Two Weeks in Sarajevo: Where East Meets West
A Deep Dive into Bosnia's Cultural Capital
Trip Overview
This comprehensive two-week itinerary explores Sarajevo's rich tapestry of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, Yugoslav, and contemporary influences. You'll wander through the atmospheric Baščaršija bazaar, trace the city's tumultuous 20th-century history, and venture into the surrounding mountains for natural beauty. The pace balances cultural immersion with relaxation, allowing time to sip Bosnian coffee in traditional kafanas, explore war history museums, and hike to waterfalls. You'll experience the city's remarkable resilience, taste ćevapi and burek in local eateries, and understand why Sarajevo is called the 'Jerusalem of Europe.' This itinerary includes day trips to nearby natural attractions while maintaining a home base in Sarajevo, perfect for travelers wanting depth rather than breadth.
Pace
Relaxed
Daily Budget
$50-80 per day
Best Seasons
April to October (though winter offers skiing opportunities and festive atmosphere)
Ideal For
History enthusiasts, Cultural explorers, First-time visitors to the Balkans, Solo travelers, Couples seeking unique destinations
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival & Ottoman Heart
Settle into Sarajevo's historic core and explore the atmospheric Ottoman old town, experiencing traditional Bosnian hospitality and architecture.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at Sarajevo International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in the old town area. Take time to settle in, freshen up, and get oriented with your surroundings. The compact city center makes it easy to begin exploring on foot immediately. Exchange currency at local exchange offices which typically offer better rates than the airport.
Lunch
A traditional ćevabdžinica near Baščaršija serving Sarajevo's famous ćevapi
Afternoon
Explore Baščaršija and visit Sebilj
Wander through Baščaršija, Sarajevo's 15th-century Ottoman bazaar, where coppersmiths still hammer traditional coffee sets. Visit the iconic wooden Sebilj fountain, the symbol of Sarajevo, and explore the narrow cobblestone streets filled with artisan workshops. Browse handmade copperware, traditional slippers, and Bosnian coffee sets. The area's atmosphere transports you back centuries with its mosque minarets and traditional architecture.
Evening
Sunset at Yellow Fortress and traditional dinner
Walk up to Yellow Fortress for panoramic sunset views over Sarajevo's red rooftops and minarets, then descend for dinner at a traditional Bosnian restaurant serving begova čorba soup and klepe dumplings
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Traditional guesthouse or boutique hotel)
Central location puts you within walking distance of major attractions and immerses you in the historic atmosphere from day one
Bosnian coffee is served with sugar cubes and Turkish delight - never stir the grounds at the bottom of the cup
Day 1 Budget: $60-75
2
Ottoman Heritage & Sacred Spaces
Delve deeper into Sarajevo's Islamic heritage with visits to historic mosques and the beautifully restored City Hall.
Morning
Visit Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and complex
Explore the 16th-century Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans. The complex includes a madrasa, library, and clock tower with a unique lunar calendar. Visitors are welcome outside prayer times (modest dress required, headscarves provided for women). The adjacent covered market and courtyard fountain showcase the traditional Ottoman külliye concept where religious and commercial life intertwined.
Visit between 9-11 AM to avoid midday prayer times
Lunch
A traditional Bosnian restaurant serving pita (layered pastry dishes) near the old town
Afternoon
Sarajevo City Hall exploration
Visit the stunning Vijećnica, Sarajevo's City Hall, a masterpiece of Austro-Hungarian pseudo-Moorish architecture. Destroyed during the 1992-1995 siege and painstakingly reconstructed, it now houses exhibitions about the city's history and the building's restoration. The colorful interior with intricate Islamic geometric patterns and stained glass is breathtaking. Don't miss the exhibition about the building's role as the National Library and its tragic burning.
Evening
Stroll along the Miljacka River and dinner
Walk along the riverside promenade past illuminated bridges, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving traditional Bosnian dishes like sogan-dolma and tufahija dessert
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Same accommodation)
Continuing to stay centrally allows evening walks through the illuminated old town
The City Hall's upper floors offer excellent photo opportunities of the ornate ceiling and balconies - arrive early for fewer crowds
Day 2 Budget: $55-70
3
Assassination & Empire
Latin Bridge area
Trace the events that sparked World War I and explore the Austro-Hungarian legacy in Sarajevo's architecture and culture.
Morning
Location Of Sarajevo Assassination and Latin Bridge
Visit the Latin Bridge where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated on June 28, 1914, triggering World War I. The corner building houses a small museum with photographs and artifacts from that fateful day. Walk the exact route the Archduke's car took and understand how this single event changed world history. The bridge itself, dating from 1798, is one of Sarajevo's oldest Ottoman bridges still standing.
Lunch
A café in the Austro-Hungarian district serving Viennese-style pastries and coffee
Afternoon
Explore Sarajevo Meeting Of Cultures
Visit the symbolic point where East meets West in Sarajevo, marked by an embedded line in the pavement. This area represents the historical division between the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires. Within a few blocks, you can see mosques, Catholic cathedrals, Orthodox churches, and synagogues - earning Sarajevo its nickname as the 'Jerusalem of Europe.' Explore the architectural transition from wooden Ottoman buildings to grand Austro-Hungarian structures.
Evening
Visit Vječna vatra (Eternal Flame) and dinner
Pay respects at the Eternal Flame memorial commemorating WWII victims, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Ferhadija pedestrian street area serving grilled meats and local wines
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Same accommodation)
Central location continues to be ideal for exploring different historical periods within walking distance
The Sarajevo Meeting Of Cultures point is unmarked and easy to miss - look for the pavement line near where the architecture visibly changes from Ottoman to Austro-Hungarian style
Day 3 Budget: $50-65
4
Siege Stories & Resilience
Tunnel of Salvation
Confront Sarajevo's recent past with a sobering visit to the war tunnel and museum documenting the 1992-1995 siege.
Morning
Visit the Tunnel of Salvation
Take a taxi to the Tunnel Museum, located in the house where the famous Sarajevo Tunnel began during the siege. Walk through the preserved 25-meter section of the 800-meter tunnel that was the city's lifeline, bringing food, weapons, and hope when Sarajevo was completely surrounded. The museum displays photographs, videos, and artifacts from the siege, including weapons, uniforms, and personal items. The family who owns the house shares firsthand accounts of survival.
Arrange return taxi as the location is isolated near the airport
Lunch
A local restaurant in the Dobrinja neighborhood near the tunnel serving simple Bosnian fare
Afternoon
Experience the siege from children's perspectives at this award-winning museum. Personal objects donated by siege survivors - toys, diaries, drawings - tell intimate stories of growing up during war. The museum's innovative approach focuses on resilience and childhood rather than violence. Each item has a recorded story from its owner, creating powerful emotional connections. This is one of Europe's most moving and unique museums.
Evening
Quiet evening and reflective dinner
After an emotionally heavy day, enjoy a quiet dinner at a cozy restaurant in the old town, perhaps trying traditional dishes like japrak or stuffed peppers
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Same accommodation)
Returning to familiar surroundings provides comfort after an emotionally challenging day
The War Childhood Museum gift shop sells a beautiful book with survivor stories - proceeds support the museum's educational programs
Day 4 Budget: $55-70
5
Panoramic Views & Local Life
Yellow Fortress and surrounding hills
Gain perspective on Sarajevo's geography with viewpoint visits and explore local neighborhoods away from tourist crowds.
Morning
Morning at Yellow Fortress and Sarajevo Viewpoint
Return to Yellow Fortress in morning light for photography and a different perspective on the city. Continue uphill to additional viewpoints that reveal Sarajevo's unique valley position surrounded by mountains. The climb through residential neighborhoods shows daily life and offers glimpses of the city's war scars - bullet-marked buildings alongside new construction. The views explain why the siege was so devastating, with the city trapped in the valley below surrounding hills.
Lunch
A neighborhood grill in the hillside residential area serving fresh ćevapi and pljeskavica
Afternoon
Explore Veliki park and relax
Descend to Veliki park, Sarajevo's largest green space, popular with locals for picnics, jogging, and relaxation. The park offers a peaceful contrast to the intense history of previous days. Walk among families, observe daily life, and enjoy the tree-lined paths. The park hosts occasional events and has playgrounds, making it ideal for people-watching. Nearby cafés offer traditional Bosnian coffee in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Evening
Explore Park Safet Zajko and casual dinner
Visit this smaller local park in the early evening when families gather, then find a nearby neighborhood restaurant serving home-style Bosnian cooking away from tourist prices
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Same accommodation)
Central base remains convenient while you explore different neighborhoods during the day
Local bakeries near Veliki park sell fresh burek and sirnica (cheese pie) in the morning - perfect for a budget breakfast before exploring
Day 5 Budget: $40-55
6
Natural Escape to Bosna Spring
Ilidža and Bosna Spring
Escape the city for a peaceful day at the beautiful Bosna Spring, where crystal-clear waters emerge from underground.
Morning
Tram ride to Ilidža and Bosna Spring visit
Take tram number 3 to Ilidža, a spa suburb of Sarajevo, then walk to Bosna Spring (Vrelo Bosne), one of Bosnia's most beautiful natural sites. The spring emerges from a cliff face creating crystal-clear pools surrounded by ancient trees. Rent a traditional horse-drawn carriage or bicycle for the scenic 3-kilometer approach through a plane tree-lined avenue. The park around the spring offers wooden bridges, walking paths, and picnic areas where the Bosna River begins its journey.
Lunch
A riverside restaurant near the spring serving fresh trout and traditional dishes
Afternoon
Relax at Bosna Spring and explore Ilidža
Spend the afternoon enjoying the peaceful atmosphere at the spring, walking the trails, and feeding swans and ducks. The area is popular with Sarajevo families on weekends. On the return journey, explore Ilidža's historic spa district with Austro-Hungarian architecture. The town was a fashionable resort during the Habsburg period and retains a genteel atmosphere. Browse local shops or stop for Bosnian coffee before returning to the city center.
Evening
Return to Sarajevo for dinner
Take the tram back to the old town and enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, trying dishes you haven't yet sampled like ćufte (meatballs) or grah (bean stew)
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Same accommodation)
Returning to your central base after a day trip maintains convenience and familiarity
Visit Bosna Spring on a weekday morning to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy the peaceful natural setting with better photo opportunities
Day 6 Budget: $50-65
7
Mountain Adventure to Skakavac
Nature Preserve Skakavac
Hike through pristine mountain forest to reach the spectacular Skakavac Waterfall, experiencing Bosnia's natural beauty.
Morning
Journey to Nature Preserve Skakavac and waterfall hike
Arrange early morning taxi or join a small group to reach the trailhead for Skakavac Waterfall in the Nature Preserve Skakavac. The moderate 3-kilometer hike through dense beech and pine forest follows a mountain stream, with the sound of rushing water growing louder. The 98-meter Skakavac Waterfall cascades dramatically into a gorge - one of Bosnia's highest waterfalls. The preserve protects pristine forest ecosystems and offers excellent bird watching. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be rocky and slippery.
Book a taxi return time or arrange a small group tour for easier logistics
Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy near the waterfall or at scenic spots along the trail
Afternoon
Continue exploring Nature Preserve Skakavac
After visiting the waterfall, explore additional trails in the nature preserve if energy permits. The area offers various difficulty levels and showcases the biodiversity of Bosnian mountains. Look for endemic plant species and listen for woodpeckers and other forest birds. The clean mountain air and peaceful forest atmosphere provide a stark contrast to the urban environment. Return to Sarajevo in late afternoon with time to rest before dinner.
Evening
Relaxed evening in Baščaršija
After an active day, enjoy a leisurely evening walking through the illuminated old town, perhaps stopping at a traditional sweet shop for baklava and Bosnian coffee
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Same accommodation)
Your central accommodation provides a comfortable return point after mountain hiking
The trail to Skakavac can be muddy even in summer - bring waterproof hiking boots and expect to get your feet wet crossing small streams
Day 7 Budget: $55-70
8
Rest Day & Local Experiences
Sarajevo city center
Take a slower pace with shopping, café culture, and optional activities like visiting Sunnyland or the SMASH ROOM.
Morning
Sleep in and leisurely breakfast
After a week of intensive sightseeing and yesterday's hike, start slowly with a late breakfast at a local bakery. Sample different types of burek (meat, cheese, potato, or spinach), accompanied by yogurt drink. Spend the morning wandering without agenda, revisiting favorite spots in Baščaršija, shopping for souvenirs like hand-hammered copper coffee sets, traditional slippers, or Bosnian coffee. Browse art galleries featuring local artists and war-themed photography.
Lunch
A modern café in the Ferhadija area serving international and Bosnian fusion cuisine
Afternoon
Optional: Visit Sunnyland or SMASH ROOM Sarajevo
Choose your afternoon adventure: Sunnyland offers family-friendly entertainment and activities, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Alternatively, for a unique stress-relief experience, visit SMASH ROOM Sarajevo - Prva soba za razbijanje (Bosnia's first smash room) where you can safely break objects with protective gear. This unconventional activity has become popular with both locals and tourists seeking cathartic fun. Or simply continue exploring at your own pace, visiting cafés and people-watching.
SMASH ROOM requires advance booking, especially on weekends
Evening
Traditional Bosnian music and dinner
Seek out a restaurant featuring live sevdah music (traditional Bosnian folk songs) while enjoying a leisurely dinner with local wine or rakija
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Same accommodation)
Maintaining your base allows for a truly relaxed day without packing or changing locations
Many coppersmiths in Baščaršija will negotiate prices, especially for multiple items - polite bargaining is expected and part of the cultural experience
Day 8 Budget: $50-70
9
Jewish Heritage & Cultural Diversity
Sarajevo city center
Explore Sarajevo's Jewish history and the city's remarkable religious diversity that earned it the 'Jerusalem of Europe' nickname.
Morning
Jewish Quarter and synagogue visit
Explore the historic Jewish Quarter where Sephardic Jews settled after fleeing the Spanish Inquisition in the 16th century. Visit the Old Synagogue, now housing the Jewish Museum with artifacts documenting the community's 500-year presence. Learn about the Sarajevo Haggadah, one of the world's oldest Sephardic Jewish manuscripts, miraculously saved during both World War II and the recent war. The museum tells stories of coexistence and survival through centuries of changing empires.
Lunch
A restaurant in the old town serving traditional Sephardic-influenced Bosnian dishes
Afternoon
Religious diversity walking tour
Walk the compact area where you can visit a mosque, Catholic cathedral, Orthodox church, and synagogue within 500 meters - a phenomenon unique to Sarajevo. Each building represents different historical periods and empires. The proximity demonstrates the city's tradition of religious tolerance and coexistence. Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral (Catholic), the Orthodox Cathedral, and observe the architectural and cultural differences. This concentration of religious sites is unmatched in Europe.
Evening
Sunset viewpoint and farewell to week one
Return to Viewpoint Of Sarajevo for sunset reflections on your first week, followed by dinner at a restaurant with panoramic city views
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town (Same accommodation)
Final night in your week-one accommodation before potentially changing locations for variety
The call to prayer from multiple mosques, church bells, and Jewish Shabbat create a unique soundscape on Friday evenings - listen from a quiet café
Day 9 Budget: $55-70
10
Market Day & Culinary Deep Dive
Baščaršija and markets
Immerse yourself in Sarajevo's food culture through markets, traditional coffee ceremonies, and authentic Bosnian cooking.
Morning
Markale Market and food shopping
Visit Markale Market, Sarajevo's main public market, where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and homemade products. The market carries historical significance as the site of tragic shellings during the siege, now memorialized. Browse stalls selling kajmak (clotted cream), ajvar (pepper spread), and local honey. Vendors offer samples and share recipes. The market provides authentic insight into daily life and seasonal Bosnian ingredients. Purchase items for a picnic or gifts to take home.
Lunch
A traditional aščinica (workers' cafeteria) serving daily specials like sarma or grah with fresh bread
Afternoon
Traditional Bosnian coffee ceremony and workshop
Participate in a traditional Bosnian coffee ceremony, learning the proper preparation method using a džezva pot. Unlike Turkish coffee, Bosnian coffee follows specific rituals including serving order and accompaniments. Many shops in Baščaršija offer demonstrations and sell traditional coffee sets. Learn about coffee's cultural significance in Bosnian social life - conversations over coffee can last hours. Practice reading fortunes in coffee grounds, a traditional entertainment. Purchase quality Bosnian coffee to recreate the experience at home.
Evening
Progressive dinner through Baščaršija
Create your own progressive dinner: appetizers at one restaurant, main course at another, and dessert (tufahija or baklava) at a traditional sweet shop, experiencing variety in one evening
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town or alternative neighborhood (Boutique hotel or guesthouse)
Consider changing accommodation for a fresh perspective while staying centrally located
At Markale Market, arrive before 10 AM for the best selection and to see the market at its liveliest before the midday heat
Day 10 Budget: $50-65
11
Olympic Legacy & Mountain Air
Olympic mountains surrounding Sarajevo
Explore remnants of the 1984 Winter Olympics and enjoy mountain scenery on Trebević or Jahorina mountains.
Morning
Cable car to Trebević Mountain
Take the rebuilt cable car (destroyed during the war and reopened in 2018) to Trebević Mountain, site of 1984 Olympic bobsled track. The ride offers spectacular views over Sarajevo. At the top, explore the abandoned bobsled track, now covered in graffiti art - a haunting reminder of Olympic glory and subsequent war. The curved concrete track snaking through the forest creates surreal photo opportunities. Walk forest trails with panoramic valley views and fresh mountain air.
Lunch
A mountain restaurant near the cable car station serving grilled meats and mountain specialties
Afternoon
Mountain hiking and Olympic site exploration
Continue exploring Trebević's trails and Olympic ruins. Visit the abandoned hotel and ski jump areas if accessible. The mountain offers various difficulty hiking trails with spectacular views. In summer, wildflowers blanket the meadows; in autumn, the forest turns golden. The contrast between natural beauty and abandoned Olympic infrastructure tells Sarajevo's story of triumph and tragedy. Return via cable car in late afternoon with different lighting for photography.
Evening
Return to city for dinner
Descend to the city for dinner at a restaurant specializing in Bosnian mountain dishes like cicvara or kačamak, perfect after a mountain day
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town area (Same or similar accommodation)
Central location remains ideal for final days of exploring
The bobsled track is unofficial and unmaintained - wear sturdy shoes and be cautious of slippery concrete and overgrowth when exploring
Day 11 Budget: $55-70
12
Artisan Workshops & Hidden Corners
Baščaršija and surrounding neighborhoods
Discover Sarajevo's artisan traditions and explore lesser-known neighborhoods away from main tourist routes.
Morning
Artisan workshop visits in Baščaršija
Spend the morning visiting traditional craftsmen in their workshops. Watch coppersmiths hammer intricate designs into coffee sets and trays using centuries-old techniques. Visit woodworkers creating traditional musical instruments and decorative items. Some artisans welcome visitors to try their hand at crafts. These family businesses often span generations, with skills passed from father to son. Purchase directly from craftsmen for authentic souvenirs and support traditional trades threatened by mass production.
Lunch
A hidden courtyard restaurant in the old town known to locals, serving traditional slow-cooked dishes
Afternoon
Explore residential neighborhoods and local life
Wander through residential neighborhoods like Bistrik or Vratnik, climbing hillside streets with Ottoman-era houses and neighborhood mosques. These areas see few tourists but offer authentic glimpses of daily Sarajevo life. Discover small family-run shops, neighborhood bakeries, and local cafés where elderly men play cards. The architecture ranges from Ottoman wooden houses to Austro-Hungarian stone buildings and Yugoslav-era apartments, creating a living museum of Sarajevo's layered history.
Evening
Farewell dinner and evening stroll
Choose a special restaurant for a farewell dinner featuring the best Bosnian dishes you've discovered, followed by a final evening stroll through the illuminated Baščaršija
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town area (Same accommodation)
Familiarity with your accommodation area enhances your final days as you know the neighborhood intimately
Small neighborhood bakeries often sell fresh bread and pastries at half the price of tourist-area shops - look for locals queuing
Day 12 Budget: $50-70
13
Personal Discoveries & Reflection
Sarajevo - your choice
Revisit favorite spots, complete any missed experiences, and reflect on your two weeks in this remarkable city.
Morning
Return to favorite location or missed attraction
Use this morning to revisit a location that resonated with you or visit any attraction from the verified list you haven't yet seen. Perhaps return to Bosna Spring for peaceful reflection, visit the War Childhood Museum again for deeper understanding, or simply sit at a favorite café in Baščaršija watching the city wake up. This unstructured time allows personal connections and spontaneous discoveries that structured touring doesn't permit.
Lunch
Return to your favorite restaurant discovered during the trip for a final taste
Afternoon
Final shopping and farewells
Complete souvenir shopping with a discerning eye after two weeks of experience. Purchase quality items from artisans you've come to know. Stock up on Bosnian coffee, ajvar, and local honey to take home. Say goodbye to shopkeepers and café owners who've become familiar faces. Pack carefully, organizing purchases and gifts. Leave time for a final Bosnian coffee ceremony, savoring the ritual you've learned to appreciate.
Evening
Sunset at Yellow Fortress one last time
Return to Yellow Fortress for a final sunset over Sarajevo, reflecting on two weeks of experiences, followed by a quiet dinner at a favorite spot
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija/Old Town area (Same accommodation)
Your final night in familiar surroundings before departure
Leave space in your luggage for purchases - Bosnian copper coffee sets and traditional items make meaningful gifts but add weight
Day 13 Budget: $60-80
14
Departure Day
Sarajevo to airport
Final morning in Sarajevo before departure, with time for last-minute experiences depending on flight schedule.
Morning
Final breakfast and departure preparation
Enjoy a final Bosnian breakfast at a favorite bakery - fresh burek, yogurt, and strong coffee. Take a last walk through Baščaršija, breathing in the atmosphere of this city where East meets West. Depending on flight time, visit Sebilj fountain one more time for photos. Check out of accommodation, ensuring you have all belongings and purchases. Reflect on how Sarajevo has exceeded or challenged your expectations over two weeks of deep exploration.
Lunch
If time permits before flight, a quick final meal at the airport or a restaurant near your accommodation
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Arrange taxi to Sarajevo International Airport, allowing adequate time for check-in and security. The airport is small and efficient, typically requiring less time than major European hubs. Browse the small selection of duty-free shops for any last-minute Bosnian products. Board your flight carrying memories of a city that survived siege, preserved its multicultural character, and welcomed you with legendary Bosnian hospitality. Begin planning your return visit.
Book airport taxi the evening before to ensure availability
Evening
Departure
Depart Sarajevo with deeper understanding of Bosnian history, culture, and resilience
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Keep some Bosnian marks for the airport café if you have time before your flight - airport exchange rates are poor for leftover currency
Day 14 Budget: $40-50
Practical Information
Getting Around
Sarajevo is highly walkable with most attractions in the compact old town within 20-30 minutes on foot. The city operates an efficient tram network (single ticket approximately $1.50) connecting outlying areas like Ilidža. Taxis are affordable ($5-15 for most city trips) but agree on price beforehand or ensure the meter runs. For mountain excursions and Skakavac Waterfall, arrange private taxis or small group tours. The cable car to Trebević operates daily weather permitting. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as Sarajevo's hills and cobblestones challenge footwear.
Book Ahead
Most Sarajevo attractions don't require advance booking except SMASH ROOM Sarajevo on weekends. Book accommodation well ahead during summer (June-August) and winter ski season. The cable car to Trebević can have long queues on sunny weekends - weekday mornings are better. For Skakavac Waterfall, arrange transportation the day before. Reserve any specialized tours (food tours, war history tours) at least 2-3 days ahead during peak season.
Packing Essentials
Sturdy waterproof walking shoes for cobblestones and mountain hikes, modest clothing for mosque visits (long pants/skirts, shoulder coverage), layers for variable mountain weather, rain jacket year-round, sunscreen and hat for summer, power adapter (European two-pin), reusable water bottle (tap water is safe), small daypack for excursions, camera with extra memory cards for photogenic locations
Total Budget
$700-980 for 14 days (excluding flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels ($10-15/night) with shared rooms and kitchens to prepare some meals. Eat at aščinica workers' cafeterias and bakeries ($3-5 per meal) rather than restaurants. Skip paid attractions and focus on free walking, viewpoints, and architecture. Use public trams instead of taxis. Picnic at Bosna Spring and Veliki park instead of restaurant meals. Shop at Markale Market for snacks and breakfast items. Total daily budget can reduce to $30-40 including ultra-budget accommodation, allowing two weeks for under $600.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at boutique hotels in restored Ottoman houses or luxury properties with spa facilities ($150-250/night). Hire private guides for personalized historical tours and driver for mountain excursions. Dine at Sarajevo's finest restaurants featuring modern Bosnian cuisine with wine pairings. Book helicopter tours over the city and mountains. Arrange private Bosnian coffee ceremonies and cooking classes. Include day trips to Mostar or Jajce with private driver. Enjoy spa treatments after hiking. Budget $250-350 daily for luxury experience.
Family-Friendly
Base at family-friendly accommodation with multiple bedrooms near Baščaršija. Focus on Sunnyland for children's entertainment, Bosna Spring for nature and animal feeding, and cable car rides which kids love. Skip intense war museums for younger children or limit to older teens. Include more park time at Veliki park and Park Safet Zajko with playgrounds. Choose restaurants with outdoor seating and simple grilled meats kids enjoy. Shorten hiking days or choose easier trails. The compact city makes stroller navigation possible in flat areas, though hills and cobblestones challenge wheels.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Sarajevo