Top 10 Sights and Activities to See and Do in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city rich in culture and history. Its old town is a melting pot of culture, where Orthodox churches, Catholic cathedrals, and mosques reside side-by-side. Sarajevo is also known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful parks, and picturesque scenery.
From exploring the local culture to experiencing the outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Sarajevo. Here are 10 of the top sights and activities to see and do in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
1. Visit Baščaršija Square
Baščaršija Square is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sarajevo. This old bazaar was once the center of the Ottoman Empire and today, it remains a bustling marketplace full of shops, restaurants, and cafes. From souvenir shopping to sampling Bosnian food, Baščaršija Square is the perfect place to start your exploration of Sarajevo.
Book a tour of Baščaršija Square
2. Explore Sarajevo’s Old Town
Take a stroll through Sarajevo’s Old Town and explore the city’s unique blend of cultures. The cobblestone streets are lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, while centuries-old churches, mosques, and synagogues provide an interesting insight into the city’s religious history. Don’t forget to visit the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, which is considered the most beautiful Islamic building in the Balkans.
Book a tour of Sarajevo’s Old Town
3. Tour Sarajevo’s Tunnels
The Siege of Sarajevo was one of the longest sieges in modern history and a dark chapter in the city’s history. Today, visitors can learn more about the siege by taking a tour of the city’s network of tunnels, which were used to transport food, weapons, and supplies during the siege. Tours are available with English-speaking guides and are a great way to gain an insight into Sarajevo’s past.
Book a tour of Sarajevo’s Tunnels
4. Take a Walk Through Sarajevo’s Parks
Sarajevo has an abundance of parks that are perfect for taking a stroll or just relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea. The most popular park is Vrelo Bosne, which is located on the banks of the Miljacka River. It’s a great place to admire the city’s skyline and take in the stunning views of Mount Igman. Other parks worth visiting include Zmaj od Bosne Park and Koševo Park.
Book a tour of Sarajevo’s Parks
5. Go Skiing at Mount Jahorina
Mount Jahorina is one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s premier ski resorts and just a short drive from Sarajevo. Skiing enthusiasts will love the range of ski runs and winter activities on offer here, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can take a leisurely walk around the mountain’s beautiful landscape. A trip to Mount Jahorina is a must for anyone visiting Sarajevo in winter.
6. Go Ziplining at Bjelašnica Mountain
Bjelašnica Mountain is located just outside Sarajevo and offers some spectacular views of the city and its surrounding area. Take to the sky on the mountain’s zipline and soar through the air for an unforgettable experience. It’s also possible to take part in other outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Book a tour of Bjelašnica Mountain
7. Visit Sarajevo’s War Museum
The Sarajevo War Museum is dedicated to documenting the city’s tragic history during the Siege of Sarajevo in 1992-1995. The museum offers an informative insight into the events that shaped Sarajevo into what it is today, with exhibits ranging from photos and videos to personal stories from survivors of the siege. It’s an important reminder of one of the darkest periods in modern history.
Book a tour of Sarajevo’s War Museum
8. Try Some Bosnian Food
Bosnian food is world-renowned for its unique blend of flavors and spices, making it one of the best cuisines in Europe. Sarajevo has plenty of restaurants serving up traditional Bosnian dishes such as ćevapi (grilled minced beef), burek (meat pie), and sarma (cabbage rolls). Be sure to sample some local delicacies when you’re in town!
9. Take a Cable Car Ride Up Mount Trebević
Mount Trebević is one of Sarajevo’s most iconic landmarks and offers stunning views of the city below. Take a ride on the cable car up to the summit for an unforgettable experience or take a leisurely stroll around the mountain’s old Olympic ski jump site and admire the views from above.
Book a cable car ride up Mount Trebević
10. Visit Mostar & Pocitelj
Mostar is one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most famous cities and well worth visiting if you have time to spare in Sarajevo. The city is home to one of Europe’s oldest bridges – Stari Most – which dates back to 1566 and provides stunning views over the Neretva River below. A trip to Mostar isn’t complete without a visit to nearby Pocitelj – an old Ottoman fortress – which offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside from its hilltop location.
Book a tour of Mostar & Pocitelj
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for culture, history, or outdoor activities, there are plenty of sights and activities to see and do in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. From exploring Baščaršija Square to tasting Bosnian food, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So why not plan your next trip to Sarajevo today?
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