On our Balkan Trip, Sarajevo was one of the best cultural hubs – with a rich, diverse history and so much to do and see. Two or three days is perfect here if you’re passing through, before moving onto some other places in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Unfortunately our bus from Kotor in Montenegro took hours longer than it was meant to, cutting out a good segment of our first day, but we still managed to fit in almost all of the activities we wanted to do there.
Top 5 Things to do in Sarajevo
- Walk to the meeting point of culture
This was such an interesting place to see the city change entirely in terms of both atmosphere, architecture and history. It’s fairly central too and you can tick off a lot of things over in this area, such as seeing the eternal flame and trying some of the local cuisine. - Visit the Genocide Museum
The genocide museum, although maybe not the nicest of experiences, gives you such an insight into the history of the place and how it has impacted the country today. Talking to other backpackers, we found out there is another Genocide Museum in the country (I believe they said in Mostar?) however this one was a more difficult experience, and would recommend the one in Sarajevo. - Try Cevapi
Okay, this one probably stands for all of Bosnia and Herzegovina but the Cevapi (a local meat) is often served with bread and dip and is delicious. Most places you can find Cevapi at are local, down side streets and very welcoming. - Go for coffee in the Muslim Quarter
This quarter of the city has an entirely different feel, slightly slower, quieter and very friendly. A morning coffee here after sunrise is lovely, and there are plenty of bakeries you can grab lunch from too. We had much more Burek while we were here (more about this coming in the post on Bosnian food!). - Visit the Bridges
Sarajevo has many bridges and a walk by the side of the river is a must; you can go all the way up to the library and pass famous landmark bridges on your way such as the bridge where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was shot. It’s a lovely walk, especially in summer and also lets you see a bit more of the city.
Other tips?
Apart from me realising while writing this that I would be unable to keep this short AND add in food recommendations (a Bosnian food article will be on its way), another thing to mention would be accommodation. Hostel Vagabond Sarajevo was the perfect base – completely central, friendly atmosphere, cheap and plenty of places to socialise and meet people.
If you are backpacking the Balkans, the culture in Bosnia and Herzegovina is fairly similar to that you’ll have experienced before, with a few more tourists thrown into the mix. It’s a great country – inexpensive, welcoming and with a rich culture (and cuisine!)
Interested in travelling the Balkans?
Read more posts about my backpacking journey through the Balkans in the archives tab.
