Sarajevo
Sarajevo
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where East meets West. Walking through the streets, you'll notice the interesting mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav architectural styles that tell the story of the city's complex past.
The old town, Baščaršija, is the cultural heart of Sarajevo. Its narrow cobblestone streets are filled with small shops, traditional restaurants, and the smell of Bosnian coffee. Here, you can find the famous Sebilj fountain and the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, one of the most important Ottoman structures in the country.
Sarajevo has a tragic recent history as the site of the longest siege in modern warfare during the 1990s Bosnian War. The Tunnel of Hope, which was the city's lifeline during the siege, and the War Childhood Museum provide sobering insights into this period.
The city is also known for its role in world history - it was here that Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, an event that triggered World War I. The exact spot on the Latin Bridge is marked and you can visit the museum dedicated to this event.
With its stunning backdrop of mountains, rich history, and the warm hospitality of its people, Sarajevo offers a unique travel experience that combines European and Middle Eastern influences.
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Things to do in Sarajevo
Top things to do in Sarajevo by theculturetrip.com
Where to stay in Sarajevo
Best hotels in Sarajevo:
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Hotel Central Sarajevo (budget hotel)
Hotel Central Sarajevo is located in the heart of the old town, just steps from key sights like the Latin Bridge and Sebilj Fountain. It's ideal for exploring the city's culture and history, with everything within easy walking distance.
The hotel has been fully renovated and offers more than just a place to sleep. It features a 25-yard pool, a three-floor fitness center, a spa with saunas and steam baths, and a restaurant serving local and Mediterranean food. Breakfast is highly rated, and the rooms are modern and comfortable.
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Apartman Amila (homestay)
Apartman Amila is a cozy spot on the hills of Sarajevo, about a 20-minute walk from the old bazaar. It offers great city views and a spacious family room with a private kitchen, bathroom, and a relaxing patio.
The apartment is clean, comfortable, and has reliable WiFi. The friendly family who runs it adds a special touch—guests often mention being welcomed with traditional Bosnian coffee. Free private parking is available, which is a big plus in this hilly area. There’s also a good restaurant nearby if you don’t feel like heading back into town for dinner.
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Hotel President Sarajevo (luxury hotel)
Hotel President Sarajevo is located right in the old town, just steps from landmarks like the Latin Bridge and Sebilj Fountain. You can easily walk to all the main sights.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, with some offering great city or river views—and even balconies to enjoy them. The staff is friendly and available 24/7, and the breakfast is highly rated. There’s also a cozy lobby bar for relaxing. Parking is available in their garage, but needs to be reserved and costs extra. It’s a convenient and comfortable place to stay while exploring Sarajevo.
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Hotel Colors Inn (medium range hotel)
Hotel Colors Inn is just a short walk from Sarajevo’s lively center and the Baščaršija area, making it a great base for exploring. The rooms are modern, colorful, spacious, and very clean, with all the essentials like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and mini-bars.
Guests especially love the breakfast, and the hotel also offers free parking and free WiFi. The staff are known for being friendly and helpful. It’s a comfortable, well-located hotel that’s close to everything but still quiet enough for a good night’s sleep.
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Best hostels in Sarajevo:
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Hostel Balkan Han (boutique hostel)
Hostel Balkan Han sits in a prime spot in Sarajevo, just a short walk from all the main attractions. The place has this awesome courtyard garden where travelers hang out, chat, and enjoy drinks from the bar. It's the perfect spot to meet other people when you're exploring the city on your own.
The rooms are super clean and comfy, with options from dorms to private apartments. What makes this place stand out is the friendly staff who go above and beyond with local recommendations and creating a welcoming vibe. The kitchen is well-equipped with free coffee, and the beds even have privacy curtains - a small detail that makes a big difference when you're in a shared room. Plus, it's quiet at night despite being so close to everything in the city.
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Hostel Kucha (hostel)
Hostel Kucha in Sarajevo is a great place just a short walk from the city center. It has a fun vibe with Bosnia-themed rooms and beautiful views of the city and hills. The rooms are very clean, the beds are comfortable, and there’s a fully equipped kitchen for guests to use. Free WiFi works well throughout the hostel.
The friendly staff really stand out—they welcome guests with traditional Bosnian coffee and offer great tips for exploring the city. There's a shared terrace that's perfect for relaxing and meeting other travelers. A supermarket right next door makes it easy to grab food or supplies.
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Hostel Vagabond (party hostel)
Hostel Vagabond is located in the heart of Sarajevo's old town, just steps from top sights like Latin Bridge, Sebilj Fountain, and Bascarsija Street. Its central location earns it a top rating of 9.8/10.
The hostel has a great social atmosphere, with friendly staff who offer local tips and organize walking tours. There’s a shared kitchen, a cozy common area for meeting other travelers, and clean rooms—both dorms and private options.
Housed in a historic building, it blends traditional charm with modern comforts like free WiFi and an on-site bar. It’s a top choice for budget travelers looking for comfort, connection, and a great location.