Jerusalem of Europe
Sarajevo.
A city where East meets West — Ottoman bazaars, Austro-Hungarian boulevards, and a spirit that survived everything history threw at it.
- Population
- ~275,000
- River
- Miljacka (35.9 km)
- Founded
- 1463 (Ottoman era)
- Best Time
- April – October
- Airport
- Sarajevo International
About Sarajevo
The heart of Bosnia
Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as its primary urban, cultural, economic, and transportation center. Approximately 275,000 residents live in Sarajevo, and due to its long and rich history, it is often popularly referred to as the "Jerusalem of Europe" and the "Jerusalem of the Balkans."
The Miljacka River flows through Sarajevo, spanning a length of 35.9 kilometers. The area has been inhabited for over four thousand years, as evidenced by the discovered remains of the Butmir culture — a discovery that made Bosnia and Herzegovina known among global scientific circles.
What To See & Do
Top sights in Sarajevo
From ancient bridges to vibrant bazaars — Sarajevo rewards every curious traveller.
Sarajevo Bridges
Twenty bridges span the Miljacka River, each rooted in a different era of the city's history. The Latin Bridge (1798) is where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, triggering World War I. Kozija Ćuprija, one of the oldest, once marked the road to Istanbul. Šeher-Ćehajina Bridge dates to 1585, and the Drvenija Bridge was rebuilt in 1898 during the Austro-Hungarian period.
Baščaršija
Baščaršija is the cultural and historical heart of Sarajevo, located on the northern bank of the Miljacka River. Built in 1462 by Isa Beg Isaković, it rapidly developed into a thriving bazaar with around 80 crafts organized into guild organizations by the 16th century. A walk through its streets takes you back in time — oriental scents, craft shops, restaurants, and cafes merge into an authentic experience that has survived centuries, wars, and demographic change.
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
Built in 1530, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is one of the most significant monuments of Islamic sacred architecture in the Balkans. It was the first mosque in the world to receive electric lighting in 1898. Designed by Adžem Esir Ali — the chief architect of the Ottoman Empire at the time — it remains one of the greatest gifts from the legacy of Husrev-beg and a cornerstone of Sarajevo's urban identity.
Sarajevo Film Festival
One of the largest film festivals in Southeast Europe, founded during the siege of Sarajevo in 1995. It brings renowned personalities from around the world to Sarajevo each year and stands as a testament to the importance of art and culture — a festival that was born during war and has grown into a world-famous event.
History
Sarajevo Through the Centuries
The foundations of Sarajevo were laid in 1463 by the Ottoman Turks. Isa Beg Isaković established the city between 1440 and 1463, building mosques, baths, bridges, caravanserais, and shops. By the 16th century, Sarajevo had become one of the most beautiful and wealthiest cities of the Ottoman Empire.
In 1878, Bosnia was occupied by the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. During this period, many buildings were constructed in the "Austrian style," the city was industrialized, and it was used as a testing ground for new inventions — including electric trams. Today, the influence of Central European culture is evident in palaces, churches, and residential buildings throughout the city.
On June 28, 1914, the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand on the Latin Bridge triggered World War I. In 1992, Sarajevo endured a siege lasting 1,425 days. Today, it has been proclaimed one of the most beautiful destinations in the world by leading travel magazines.
Practical Guide
Outdoor, food, nightlife & stay
Everything you need to plan the perfect Sarajevo trip.
Outdoor Activities
Several mountains around Sarajevo offer hiking and mountain biking, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. For water enthusiasts, rafting tours on the Neretva River provide a daily dose of adrenaline through waterfalls and pristine nature.
What & Where to Eat
As you stroll through Baščaršija, you'll be drawn in by aromas from bakeries, ćevap joints, grill houses, and restaurants. Traditional Bosnian food blends Eastern and Western influences — similar to Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine — using meat and fresh vegetables grown locally.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Sarajevo is rich in cultural life — festivals, concerts, performances, and events year-round. Whether you prefer a relaxing coffee, a live concert, or dancing until dawn, the city has something for every taste. Beer lovers will find a wide selection of local and foreign choices.
Where to Stay
Sarajevo offers accommodation for every budget — from 5-star hotels with wellness facilities and parking, to cosy city inns, hostels, apartments, and private rooms. Whether you're a business traveller or a backpacker, you'll find the right fit.
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