Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where East meets West, history intertwines with modern life, and every corner tells a story. It is a place that has survived wars, celebrated cultural diversity, and remains a melting pot of traditions. Often called the “Jerusalem of Europe,” Sarajevo has a unique blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences, making it one of the most intriguing cities to explore. If you have only 72 hours, don’t worry—this guide will ensure you experience the best of the city without missing a beat.

Getting to Sarajevo from the Airport

Upon arriving at Sarajevo International Airport, you have several options to reach the city center:

• Shuttle Bus – Operates every 30 minutes and costs around 5 Bosnian Marks (BAM).
• Taxi – A convenient and faster option, with a fare of approximately 30 BAM to the city center.
• Public Transport – You can take a trolleybus from Dobrinja station, about a 10-minute walk from the airport.

What to Do and See in Sarajevo: Historic and Cultural Landmarks

The best way to begin your Sarajevo adventure is in Baščaršija, the old bazaar built in the 15th century by the Ottomans. Walking through its narrow, cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. The smell of grilled meat, freshly baked somun bread, and strong Bosnian coffee fills the air, while artisans hammer intricate designs onto copper coffee sets—a centuries-old craft.

• Sebilj Fountain – A wooden Ottoman-style fountain located in the center of Baščaršija. Legend has it that if you drink from this fountain, you will return to Sarajevo one day.
• Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque – One of the most important Ottoman-era mosques in the Balkans, built in 1530. It was the first mosque in the world to receive electric lighting in 1898.
• Clock Tower (Sahat-Kula) – Unlike other clock towers in Europe, this one follows lunar time, meaning its clock resets daily at sunset, in accordance with Islamic tradition.
• Gazi Husrev-beg Medresa – An Islamic school established in 1537, one of the oldest educational institutions in the Balkans, showcasing Sarajevo’s deep intellectual and religious heritage.
• Gazi Husrev-beg Han – A historical caravanserai that served as a resting place for merchants and traders. Today, it stands as a beautiful reminder of Sarajevo’s vibrant trade history.

• Ferhadija Street – The main pedestrian street of Sarajevo, lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings, where you can truly experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
• Latin Bridge – One of Sarajevo’s most famous landmarks, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary and his wife Sophie were assassinated in 1914, triggering World War I.
• Sacred Heart Cathedral – The largest Catholic church in Bosnia and Herzegovina, built in a Neo-Gothic style by the Austro-Hungarians in the late 19th century.

• Old Jewish Synagogue – Now a museum, this historic synagogue stands as a testament to Sarajevo’s once-thriving Jewish community, which contributed greatly to the city’s multicultural identity.
• Church of Saint Anthony of Padua – A striking red-bricked church that adds to the city’s rich architectural landscape.
• Bakir Čaršija – The renowned copper market, where artisans craft and sell beautifully designed handmade copperware, from coffee sets to intricate wall decorations.
• Morica Han – A historic inn that has preserved its Ottoman-era charm. Once a resting place for traders, it now serves as a cultural landmark where visitors can experience Sarajevo’s history and architecture.
• Eternal Flame – A significant monument dedicated to the victims of World War II, located at the start of Ferhadija Street. The flame burns continuously as a symbol of remembrance and resilience.

Sarajevo is a city of contrasts—where mosques, churches, and synagogues stand side by side, where the echoes of history meet the rhythm of modern life. As Nobel Prize-winning author Ivo Andrić once said, “Sarajevo is a place where people have always come together more than they have been divided.”

Markets & Local Delights

• Pekare (Bakeries) on Every Corner – One of the best things about Sarajevo is that you can find a bakery on almost every corner, offering fresh bureks and other Bosnian pastries.
• Meat Market & Gradska Tržnica – Visit one of the city’s bustling meat markets, including Gradska Tržnica, a historic covered market where you can find a variety of fresh meats, dairy products, and traditional delicacies.
• Food Market – A great place to find fresh local produce, cheeses, and homemade goods, offering an authentic taste of Bosnian culinary culture.
• Sarajevska Pivara (Beer Factory) – Established in 1864, this historic brewery is the oldest in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Visitors can take a tour, enjoy Sarajevsko beer, and dine at the brewery’s restaurant, which serves delicious traditional Bosnian meals.

Where to Eat in Sarajevo

Sarajevo offers an incredible culinary experience, blending Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Balkan flavors. Here are some top recommendations for traditional food:

• Ćevapi at Ćevabdžinica Hodžić – The best place to try the national dish of grilled minced meat sausages served with warm somun bread and onions.
• Burek at Buregdžinica Bosna – Sarajevo’s best flaky, savory pie, available with meat, cheese, or potatoes.
• Bosnian Coffee at Morića Han – The best spot to enjoy traditional Bosnian coffee, where the ambiance of the historic han makes the experience even more memorable.
• Srebrena Školjka – A cozy spot famous for its slogan dolma and other traditional Bosnian dishes, offering a true taste of local home cooking.
• Ćevabdžinica Petica – A must-visit for grilled meat lovers, serving top-quality ćevapi along with other delicious Balkan-style grilled specialties.

Museums of Sarajevo

Sarajevo is home to many fascinating museums that offer insight into its complex history. Here are a few must-visit museums:

• Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum – Also known as the Tunnel of Hope, this museum tells the story of Sarajevo’s survival during the war. Official Website
• National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina – The largest and most important museum in the country, featuring exhibits on history, culture, and natural history. Official Website
• Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina – A collection dedicated to the country’s past, including artifacts from the Bosnian War. Official Website
• Gallery 11/07/95 – A powerful memorial gallery dedicated to the Srebrenica genocide. Official Website
• Olympic Museum Sarajevo – Dedicated to the 1984 Winter Olympics held in Sarajevo, showcasing memorabilia, photographs, and stories from the historic event. Official Website
• Museum of Sarajevo 1878–1918 – This museum provides an in-depth look at Sarajevo during the Austro-Hungarian period and the events leading up to World War I. It is located near Latin Bridge, the site where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, an event that triggered the war. Official Website

The Sarajevo Cable Car & Yellow Bastion

One of the best ways to experience Sarajevo’s breathtaking views is by taking the Sarajevo Cable Car up to Trebević Mountain. The ride offers stunning panoramic views of the city and takes just 7 minutes to reach the top. Once there, you can explore the abandoned Olympic bobsled track, hike scenic trails, or simply enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Another fantastic viewpoint is Yellow Bastion (Žuta Tabija), a historic fortification that provides a spectacular view of Sarajevo, especially at sunset. This is a popular gathering spot where both locals and tourists come to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

Fun Fact: Inat Kuća, or the “House of Spite,” was moved brick by brick across the river when its owner refused to give up his home to the Austro-Hungarian authorities. It now stands as a restaurant, symbolizing Sarajevo’s defiant spirit.

Three days in Sarajevo will leave you mesmerized by its history, captivated by its culture, and warmed by the hospitality of its people. From the lively streets of Baščaršija to the serene peaks of Trebević, every moment spent here tells a story.

Are you ready for your Sarajevo adventure? Pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get lost in the magic of this unforgettable city! Explore More 72-Hour Guides in Europe.