Sarajevo is a city of incredible cultural and historical significance, with a rich and complex past. There are so many sights to see and stories to hear that it can be overwhelming to try to take it all in on foot. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the 7 best motorized city tours in Sarajevo. Whether you’re interested in its Ottoman roots, its more recent turbulent history, or its vibrant modern culture, there’s a tour on this list that will satisfy your curiosity and leave you with a deep appreciation for this fascinating city. So sit back, relax, and let’s take a ride through the streets of Sarajevo.
The 7 Best Motorized City Tours in Sarajevo
- Sarajevo: Bosnian & Yugoslav Wars Tour with Tunnel Museum
- Sarajevo: Tunnel of Hope Siege Tour
- Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel
- Sarajevo: Guided City Highlights Tour with Sarajevo Tunnel
- Sarajevo: Times of Misfortune War Tour
- Sarajevo: Best of Sarajevo – All Inclusive Full Day Tour
- Sarajevo Winter Olympics Tour
The 7 Best Motorized City Tours in Sarajevo
1. Sarajevo: Bosnian & Yugoslav Wars Tour with Tunnel Museum
Explore the fascinating history of Sarajevo and its involvement in the Bosnian and Yugoslav Wars with this comprehensive tour. The journey begins with a visit to the War Tunnel Museum, where you will learn about the fall of Yugoslavia and the creation of the Tunnel of Hope. From there, travel to Trebevic mountain, the site of the destroyed hotel-restaurant “Osmice” and breathtaking panoramic views of Sarajevo.
The tour continues to the second largest Jewish cemetery in Europe, where unique-shaped tombstones only found in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be seen. Marvel at the Yellow Fortress in the old Ottoman part of the city and then make a stop at the resting place of the fallen soldiers and first Bosnian president Alija Izetbegovic at the Shehidi cemetery.
This small-group tour includes transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a knowledgeable driver/guide who will provide a short introduction to important buildings and sites before you see them in person. The entrance fee to the Tunnel of Hope Museum is also included in the price. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to delve into the history of Sarajevo and its involvement in significant world events.
2. Sarajevo: Tunnel of Hope Siege Tour
Explore the history of Sarajevo’s siege on this Tunnel of Hope Siege Tour. Learn about the longest modern warfare siege, lasting from 1992-1995, and visit the impressive Tunnel Museum. You’ll walk through a portion of the 800-meter tunnel that came to symbolize resistance and survival during the siege. As you travel out of the city to the museum, your guide will share stories about life during these dark years, including why the National Library of BH was destroyed and how the war started. At the museum, you’ll view a movie detailing the story of the tunnel and its critical role in the fight for liberation. Your guide will happily answer all your questions and provide insights into the future of Sarajevo on the return journey. The tour includes a guide, transportation, and entrance fees. However, note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments. Remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring snacks, and stay hydrated with water. Please do not bring oversize luggage or alcohol and drugs, as these items are not allowed. Keep in mind that some may find the tour’s story disturbing, given its representation of the suffering of Sarajevo’s citizens during the war.
3. Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel
Explore the war history of Sarajevo on this informative walking tour titled Sarajevo: Bosnian War & Fall of Yugoslavia Tour with Tunnel. Discover the main locations from the 1992 to 1995 war following the Siege of Sarajevo, as your professional guide shares stories and insights about the 4 long years that the city and its people suffered under the constant threat of bombing. See remnants of monuments kept as a reminder that it should never happen again. Hear the story about the Tunnel of Hope and get a better understanding of this memorial by watching a short movie made during the war. Pause to reflect at the site of one of the largest massacres at Markale Market and visit the Yellow fortress to see the best panorama of Sarajevo, where the tour guide explains how Yugoslavia fell apart and how Sarajevo ended up in siege. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the iconic Yellow Fortress, explore the Olympic Complex and its cemetery, and learn more about ex Yugoslavia and Olympic Games. Admire the stunning views from the Vidikovac viewpoint during the tour. The small-group tour includes transport by air-conditioned car/minivan and hotel pickup. Meals and drinks are available upon request. The ticket to the Tunnel Museum costs 5 bams or €2.5 per student or 10 bams or €5 per adult, and payment is in Bosnian marks only. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the sights and memories of this historic tour. Meet at the office of Meet Bosnia Tours.
4. Sarajevo: Guided City Highlights Tour with Sarajevo Tunnel
Explore the modern history of Sarajevo by embarking on a guided city highlights tour with a visit to the Sarajevo Tunnel. During the tour, you will have the chance to visit significant sites such as Sniper Alley, the City Hall of Sarajevo, the Defenders’ Cemetery, Olympic Stadium Kosevo, and Republica Srpska while learning about Sarajevo’s turbulent past from a licensed local guide. Hear firsthand accounts about life during the war and gain insights about the region’s history. Hotel pick-up is available as an optional add-on. The duration of the tour is between 100 to 150 minutes and includes bottled water, a licensed guide, a professional driver, and entrance tickets to the tunnel (EUR 10). Please note that visitors using a wheelchair may face difficulties entering the tunnel, but not the museum.
5. Sarajevo: Times of Misfortune War Tour
Join this comprehensive 3-hour Sarajevo: Times of Misfortune War Tour to learn about the city’s struggle during the Balkan wars. Follow our knowledgeable guide and visit important historical sites including the Yellow Fortress and Maternity hospital, Sehid Cemetery, Markale market place, and buildings from the 1984 Winter Olympics. Discover the infamous Sniper Alley and pay your respects at the Cemetery of the Heroes. Learn about the collapse of Yugoslavia and the war’s aims from guides who have personal experience of the conflict.
