The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a city that combines history, culture and modernity. If you're planning a stay there to discover its complex past, here are the best places to see in Sarajevo!
Discover Sarajevo by car
This city is located in a valley next to the Miljacka River, surrounded by the Dinaric Alps. It was nicknamed the Jerusalem of Europe, since different religions also lived here together in harmony. However, this harmony was interrupted during the Bosnian War between 1992 and 1995, when the city was incessantly bombarded by the Serbian army. This history can still be seen today in some of its buildings, as well as in the bunkers and remains of trenches that have been preserved.
However, over the years, it has been transformed, and now it is a city with a good atmosphere, in the middle of a beautiful natural environment. Therefore, you have three distinct facets of things to see in Sarajevo. The first is the city's points of interest, the second is its history and culture, and the third is the surrounding areas brimming with nature. To give you enough time to get around and explore Bosnia or even Serbia, where its capital Belgrade stands out, your best option will be a rental car.
With a rental car, you will be able to reach the less touristic places outside the center, visit nearby towns and enjoy the nature of the region. At OK Mobility, we give you a number of facilities to pick up and return your car, as we are opening more and more locations. Find yours today!
What to see and do in Sarajevo
The places to see in Sarajevo are not limited to the ones we list here. But since it all depends on your preferences and what you are looking to get out of your trip, take them as a suggestion for your getaway, now it's up to you to customize it to your liking!
Baščaršija neighborhood
Baščaršija is the Turkish quarter of the city; the historical and cultural heart and where the Bravadžiluk pedestrian street is located. Here you will find an Ottoman bazaar with a myriad of narrow streets filled with handicraft stores, cafes, pastry shops and traditional restaurants. It is the best area to try out some typical dishes, such as cevapi, which are grilled minced meat sausages, or Bosnian coffee.
It is one of the most touristy areas, but it is interesting to go into this neighborhood to enjoy the good atmosphere and the architecture of the Ottoman Empire. It bears a strong resemblance to Istanbul, and is home to some of the most outstanding points of interest, such as the Sebilj Fountain.
Sebilj Fountain
Located in Pigeon Square, this wooden and stone fountain is another of the places to see in Sarajevo. It dates back to the middle of the 18th century, and today it is surrounded by a number of terraces where you will see tourists and locals sipping tea, coffee or ice cream while contemplating the Baščaršija Mosque. Tradition dictates that if you wish to return to the city, you must drink water from the fountain. So if this place captivates you, you know what to do.
Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
On Ferhadija Street stands this architectural jewel: the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is the largest in the country and one of the main religious buildings to see in Sarajevo. It was built during the Austro-Hungarian period at the end of the 19th century, and has a neo-Gothic style, with two Romanesque towers of more than 130 feet high on its beautiful facade. If you like religious spaces, its interior is not to be missed either, with a marble altar, frescoes and stained glass windows.
The Eternal Flame
When you finish walking down the previous street, you will come to another monument of interest, known as the Eternal Flame. As its name suggests, it is a flame that never goes out, in honor of the victims of World War II in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It was inaugurated in 1946; one year after the liberation of Sarajevo from the Nazi occupation and the fascist state of Croatia.
Latin Bridge
On this beautiful and peaceful bridge, in 1914, the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife Sophia took place at the hands of a young Yugoslavian nationalist. Thus began the First World War. The commemorative plaque is at the end of the bridge, which today is made of stone, but in medieval times, it was made of wood. Within walking distance is the Sarajevo Museum 1878-1918, and at its entrance there are footprints symbolizing the place where the shooting started. Inside, there is a copy of the pistol used.
When you've finished exploring the city, we recommend a visit to Trebević Mountain, with panoramic views and hiking trails to explore. Rent your car in Sarajevo with OK Mobility and explore every corner of Bosnia!
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