Day Tour from Sarajevo – Exploring Jajce and Travnik

Have you ever been to Sarajevo and surrounding areas? If you haven’t yet, you might consider a full-day trip from Sarajevo to explore Jajce and Travnik. Both cities are among Bosnia-Herzegovina’s most beloved destinations, offering a multitude of cultural and historical attractions. In combination with the incredible landscapes and many outdoor activities this day tour from Sarajevo will leave you with an unforgettable experience.Jajce is located only 100 km northwest of Sarajevo, surrounded by amazing nature and lots of historical sites. Being a former royal capital of the Kingdom of Bosnia, Jajce holds many impressive grandeur cathedrals and monuments worth exploring. A few highlights to visit while in town are the Jajce citadel and the Pliva Waterfall. This is one of the oldest fortresses in Bosnia-Herzegovina, used as a royal residence and refuge in times of war. The Pliva Waterfall is one of the most photographed places in Jajce, where two rivers come together to form the first artificial lake in Europe. The lake provided power to the city’s mill since early 17th century.Travnik city is situated around 120 km northwest from Sarajevo, close to the border of this country with Croatia. Travnik is characterized by its picturesque nature and many well-preserved buildings of Ottoman Empire architecture, as well as by a rich history behind it. Among the interesting sites to visit here are either Stari or Novi Avaz hill overlooking the city and the Haunted Old Town. The first landmark is a partially destroyed 19th-century citadel on top of the hill and could provide a breath-taking view over Travnik. The second one is the old part of town, containing many old buildings built during Ottoman Empire period. Beautiful examples of architectural details could be found here along with other interesting sights.In order to make the most of this day tour from Sarajevo you should plan your trip carefully depending on your interests. You may want to start your tour by visiting Jajce first as it is closer and easier to reach from Sarajevo. Most likely, you will arrive at the old part of Jajce where the main attraction is the Jajce Citadel and Pliva Waterfall. Here you can spend several hours going around, admiring the natural and historical sites of this town. After that, you may head towards Travnik for lunch to try some traditional meals in one of its restaurants. The second part of your trip could be dedicated to explore many beautiful buildings dating from Ottoman Empire period and take photos of some of its charming alleys and cobblestone streets. As the sun sets you can then return to Sarajevo, fully satisfied from all the marvelous sites that you have explored that day. If you are short on time and would like to see both Jajce and Travnik in a day, you can avail yourself of one of the organized day tours from Sarajevo covering both destinations. Booking a one-day private tour with a local guide would provide you with a comprehensive overview of both towns and also give you an opportunity to explore other lesser-known places. This way, with an experienced guide at your side and a comfortable transport available, you will get more insights into local culture while being driven through idyllic landscapes. Alternatively, you can book a small group tour at GetYourGuide with English-speaking guides who can give you an informative introduction to both cities’ historical and cultural heritage.Book your guided day tour from Sarajevo on GetYourGuide nowTo sum up, taking a day trip away from Sarajevo provides an excellent opportunity to explore both Jajce and Travnik in depth. Combining historical monuments, picturesque nature and diverse cultural attractions makes this trip an unforgettable experience for everyone seeking adventure outside city limits of Sarajevo. Whether you decide to go independently or on a guided tour, take into account that it requires some planning ahead beforehand so that most time can be spent discovering the wonders of the region instead of being on the roads.Hopefully this article has provided some useful information on how to plan your day tour from Sarajevo while exploring two most popular places in Bosnia – Jajce and Travnik in a single day with ease and comfort. If you’re interested in taking this tour without a hassle, book your guided tour now at GetYourGuide.

Insider’s Guide to Sarajevo

If you’re planning a trip to Sarajevo, you’re in for a treat. This city is rich in history, culture, and tradition. While the tourist spots are definitely worth a visit, the hidden gems of Sarajevo are what make it truly special. As a local, I’m excited to share some insider knowledge to make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Discovering Sarajevo’s Hidden Treasures

The first hidden gem I recommend visiting is the Kovači Cemetery. It may sound morbid, but it is actually quite serene and peaceful. Located on a hillside overlooking the city, this cemetery is the final resting place of many prominent Bosnians who fought for the city’s freedom. The views are breathtaking, and it’s a great way to learn about the city’s history.

Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the abandoned Olympic bobsled track. Built for the 1984 Winter Olympics, it is now covered in graffiti and a popular spot for adventure-seekers. The hike to get there is not easy, but the stunning panoramic views of the city make it worth the effort.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Flavors of Sarajevo

When it comes to local cuisine, Sarajevo has a lot to offer. One must-try dish is cevapi, grilled minced meat served on somun bread with onions and ajvar sauce. For a more upscale experience, head to Kibe Mahala restaurant which serves authentic Bosnian cuisine with an elegant twist.

Fun fact: Sarajevo is known as the “city of coffee,” and there are plenty of coffee shops to choose from. One popular spot among locals is Cafe Džirlo, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the stunning Ottoman architecture.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Sarajevo’s Traditions

If you’re lucky enough to visit in August, don’t miss the Sarajevo Film Festival. This event has become one of the most popular film festivals in Europe, showcasing local and international films. The festival takes place in the heart of the city and attracts visitors from all over the world.

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Gazi Husrev-bey Library. This beautiful library dates back to the 16th century and is one of the oldest libraries in the region. It houses rare books and manuscripts, and its peaceful ambiance makes it the perfect spot to relax and soak up some knowledge.

Local History: Unearthing Sarajevo’s Fascinating Past

One story that must be shared is the tale of “Sarajevo roses.” These are scars that were left on the streets after the Bosnian war, where mortar attacks killed many civilians. In memory of those who lost their lives, the scars were filled with red resin, creating a flower-like pattern, hence the name “Sarajevo roses.”

Another lesser-known historical site is the Jewish Cemetery. This cemetery dates back to the 16th century and is the final resting place of many prominent Sephardic Jews. It is a peaceful and serene place, and a remnant of the once-thriving Jewish community in Sarajevo.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Memories

For a unique adventure, head out to Višegrad and cross the famous Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge, which dates back to the Ottoman era. Višegrad is a small town located 130 km east of Sarajevo, and it’s worth the drive to see this stunning bridge and the Drina River that flows beneath it.

If you’re looking for something more cultural, take a day trip to Lukomir. This remote village is located on the Bjelasnica mountain, and it’s one of the last remaining villages in Bosnia where the traditional way of life is still preserved. You can see locals dressed in traditional clothing, and even purchase hand-made souvenirs.

In conclusion, Sarajevo is a city that will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories. By exploring the hidden gems, savoring the local cuisine, embracing the culture, unearthing the history, and taking unique adventures, your trip to Sarajevo will be truly unforgettable.