Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city of captivating beauty and rich history. From its Ottoman-era mosques and churches to its vibrant art galleries and bustling cafes, Sarajevo offers something for everyone. Here are the top 20 places to see when visiting this remarkable city.
1. Old Town – Sarajevo’s Old Town is the most popular area to visit. This area is full of winding cobblestone streets, traditional Bosnian restaurants, and old shops. The Old Town is also home to the Gazi Husrev-Bey Mosque, the oldest mosque in Sarajevo, and the Latin Bridge, the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.
2. Sarajevo War Tunnel – The Sarajevo War Tunnel was built during the Siege of Sarajevo in the early 1990s. It served as a lifeline for the city, allowing food, medicine, and other supplies to be brought in. Today, the tunnel is open to the public and provides a unique insight into the city’s wartime history.
3. Sarajevo City Hall – The Sarajevo City Hall, also known as Vijećnica, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This beautiful building was built in the late 19th century in the Neo-Renaissance style. It was heavily damaged during the Siege of Sarajevo and has since been restored to its former glory.
4. Bascarsija – Bascarsija is the old Turkish quarter of Sarajevo. Here, visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, browse the local shops, and sample traditional Bosnian cuisine. The area is also home to the Sebilj Fountain, a popular meeting spot for locals.
5. Sarajevo Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track – The Sarajevo Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track was built for the 1984 Winter Olympics. Today, it serves as a reminder of the city’s Olympic heritage and is open to the public for tours.
6. Sarajevo Cathedral – The Sarajevo Cathedral, also known as the Sacred Heart Cathedral, is the largest and most impressive church in the city. It was built in the late 19th century and is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture.
7. Sarajevo National Museum – The Sarajevo National Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and artworks from the city’s past. It is a great place to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
8. Gazi Husrev-Bey Mosque – The Gazi Husrev-Bey Mosque is the oldest mosque in Sarajevo. Built in the 16th century, it is an impressive example of Ottoman architecture.
9. Latin Bridge – The Latin Bridge is the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which sparked the First World War. It is now a popular spot for tourists to visit and pay their respects.
10. Sarajevo Brewery – The Sarajevo Brewery is a great place to sample the local beer. It was founded in 1864 and is one of the oldest breweries in Europe.
11. Yellow Fortress – The Yellow Fortress is a 16th century Ottoman fortification overlooking the city. It is a great place to enjoy the views of Sarajevo and the surrounding mountains.
12. Sarajevo Zoo – The Sarajevo Zoo is the largest zoo in the Balkans. It is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and polar bears.
13. Sarajevo Synagogue – The Sarajevo Synagogue is the only surviving synagogue in Sarajevo. It is a beautiful building and is open to the public for tours.
14. Sarajevo River – The Sarajevo River runs through the city and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. There are several parks and gardens along the river’s banks.
15. Sarajevo Film Festival – The Sarajevo Film Festival is one of the most important film festivals in Europe. It is held every summer and showcases the best of Bosnian and international cinema.
16. Sarajevo Cable Car – The Sarajevo Cable Car is the only cable car in the city. It runs from the city center to the top of Mount Trebević, offering stunning views of the city below.
17. Sarajevo Brewery Museum – The Sarajevo Brewery Museum is a great place to learn more about the city’s brewing history. It is located in the old brewery building and is open to the public.
18. Sarajevo History Museum – The Sarajevo History Museum is a great place to learn more about the city’s past. The museum houses a variety of artifacts and artworks from the city’s history.
19. Sarajevo Art Gallery – The Sarajevo Art Gallery is a great place to see contemporary art from Bosnia and Herzegovina. The gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year.
20. Sarajevo National Theater – The Sarajevo National Theater is the city’s main theater. It hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, operas, and ballets.