How to Plan Your War Tunnel Tour in Sarajevo

Sarajevo, the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, bore witness to the longest siege in modern history from 1992 to 1995. During that time, the city was entirely cut off from the outside world with the only way of communication being through an underground tunnel that runs beneath the airport strip. This tunnel, also known as the War Tunnel, allowed for supplies and people to enter and exit the city, thus becoming a lifeline for the people of Sarajevo. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the tunnel and gain a better understanding of the hardships of life in Sarajevo during the war. Here’s a guide on how to plan your War Tunnel tour in Sarajevo.

Overview

The War Tunnel tour in Sarajevo takes visitors to the famous War Tunnel museum where they can explore the tunnel and see artifacts from the war. The tour is a great way to learn about the siege of Sarajevo, the tunnel’s construction, and its significance to the city.

What’s Included

The tour includes a licensed tour guide, a professional driver, and entrance tickets to the War Tunnel museum, which costs 10EUR. Additionally, bottled water is provided during the tour. However, personal expenses such as souvenirs are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

Visitors can either directly head to the meeting point or request for pickup. The meeting point for the tour is Gazi Husrev-begova 75 in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. It’s located at the crossroad of Mula Mustafa Baseskija and Gazi Husrev-begova. Besides, the tour offers pickup services for its guests. However, if the pick-up point is close to the agency, guests are requested to meet at the starting point.

Start Time

The War Tunnel Tour runs every day from Monday to Sunday. From Monday to Friday, it opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 5:30 PM. On Saturday, the opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM. On Sunday, it’s from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

What to Expect

The War Tunnel tour starts with a pick-up service from your location, which is available at a reasonable price. You will then proceed to the War Tunnel Museum, where you will be met by a licensed tour guide who will take you through the exhibits and point out important artifacts. The tour guide will explain in detail the significance of the War Tunnel and what life was like in Sarajevo during the war. After the museum tour, visitors will get to actually walk through the War Tunnel, which is approximately 25 meters long. The tunnel is a unique experience that will give visitors a sense of the challenges faced in Sarajevo during the war. The tour ends back at the meeting point, and pickup services are also available at the end of the tour.

Additional Info

While on the tour, visitors will pass by the Pijaca Markale, which is a marketplace that was targeted in a bombing by Serb forces during the siege of Sarajevo. In addition to the War Tunnel tour, visitors can also opt to book other Day Out Excursions and Activities offered by Meet Bosnia Tours – Sarajevo Tours.

Book Your Tour Now

The War Tunnel tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Sarajevo who wants to learn about the city’s history during the war. With a licensed tour guide who is knowledgeable about the War Tunnel’s importance, visitors will leave with a greater understanding of the hardships the people of Sarajevo faced during the war. So, book the tour here and experience it yourself!

FAQ about Sarajevo

Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is a city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant culture. Here are some frequently asked questions about Sarajevo:

1. What is the best time of year to visit Sarajevo?

The best time to visit Sarajevo is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather during this time is warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. Spring and autumn are also good times to visit, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it is a great time to visit if you want to go skiing.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Sarajevo?

There are many must-see attractions in Sarajevo, including:

• The historic center of Baščaršija:

This is the old town of Sarajevo, with narrow streets, cafes, and shops.

• Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and Begova Džamija Mosque:

These are two beautiful mosques from the Ottoman period.

• Sarajevo City Hall:

This is a beautiful building from the Austro-Hungarian period, that now serves as the National Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

• The Latin Bridge:

This is the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which sparked World War I.

• Sebilj Fountain:

This is a famous fountain in the heart of Baščaršija.

• Sarajevo Tunnel Museum:

This museum shows how the citizens of Sarajevo managed to survive the Siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War.

3. What is the cuisine of Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, influenced by Turkish, Eastern European, and Mediterranean flavors. Some of the must-try dishes in Sarajevo include:

• Ćevapi:

This is a dish of grilled minced meat served with onions, flatbread, and a sour cream and cheese sauce.

• Burek:

This is a pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach.

• Bosanski Lonac:

This is a meat stew with potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables.

• Tufahije:

This is a dessert of baked apples filled with walnuts and topped with whipped cream.

4. What is the currency in Sarajevo?

The currency in Sarajevo is the Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM). One BAM is equivalent to approximately 0.60 US dollars.

5. What is the transportation like in Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a good public transportation system, including buses and trams. Taxis are also available and are relatively inexpensive. Walking is also a great way to explore the city, especially the old town of Baščaršija.

6. What is the language spoken in Sarajevo?

The official language of Sarajevo is Bosnian, which is very similar to Croatian and Serbian. English is also widely spoken, especially among younger people and in tourist areas.

7. What are the customs and traditions of Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, so there are many customs and traditions to experience. Some of the most important include:

• Ramadan:

This is the month of fasting in the Islamic calendar, and it is a time for reflection, prayer, and family gatherings.

• Bajram:

This is the festival that marks the end of Ramadan, and it is a time for feasting, gift-giving, and socializing.

• Sevdalinka:

This is a traditional Bosnian music style, characterized by melancholic melodies and lyrics about love and loss.

• Coffee:

Coffee is an important part of Bosnian culture, and it is often served with a small glass of water to cleanse the palate.

Book Your Tour Now

Sarajevo is a fascinating city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or food, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With its stunning architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and friendly people, Sarajevo is an unforgettable destination that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sarajevo

As the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo is an extraordinary destination for tourists due to its rich history, diverse culture, and scenic beauty. From experiencing the traditional cuisine to exploring the magnificent landmarks, there are an array of activities for tourists to indulge in Sarajevo. Here are some of the top things you can do to make your visit to Sarajevo memorable:

1. Visit the Old Town of Sarajevo (Baščaršija)

One of the must-see places in Sarajevo would be the Old Town, also known as Baščaršija. The Old Town is a hub of activity, filled with traditional shops and delicacies, where you can explore the local culture and indulge in the authentic Bosnian cuisine. You can explore on foot by starting at the Sebilj Fountain and then walking in any direction towards the historic bazaars. You will find handcrafted souvenirs, traditional clothing items, and unique pottery, among other things. You can take a taste of traditional Bosnian dish cevapi with somun bread or burek at one of the many food kiosks available in the area.

2. Visit the famous Vijećnica City Hall

This stunning Austro-Hungarian building is a symbol of Sarajevo’s rich history and culture. Located in the heart of the city, the building was opened in 1896 to host various events and meetings. The building is now open to visitors, with a museum and a library providing insights into the cultural history of Sarajevo.

3. Experience Sevdah Music

Sevdah is a traditional Bosnian music genre which incorporates a blend of Ottoman, Roma, and Sephardic influences. This music genre is famous all around Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Sarajevo, in particular, is famous for this type of music. There are many places where tourists can experience Sevdah, such as the Sarajevo City Hall, where weekly concerts are held. You can also experience Sevdah at many bars and clubs around the Old Town.

4. Take a Tour of Sarajevo

Taking a tour of Sarajevo can be a great way to explore the city without missing anything significant. Numerous tour companies and guides offer tours around the city. You can choose from a variety of tours, including walking tours or a more relaxed option such as the City Sightseeing bus tour. During the tour, you will get a complete insight into the city’s past, culture, and its people.

5. Visit the historic Tunnel of Hope

The Tunnel of Hope played a critical role during the Siege of Sarajevo in the 1990s, where it was used to transport food, medical supplies, and arms through the Bosnian-Serb checkpoints. The tunnel is now open to the public, and tourists visit to get an idea of how it felt to live in Sarajevo during the war. Inside the tunnel, there are displays of wartime photographs and exhibitions.

6. Taste the Authentic Bosnian Cuisine

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s traditional cuisine are a must-try, offering various dishes that include meat, vegetables, and spices. For meat lovers, the cevapi or grilled meat served with onions and somun bread is a must-have. Other dishes to try out include pita, sarma, and burek. There are many restaurants in Sarajevo that serve authentic Bosnian cuisine, such as inns or ćevabdžinicas. You can also take part in cooking classes to learn how to prepare traditional meals yourself.

7. Enjoy the Scenic Beauty of Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a stunning city with beautiful hills and mountains surrounding it. Visitors can enjoy the scenery by visiting the Trebević Mountain, which has a cable car ride offering exceptional panoramic views of the city. You can also visit the Vrelo Bosne park, which contains streams, waterfalls, and bridges. The park is a picnic spot that includes playgrounds and trails to enjoy the fresh air and tranquil surroundings.

8. Learn about the City’s War History

Sarajevo has suffered through one of the bloodiest wars in the 20th century, the Bosnian War. Many landmarks and memorials around the city remind visitors of the war’s atrocities. Visitors can join in guided tours to the war sites such as the Sarajevo War Tunnel, Sarajevo Roses, and visit the Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide.

Book Your Tour Now

In summary, Sarajevo is an enchanting city with a perfect mix of traditional culture, hospitable people, and a rich history. You should indulge in the city’s culinary delights, admire the scenery, and visit the city’s landmarks and museum sites. Take the time to join in guided tours and explore the city on foot. With a plethora of things to do, Sarajevo is genuinely a tourist’s paradise.