The 10 best unique things to do in Sarajevo

The capital of Bosnia and star of the Balkans has some amazing things to do. Our favourite must see places are dotted around Sarajevo with unique sights hidden away from tourists in spots you wouldn’t expect. See interesting museums like the War Childhood Museum, or cross the bridges of the city on a walking tour. The city is known for its vibrant culture, but to see the best sights you’ll have to wander out of the tourist centre. After you’re done exploring the city, trek up to the Yellow Bastion to watch the sunset!

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1. Festina Lente Bridge

Sarajevo has some pretty bridges along the Miljacka River. The most unique bridge in the city is Festina Lente (Latin: hurry slowly). The 38m looping bridge was created by local design students. Hide out from the clouds in the loop shelter on the bridge. Festina Lente is located directly across from the Academy of Fine Arts, where the builidng is already pretty enough to stop by and see. Festina Lente is mostly used by locals and students to get across the city, but it’s a well-known spot for photographers visiting the city looking for something a bit different to capture.

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2. Svrzo House

What was life like back in the Ottoman Empire? Delve into the Svro House for a history deep dive into Muslim family life fromthe 18th and 19th century. Sarajevo is a city that has been through many struggles, but the Svro House shows the decadence and comfort certain families enjoyed. Walk through the wooden building and take in the stunning architecture. Guided tours are available, but you won’t be disappointed on a self-guided tour as there are plenty of information panels in English. This little gem of a house is almost unknown to tourists, so it’s a must see for history buffs!

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3. Sarajevo Spite House

Want to eat in the most unique place in Sarajevo? This is it. Enjoy traditional Bosnian dishes in the oddly named restaurant. The local name Inat Kuća translates to the House of Spite in English, and the unique house has quite the story behind it.

Back in 1892, the council was building a new city hall. But there was just one problem. There was a house in the way. The house was owned by a man called Benderija who really, really didn’t want to move. The council even offered him tons of money - yet Benderija refused. After 3 years of negotiation, Benderija accepted the money and agreed to move. On one condition. The house would be moving with him. The council would have to move his house over to the other side of the river brick by brick. Now that is pure spite!

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4. Bascarsija

One of the best things to do in Sarajevo is to explore the markets. Wondering which one to go to first? Bascarsija is one of the oldest markets in the city. Dating back to the 15th century, the market has always been a top pick by locals and tourists alike. The market is located in the heart of the city, just a quick walk away from a big car park. Squeezed between beautiful architecture, the market stalls sell a bit of everything from coffee, food, clothes, and souvenirs.

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5. Zlatna Ribica

We love the quirky vibes of Zlatna Ribica. The golden cafe is a cafe bar close to the Old Town, and absolutely packed with unique antiques. People do smoke indoors in Sarajevo, but the smoky atmosphere adds to the mysterious steampunk look. Aside from the interesting interior, you’ll want to come here to try out the local beers.

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6. Sarajevo Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track

Located above the city up in the mountains of Trebević are the interesting remains of the bobsleigh track of the 1984 Olympic Games. Once a proud symbol, the track has fallen into a state of disrepair. But it does still have a unique charm. In the 1990s, this place was a line of defence for the Bosnian army in the Yugoslav Wars.

We highly recommend taking a local tour guide or official tour - as walking around alone can be a bit dangerous. There are still some unactivated mines here, so watch your step!

This must-see place is unknown to many visitors since it's a little ways out of the city. You’ll have to get the cable car up the mountain, then walk downhill to see the unique sight.

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7. War Childhood Museum

Some museums just leave a lasting impression. The War Childhood Museum is one of the best places to go in Sarajevo if you want to see real stories of history. The museum houses over 4,000 personal belongings from kids inIraq, Syria, Ukraine, and many more. The permanent exhibit is all about Sarajevo, but the best part is reading the kid’s stories and seeing the personal side of history.

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8. Latin Bridge

It’s one of the most well-known places in Sarajevo for a reason. This is where the whole world shifted. At the far end of this iconic bridge, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife were assassinated. This act spanked flames that would soon engulf the world in the First World War. The famous bridge is still crossed everyday by locals and cyclists. It’s one of the most popular stops in the city for photos and sightseeing. Plus, you’re right in the heart of Old Town and close by Bascarsija, so after checking out this must-see bridge continue on your city trip!

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9. Sarajevo Tunnel of Hope

Just south of Sarajevo Airport is one of the most unique sights in the city. The original tunnel of hope stretches from the airport right into the city itself at over 800m long. From the Tunnel Museum, you can enter the first 20m. Why is there a tunnel here? During the 90s in the Bosnian War, this tunnel was a supply line from the airport to the isolated Bosnian forces. The tunnel was also used by locals to escape from the conflict to the airport which was under control of the United Nations. The Tunnel of Hope is included in almost every Sarajevo tour for a reason - we think it’s definitely worth a visit.

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10. Sunset at the Yellow Bastion

The Yellow Bastion is located near the Jekovac reservoir and a short walk from the Sebilj fountain in the city centre. The Bastion was once part of Sarajevo’s defences. These days, it’s one of the best viewpoints in the city. It’s a steep climb up to the top, but well worth the trek. Locals come here too to watch the sunset over Sarajevo. There is a small coffee shop up this hill, but it’s easier to bring your own food and drinks. Got more energy to burn? Walk up for another 15 minutes and you’ll stumble across the beautiful White Fortress. This is another great viewpoint that isn’t as popular since it’s a steep trek up to it.