Sarajevo a week

Sarajevo's main airport, located southwest of the city center. It's a modern facility serving numerous European destinations.

• Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall. Agree on the fare before starting your journey or ensure the meter is used.

A well-regarded mid-range hotel located conveniently near Baščaršija, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to historical sites.

• Book in advance, especially during peak season.

The historic heart of Sarajevo, this old bazaar is a maze of cobblestone streets, traditional craft shops, mosques, and cafes. It's a vibrant cultural hub that transports you back in time.

• Look for Sebilj, the iconic wooden fountain, a popular meeting spot.
• Wander through Kazandžiluk (Coppersmith Street) to see traditional metalwork.

Offers traditional Bosnian cuisine with a modern twist in an elegant setting, known for its excellent lamb dishes and city views.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for window seats.

A magnificent example of Ottoman architecture, built in the 16th century, it's considered one of the most important mosques in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Admire its beautiful dome and minaret.

• Dress respectfully: women should cover their heads and shoulders, and both men and women should wear modest clothing. Headscarves are often available to borrow.

Adjacent to the mosque, this historic Islamic school and its library house valuable manuscripts and offer insight into centuries of religious and scholarly tradition.

A stunning example of Neo-Moorish architecture, this iconic building was meticulously restored after being destroyed during the war. It now houses exhibitions and serves as a symbol of resilience.

• Check for current exhibitions; the interior is breathtaking.

This historic bridge is infamous as the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in 1914, an event that triggered World War I. It's a small but historically significant landmark.

Housed in the original Sarajevo Brewery building, this museum showcases the history of brewing in the region and offers a tasting of their famous Sarajevsko pivo.

• The tasting is a highlight for beer enthusiasts.

A classic Sarajevo restaurant known for its traditional Bosnian dishes, particularly grilled meats, served in a rustic, cozy atmosphere.

This poignant museum is built around the preserved section of the Sarajevo Tunnel, used during the siege to bring supplies and allow passage. It's a powerful testament to the city's endurance.

• Allow ample time for reflection. The exhibits are deeply moving.

These historic fortifications offer panoramic views over Sarajevo. The Yellow Bastion is a popular spot for sunset, while the White Bastion is a more ancient structure.

These are memorial sites scattered throughout the city, marking locations where civilians were killed by mortar shell explosions. The resin poured into the shell craters is filled with red to commemorate the lives lost.

• Look for them as you explore the city; they are a somber but important reminder.

This unique museum exhibits personal belongings, stories, and testimonies from children who lived through the siege of Sarajevo, offering an intimate and heartbreaking perspective on the war.

• Prepare for an emotional experience. The personal narratives are very powerful.

A historic restaurant with a charming, old-world atmosphere, serving a mix of Bosnian and international dishes. It's known for its seafood and cozy ambiance.

Showcases a comprehensive collection of Bosnian and Herzegovinian art from the Middle Ages to the present day, offering insight into the region's artistic development.

A beautiful architectural landmark and a center for performing arts in Sarajevo. Even if not attending a show, admiring its exterior is worthwhile.

• Check the schedule for performances if interested in attending a play or opera.

A legendary spot in Baščaršija famous for its delicious ćevapi (grilled minced meat sausages) served with onions and somun bread. It's a quintessential Sarajevo culinary experience.

• Expect a queue during peak hours; it moves quickly.
• Order a large portion if you're very hungry!

This museum provides a stark and important account of the atrocities committed during the Bosnian War, featuring exhibits and personal testimonies.

• This is a difficult but crucial museum for understanding recent history.

A bustling open-air market where locals shop for fresh produce, dairy products, meats, and flowers. It's a great place to observe daily life and sample local goods.

• Try some local cheese or dried fruits.

A popular spot offering a diverse menu including traditional Bosnian dishes and international cuisine. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is good for a casual dinner.

Ascend Trebević Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. The ride itself offers stunning vistas.

• Wear comfortable shoes; there are walking paths at the top.

Explore the nature on Trebević Mountain, including the decaying but fascinating abandoned bobsleigh track from the 1984 Winter Olympics. It's now a canvas for street art.

• The bobsleigh track is a unique spot for photos.

Located on Trebević Mountain, this restaurant offers traditional Bosnian dishes with spectacular views of Sarajevo. It's a perfect spot for lunch with a view.

A beautiful park and nature reserve marking the source of the Bosna River, featuring springs, lakes, and walking paths. It's a peaceful escape from the city.

• Rent a horse-drawn carriage for a scenic ride through the park.

Experience authentic, home-style Bosnian cooking at this traditional 'aščinica'. They offer a variety of stews and cooked dishes that are both delicious and affordable.

• Try 'Sarma' (stuffed cabbage rolls) or 'Grah' (bean stew).

A scenic train journey from Sarajevo to Mostar, offering beautiful views of the Bosnian countryside. The train is a comfortable and reliable way to travel.

• Book tickets in advance, especially during summer.

The iconic Ottoman-era bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the symbol of Mostar. It's renowned for its elegant arch and the brave divers who leap from its summit.

• Watch the famous bridge divers (for a fee, they will perform).

Explore the charming cobblestone streets of Mostar's old town, filled with artisan shops, cafes, and mosques. It's a lively and picturesque area surrounding the bridge.

• Visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for views from its minaret.

A popular restaurant in Mostar's old town offering traditional Bosnian cuisine with a beautiful courtyard setting. Known for its grilled meats and local specialties.

Return journey to Sarajevo by train, reflecting on the day's experiences in Mostar.

A historic and atmospheric cafe in Baščaršija, perfect for a traditional Bosnian coffee and a pastry. It retains its old-world charm and is a lovely spot for a relaxed morning.

• Try the baklava or tufahija.

Spend your last morning browsing the numerous craft shops in Baščaršija for unique souvenirs, such as copperware, traditional textiles, or local sweets.

• Bargaining is common in some shops, but be polite.

Dine at this unique restaurant with a fascinating history, offering traditional Bosnian dishes in a beautifully restored Ottoman house overlooking the Miljacka River.

• The building's story is as interesting as its food.

Depart from Sarajevo, taking with you memories of its rich history, vibrant culture, and resilient spirit.