Sarajevo

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

With its stunning natural setting, culturally diverse - and, at times, turbulent - history, and modern vibrancy, Sarajevo is a busy city which now actively welcomes visitors to its eclectic streets. The Islamic, Orthodox, Catholic and Judaic influences and religious traditions live on side by side here, in the formerly contested capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina set against the misty backdrop of the Dinaric Alps.

Population:

527,000

Currency:

1KM = 100 pfenings

Emergency Numbers:

Police: 122
Fire: 123
Medical: 124

Opening Hours:

Commercial businesses - Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-4pm, Sun 8am-1pm. Public Offices - Mon-Fri 8am-4pm

Newspapers:

Oslobodjenje
Dnevni avaz

The City

The city of Sarajevo is divided into four municipalities; however, it is Stari Grad (the Old Town) that is undoubtedly the city’s crown jewel. The eastern section of Stari Grad is home to the 15th-century Ottoman quarters. Wandering among the atmospheric alleyways of the Bascarsija, you will be transported to another time and place by the sight of its splendid architecture, the sound of the muezzin from the Gazi Husrey-Beg Mosque and the smell of freshly cooked cevapcici filling the air.

Do & See

If you’re feeling up for the challenge, hike up the hill to the old medieval town and the ruins of Jacje Castle, where panoramic views of the city open before your very eyes. Walking west along the main alleyway of Bascarsija, you will notice the architecture change as you move into Ferhadija Street and into the Austro-Hungarian part of the city. Ferhadija Street is the main pedestrian shopping street in Sarajevo. The streets running parallel to Ferhadija Street are Obala Kulina Bana and Marsala Tita, where you will find many fine examples of Austro-Hungarian legacy.

Dining

Like most areas in the Balkan region, Sarajevo’s cuisine is made up of fresh local produce such as meat (particularly lamb), dairy products, different breads, fresh fruit and vegetables. Traditional dishes to look out for include jagnjetina (lamb grilled over open fire), begova corba (chicken), one of the many stews and the local fast food cevapcici (minced meat sausages). However, be sure to leave space for a piece of baklava, a sweet honey pastry.

Cafes

The cosiest cafés in town are concentrated in the Bascarsija district made up of cobbled streets and packed to the brim with small shops and historic buildings. Sit down and relax with a strong cup of coffee at one of the many outdoor terraces along Ferhadija Street. This is a perfect spot for people-watching.