Living in Sarajevo
A practical guide for incoming students and staff at the University of Sarajevo. This page provides useful information about everyday life in the city, including places to visit, culture, food, nature, sports, and practical tips to help you enjoy your stay.
About Sarajevo
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of the most unique cities in Europe. Often described as the place where East meets West, the city combines Ottoman, Austro‑Hungarian, Yugoslav, and modern European influences. Mosques, churches, synagogues, and historic streets coexist within a small and walkable city centre.
For international students and visiting staff, Sarajevo offers a vibrant academic environment, welcoming people, rich cultural life, affordable living costs, and easy access to mountains and nature.
Top Places to Visit
During your stay in Sarajevo, these places are among the most popular and meaningful locations to explore:
Baščaršija (Old Town)
The historical heart of Sarajevo with traditional shops, cafés, and restaurants. A perfect place to experience Bosnian coffee and local culture.
Vijećnica (City Hall)
One of Sarajevo’s most famous buildings, restored after the war and now serving as a cultural and historical landmark.
Latin Bridge
Historic bridge known as the site where the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 took place.
Yellow Fortress (Žuta Tabija)
A beautiful viewpoint above the city offering one of the best sunset views in Sarajevo.
Trebević Cable Car
A cable car connecting the city centre with Trebević Mountain, offering spectacular views and access to nature.
Tunnel of Hope Museum
A powerful museum explaining the siege of Sarajevo and the tunnel that connected the city to the outside world during the war.
Museums and Culture
Sarajevo has a strong cultural and museum scene that reflects its complex history and diverse society.
Recommended museums include:
- National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina
- War Childhood Museum
- Gallery 11/07/95 (Srebrenica Memorial Gallery)
Sarajevo is also known for its theatres, music events, film festivals, and exhibitions. The Sarajevo Film Festival, held every summer, is the largest film festival in Southeast Europe.
Food, Cafés and Nightlife
Sarajevo has a strong café culture and a rich culinary tradition influenced by Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Central European cuisines.
Traditional Bosnian dishes to try:
- Ćevapi
- Burek and other pies (pita)
- Begova čorba (traditional soup)
- Dolma and sarma
- Baklava and traditional desserts
Popular activities include enjoying Bosnian coffee in local cafés, exploring small bakeries, and visiting restaurants that serve both traditional and international cuisine.
The city also offers many relaxed bars, live music venues, and cultural cafés popular with students and young professionals.
Sport and Recreation
Sarajevo provides many opportunities for sports and outdoor activities.
You can find:
- gyms and fitness centres
- swimming pools
- football and basketball courts
- running and cycling paths
Sarajevo hosted the 1984 Winter Olympic Games, and several Olympic mountains are located just outside the city.
Nature and Weekend Trips
One of the greatest advantages of Sarajevo is its proximity to nature. For nature lovers, Sarajevo offers a wealth of outdoor activities:
Trebević Mountain – perfect for hiking and cycling (20 minutes away, best option to visit – cable car)
Vrelo Bosne – a beautiful natural park with springs of the Bosna River (30 minutes away, best option to visit – use tram no. 3) – location
Skakavac Waterfall – one of the highest waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina (30 minutes away, best option – local transport) – location
Bjelašnica and Igman – Olympic mountains ideal for hiking and skiing
Jahorina – a well‑known ski resort during winter
Neretva River Rafting (2 hours away) – location
Pyramid of the Sun, Visoko (40 min away) – location
These locations are perfect for day trips and outdoor activities throughout the year.
Practical Information
Public transport
Sarajevo’s efficient public transport system offers trams, buses, and trolleybuses. The tram line runs through the main city corridor and is commonly used by students. Students can enjoy free transport after registering for a student card.
Hotel and accommodation
Online platforms like Booking.com (or AirBnB) are good options to book: Hotel Europe, Swissotel Sarajevo, Hotel President, Courtyard by Marriott Sarajevo, Hotel Colors Inn, Hotel Saraj, Hotel Boutique Platinum, Hotel Festival, Hotel Mod, Hotel Old Town
Taxis
Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable. It is recommended to use registered taxi companies.
Currency
The local currency is the Convertible Mark (BAM). Many places accept card payments, but cash is still commonly used.
Mobile SIM cards
SIM cards are easy to purchase from local telecom providers and shopping centres.
Supermarkets and shopping
Major supermarkets and shopping centres are available throughout the city. You’ll find major chains like Bingo, Konzum, and Mercator for everyday shopping.
Health care and pharmacies
Public and private healthcare services, including major hospitals like the Clinical Center of the University of Sarajevo, are available, with pharmacies such as Apoteka Sarajevo offering round-the-clock service. Pharmacies are widely available and many private clinics provide services in English.
Cost of Living
Compared to many European cities, Sarajevo offers a relatively affordable cost of living. Prices may vary depending on location, lifestyle, and current market conditions, but the following examples provide a general idea of everyday expenses.
Food and groceries
Water (0.33 l): from 1 KM
Soft drink (0.33 l): from 2 KM
Milk (1 l): from 2 KM
Bread: from 1 KM
Rice (1 kg): from 3 KM
Meat (1 kg): from 10 KM
Fruits and vegetables
Fruit (1 kg): from 2 KM
Vegetables (1 kg): from 1.50 KM
Restaurants and cafés
Coffee: from 2 KM
Meal in a restaurant: from 10 KM
City transport
Bus / tram ticket: from 2.20 KM
Taxi starting price: 3.50 KM
Taxi per kilometre: 2.30 KM
Accommodation (monthly rent)
City centre: from 700 KM
Outside city centre: from 400-500 KM
Estimated monthly student budget
A typical monthly budget for students usually ranges between 700–1000 KM, depending on accommodation, lifestyle, and personal spending.
For updated information about living costs in Bosnia and Herzegovina, please visit:
https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Bosnia+And+Herzegovina
Important National Holidays
Public holidays may vary based on entity (Federation of BiH, Republika Srpska) and religious communities. In Sarajevo, public holidays are:
- 01-02 January – New Year’s Day (Nova godina)
- 01 March – Independence Day (Dan nezavisnosti) – only in FBiH
- 01-02 May – International Labour’s Day (Prvi maj)
- 25 November – Statehood Day (Dan državnosti) – Only in FBiH
Sarajevo, as a multicultural city, observes major religious holidays for its Muslim, Catholic, Orthodox, and Jewish communities. Many businesses and institutions adjust working hours or close during these religious holidays, especially for Bajram and Christmas.
Useful Tips
- Sarajevo is a walkable city and many locations are close to each other.
- Winters can be cold, so warm clothing is recommended.
- Local people are generally friendly and willing to help visitors.
- Trying local food and exploring neighbourhood cafés is part of the Sarajevo experience.