Hostel Rio

Dive into the rich history of Sarajevo. The rich past of the Bosnian capital is still evident at every turn today, and you can explore its relics everywhere from the Latin Bridge (the site of the assassination that sparked World War I) to the underground war museum. Although history surrounds you, the streets have a distinctly cosmopolitan feel with both authentic and modern bars. Plus, with the majestic Dinaric Alps bordering the city, there’s places to get out and hike too.     

Find your base at a hostel in Sarajevo. Stay right on the Miljacka river for peaceful views, or make the most of the convenient location at a central Sarajevo hostel with a roof terrace. Want the best of both worlds? Try a stay in the historic centre with a serene garden out back. There’s a lot to explore in the city, so prepare for the day ahead in a hostel with a free breakfast. Some Sarajevo hostels have on-site cafés and bars, so a cold beer is never far away. Look out for places with home comforts like laundry facilities too. 

Baščaršija is a central neighbourhood in Sarajevo. It's part of the old quarter, close to historic mosques and markets set in cobbled streets. Skenderija is the area for sports and cultural events, while if you fancy a brewery tour, Bistrik – a historic neighbourhood that's home to the Sarajevo Brewery – is the place to be. Ciglane is a more modern district that hosts the Ciglane Market, a hot spot for trinkets and vintage finds. 

There’s a lot to pack into your time in Sarajevo. The town hall gives you a taste of the local architecture – check out the colourful mosaic interior and stained glass windows. Stop by the Ottoman bazaar to see local life at work. You can breathe in the spices and try delicacies like ćevapi, a traditional minced beef dish served in a pitta bread. The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque shows off Ottoman architecture at its best. For a taste of the modern city, head to Hastahana Park, home to professional skateboarders and a steampunk sculpture by German artist Helmut Lutz. 

To get from Sarajevo Airport to the city centre, take the shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes or the number 103 trolleybus – it takes about 35 minutes. Sarajevo Central Railway Station is in the heart of the town, well-connected for intercity travel. For getting around the city itself, there’s a wide network or trolleybuses, trams and buses.