24 hours in Sarajevo: from tragedy to rebirth
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is nested on the Miljacka River, in the heart of the Balkan region in southeast Europe.
It is a city that beautifully marries its rich history with a vibrant contemporary culture. Often referred to as the “Jerusalem of Europe,” Sarajevo is a melting pot of diverse ethnicities and religions, accommodating mosques, churches and synagogues, making it a fascinating destination for travellers seeking to explore both its past and present.
This place has made history and is often tragically remembered for the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which sparked WWI, and for enduring a four-year siege during the Balkan Wars from 1992 to 1996.
Baščaršija
As you wander the cobblestone streets of Baščaršija, the old bazaar at the heart of Sarajevo, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The area is filled with traditional Ottoman architecture, charming shops, and bustling cafes.
Don’t miss the chance to sip on a cup of Turkish coffee while watching the world go by.
The Sebilj Fountain, an iconic symbol of the city, provides a perfect backdrop for photos and a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike. The current structure is an 1891 reconstruction of the original, which burnt down in 1852.
History buffs will appreciate the cultural significance of the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, one of the most important Islamic structures in the Balkans. Its stunning minaret and intricate decorations tell tales of the Ottoman Empire’s influence in the region.
Spend some time browsing the shops and walking through the labyrinthine alleyways.
Austro-Hungarian Sarajevo
Then continue straight towards the river and you’ll meet the more modern Sarajevo.
The beautifully decorated buildings, nearly Victorian in style, will tell you stories of times gone past, when Sarajevo was a rich and important city in the Austro-Hungarian empire. In 1885, Sarajevo was the first city in Europe to have a full-time electric tram network running through the city.
Keep walking along the riverside, and reach the Latin Bridge, the renowned location where Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination sparked WWI.
Walk 15 minutes from Pigeon Square to the Yellow Fortress; the view over the city, especially at sunset, is incredible.
We, sadly, missed it as it started to rain and never stopped.
Sarajevo’s rich tapestry of cultures is evident in its religious diversity.
You can visit the sacred sites of various faiths within a short walking distance: the Cathedral of Jesus’ Heart, the Sacred Heart Cathedral, and the Emperor’s Mosque coexist harmoniously, showcasing the city’s spirit of tolerance and coexistence.
For a deeper understanding of the city’s more recent history, a visit to the Tunnel of Hope is essential.
This remarkable underground tunnel was built during the Bosnian War to connect the besieged city with the outside world.
Sarajevo endured a siege of nearly 4 long years during the Balkan war, without electricity, gas or water.
Today, it serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the people of Sarajevo.
For dinner, check out one of the many restaurants that offer traditional Bosnian food.
For vegetarians, Bosnian food has a lot of meat but there are some veg options available, I did not starve.
Sarajevo is a lovely city to spend 24 hours in, especially if you are touring Bosnia or the Balkans.
We were going around the Balkans for two weeks, so check our itinerary.
Our next incredible adventure was a tour/transfer from Sarajevo to Belgrade which was full of amazing discoveries on the way!
