Visiting Sarajevo: must-see attractions in the Bosnian capital

Baščaršija, the historic heart of Sarajevo

The old quarter of Baščaršija is the ideal starting point for exploring Sarajevo. Built in the 15th century under the Ottoman Empire, this historic bazaar offers a total change of scenery with its artisan shops, mosques and the famous Sebilj fountain. Stroll through pedestrian lanes lined with copperware and carpets, and stop for a Turkish coffee served in a traditional džezva. The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, a jewel of 16th-century Ottoman architecture, is worth the visit on its own.

Museums and the memory of the siege

Sarajevo bears the marks of a turbulent past. The Tunnel of Hope, dug under the airport during the 1992-1995 siege, stands as a testament to its residents’ resilience. The War Childhood Museum provides a moving perspective through the personal belongings of children who lived through the conflict. The National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the largest in the country, houses remarkable archaeological and ethnographic collections.

Mount Trebević and the Olympic sites

For a bird’s-eye view, take the cable car to the summit of Mount Trebević. The panoramic view over the city nestled in its valley is spectacular. The former bobsled tracks from the 1984 Olympics, now covered in graffiti, have become an iconic landmark. The Jahorina and Bjelašnica resorts, now modernised, welcome skiers in winter and hikers in summer.

Vrelo Bosne and nature at the city’s doorstep

Southwest of Sarajevo, Vrelo Bosne park offers a peaceful natural escape. The springs of the Bosna River emerge at the foot of Mount Igman, creating a landscape of cascades and shaded trails. Skakavac Waterfall, standing 98 metres high, is another natural wonder accessible from the capital. Sarajevo captivates visitors as much with its cultural heritage as with its green retreats.