s conflict that seem to narrate poignant tales on every corner. Yet, the resilient spirit of the Sarajevans transforms this historical heavy-heartedness into a vibrant testament of survival. Travelers may face the occasional obstacle, such as navigating the hilly terrain or dealing with the labyrinthine public transport system, but these minor inconveniences pale in comparison to the warm hospitality offered by the locals. With winter bringing a snowy wonderland to the nearby Olympic mountains, and summers offering bustling street festivals, Sarajevo's charisma shines brightly regardless of the season. One can't overlook the eclectic blend of architectures, where Austro-Hungarian grandeur stands shoulder to shoulder with Ottoman quaintness, promising a visual treat for all who visit.

Things to Do in Sarajevo

Savor the Layers of Samun Bread

Food & Drink

Dive into the world of traditional Bosnian bread-making with Samun, a fluffy, pillowy bread often baked to perfection in local bakeries. Its irresistible aroma wafts through the streets of Sarajevo, e...

Horseback Riding in the Countryside

Outdoors

For those yearning for a bit of Western flair in the heart of the Balkans, horseback riding in the rolling hills around Sarajevo is a must-do. Whether you're a pro or a newbie, these guided tours cate...

Rediscover History at the Brusa Bezistan

The Unexpected

Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, you’ll find Brusa Bezistan, an ancient bazaar that wears its age proudly like a fine vintage wine. Once a trading center for silk and cloth, this 16th-century mar...

Discover the Art of Sebilj Square's Pigeon Watching

The Unexpected

Ready to join the feathered frenzy? Head over to Sebilj Square and witness a spectacle straight out of a Pixar movie. Hundreds of pigeons make their home here, and they fly around in a frenzied whirl,...

Savor the Rustic Charm of an Underground Bunker Restaurant

The Unexpected

Talk about a twist! Sarajevo offers an underground dining experience quite literally. Enter a historical bunker transformed into an unconventional restaurant. Built during the Yugoslav era, these bunk...

Attend an Evening of Sevdah Music

The Unexpected

If you've never indulged in the melancholic romance of Sevdah music, you're in for a treat! This traditional Bosnian folk music, often described as the 'Bosnian blues', carries an emotional intensity ...

Kayak Along the Neretva River

Outdoors

For those seeking a bit of adrenaline mixed with stunning scenery, kayaking along the Neretva River is just the ticket. This emerald-green river offers thrilling rapids and serene stretches, perfect f...

Wander through Sarajevo's Lush Forests

Outdoors

Escape the bustling city and breathe in the fresh air of Sarajevo's surrounding forests. With lush greenery and serene pathways, it's a nature lover's paradise. You might even catch a glimpse of local...

Climb the Highest Peaks of Bjelašnica

Outdoors

For thrill-seekers and seasoned adventurers, a trek up Bjelašnica mountain offers an exhilarating outdoor challenge. Besides conquering its peaks, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch ...

Cycle the Sarajevo Ring

Outdoors

Get ready to pedal your way around the scenic Sarajevo Ring. This cycling route promises breathtaking views with twists and turns through hilly terrain and serene landscapes. It's an adventure that al...

Enjoy the Texture of Tufahija

Food & Drink

Take a sweet adventure with Tufahija, a delightful Bosnian dessert made by poaching an apple until tender, and stuffing it with a rich concoction of walnuts, sugar, and sometimes, a dash of cinnamon. ...

Explore the Historical Latin Bridge

Sights

Stand on the historic Latin Bridge and relive the moment that changed the course of history—the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which sparked World War I. Feel the weight of history...

Explore the Secrets of the War Childhood Museum

Sights

Dive deep into the moving stories of Sarajevo's youngest souls during the turbulent 1990s. The War Childhood Museum offers a poignant tapestry of artifacts, personal narratives, and interactive exhibi...

Adventure through Sarajevo's Abandoned Bobsleigh Track

Sights

Buckle up for an offbeat adventure along the abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track from the 1984 Winter Olympics. Hidden in the lush Trebević mountain, this graffitied relic is now an urbex playground for...

Relish the Splendor of Sacred Heart Cathedral

Sights

Marvel at Sarajevo’s largest cathedral, an architectural gem nestled amid the bustling city center. The Sacred Heart Cathedral, a masterpiece of neo-Gothic design, offers not only spiritual solace but...

Witness the Sacred Art of Srebrenica Gallery

Sights

Step into the haunting beauty of the Srebrenica Gallery and immerse yourself in its powerful narrative through photographs and multimedia pieces. This gallery is a solemn homage to the lives lost and ...

Try the Iconic Japrak

Food & Drink

Wrap your taste buds around Japrak, a charming Bosnian dish that looks like a little green package of joy! Made from pickled cabbage or vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice and minced meat, Japr...

Savor Seasonal Grah

Food & Drink

Dig into a bowl of satisfying Grah, a traditional Bosnian bean stew that gathers a crowd around the table, especially during colder months. This dish features white beans cooked slowly with smoked mea...

Relish the Flavors of Bosanski Lonac

Food & Drink

Warm up with Bosanski Lonac, a hearty stew that captures the essence of Bosnian home cooking. This dish combines layers of meat (usually beef or lamb), vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage, ...

Explore Local Artisan Workshops

The Unexpected

Get hands-on with history by visiting the artisan workshops in Sarajevo. These hidden gems are where traditional crafts meet modern sensibilities. You’ll find craftsmen working meticulously on copper,...