8 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Sarajevo: Explore a City Where Cultures Intertwine

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is often associated more with historical events such as the Sarajevo Assassination that triggered World War I or the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s than with its appeal as a tourist destination. However, it is actually a city with a thriving tourism scene.

From the beautiful cityscape of Eastern Europe with its characteristic red brick buildings to the unique experience of observing various cultural influences in one city due to its multi-ethnic nature, Sarajevo offers plenty of attractions. Its suburbs also boast stunning natural scenery, adding to its charm. Additionally, there are many sites where visitors can learn about the conflicts of modern history.

This guide will take you through Sarajevo’s top attractions to fully enjoy the many facets of this city.

1. Sarajevo Cathedral: A Symbol of History and Faith

The Sacred Heart Cathedral, widely known as Sarajevo Cathedral, stands as an iconic symbol of the city and the largest Catholic church in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Beyond being a major tourist attraction, it is also a cherished gathering place for the Croatian community in Sarajevo.

Completed in 1874, the Neo-Gothic architecture of this grand structure is striking even from the outside, but stepping inside reveals an opulent and awe-inspiring interior. On sunny days, the light filtering through the windows adds a magical touch to the already magnificent space.

The cathedral is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and if you're lucky, you might witness a mass. Just outside the cathedral, you'll find the "Rose of War," a poignant red-painted mark commemorating the tragedies of the conflict. With its two towering clock spires, the cathedral serves as both a spiritual sanctuary and a key landmark for visitors.

2. Gazi Husrev-Bey Mosque: A Jewel of Ottoman Architecture

The Gazi Husrev-Bey Mosque, built in 1532, is the largest mosque in Bosnia and Herzegovina and a centerpiece of Sarajevo's Old Town. Despite the damage inflicted during the 1990s conflict, the mosque has preserved much of its original charm and authenticity.

This masterpiece of Ottoman architecture is a beloved site for both locals and international visitors. The expansive grounds once included schools, public baths (hammams), and other communal facilities, showcasing the mosque's historical significance as a social hub. Exploring this heritage-rich site offers a unique glimpse into Sarajevo’s cultural and religious history.

Guided tours are available at the entrance, allowing you to explore the interior, which contrasts its ornate exterior with a serene simplicity. Note that visiting hours for tourists may vary depending on prayer times, so plan ahead. The tranquil ambiance of the mosque's interior makes it a must-visit for those seeking a deeper connection to Sarajevo’s history.

3. Ferhadija Street: Sarajevo's Vibrant Heart

Ferhadija Street is a pedestrian-only area in central Sarajevo, is the city's cultural and commercial heart. Stretching behind the Sarajevo Cathedral, it offers an array of attractions, including souvenir shops, cozy cafes, and diverse restaurants that line its vibrant street.

This lively area is popular among both locals and tourists, creating a warm and energetic atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot to indulge in traditional Bosnian dishes, shop for unique mementos, or simply relax at a cafe and enjoy people-watching. The street’s charm and energy make it a highlight of any Sarajevo itinerary.

4. Baščaršija Square

Located straight down Ferhadija Street is Baščaršija Square. It is a symbol of Sarajevo, and many people think of the iconic image of the fountain in Baščaršija Square when they think of Sarajevo’s tourist spots. It is a popular photography spot, attracting not only tourists but also many locals. The wooden fountain, an Ottoman-style structure, is still functional, and the water flowing from it is drinkable.

This area is also a crafts district in Sarajevo's old town, where you can purchase handmade folk crafts and other items created by artisans. Remarkably, some products are made using bullet casings actually used during the war. Since this area has a large Turkish community, you can find many items suitable as souvenirs, such as Turkish coffee sets. However, the square is also nicknamed "Pigeon Square" due to the abundance of pigeons. Be mindful of pigeon droppings while sightseeing!

5. National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Located near the University of Sarajevo, the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a notable tourist destination. Built in 1888 in the heart of Sarajevo, the museum underwent expansion in the 20th century. The large building is now divided into four main sections: archaeology, ethnography, natural history, and a library. Due to its vast size, it may be difficult to explore everything in one day. English explanations are available in various locations.

It is open from 10:00 to 19:00 from Tuesday to Friday and closes earlier at 14:00 on weekends, so plan accordingly if visiting on a weekend. It is closed on Mondays. The botanical garden is another popular attraction for visitors, so be sure to include it in your visit.

6. Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Located on the same grounds as the National Museum, the Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a popular spot in Sarajevo for learning about the Bosnian War. Though temporarily closed due to financial difficulties, it reopened in 2015. Exhibits detail the war of the 1990s through photographs, house models, and actual tanks used during the conflict.

You can learn what people ate, drank, and how they endured the freezing winters during the war. The museum building itself suffered damage during the war and remains partially unrestored. Visiting Sarajevo and gaining a deeper understanding of the Bosnian War is essential for many visitors.

The museum is open daily, including weekends, from 9:00 to 17:00. Its central location in Sarajevo makes it easily accessible for tourists. Consider visiting it alongside the next destination, the Tunnel Museum.

7. Tunnel Museum

The Tunnel Museum offers a closer look at the remnants of the Sarajevo conflict. This unique tourist spot showcases a portion of a tunnel that was actively used during the war. While the total length of the tunnel is said to be 800 meters, only 15 meters are accessible for walking, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of that time. It is said that supplies and people were transported through this dark and narrow tunnel.

The exterior looks like an ordinary house. In fact, this place is a private residence that has been opened to the public as a museum. Although small in scale, the museum also features an 18-minute video explaining the conflict, along with photos, military uniforms, and other exhibits, making it a popular spot for tourists to learn about the Sarajevo conflict. While it is located a bit away from Sarajevo city center, it takes about an hour to reach by bus and tram. If you are unsure about the route, you can join one of the many tours available in the city to visit this site.

8. Gallery 11/07/95

Located in downtown Sarajevo, Gallery 11/07/95 is a popular destination for tourists. This gallery exhibits materials related to the Srebrenica massacre that occurred in July 1995.

During the conflict, over 8,000 Bosnian Muslims (Bosniaks) were murdered solely because of their identity. This gallery was established to ensure that this tragic history is not forgotten, featuring individual photographs of victims, documentary films, and more.

While not a pleasant tourist destination, it is a significant place to learn about the genocide recognized as a tragedy in recent history. The exhibits are often graphic, so visitors are advised to prepare themselves beforehand. Many tourists reportedly leave in tears after watching the documentaries. Though it is located in the heart of Sarajevo, the entrance can be hard to find, so make sure to check the location in advance. This is a place that prompts deep reflection on the meaning of peace in Sarajevo. Please consider visiting.

◎ Summary

How was it? Sarajevo is full of remarkable attractions, including beautiful architecture that colors its historic old town, natural scenery, and spots related to the conflict. This hidden gem invites you to explore a diverse range of attractions all in one city. Why not uncover new discoveries in Sarajevo, a city waiting to be explored?

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8 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Sarajevo: Explore a City Where Cultures Intertwine