Things to Do in Sarajevo Cathedral, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина

Sarajevo, the captivating capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where East meets West in the most remarkable way. Known as the 'Jerusalem of Europe,' this historic metropolis seamlessly blends Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences, creating a unique cultural tapestry that's evident in its architecture, cuisine, and daily life. The city's old town, Baščaršija, with its cobblestone streets, traditional crafts shops, and the sound of the call to prayer mixing with church bells, offers visitors an authentic glimpse into centuries of diverse heritage. Despite its tragic recent history during the 1992-1996 siege, Sarajevo has emerged as a resilient and vibrant destination that honors its past while embracing the future. The city's compact size makes it perfect for walking, with major attractions clustered around the historic center and along the Miljacka River. From the iconic Latin Bridge where World War I began to the bustling markets of the old bazaar, Sarajevo offers an intimate yet profound travel experience that combines historical significance with warm Balkan hospitality.

Top Things to Do in Sarajevo Cathedral

Explore Baščaršija Old Bazaar

Wander through Sarajevo's enchanting Ottoman-era old bazaar, where copper craftsmen hammer traditional items and the aroma of Bosnian coffee fills the air. This historic quarter features the iconic Sebilj fountain, numerous mosques, and traditional shops selling everything from handmade carpets to local sweets. The area comes alive in the evening when locals and tourists gather in the many cafes and restaurants.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on foot. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for the best light and fewer crowds. Many shops close during midday prayer times. Budget €20-30 for souvenirs and coffee experiences.

Sarajevo War History Tour

Gain profound insights into the city's recent history through guided tours that cover key sites from the 1992-1996 siege, including the Tunnel of Hope, sniper alley, and various memorials. These emotionally powerful experiences provide context for understanding modern Sarajevo and Bosnia's journey toward peace. Many tours are led by locals who lived through the conflict, offering personal perspectives.

Booking Tip: Book tours 2-3 days in advance, especially during summer. Prices range €25-45 per person. Choose operators with local guides for authentic experiences. Tours typically last 3-4 hours and involve moderate walking.

Traditional Bosnian Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Bosnian dishes like ćevapi, burek, and traditional pies in hands-on cooking classes often held in local homes or cultural centers. These intimate experiences typically include market visits to select fresh ingredients, cooking instruction, and sharing the meal with your hosts. You'll discover the secrets behind Bosnia's unique culinary fusion of Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Central European influences.

Booking Tip: Classes cost €35-60 per person and should be booked 2-3 days ahead. Look for small group experiences (4-8 people) for more personal attention. Morning classes often include market visits, while evening classes focus more on cooking and dining.

Visit Historic Religious Sites

Explore Sarajevo's remarkable religious diversity by visiting the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans, alongside the Sacred Heart Cathedral and the Old Orthodox Church. Within a few blocks, you can experience the architectural and spiritual heritage of Islam, Catholicism, Orthodox Christianity, and Judaism. Each site offers unique insights into the city's multicultural identity.

Booking Tip: Most sites are free or charge minimal entry (€1-3). Dress modestly when visiting religious buildings. Best visited mid-morning to early afternoon. Consider hiring a local guide (€20-30) to provide historical context and ensure respectful visits.

Day Trip to Mostar and Herzegovina

Take a scenic day trip south to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Mostar, famous for its iconic Old Bridge (Stari Most) and stunning Ottoman architecture. The journey through the Herzegovina region offers dramatic mountain scenery, and Mostar provides a different perspective on Bosnian culture with its Mediterranean influences. Watch brave locals dive from the historic bridge and explore the charming cobblestone streets.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost €45-70 per person including transportation. Book with reputable operators offering small groups (8-15 people). Tours typically run 10-12 hours. Independent travel by bus costs €15-20 each way but limits your time for sightseeing.

Getting There

Sarajevo International Airport is located 12km southwest of the city center and receives flights from major European cities including Istanbul, Vienna, Belgrade, and Zurich. The airport shuttle bus costs around €3 and takes 30-40 minutes to reach the city center, while taxis cost approximately €15-20. Alternatively, many visitors arrive by bus from neighboring countries - the journey from Belgrade takes 6 hours (€20-25), from Zagreb 8 hours (€25-30), and from Dubrovnik 5 hours (€20-25). Train connections are limited but scenic, with services from Zagreb and Belgrade taking 8-9 hours.

Getting Around

Sarajevo's compact city center is highly walkable, with most major attractions within a 20-minute walk of each other. The city operates an efficient tram and bus network that costs around €1 per ride, with day passes available for €3. Trams are particularly useful for reaching outer neighborhoods and connecting the old town with more modern areas. Taxis are affordable (starting at €2) and readily available, though many destinations in the historic center are faster to reach on foot due to pedestrian-only zones. For day trips outside the city, organized tours or rental cars provide the most flexibility.

Where to Stay

Baščaršija (Old Town)

City Center

Marijin Dvor

Ilidža

Novo Sarajevo

Grbavica

Food & Dining

Sarajevo's dining scene reflects its multicultural heritage, offering everything from traditional Bosnian ćevapi and burek to international cuisine. The old town buzzes with traditional restaurants serving grilled meats, hearty stews, and Turkish-influenced dishes, while the city center features more contemporary dining options. Don't miss trying local specialties like Sarajevski lonac (Sarajevo pot), fresh trout, and the famous Bosnian coffee served in traditional copper sets. Meals at traditional restaurants typically cost €8-15 per person, while upscale dining ranges €20-35. The city also has a growing cafe culture, with numerous spots perfect for people-watching while enjoying strong coffee and sweet baklava.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Sarajevo is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable (15-25°C) and rainfall is moderate. Summer (July-August) can be hot and crowded but offers the longest days and most festivals, while winter (December-March) brings snow and cold temperatures but creates a magical atmosphere, especially around the holidays. Spring is particularly beautiful as the surrounding mountains turn green and outdoor cafes reopen. Avoid visiting during heavy winter months (January-February) unless you enjoy cold weather, as some attractions may have limited hours.

Insider Tips

Exchange money at official exchange offices rather than banks for better rates - avoid street money changers

Learn basic greetings in Bosnian as locals greatly appreciate the effort, and it opens doors to warmer interactions

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in religious sites or when capturing scenes related to the war period

Things to Do in Sarajevo Cathedral