Things to Do in Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a captivating city where East meets West, creating a unique cultural tapestry that has endured centuries of history. The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque stands as one of the city's most significant Ottoman architectural treasures, built in the 16th century and serving as the heart of Sarajevo's historic Baščaršija quarter. This magnificent mosque, with its elegant minaret and beautiful courtyard, represents the Islamic heritage that forms an integral part of Sarajevo's multicultural identity. Sarajevo's old town is a living museum where visitors can experience the authentic atmosphere of Ottoman Bosnia, with cobblestone streets, traditional craft shops, and the aroma of Bosnian coffee wafting from countless cafés. The city seamlessly blends its rich Ottoman past with Austro-Hungarian architecture and modern European influences, creating an enchanting destination that tells the story of Bosnia's complex but fascinating history through its mosques, churches, synagogues, and cultural landmarks.

Top Things to Do in Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

Explore Baščaršija Old Bazaar

Wander through Sarajevo's Ottoman-era old bazaar, a maze of narrow cobblestone streets filled with traditional craft shops, copper workshops, and authentic restaurants. The bazaar surrounds the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and offers an immersive experience into traditional Bosnian culture. Visit the famous Sebilj fountain and browse for handmade souvenirs, traditional carpets, and local delicacies.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but 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 multiple languages and can provide historical context.

War History and Tunnel Museum Tour

Learn about Sarajevo's recent history during the 1990s siege through visits to the Tunnel of Hope and war-related museums. These powerful experiences provide insight into the city's resilience and the impact of the Bosnian War on its people. The tunnel museum preserves part of the underground passage that was a lifeline during the siege.

Booking Tip: Tours cost 30-50 EUR including transportation. Book full-day tours that combine multiple sites. Choose operators with knowledgeable local guides who lived through the events for authentic perspectives.

Traditional Bosnian Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Bosnian dishes like ćevapi, burek, and traditional sweets in a hands-on cooking experience. These classes often include visits to local markets to select fresh ingredients and conclude with enjoying the meal you've prepared. It's an excellent way to understand Bosnian culinary traditions and take home new skills.

Booking Tip: Classes cost 40-60 EUR per person and last 3-4 hours. Book with local families or cultural centers for authentic experiences. Morning classes often include market visits, while evening classes focus more on cooking and dining.

Day Trip to Mostar and Kravice Falls

Take a scenic day trip to the historic town of Mostar to see its famous bridge and Ottoman architecture, often combined with a visit to the stunning Kravice Waterfalls. This excursion showcases Bosnia's natural beauty and allows you to experience another important cultural center. The journey through the Bosnian countryside is equally rewarding.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost 45-70 EUR per person including transportation. Choose small group tours for better experience. Spring and summer offer best weather, but book early as tours fill up quickly during peak season.

Sarajevo Food and Coffee Culture Tour

Experience Sarajevo's renowned coffee culture and diverse food scene through guided tastings of Bosnian coffee, traditional pastries, and local specialties. Learn about the proper way to drink Bosnian coffee and visit historic cafés that have been serving locals for generations. The tour often includes visits to both Muslim and Austrian-influenced establishments.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost 25-40 EUR per person for 3-4 hours. Morning tours are ideal and less crowded. Look for tours that include both sweet and savory tastings, and ensure they accommodate dietary restrictions if needed.

Getting There

Sarajevo International Airport is located about 12 kilometers from the city center, with regular flights from major European cities and some Middle Eastern destinations. The airport shuttle bus costs around 3 EUR and runs every 30 minutes to the city center, while taxis cost approximately 15-20 EUR. Alternatively, Sarajevo is accessible by bus from neighboring countries, with regular connections from Zagreb, Belgrade, and other Balkan capitals, though journey times can be long due to border crossings. Train connections are limited, and driving is possible but requires careful planning due to mountainous terrain and potential border delays.

Getting Around

Sarajevo's city center and main attractions, including the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque area, are easily walkable, with most historic sites concentrated in the compact old town. The city operates an efficient tram and bus system that costs about 1.60 EUR per ride, with day passes available for 5 EUR. Taxis are affordable and readily available, with most rides within the city costing 5-10 EUR, though it's advisable to use official taxi companies or ride-hailing apps. For day trips outside the city, organized tours or car rentals are recommended, as public transportation to tourist sites outside Sarajevo can be limited and infrequent.

Where to Stay

Baščaršija (Old Town)

Marijin Dvor

Centar

Bistrik

Kovači

Ilidža

Food & Dining

Sarajevo's dining scene beautifully reflects its multicultural heritage, offering everything from traditional Bosnian cuisine to international options. The area around Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is filled with authentic restaurants serving ćevapi, burek, and other Ottoman-influenced dishes, while the nearby streets offer cozy kafanas (traditional taverns) and modern bistros. Don't miss trying Bosnian coffee served in traditional copper sets, and be sure to visit local bakeries for fresh burek and other pastries. The city also has a growing number of contemporary restaurants that blend traditional ingredients with modern techniques, particularly in the Marijin Dvor and Centar areas, while vegetarian and international options are increasingly available throughout the city center.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Sarajevo and the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and pleasant for walking around the old town. Summer months (July-August) can be warm but are ideal for outdoor activities and day trips, though this is also the busiest tourist season. Winter visits offer a unique charm with possible snow creating a magical atmosphere in the old town, and accommodation prices are generally lower, though some outdoor attractions may have limited hours. The mosque is open year-round, but visiting during Ramadan provides a special cultural experience, though travelers should be respectful of prayer times and religious observances.

Insider Tips

Remove shoes and dress modestly when visiting Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque - women should cover their heads, arms, and legs, and headscarves are usually provided at the entrance

Visit the mosque's courtyard and clock tower early in the morning or late afternoon for the best photos and fewer crowds

Try to time your visit around prayer times to experience the authentic atmosphere, but be respectful and quiet during religious services

Things to Do in Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque