Sarajevo - When to Visit

When to Visit Sarajevo

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Sarajevo Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -7°C 3°C 13°C 23°C 33°C Rainfall (mm) 0 45 91 Jan Jan: 4.0°C high, -2.0°C low, 69mm rain Feb Feb: 6.0°C high, -1.0°C low, 66mm rain Mar Mar: 11.0°C high, 1.0°C low, 66mm rain Apr Apr: 16.0°C high, 5.0°C low, 79mm rain May May: 21.0°C high, 9.0°C low, 89mm rain Jun Jun: 25.0°C high, 12.0°C low, 89mm rain Jul Jul: 27.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 76mm rain Aug Aug: 28.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 64mm rain Sep Sep: 22.0°C high, 10.0°C low, 89mm rain Oct Oct: 17.0°C high, 6.0°C low, 91mm rain Nov Nov: 10.0°C high, 2.0°C low, 84mm rain Dec Dec: 4.0°C high, -1.0°C low, 89mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Sarajevo sits in a valley surrounded by mountains, which gives it a proper continental climate with four distinct seasons. You'll get cold, snowy winters where temperatures regularly drop below freezing, and warm summers that peak in the low 80s°F. The city tends to be fairly wet year-round—there's no real dry season to speak of—with rainfall distributed pretty evenly across the months, though October typically sees the most precipitation. The surrounding mountains definitely influence the weather patterns here, and the valley location means temperature inversions aren't uncommon in winter. What's interesting about Sarajevo's climate is how quickly it transitions between seasons. Spring arrives gradually from March through May, with temperatures climbing steadily and the city shaking off winter. Summers are genuinely pleasant—warm but not oppressively hot—while autumn brings that crisp mountain air and beautiful foliage. Winter is the real deal here, cold enough for proper snow that sticks around, which makes sense given the city hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics. The humidity stays fairly consistent around 70% throughout the year, which isn't uncomfortable but does make the cold feel a bit more biting in winter.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
Not really applicable—Sarajevo is landlocked and mountain-bound. If you're after water, late June through August offers warm enough weather for swimming in nearby rivers or lakes.
Cultural Exploration
May through September works best, with June being particularly lovely. You'll have comfortable walking weather for exploring the Baščaršija and other historic sites without dealing with winter cold or summer crowds.
Adventure & Hiking
Late May through early October is ideal for hiking the surrounding mountains. The trails are accessible, wildflowers bloom in late spring, and you'll avoid both snow and the intense midday heat.
Budget Travel
November through March (excluding holiday periods) sees fewer tourists and lower prices. You'll need to bundle up, but the city takes on a different character in winter that's actually quite atmospheric.

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What to Pack

Year-Round Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes
Sarajevo's hilly terrain and cobblestone streets in the old town demand proper footwear with good support.
Rain jacket or compact umbrella
Rain occurs fairly consistently throughout the year, so you'll want something waterproof handy.
Daypack
Essential for carrying layers, water, and camera gear while exploring the city and surrounding areas.
Reusable water bottle
Sarajevo has numerous public fountains with drinkable water, and staying hydrated while walking the hills is important.
Power bank
You'll be using your phone constantly for navigation and photos, and outlets aren't always convenient.
Basic first aid supplies
Pharmacies are available, but having blister plasters and pain relievers saves time when you're exploring.

Spring (Mar-May)

Clothing
Light sweaters and long-sleeve shirts, Jeans or casual pants, Light jacket or windbreaker, T-shirts for layering
Footwear
Waterproof walking shoes or boots that can handle wet cobblestones
Accessories
Light scarf, Sunglasses, Small umbrella
Layering Tip
Spring weather is unpredictable, so think in terms of layers you can add or remove as temperatures shift throughout the day.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Clothing
T-shirts and light tops, Shorts and lightweight pants, Sundress or casual summer wear, Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces
Footwear
Breathable walking shoes or sneakers with good arch support
Accessories
Sunglasses, Sun hat or cap, Light daypack
Layering Tip
Evenings cool down pleasantly, so having a light layer for dinner or evening walks is worth it.

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Clothing
Medium-weight sweaters, Long pants and jeans, Waterproof jacket, Long-sleeve shirts
Footwear
Sturdy waterproof boots or shoes as rain becomes more frequent
Accessories
Warm scarf, Gloves for late November, Umbrella
Layering Tip
Temperatures drop steadily through autumn, so pack progressively warmer layers if visiting later in the season.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Clothing
Heavy winter coat, Thermal underlayers, Thick sweaters, Warm pants or insulated jeans
Footwear
Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction for snow and ice
Accessories
Warm hat that covers ears, Insulated gloves, Thick scarf, Hand warmers
Layering Tip
The valley cold penetrates, so proper layering with thermal base, insulating mid-layer, and windproof outer shell is essential.
Plug Type
Type C and Type F (European two-pin)
Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Adapter Note
Travelers from North America, UK, and most non-European countries will need an adapter; those from continental Europe typically won't.

Skip These Items

Heavy beach gear—Sarajevo is landlocked and mountain-focused Excessive formal wear—the city has a relaxed, casual vibe even at nicer restaurants Too many toiletries—pharmacies and shops stock international brands at reasonable prices Large guidebooks—download digital versions to save weight and space Specialized hiking gear for casual visitors—unless you're planning serious mountain treks, regular outdoor clothing suffices

Month-by-Month Guide

January

The coldest month in Sarajevo, with temperatures hovering around freezing and regular snowfall. The city looks beautiful under snow, but you'll want proper winter gear. It's quiet tourist-wise, and the cold can be quite biting, especially with that valley humidity.

4°C (39°F) High
-3°C (26°F) Low
69mm (2.7in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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February

Still properly winter, though temperatures inch up slightly from January. Snow remains common, and the mountain surroundings offer decent skiing conditions. The days start getting noticeably longer, which helps with the mood, but it's still cold enough that you'll be layering up.

6°C (43°F) High
-2°C (28°F) Low
66mm (2.6in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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March

Spring starts making its presence known, though winter hasn't fully let go yet. You'll see temperatures climbing into the 50s°F, but evenings remain chilly. Rain becomes more common than snow, and the city starts waking up from winter hibernation—worth noting that weather can be quite variable.

11°C (52°F) High
1°C (34°F) Low
66mm (2.6in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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April

Proper spring arrives with temperatures reaching into the low 60s°F and the city greening up nicely. You'll still need a jacket, especially in the evenings, and rain is fairly common. It's a lovely time to visit before the summer crowds arrive, though the weather can be a bit unpredictable.

16°C (61°F) High
5°C (41°F) Low
79mm (3.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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May

One of the best months to visit Sarajevo. Temperatures reach comfortable 70°F highs, the surrounding mountains are lush and green, and outdoor cafés fill up with locals. You'll get occasional rain, but it's generally pleasant. Tourist numbers pick up but haven't peaked yet.

21°C (70°F) High
9°C (48°F) Low
89mm (3.5in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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June

Summer begins in earnest with warm, pleasant temperatures in the upper 70s°F. The days are long, perfect for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Rain still occurs regularly, but you'll also get plenty of sunny days. This is when Sarajevo really comes alive, though it's not uncomfortably crowded yet.

25°C (77°F) High
12°C (54°F) Low
89mm (3.5in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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July

Peak summer with the warmest temperatures of the year reaching the low 80s°F. It's warm but rarely oppressive, and the mountain location keeps things from getting too sticky. This is prime tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms provide relief from the heat.

28°C (82°F) High
14°C (57°F) Low
76mm (3.0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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August

Similar to July with continued warm weather and the busiest tourist period. Temperatures hold steady in the low 80s°F, and you'll get slightly less rain than most other months. The heat is manageable, especially compared to coastal Mediterranean cities, and evenings cool down nicely.

28°C (82°F) High
14°C (57°F) Low
64mm (2.5in) Rainfall
High Crowds
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September

Autumn begins to creep in with temperatures dropping back into the low 70s°F. It's actually a wonderful time to visit—still warm enough for comfortable sightseeing, fewer crowds than summer, and the surrounding mountains start showing fall colors. Rain picks up a bit, so pack accordingly.

22°C (72°F) High
10°C (50°F) Low
89mm (3.5in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
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October

Proper autumn with temperatures in the low 60s°F and the wettest month of the year. The fall foliage in the surrounding mountains is stunning, but you'll definitely need layers and rain gear. Tourist numbers drop off, giving the city a more local feel again.

17°C (63°F) High
6°C (43°F) Low
91mm (3.6in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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November

Winter's approach is unmistakable with temperatures dropping into the 50s°F during the day and near freezing at night. Rain is common, and you might see the first snow of the season. The days get noticeably shorter, and the city takes on a quieter, more introspective atmosphere.

11°C (51°F) High
3°C (37°F) Low
84mm (3.3in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
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December

Winter settles in with temperatures back around freezing and regular snowfall. The city decorates for the holidays, which adds charm, but it's properly cold. You'll need full winter gear, and the short days mean limited daylight for sightseeing. That said, it has a certain atmospheric appeal.

4°C (39°F) High
-2°C (28°F) Low
89mm (3.5in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

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