Things to Do in Eternal Flame, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина

The Eternal Flame (Vječna vatra) in Sarajevo stands as one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's most poignant memorials, commemorating the military and civilian victims of World War II. Located in the heart of Sarajevo's old town on Ferhadija Street, this simple yet powerful monument consists of a bronze sculpture with an eternal flame that has burned continuously since its dedication in 1946, making it one of the first such memorials in post-war Europe. Sarajevo itself is a captivating city where East meets West, offering visitors a unique blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences. The city's rich history is visible everywhere, from the cobblestone streets of Baščaršija (the old bazaar) to the scars left by the 1992-1996 siege. Beyond the Eternal Flame, Sarajevo offers an incredible journey through time with its diverse architecture, vibrant café culture, traditional crafts, and resilient spirit that continues to inspire visitors from around the world.

Top Things to Do in Eternal Flame

Explore Baščaršija Old Bazaar

Wander through Sarajevo's historic Ottoman-era bazaar, filled with traditional craft shops, copper smiths, and authentic Bosnian restaurants. The area features beautiful examples of Islamic architecture including the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and the famous Sebilj fountain. This pedestrian-friendly quarter offers an authentic glimpse into the city's Ottoman heritage with its narrow cobblestone streets and traditional Turkish-style buildings.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on foot; guided walking tours cost 15-25 EUR per person. Best visited in morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Look for local guides who speak your language and have good reviews for historical accuracy.

Visit War History Sites

Learn about Sarajevo's recent history through visits to the Tunnel of Hope Museum and Sarajevo War Tunnel, which served as a lifeline during the 1992-1996 siege. The experience includes viewing authentic artifacts, hearing survivor stories, and understanding the resilience of Sarajevo's people. Many tours also include visits to sniper alley and other significant wartime locations.

Booking Tip: Tunnel Museum entry costs 10 KM (5 EUR); guided war tours range from 25-40 EUR. Book tours with reputable operators who employ local guides with personal experiences. Best visited with a guide for proper historical context.

Take a Bosnian Coffee Experience

Participate in a traditional Bosnian coffee ceremony, learning about the unique preparation method that differs from Turkish coffee. The experience typically includes visiting a traditional coffee house, learning the proper serving ritual, and understanding the cultural significance of coffee in Bosnian social life. Many experiences also include trying local sweets like baklava or tufahije.

Booking Tip: Coffee experiences cost 20-35 EUR per person including instruction and tastings. Book experiences that include multiple coffee varieties and traditional sweets. Morning sessions are often more intimate and authentic.

Discover Traditional Cuisine

Join a food tour or cooking class to experience authentic Bosnian cuisine including ćevapi, burek, dolma, and other regional specialties. Many experiences include visits to local markets, traditional restaurants, and family-run establishments. You'll learn about the blend of Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Central European influences that shape Bosnian cooking.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost 30-50 EUR per person; cooking classes range from 40-70 EUR. Choose tours that include both sweet and savory dishes, and visit multiple venues. Afternoon tours often include dinner portions.

Explore Surrounding Mountains

Take day trips to the beautiful mountains surrounding Sarajevo, including visits to Jahorina or Bjelašnica for hiking, skiing, or scenic views. These areas hosted events during the 1984 Winter Olympics and offer excellent outdoor activities year-round. The mountains provide stunning panoramic views of the city and valleys below, along with traditional mountain villages and restaurants.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost 40-80 EUR depending on activities included. Winter skiing packages available December-March. Choose tours that include transportation and guide services; summer hiking tours often include traditional lunch.

Getting There

Sarajevo International Airport is located 12km southwest of the city center, with regular flights from major European cities including Istanbul, Vienna, Belgrade, and Zagreb. The airport shuttle bus costs 5 KM (2.50 EUR) and runs every 30 minutes to the city center. Alternatively, Sarajevo is accessible by bus from neighboring countries, with regular services from Zagreb (8 hours), Belgrade (7 hours), and other regional capitals. Train connections are limited but available from some destinations. Rental cars are available but not necessary for exploring the city center.

Getting Around

Sarajevo's city center is highly walkable, with most major attractions within easy walking distance of each other. The city operates an efficient tram and bus system with tickets costing 1.80 KM (0.90 EUR) for single rides or 5 KM for day passes. Taxis are readily available and affordable, with most rides within the city costing 5-15 KM. For exploring areas outside the center like the Tunnel Museum, organized tours or taxis are recommended. The old town area around Baščaršija is pedestrian-only, making walking the best option for sightseeing in the historic core.

Where to Stay

Baščaršija (Old Town)

Ferhadija Street Area

Marijin Dvor

Ilidža

Grbavica

Vratnik

Food & Dining

Sarajevo's dining scene reflects its multicultural heritage, with traditional Bosnian restaurants serving ćevapi, burek, and other local specialties alongside international cuisine. The Baščaršija area offers the most authentic traditional dining experiences, with restaurants like Željo and Hodžić famous for their ćevapi. For a more upscale experience, try restaurants along Ferhadija Street or in the Marijin Dvor area. Don't miss trying traditional Bosnian coffee at one of the many kahvehanas (coffee houses), and be sure to sample local desserts like baklava, tufahije, or hurmašice. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating during warmer months, perfect for people-watching while enjoying the local cuisine.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Sarajevo is during late spring through early fall (May-September) when temperatures are comfortable and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather but can be crowded with tourists. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. Winter visits (December-March) offer a different perspective with possible snow and cozy indoor experiences, plus access to nearby ski resorts. The city is beautiful year-round, but summer offers the most outdoor dining and festival opportunities.

Insider Tips

Visit the Eternal Flame early in the morning or evening for the most peaceful experience and better photos without crowds

Learn a few basic Bosnian phrases - locals appreciate the effort and it enhances your cultural experience significantly

Always carry cash (Bosnian Marks) as many smaller establishments and traditional shops don't accept credit cards

Things to Do in Eternal Flame