Travel around Sarajevo with Bobby
Day 1A Journey to the Heart of History
As soon as I stepped off the plane at Sarajevo International Airport, the city’s unique blend of East and West hit me like a breath of fresh air. From the taxi window, I watched minarets standing proudly next to Austro-Hungarian buildings, a clear sign that I was in for something extraordinary. After checking into my charming hotel, Hotel Europe, located right in the heart of the city, I headed straight to Baščaršija, Sarajevo’s Old Town. The narrow cobblestone streets were alive with the aroma of freshly brewed Bosnian coffee and sizzling ćevapi being grilled in nearby stalls. I couldn’t resist stopping at Ćevabdžinica Željo, one of the most famous places to try these delicious little kebabs served with soft flatbread and onions.
Later, I took a leisurely walk to the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, a stunning piece of Ottoman architecture that dates back to the 16th century. As the call to prayer echoed across the square, I felt deeply connected to the spiritual essence of this city. For dinner, I ventured to Dveri, a cozy restaurant nestled in Baščaršija. I tried burek, a savory pastry filled with meat, paired with a refreshing glass of local yogurt.
Baščaršija and the Latin Bridge are excellent places to experience Sarajevo’s historical essence. Hotel Europe offers a comfortable stay right in the heart of the city.
Day 2Immersing in Cultural Riches
Today was a deep dive into Sarajevo’s history, both glorious and tragic. I began the morning by hopping on a tram—an affordable and efficient way to get around the city—heading towards the Latin Bridge. This historic bridge is where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, an event that ignited World War I. Standing there, I could almost feel the weight of history beneath my feet.
From there, I walked to the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, a haunting but fascinating reminder of the city’s resilience during the Bosnian War. The museum showcases the 800-meter-long tunnel that was used to smuggle food, supplies, and even people during the siege of Sarajevo in the 1990s. After such an emotional experience, I decided to lift my spirits with a stroll through Ferhadija Street, Sarajevo’s main pedestrian boulevard, lined with cafes and shops.
For lunch, I couldn’t resist stopping at Avlija, a local favorite known for its hearty Bosnian stews. I ordered Begova čorba, a thick soup made with chicken and okra—a true comfort dish. In the evening, I returned to Hotel Europe’s rooftop bar, where I sipped on local wine as the sun set behind the hills.
The Bosnian coffee at Avlija Café was a delightful experience, reflecting the city's relaxed vibe. The coffee was accompanied by tasty sweets, and the prices were reasonable with prompt service.
Food
Continuing my stay at Hotel Europe, the comfort and central location of the room contributed to a pleasant experience. There were minor maintenance issues, but overall, it was a good stay.
Accomodation
Visiting Sarajevo Cathedral and Gazi Husrev-beg Hamam was a fantastic way to explore the city's cultural heritage. The hamam's historical and architectural significance was particularly impressive.
Activity
Sarajevo Cathedral and Gazi Husrev-beg Hamam offer a deep dive into the city's cultural heritage. Don’t miss a coffee at Avlija Café to fully experience the local vibe.
Day 3Exploring Modern and Historical Fusion
Today, I decided to escape the city for a breath of fresh air. After a hearty Bosnian breakfast of kajmak (a creamy dairy product) and pogača (traditional bread), I took a short bus ride to Vrelo Bosne, the stunning source of the Bosna River. The peaceful park, with its clear springs and elegant swans gliding across the water, was the perfect place to unwind. Walking along the shaded paths, I felt as if I’d entered a completely different world, far removed from the city’s bustling streets.
Next, I caught a cable car up to Mount Trebević, offering breathtaking views of Sarajevo. The mountain is a favorite among locals for hiking and picnicking, but it’s also home to the abandoned 1984 Winter Olympics bobsled track. I spent some time exploring the graffiti-covered structure, a striking juxtaposition of nature and urban decay.
By evening, I was back in the city, and after a day of adventure, I decided to treat myself to a dinner at Kibe Mahala, a restaurant perched on a hill overlooking Sarajevo. The view was as spectacular as the food—delicate veal in a rich mushroom sauce.
Lunch at a local restaurant near Ferhadija Street offered a mix of modern Bosnian dishes with a twist. The flavors were vibrant, and the dishes were presented beautifully. The prices were reasonable, making it a satisfying meal.
Food
Hotel Europe continued to provide a comfortable stay with its historic charm and modern amenities. The central location was ideal for accessing both historical and modern parts of the city. However, the hotel could benefit from some minor updates.
Accomodation
The Sarajevo Tunnel Museum was a profound experience, showcasing the city’s wartime history. The exhibits were well-curated and informative. Exploring Ferhadija Street provided a good contrast between historical and modern architecture.
Activity
The Sarajevo Tunnel Museum and Avaz Twist Tower provide a fascinating contrast between the city’s past and present. Dining at 4 Sobe Gospođe Safije offers a delightful blend of traditional and modern Bosnian flavors.
Day 4Relaxing and Reflecting
On my final day, I delved into Sarajevo’s vibrant cultural scene. The morning started at the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, home to the famous Sarajevo Haggadah, an ancient Jewish manuscript with beautiful illustrations. The museum’s diverse collections gave me a deeper understanding of the city’s multicultural fabric.
From there, I visited the Gallery 11/07/95, a moving art gallery dedicated to the Srebrenica massacre. The photography and multimedia exhibits were a stark reminder of the horrors of war but also of the importance of remembrance and resilience.
In the evening, I decided to experience Sarajevo’s nightlife. My first stop was City Pub, a popular spot for live music. The atmosphere was electric, with a mix of locals and travelers enjoying the lively tunes. Next, I ventured to Cinemas Sloga, one of the city’s hottest clubs, housed in a former cinema. The night was full of energetic dancing and great music, offering a glimpse into Sarajevo’s youthful and energetic spirit.
I enjoyed a meal at a café with a view of Trebević Mountain, offering local specialties and a pleasant atmosphere. The food was fresh, and the scenic view made the dining experience memorable. Prices were slightly higher, but worth it for the view.
Food
Returning to Hotel Europe, the familiarity and comfort of the hotel continued to be a highlight. Its location remained advantageous for exploring different parts of the city. Minor maintenance issues from earlier days were addressed
Accomodation
The panoramic view of Sarajevo from Trebević Mountain was breathtaking. The combination of natural beauty and the cityscape was a perfect way to end the trip. The visit provided a great perspective on Sarajevo’s surroundings.
Activity
Vrelo Bosne offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, and the Historical Museum provides valuable insights into Sarajevo’s past. Buregdžinica Bosna is a must-visit for a taste of traditional Bosnian cuisine.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Sarajevo, with its rich historical and cultural offerings, provided an unforgettable experience. The city beautifully blends Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences with modern amenities, though there are areas in need of improvement. From its vibrant local cuisine to its charming historical sites, Sarajevo is a city that captivates and welcomes visitors warmly.
The cevapi at Baščaršija was excellent. The sausages, served with fresh bread and yogurt, were delicious and satisfying. Prices were reasonable, and the food was fresh.
Food
Hotel Europe, housed in a historic building, offered modern comfort. Its central location and comfortable rooms were a great convenience, though some rooms might have slight noise issues.
Accomodation
Baščaršija and the Latin Bridge were perfect for experiencing Sarajevo's history. The historic significance of the Latin Bridge and the lively atmosphere of Baščaršija made the day enjoyable.
Activity