Sarajevo was put into the spotlight when Franz Ferdinand was assassinated here, the catalyst that set off World War I in 1914. An exhibit titled Sarajevo 1878 – 1918 talks about the city’s turbulent Austro-Hungarian history. The Tunnel Museum documents a more recent history when Sarajevo was shaken to its core by the Balkan war. Walk through a short section of the 1m wide, 1.6m high hand-dug tunnel under the airport runway which acted as the city's lifeline to the outside world during the 1992–95 siege of Sarajevo. Explore the 17th century remnants of the Vratnik Citadel which affords gorgeous vistas over the city and a fascinating insight into its history. You cannot miss a stroll through Pigeon Square (replete with pigeons) which opens out onto the Sebilj, a beautiful 18th century fountain. Walk through the buzzing Kazanziluk or Coppersmith Alley as you head towards the restored old part of Sarajevo. Take a fascinating journey to eclectic Sarajevo with Exeter International.
For custom luxury travel and tours to Sarajevo and Bosnia, please contact one of our travel experts.
The climate in Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally warm and humid during the spring and summer months, as it has a Mediterranean climate. Winters can be cold and wet with the possibility of snowfall during the months of December-February.
The very best time to visit Sarajevo is from the months of April – June and then September – October. These months are generally warm and pleasant but do take into consideration that rainfall is highest in the months of May and June. The months of July and August can be very hot for touring and are often overcrowded with tourists.
The best way to experience Sarajevo is by foot. Walk throughout the Old Town with your handpicked guide and explore the Ferhadija pedestrian street, lined with cafés, shops, and monuments. Continue your stroll down to the Miljacka River and learn about the bridges built during the Ottoman empire. On the Latin Bridge, this is where Franz Ferdinand and his wife were assassinated by Serbian nationalist Gavrilo Princip.
If you are interested in Jewish history, the Jewish Museum is in the oldest synagogue in the region and is always worth the visit. Your guide can also take you to visit the Jewish cemetery located on a hill that overlooks the city of Sarajevo.
Our team of travel experts can customize a unique program for you, based on our Essential Serbia and Bosnia itinerary. We suggest you allow a minimum of 3 nights in Sarajevo.
A trip to Belgrade would not be complete without visiting Bascarsija, the old bazaar, located in the heart of the city. The streets are lined with shops where local artists and craftsmen sell their goods. You can find many different products, such as pottery, jewelry, art, woodwork, and more! There are many different cafés and shops you can visit as well!
Rahat Lokum, similar to Turkish Delight, is a sweet treat that Bosnians love to enjoy with their coffee. It arrived to the region of Bosnia almost 500 years ago and it continues to be a common treat in homes all over the country. While in Sarajevo, do as the Bosnians do and enjoy some Rahat Lokum with your next cup of Bosnian coffee!
There is a rich coffee culture in Bosnia. Coffee here is more than a drink; it is a real ritual. So, if you’re looking for a special souvenir to bring back from Bosnia, let it be a traditional Bosnian coffee set. Usually comprised of a stovetop coffee pot, typically made of copper, cups and saucers, a full set will always remind you of Sarajevo and the small streets where it was made.
