How to Plan Your Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel

If you’re planning a trip to Sarajevo and want to understand the city’s war history, then taking the Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel is a great choice. This informative walking tour covers the key locations from the 1992-1995 war following the Siege of Sarajevo. Here’s a guide on how to plan your tour.

Experience

The Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel is one of the best ways to learn about the history of the city. You will explore the war history of Sarajevo on this informative walking tour and learn about the 4 long years that the city and its people suffered under the constant threat of bombing. Some of the experience highlights include:

– Enjoy the panoramic view of the city of Sarajevo from the iconic Yellow Fortress
– See the Olympic Complex and learn more about ex Yugoslavia and Olympic Games
– See Markale Market defenders cemeteries and destroyed hospitals from the war
– Explore the must-see Tunnel of Hope Museum and watch a short movie on the war
– Admire the stunning views from the Vidikovac viewpoint during the tour

Full description

The tour starts from the city center of Sarajevo, where a guide will take you to the iconic Yellow Fortress. From there, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city.

Next, you’ll visit the Olympic Complex and learn about the 1984 Winter Olympics, which were held in Sarajevo. After that, the guide will take you to see Markale Market, where one of the largest massacres occurred during the war. You will see the defenders cemeteries and destroyed hospitals from the war.

The highlight of the tour is the must-see Tunnel of Hope Museum, which was used to smuggle supplies during the Siege of Sarajevo. You’ll watch a short movie about the war and get a better understanding of this memorial.

Lastly, you’ll visit the Vidikovac viewpoint, where you can admire stunning views of Sarajevo.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel is easy. Simply head over to getyourguide.com and book your tour online. The tour lasts for about 3.5 hours and is conducted in English.

Conclusion

The Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel is an immersive tour that takes you through the history of the city during the war. It’s a great way to not only learn about the history but also to see some of the key locations associated with the war. So, if you’re planning a trip to Sarajevo, make sure to book this tour to get a better understanding of the city and its struggles.

An Insider’s Guide to Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city with a rich and complex history. From the Ottoman Empire to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, from World War I to the Bosnian War, Sarajevo has seen it all. The city’s layered past has created a unique blend of cultures and traditions, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience. This insider’s guide to Sarajevo will introduce you to the city’s historical significance and help you plan an insightful and memorable trip.

Local Attractions

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Sarajevo. Here are some top attractions to add to your itinerary:

• Old Town: Start your journey in the heart of Sarajevo, the Old Town. This area is home to many significant historical landmarks, markets, and eateries. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets, admire the Ottoman architecture, and soak up the local atmosphere.
• Baščaršija: This is the main square of the Old Town and its bustling bazaar is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs. You can find everything from handcrafted copper products to traditional Bosnian coffee sets.
• Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum: The Sarajevo Tunnel was built during the Bosnian War to provide access to food, medicine, and other essential supplies to the people under siege. Today, the tunnel serves as a museum exhibiting photographs, artifacts, and a video explaining the tunnel’s significance. This is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Bosnian War and the Fall of Yugoslavia.
• Baščaršija Mosque: This is one of the most recognizable mosques in Sarajevo. Located in the heart of the Old Town, the mosque’s key feature is its clock tower with Arabic inscriptions. You can climb to the top for impressive city views.
• National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina: This museum showcases the region’s natural history, ethnography, and archaeology. One of the main exhibits is the Sarajevo Haggadah, an illuminated Jewish manuscript from the 14th century.

Dining Spots

Sarajevo is a foodie’s dream destination, with a blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Balkan flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include ćevapi (grilled meat served with bread), burek (a flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese or spinach), and baklava (a sweet dessert made of layers of filo pastry with chopped nuts and honey). Here are some dining spots to check out:

• Dveri: This is a cozy restaurant that specializes in traditional Bosnian cuisine. The outdoor terrace provides a stunning view of the city skyline.
• Šehidski Rastanak: This is a popular spot for grilled meat dishes. The restaurant is located on the hills overlooking Sarajevo, providing a picturesque view.
• Inat Kuća: This restaurant is located in a historic building that was once at the center of a land dispute between the Austro-Hungarian authorities and a stubborn old man. The restaurant now serves Bosnian classics, and the courtyard dining area is perfect for a summer evening.
• Kibe Mahala: Located in the heart of the Old Town, this restaurant serves some of the best ćevapi in town. You can enjoy your meal in the courtyard, accompanied by the soothing sound of the nearby river.

Cultural Experiences

Sarajevo is a city of culture, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in its history and traditions. Here are some cultural experiences to consider:

• Sarajevo Film Festival: This annual event attracts filmmakers and movie buffs from around the world. The festival screens a diverse range of films – from Bosnian classics to Hollywood blockbusters.
• Zlatna Ribica: This is an art gallery that specializes in avant-garde and contemporary art. The gallery hosts exhibitions, performances, and workshops by artists from Bosnia and Herzegovina and beyond.
• Nazor’s Home: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of renowned Bosnian writer, Matija Divković. The museum takes you back in time to the early 20th century, where you can see how literature was produced and printed.
• Sarajevo Jazz Festival: This music festival attracts some of the best jazz musicians from around the world. The festival has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with concerts held in various venues across the city.

Local History

Sarajevo has a complex and tumultuous history. In the 1990s, the city was under siege for almost four years during the Bosnian War. The following are some suggestions for exploring Sarajevo’s history:

• Zetra Olympic Hall: This indoor arena played a significant role in the 1984 Winter Olympics held in Sarajevo. During the Bosnian War, it was used as a morgue.
• Sebilj Fountain: This is the famous fountain in Baščaršija square with six spouts representing the six major religions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is said that if you drink water from Sebilj, you will return to Sarajevo.
• Vijećnica: This is a grand neo-moorish style building located in the center of Sarajevo. It was home to the National Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina and was destroyed during the Bosnian War. Restoration began in 1996, and the building was reopened in 2014 to the public.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For those who want to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

• Malo Polje: This is a small village located on the outskirts of Sarajevo. It has a rich history, and during the Bosnian War, it was a strategic military location. Today, it is a peaceful and quaint village, perfect for a day trip.
• Bjelašnica: This is a mountain located about an hour from Sarajevo, popular for winter sports. However, during the summer, it is an excellent place for hiking and enjoying the stunning scenery.
• Koševo City Stadium: This is the stadium built for the 1984 Winter Olympics. It is currently the home of the FK Sarajevo football club and has a seating capacity of 34,500.

Conclusion

Sarajevo is a city that has lived through history and has unique stories to tell. From exploring its rich Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian heritage to understanding the traumatic events of the Bosnian War and the Fall of Yugoslavia, there are many reasons to visit Sarajevo. By following this insider’s guide and combining the suggested attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, you will gain a deep understanding of this remarkable city and have an unforgettable trip.