Skip to main content
Hays Travel Homepage

Sarajevo Holidays

A City Where East Meets West

Holidays in Sarajevo

Looking for a city break that’s a little different, a little deeper, and a whole lot more unforgettable? Say hello to Sarajevo, the heart and soul of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Tucked in a scenic valley and surrounded by stunning mountains, this city is where East meets West and old meets new. With its cobbled Ottoman bazaars, Austro-Hungarian architecture, buzzing cafe culture and powerful modern history, holidays to Sarajevo offer that perfect mix of adventure, charm, and cultural depth. Trust us—this is one city break that will surprise you in the best way. The best time to visit Sarajevo is in late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing. Summer (July–August) is warmer and livelier, especially during the Sarajevo Film Festival, while winter (December–February) offers snow-covered charm and access to nearby ski resorts like Jahorina and Bjelašnica. For first-time visitors, the Old Town (Baščaršija) is the prime location to stay—it’s walkable, atmospheric, and close to key historical sites and traditional restaurants. The City Centre near Ferhadija Street is perfect for shopping, modern cafés, and museums, while Marijin Dvor offers a more modern vibe with easier access to public transport and green spaces.

Why Visit Sarajevo?

  • Sarajevo is a cultural crossroads, blending Ottoman charm with Austro-Hungarian elegance
  • From the Latin Bridge, where history changed forever, to the moving War Tunnel Museum, Sarajevo offers a fascinating glimpse into Europe’s past
  • Nestled in a valley and framed by dramatic mountains, Sarajevo is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Enjoy breathtaking views, hiking trails, and even winter sports just a short drive from the city centre
  • Treat your taste buds to Bosnian specialities like ćevapi and burek in cosy cafés and traditional restaurants. Pair your meal with strong Bosnian coffee for the ultimate authentic experience
Baščaršija, Sarajevo

Wander Through Baščaršija

If Sarajevo had a heartbeat, it would be Baščaršija. This old Ottoman bazaar is an absolute must-visit on your Sarajevo holiday. Imagine cobbled lanes, the smell of fresh grilled ćevapi in the air, copper workshops clinking away, and the distant call to prayer echoing through ancient minarets. Pop into the quirky little shops selling handmade crafts, pick up a traditional Bosnian coffee set (great souvenir alert), or just park yourself at one of the many cosy cafés and people-watch for hours. You’ll find mosques, old inns, fountains, and the kind of charm that makes you feel like you've time travelled.

The Latin Bridge, Sarajevo

Visit the Latin Bridge

It may look like just a cute old stone bridge, but the Latin Bridge is where the world changed forever. In 1914, the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand happened right here, triggering the start of World War I. The bridge itself is charming and photogenic, but the real treat is soaking up the layers of history that swirl around it. Just across the street is the Museum of Sarajevo 1878–1918, which gives you the full backstory. You’ll walk away with a whole new appreciation for this unassuming little spot that shaped global history.

Food & Drink in Sarajevo

Food & Drink

Sarajevo’s cuisine is hearty and comforting, influenced by Turkish and Central European flavours. Don’t miss ćevapi, small grilled meat sausages served with flatbread and raw onions, or burek, a flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach. Bosnian coffee, served strong and unfiltered, is an experience in itself. For dessert, try tufahija (poached apple stuffed with walnuts) or baklava. Locally brewed Sarajevsko Pivo and homemade rakija round out the experience.

Sarajevo streets

Travel Guide

Sarajevo is ideal for history lovers, foodies, and travellers looking for a city with soul and resilience.

  • Best time to visit: May-June
  • Average flight time: 2 Hours 30 Minutes
  • Most suited for: Culture Seekers, Solo Travellers, History Lovers
  • Currency: Bosnian Convertible Marka (BAM)
  • Time Difference: +1 Hour

Sarajevo Weather

Average monthly temperature in Sarajevo (°C)

  • Jan 0°C
  • Feb 2°C
  • Mar 6°C
  • Apr 11°C
  • May 16°C
  • Jun 19°C
  • Jul 22°C
  • Aug 22°C
  • Sep 17°C
  • Oct 12°C
  • Nov 6°C
  • Dec 2°C

Get in touch and book your perfect holiday with Hays Travel

With so much choice out there, stop the endless searching - our experts at Hays Travel will find the perfect holiday for you. Speak with an expert now, find a branch near you, search online for great deals, or enquire today to start planning your dream getaway.

Call our experts

Contact the Hays Travel holiday experts today for personalised advice and unbeatable deals on your next getaway.

0800 408 4048

Enquire today

Submit an enquiry today and one of our experienced Hays Travel holiday experts will get back to you as soon as possible.

Visit us in branch

Visit the Hays Travel holiday experts in branch today for personalised advice, inspiration, and unbeatable deals on your next getaway.