Gain insight into what life was like for Sarajevans during the siege, including how they coped without basic necessities like food, water, electricity, and gas. Find out how children kept up with their schoolwork and how cultural and sports activities continued during wartime. Visit the Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum and learn about the role of the tunnel in the siege.
The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees to the Tunnel Museum and “The Siege 1992-1995 War Exhibition”, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes and leave luggage, large bags, backpacks, and pets at home. Note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Join us for an unforgettable experience and gain a deeper understanding of the history of Sarajevo.
6. Sarajevo: Best of Sarajevo – All Inclusive Full Day Tour
Experience the best of Sarajevo with our all-inclusive full-day tour. Our expert guide will take you on a 3-part journey through the city, starting with the Austro-Hungarian symbols and the Ottoman heart of Sarajevo’s Bascarsija. You will also have the chance to taste traditional Bosnian food and learn about the significance of Bosnian coffee consumption.
Next, we’ll take you to the Olympic Mountains and provide a cable car ride to take in the stunning views of Sarajevo. You’ll learn about the 14th Olympic Winter Games that were held in the city and the impact it had on its people. You will also have the opportunity to walk down the ruined bobsled at Trebević and take in the views.
We’ll round out the tour with a war tour experience. You’ll discover what it was like to live during the siege without basic amenities like food, water, and electricity, and learn about the culture and sports scene during that time. The Tunnel Museum is a must-see, and you’ll walk through 20 meters of the original tunnel before watching a movie about the war in Sarajevo.
This tour includes transportation, a return ticket for the Sarajevo Cable Car, entrance fees to various museums and churches, a light traditional lunch, Bosnian coffee and dessert, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, epilepsy, or wheelchair users. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and clothes, a camera, and water. High-heeled shoes, shorts, luggage or large bags and short skirts are not allowed.
7. Sarajevo Winter Olympics Tour
Explore the historic Sarajevo city through the lens of sports history with the Sarajevo Winter Olympics Tour. This tour takes you to the place where the opening ceremony of the XIV Olympic Winter Games was held in 1984, providing insights into what the games meant for people of Sarajevo and how they prepared for it. You will visit three breathtaking mountains around the city that hosted the Olympics, some of which are still in ruins from the war, such as Mountain Trebevic and the Bobsled track, and the Olympic Facility in Zetra. The tour also includes a visit to the Olympic Museum, where you can learn about the history of the Olympics and its impact on the local community. The Sarajevo Winter Olympics Tour includes a guide, transport, meals and beverages, and tips (optional). Meet at the Sarajevo Insider Tours & Excursion to begin this exciting journey through Sarajevo’s winter history.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is one of the most beautiful cities in the Balkans. Its unique mix of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture, together with its rich history and cultural diversity, makes it a popular tourist destination. However, before you plan your trip to Sarajevo, you may have some questions that need to be answered. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Sarajevo.
1. Is Sarajevo safe for travelers?
Sarajevo is a relatively safe city for travelers. The police are present and active, and the crime rate is low. However, like any other big city, there are some areas that can be dangerous, especially at night. It’s recommended for tourists to stay in the city center, and avoid walking alone in deserted areas. However, most of the tourist areas are safe, and the locals are friendly and welcoming.
2. What is the best time to visit Sarajevo?
The best time to visit Sarajevo is during the spring and autumn seasons, between April and June, and September and November. The temperature during these periods is moderate and comfortable, making it perfect for outdoor activities, and exploring the city. The summer months from July to August can be very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C, which doesn’t make it very pleasant for visitors. However, the winter months from December to February can be very cold, with lots of snow making it difficult to explore and enjoy the city.
3. What currency is used in Sarajevo?
The currency used in Sarajevo, as well as in the whole of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is the Convertible Mark (BAM), which is pegged to the Euro at a fixed exchange rate. However, Euros are widely accepted in Sarajevo, especially in tourist areas, and most restaurants and hotels also accept credit cards.
4. What language do the locals speak in Sarajevo?
The official language in Sarajevo, as well as in the whole of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is Bosnian, which is similar to Croatian and Serbian. However, some people also speak English, especially those working in the tourist industry, so language shouldn’t be a barrier for travelers.
5. What are the must-see places in Sarajevo?
Sarajevo has a lot to offer its visitors. The most popular tourist attractions in Sarajevo are the historic Baščaršija neighborhood, the Latin Bridge, the Sarajevo City Hall, the Yellow Fortress, and the Tunnel of Hope. However, there are also many museums, mosques, and churches that are worth exploring, such as the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Sacred Heart Cathedral, and the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
6. What is the food like in Sarajevo?
The cuisine in Sarajevo is a mix of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian flavors, with lots of grilled meat, vegetables, and flavored spices. The most popular dishes in Sarajevo are Ćevapi, Burek, and Pita, all of which are a must-try for visitors. There are also many restaurants and cafes that serve western-style food, and many vegetarian and vegan options are also available.
7. What is the nightlife like in Sarajevo?
The nightlife scene in Sarajevo is vibrant, with many bars, clubs, and cafes open until the early hours of the morning. The most popular nightlife areas in Sarajevo are the Baščaršija neighborhood, the Latin Bridge, and the city center. Visitors can enjoy live music, DJ sets, and traditional Bosnian music, together with a wide range of beverages and cocktails.
Conclusion
Sarajevo is truly an amazing city that has something to offer to everyone. It’s a city rich in history, culture, and traditions, which makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its friendly locals, delicious food, and breathtaking sights, Sarajevo will leave you with unforgettable memories. We hope this post has answered some of your questions about Sarajevo and has helped you plan your trip to this wonderful city!
Table of Contents
