Things to Do in Sarajevo

Baščaršija is Sarajevo's enchanting Ottoman-era bazaar and the historical and cultural heart of the city. Built in the 15th century, this atmospheric district features narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional craft shops, copper workshops, and countless cafes. The iconic Sebilj fountain marks the center, and legend says drinking from it ensures your return to Sarajevo. Explore artisan workshops, sample traditional ćevapi, and experience authentic Bosnian coffee culture in this living museum of Ottoman heritage.

The Latin Bridge is an Ottoman stone bridge spanning the Miljacka River and one of Sarajevo's most historically significant landmarks. On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated near this bridge, an event that triggered World War I. A museum on the corner documents this pivotal moment in history. The elegant bridge itself dates from the Ottoman period and offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding architecture, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Built in 1532, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is the largest historical mosque in Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans. This stunning mosque complex includes a madrasa, library, and hammam, representing the golden age of Sarajevo under Ottoman rule. Visitors can explore the beautifully decorated interior with its intricate calligraphy and traditional Islamic design. The mosque remains an active place of worship and an important symbol of Sarajevo's Islamic heritage.

The Yellow Fortress is an 18th-century fortification offering the most spectacular panoramic views of Sarajevo. Originally part of the defensive walls of old town Vratnik during Ottoman times, today it serves as a beloved viewpoint and gathering spot. The fortress is especially magical at sunset when the call to prayer echoes across the city and the mountains turn golden. A small cafe allows visitors to enjoy refreshments while taking in the breathtaking cityscape below.

The Tunnel of Hope is a powerful testament to Sarajevo's resilience during the 1992-1995 siege, the longest siege of a capital city in modern warfare. This 800-meter underground passage was the city's lifeline, connecting besieged Sarajevo with free territory and allowing the flow of food, supplies, and people. Today, visitors can walk through a preserved 25-meter section and explore the museum documenting this harrowing chapter of history. An essential and moving experience for understanding Sarajevo's recent past.

The Trebević Cable Car takes visitors on a scenic 9-minute ride from the city center to the summit of Mount Trebević, offering stunning panoramic views of Sarajevo and the surrounding Dinaric Alps. Originally built for the 1984 Winter Olympics and destroyed during the war, the cable car was lovingly restored and reopened in 2018 as a symbol of the city's revival. At the top, explore hiking trails, visit the abandoned Olympic bobsled track covered in colorful graffiti, and enjoy fresh mountain air just minutes from downtown.

Founded in 1888, the National Museum is the oldest and largest museum in Bosnia and Herzegovina, housing impressive collections of archaeology, ethnology, and natural history. The museum is famous for containing the Sarajevo Haggadah, a 14th-century illuminated Jewish manuscript considered one of the most valuable books in the world. The beautiful Austro-Hungarian building and botanical garden add to the experience. A comprehensive introduction to the region's rich cultural heritage spanning millennia.

The Sarajevo City Hall is a stunning example of pseudo-Moorish architecture, originally built in 1896 during the Austro-Hungarian period as the city's largest and most representative building. Tragically destroyed during the 1992 siege, it has been meticulously restored and reopened in 2014. The building formerly housed the National Library and now serves as a cultural center hosting events and exhibitions. The ornate interior with its grand staircase and colorful glass ceiling is absolutely breathtaking.