Things to Do in Sebilj Fountain, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина

Sarajevo, the captivating capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where East meets West in the most enchanting way. The historic Baščaršija district, home to the iconic Sebilj Fountain, represents the heart of this multicultural metropolis where Ottoman architecture blends seamlessly with Austro-Hungarian influences. This wooden fountain, built in 1753 and reconstructed multiple times, serves as the symbolic centerpiece of the old bazaar and is considered one of Sarajevo's most recognizable landmarks. The city's rich tapestry of history is evident in every cobblestone street, from the bustling marketplace surrounding Sebilj Fountain to the nearby mosques, churches, and synagogues that showcase Sarajevo's remarkable religious diversity. Beyond its historical significance, modern Sarajevo pulses with vibrant café culture, exceptional cuisine, and warm hospitality that has welcomed travelers for centuries, making it an essential destination for those seeking authentic Balkan experiences.

Top Things to Do in Sebilj Fountain

Baščaršija Old Bazaar Walking Tour

Explore the Ottoman-era old town centered around Sebilj Fountain, wandering through narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional craft shops, copper smiths, and authentic ćevapi restaurants. The area offers an immersive experience into Sarajevo's 500-year-old trading heritage with opportunities to watch artisans at work and sample local delicacies.

Booking Tip: Free self-guided exploration is possible, but guided tours (€15-25) provide valuable historical context. Best visited early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Look for local guides certified by the Sarajevo Tourism Board.

Traditional Bosnian Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Bosnian dishes like ćevapi, burek, and baklava in intimate cooking sessions led by local families or professional chefs. These hands-on experiences often include market visits to select fresh ingredients and conclude with communal dining featuring your prepared dishes.

Booking Tip: Classes range from €35-60 per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Book 2-3 days in advance, especially during summer. Choose operators that include market tours and recipe cards to take home.

Sarajevo War History Tour

Gain profound insights into the 1992-1996 siege through visits to key sites including the Tunnel of Hope, war-damaged buildings, and memorial locations. These emotionally powerful tours are led by local guides who often lived through the conflict, providing personal perspectives on this pivotal period.

Booking Tip: Tours cost €25-40 and last 3-4 hours. Book with operators offering small groups (max 12 people) for more intimate experiences. Morning tours are recommended as some sites have limited afternoon hours.

Yellow Fortress Sunset Experience

Climb to this Ottoman-era fortress for panoramic views over Sarajevo's red-tiled roofs and surrounding mountains, particularly spectacular during golden hour. The fortress offers perfect photo opportunities of the city's diverse architectural styles and the valley's natural beauty.

Booking Tip: Free to access, but guided historical tours available for €10-15. Best visited 1-2 hours before sunset. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the climb involves steep, uneven paths. Bring water and a camera.

Traditional Coffee Culture Experience

Immerse yourself in Sarajevo's legendary coffee culture by visiting traditional kafanas and learning about the ceremonial preparation of Bosnian coffee served in distinctive copper sets. This cultural ritual involves specific etiquette and is often accompanied by Turkish delight and engaging conversations with locals.

Booking Tip: Coffee experiences range from €8-20 per person. Visit established kafanas near Sebilj Fountain for authenticity. Best enjoyed in late afternoon (3-5 PM) when locals gather. Look for places offering coffee preparation demonstrations.

Getting There

Sarajevo International Airport is located 12 kilometers from the city center, with regular flights from major European cities including Istanbul, Vienna, and Belgrade. Airport buses (€2) run every 30 minutes to the city center, while taxis cost approximately €15-20. Alternatively, Sarajevo is accessible by bus from regional capitals like Zagreb (8 hours), Belgrade (5 hours), and Split (6 hours), with the main bus station conveniently located near the city center. Train connections are limited but scenic, particularly the route from Mostar.

Getting Around

Sarajevo's compact city center is highly walkable, with most major attractions including Sebilj Fountain within a 15-minute walk of each other. The city operates an efficient tram and trolleybus system (€1.60 per ride) connecting outer neighborhoods to the center, though visitors rarely need public transport for sightseeing. Taxis are readily available and affordable (€3-8 for most city trips), while ride-sharing apps like Bolt operate throughout the city. For exploring surrounding areas, rental cars are available, though parking in the old town can be challenging.

Where to Stay

Baščaršija Old Town

Marijin Dvor

Centar

Ilidža

Novo Sarajevo

Grbavica

Food & Dining

Sarajevo's culinary scene revolves around hearty Balkan specialties, with the area around Sebilj Fountain offering the highest concentration of traditional restaurants serving ćevapi, burek, and grilled meats. The old town features numerous family-run establishments where recipes have been passed down through generations, while the newer parts of the city offer international cuisine and modern interpretations of Bosnian dishes. Don't miss trying traditional Bosnian coffee and homemade rakija, and be sure to visit during Ramadan when the evening iftar atmosphere creates a particularly magical dining experience throughout the Muslim quarter.

When to Visit

The ideal 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 minimal. Summer months (July-August) can be hot and crowded but offer the longest daylight hours and numerous outdoor festivals. Winter visits (December-February) provide a magical atmosphere with potential snowfall creating picturesque scenes around Sebilj Fountain, though temperatures drop below freezing and some outdoor activities may be limited.

Insider Tips

Legend says that anyone who drinks from Sebilj Fountain will return to Sarajevo - make sure to take a sip from the traditional copper cups often provided nearby

Visit the fountain early morning or late evening for the best photographs without crowds, and during winter months when snow creates particularly enchanting scenes

The area around Sebilj Fountain comes alive during Ramadan evenings with special food stalls and a festive atmosphere that's worth experiencing regardless of your religious background

Things to Do in Sebilj Fountain