Sarajevo travel guide

A city of layers

Sarajevo grew along a narrow valley, so its history lies in a line. Walk west from Baščaršija and you pass from the Ottoman bazaar into the Austro-Hungarian centre in a few minutes, then into the socialist-era blocks and the modern business district. Mosques, a Catholic cathedral, an Orthodox church and the old synagogue stand within a short walk of each other.

How to spend your days

Day one — the old town. Start at the Sebilj in Baščaršija, visit Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and its courtyard, walk along the Miljacka to the Latin Bridge and Vijećnica, then continue down Ferhadija. A licensed guide makes the history come alive — add one to a car with a driver.

Day two — above and around. Take the cable car up Trebević, or drive to the Yellow Fortress for the sunset. Spend the morning at Vrelo Bosne in Ilidža, and stop at the Tunnel of Hope on the way back.

Day three — out of the city. Head to the mountains of Jahorina or Bjelašnica, or take a Mostar day trip.

Eating in Sarajevo

Ćevapi — small grilled meat rolls served in flatbread with onions — are the city's signature dish, followed by burek and other pies, and sweets such as baklava and tufahija. Many traditional grills in the old town serve halal meat and some display a halal certificate; our halal-friendly travel guide explains how to check.