Things to Do in Sarajevo

About Sarajevo

Sarajevo sits in the Dinaric Alps where minarets and church spires share the same skyline. The city's cobblestone streets hold layers of Ottoman architecture, Austro-Hungarian buildings, and Yugoslav-era monuments. You can drink Turkish coffee in traditional kafanas while listening to the call to prayer and church bells at once. The Miljacka River cuts through the valley. It connects the Ottoman old town of Baščaršija with the European quarters built later—two distinct worlds in one small city. Every corner here carries weight. The Latin Bridge is where history turned in 1914. The markets smell like spices and fresh bread. East meets West constantly. Sarajevo doesn't do the distant tourist thing. Locals will talk to you, share ćevapi, tell stories—the kind of openness that comes from living through hard times and deciding connection matters more than caution.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use the efficient tram system (lines 1-6) for 1.60 BAM per ride, or grab day passes for 5 BAM. Taxis are affordable but insist on the meter. Walking is ideal in the compact old town, but wear comfortable shoes for cobblestones and hills.

Money: Bosnia uses convertible marks (BAM), roughly 1.80 BAM = 1 EUR. Many places accept euros but give change in BAM. ATMs are widespread, but notify your bank beforehand. Tipping 10% is standard in restaurants; round up for taxis and cafés.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting mosques (cover shoulders/legs, remove shoes). Don't photograph people without permission, especially elderly locals. Be sensitive about war topics unless locals initiate. Greet with 'Zdravo' (hello) – it works across all ethnic groups.

Food Safety: Tap water is safe to drink throughout Sarajevo. Try traditional ćevapi at Željo or Hodžić, but avoid street meat in hot weather. Dairy products are excellent and safe. Always check if restaurants accept cards beforehand, as many are cash-only.

When to Visit

Sarajevo shines brightest from late April to October, with peak season running June through August when temperatures reach 20-26°C and rainfall averages just 80mm monthly. Expect accommodation prices 40-60% higher during summer months, but the city buzzes with outdoor festivals like the well-known Sarajevo Film Festival (mid-August) and Summer Festival (July-August). Spring (April-May) offers mild 15-20°C temperatures, blooming parks, and 30% lower prices, though occasional showers bring 90-100mm rainfall. Autumn (September-October) delivers crisp 12-18°C weather, impressive foliage in surrounding mountains, and excellent value with prices dropping 25-35%. Winter transforms Sarajevo into a snow-dusted wonderland with temperatures hovering 0-5°C, perfect for experiencing cozy kafanas and traditional atmosphere. The nearby Olympic mountains offer excellent skiing, while accommodation costs plummet 50% from peak rates. Budget travelers should target November-March (excluding New Year's week), while photography ensoiasts will love autumn's golden light. Summer suits festival-goers and families, but book early. Spring appeals to culture seekers wanting comfortable weather without crowds. Each season reveals different facets of this resilient city's character.