Sarajevo, often called the “Jerusalem of Europe,” is a city where East meets West, blending Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. Nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by mountains, it boasts a rich history, diverse cultural heritage, and a vibrant atmosphere. From its historic Baščaršija bazaar to the iconic Latin Bridge and world-class cuisine, Sarajevo offers a unique experience for visitors.
The International Relations Office at the University of Sarajevo has created SCANAJEVO – your unique guide to exploring Sarajevo! Whether you’re looking for must-visit landmarks, top restaurants, cozy pubs, fascinating museums, scenic parks, or exciting sports activities, SCANAJEVO has you covered. Let this guide help you discover the best of Sarajevo!
RESTAURANTS/BARS
Sarajevo is known for its rich culinary scene, blending traditional Bosnian flavors with international influences. All places are great, tasty and fund, but here are some must-visit spots, recommended by us or other international students and staff who visited Sarajevo:
Traditional Bosnian Cuisine:
- Avlija – A cozy restaurant offering delicious homemade Bosnian meals in a beautifully decorated courtyard.
- Hadžibajrić – A family-run restaurant offering hearty Bosnian meals, famous for its begova čorba and stuffed peppers.
- Variety of ćevabdžinica shops – small shops in the heart of Baščaršija to try local Bosnian dish – ćevapi (check Scanajevo)
- Bosna or Sač – pie shop with delicious burek with meat, spinach, potatos, cheese
International Cuisine & Modern Dining:
- Klopa – A trendy spot serving international dishes with a Bosnian touch, perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Apetit – A hidden gem known for its daily-changing menu based on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- BarSa – A modern eatery with a creative menu, offering high-quality steaks and seafood.
Cafés & Dessert Spots:
- Ministry of Ćejf – A specialty coffee shop with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for coffee lovers.
- Miris Dunja – A charming little café in Baščaršija serving traditional Bosnian coffee and homemade sweets.
- Ramis – A traditional dessert shop offering traditional cakes and sweets.
Bars & Nightlife:
- City Pub – A lively spot with live music, attracting a mix of locals and visitors.
- Blind Tiger – A stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks and a speakeasy vibe.
MUSEUMS
Historical & Cultural Museums
- National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Zemaljski muzej BiH) – Established in 1888, this museum houses the famous Sarajevo Haggadah, an extensive ethnographic collection, and artifacts from Bosnia’s ancient past.
- Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina – Showcasing Bosnia’s history, including World War II, the Yugoslav period, and the Siege of Sarajevo (1992–1995).
- Museum of Sarajevo 1878–1918 (Muzej Sarajevo 1878–1918) – Located next to the Latin Bridge, this museum focuses on the Austro-Hungarian period and the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.
- Svrzo’s House (Svrzina kuća) – A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era house offering insight into the traditional Bosnian way of life.
War & Conflict Museums
- War Childhood Museum – A moving exhibition of personal belongings and stories from children who grew up during the Bosnian War.
- Tunnel of Hope (Tunel spasa) – This museum preserves a section of the underground tunnel that was used to supply Sarajevo during the 1992–1995 siege.
- Gallery 11/07/95 – A powerful photographic exhibition dedicated to the Srebrenica genocide, telling the story of the victims and survivors.
Art & Specialty Museums
- Ars Aevi Museum of Contemporary Art – Showcasing modern and contemporary art from Bosnian and international artists.
- Olympic Museum Sarajevo – Highlighting Sarajevo’s 1984 Winter Olympics, with memorabilia, photographs, and sports history.
- Jewish Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina – Housed in an old Sephardic synagogue, this museum tells the story of Sarajevo’s Jewish community.
CULTURAL SIGHTS
Sarajevo is a city where East meets West, blending Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. Here are some must-visit cultural landmarks:
Historic Landmarks & Architecture
- Baščaršija – Sarajevo’s old bazaar, filled with cobblestone streets, historic shops, and traditional Bosnian cafés. A perfect place to experience the city’s Ottoman heritage.
- Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque – Built in 1530, this mosque is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans and remains an important religious and cultural site.
- Sacred Heart Cathedral – The largest Catholic church in Bosnia and Herzegovina, featuring stunning stained glass and the famous statue of Pope John Paul II.
- Old Orthodox Church (Crkva Svetog Arhangela Mihaila i Gavrila) – A hidden gem in Baščaršija, one of the oldest Orthodox churches in the Balkans.
- Ashkenazi Synagogue – Built in 1902, this is one of the few remaining active synagogues in Bosnia, showcasing Sarajevo’s rich Jewish heritage.
Bridges & Iconic Spots
- Latin Bridge – The site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, an event that triggered World War I.
- Vijećnica (Sarajevo City Hall) – A magnificent neo-Moorish building, originally built in 1896, later destroyed during the war, and now beautifully restored as a cultural and historical center.
- Sebilj Fountain – A famous wooden fountain in Baščaršija, often called the “pigeon square,” and a symbol of Sarajevo.
Cultural Centers & Performing Arts
- National Theatre of Sarajevo – The city’s main venue for opera, ballet, and theatre performances, founded in 1919.
- Bosnian Cultural Center (BKC) – A former synagogue turned into a cultural hub, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and events.
- War Childhood Museum – A moving museum showcasing the experiences of children who lived through the Bosnian War.
Olympic Heritage
- Trebević Cable Car – Offering breathtaking views of the city and access to the bobsleigh track from the 1984 Winter Olympics.
- Olympic Stadium & Zetra Hall – Venues from the 1984 Winter Olympics, now used for sports and cultural events.