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

Things to Do in Eternal Flame

Eternal Flame, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина - Complete Travel Guide

The Eternal Flame (Vječna vatra) in Sarajevo stands as one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's most poignant memorial sites, honoring the military and civilian victims of World War II. Located in the heart of Sarajevo's old town, this simple yet powerful monument consists of a bronze sculpture with an ever-burning flame that has flickered continuously since its dedication in 1946, making it one of the oldest such memorials in the former Yugoslavia. Situated near the bustling pedestrian zone of Ferhadija Street, the Eternal Flame serves as both a place of remembrance and a popular meeting point for locals and visitors exploring Sarajevo's historic center. The memorial's central location makes it an ideal starting point for discovering the city's rich Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav heritage, while its solemn presence provides a moment of reflection amidst the vibrant energy of modern Sarajevo.

Top Things to Do in Eternal Flame

Explore Sarajevo's Historic Old Town

Wander through Baščaršija, Sarajevo's Ottoman-era old bazaar, featuring traditional craft shops, copper smithies, and historic mosques. The cobblestone streets lead you through centuries of history, from the famous Sebilj fountain to the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, though guided tours cost 15-25 EUR and provide valuable historical context. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Visit War History Sites

Discover Sarajevo's recent history through visits to the Tunnel Museum, which showcased the lifeline during the 1992-1996 siege, and various sites marking the longest siege in modern warfare. These powerful experiences provide insight into the city's resilience and recovery.

Booking Tip: Tunnel Museum entrance costs 10 BAM (5 EUR). Book war history tours through local operators for 30-40 EUR per person. Allow a full day and prepare emotionally for intense historical content.

Experience Traditional Bosnian Cuisine

Sample authentic Bosnian dishes like ćevapi, burek, and traditional coffee in historic restaurants and cafes. Food tours often include visits to local markets and family-run establishments where recipes have been passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Individual meals cost 8-15 BAM (4-8 EUR). Food tours range from 40-60 EUR per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Book with operators who include both Christian and Muslim quarter establishments.

Discover Multi-Religious Heritage

Explore Sarajevo's unique religious diversity by visiting the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Orthodox Cathedral, and the Old Jewish Cemetery. This journey through different faiths showcases the city's historical tolerance and cultural richness.

Booking Tip: Most religious sites are free or charge minimal entrance fees (2-5 BAM). Respect dress codes and visiting hours. Cultural tours focusing on religious heritage cost 25-35 EUR per person.

Take Day Trips to Surrounding Mountains

Venture into the beautiful Dinaric Alps surrounding Sarajevo, including visits to Olympic mountains like Jahorina and Bjelašnica, or explore traditional villages and natural springs. These excursions offer stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities year-round.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost 50-80 EUR per person including transportation and guide. Summer offers hiking and nature walks, while winter provides skiing opportunities. Book with operators providing mountain equipment if needed.

Getting There

Sarajevo International Airport is located 12 kilometers southwest of the city center, with regular flights from major European cities including Istanbul, Vienna, and Belgrade. The airport shuttle bus costs 3 BAM and runs every 30 minutes to the city center, while taxis charge around 25-30 BAM. Alternatively, Sarajevo is accessible by bus from neighboring countries, with regular services from Zagreb (8 hours), Belgrade (7 hours), and Split (6 hours), making it a popular overland destination for travelers exploring the Balkans.

Getting Around

Sarajevo's compact city center is easily walkable, with most major attractions within 15 minutes of each other on foot. The city operates an efficient tram and bus system with tickets costing 1.80 BAM for single rides or 5 BAM for day passes, available from kiosks or drivers. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive, with most rides within the city costing 5-15 BAM, though it's advisable to use established companies or ride-sharing apps to ensure fair pricing.

Where to Stay

Baščaršija (Old Town)
Ferhadija Street Area
Marijin Dvor
Centar Municipality
Novo Sarajevo
Ilidža

Food & Dining

Sarajevo's dining scene beautifully reflects its multicultural heritage, with traditional Bosnian restaurants serving specialties like ćevapi, pljeskavica, and sarma alongside Turkish-influenced dishes and Austro-Hungarian pastries. The Baščaršija area offers the most authentic traditional dining experiences, while the modern city center features contemporary restaurants and international cuisine. Don't miss trying Bosnian coffee, served in traditional copper sets, and local rakija (fruit brandy) - meals typically cost 15-30 BAM per person at mid-range restaurants, with street food options available for 5-10 BAM.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Sarajevo

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Klopa

4.6 /5
(3680 reviews) 2

Piccolo Mondo

4.6 /5
(2160 reviews) 2

Brunch Sa

4.7 /5
(1755 reviews) 2

Nostra Cucina

4.5 /5
(1803 reviews) 2

Trattoria Boccone

4.7 /5
(931 reviews) 2

Casa El Gitano

4.7 /5
(929 reviews) 2
all dining options →

When to Visit

The best time to visit Sarajevo is during late spring through early fall (May to October), when temperatures are pleasant for walking and outdoor activities, ranging from 15-25°C. Summer months offer the warmest weather and longest days, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and surrounding mountains. Winter can be quite cold with frequent snowfall, but it provides a magical atmosphere and opportunities for nearby skiing, while spring and autumn offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful seasonal colors in the surrounding hills.

Insider Tips

The Eternal Flame area can get crowded during peak tourist hours (11 AM - 3 PM), so visit early morning or evening for better photos and a more contemplative experience
Many shops and restaurants in the old town close on Fridays during prayer time (around noon), so plan your shopping and dining accordingly
Learn a few basic Bosnian phrases as locals greatly appreciate the effort, and always greet people when entering small shops or cafes as it's considered polite

Explore Activities in Eternal Flame