Hotels in Sarajevo

Discover Sarajevo: Where History Echoes Amidst Hills and Ruins

Nestled in a hilly landscape, Sarajevo is a captivating blend of history and culture, making it an ideal weekend getaway. Wander through charming streets of Old Sarajevo, where Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences converge in stunning architecture. Explore significant landmarks like the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and the historic Latin Bridge, all while savoring local delicacies in vibrant cafés. Don't miss the poignant reminders of the Siege of Sarajevo and the serene views over the city from nearby hills. With rich diversity, enchanting synagogues, and a warm atmosphere, Sarajevo promises a unique and heartfelt travel experience. For the best hotel rates in Sarajevo and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Sarajevo

Some of the best places to stay in Sarajevo are Old Town Sarajevo and Jahorina. Sarajevo's Old Town is a vibrant blend of history and culture, perfect for first-time visitors. Its charming streets, cafés, and historic sites make it an ideal base for exploring. Accommodation ranges from cozy hostels to boutique hotels, offering diverse options for all budgets. Jahorina, known for its stunning mountain landscapes and skiing, provides a more tranquil escape with lodges and resorts. Both locations offer unique experiences, but Old Town Sarajevo is the best starting point for newcomers. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Sarajevo:

1. Old Town SarajevoOpens in a new window: Old Town Sarajevo is a vibrant area steeped in culture, featuring significant landmarks such as Baščaršija Džamija, Sarajevo City Hall, and the iconic Sebilj Fountain. This historic district is perfect for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in local heritage and cuisine, with plenty of shops and eateries nearby. For accommodations, consider Radon PlazaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel that caters to business travelers with excellent amenities including a business center and meeting rooms. Alternatively, Europe HotelOpens in a new window offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a full spa and pool services, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. Swissotel SarajevoOpens in a new window is another great option, also a 5-star hotel that combines luxury with family-oriented amenities and business facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers.
2. JahorinaOpens in a new window: Jahorina is an adventure lover's paradise, known for its stunning mountain scenery and ski fields like Mt. Jahorina and Ogorjelica I šestosjed. This area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to ski or hike in breathtaking landscapes. For those seeking affordable lodging, Guesthouse RadovicOpens in a new window is a cozy 2.5-star guesthouse that welcomes pets and provides direct beach access, perfect for a relaxed getaway. If you prefer a slightly upscale experience, Hotel MladostOpens in a new window is a 3-star hotel featuring dining options and outdoor sports amenities, ideal for active travelers. For pet-friendly accommodations, Tara Inn ResortOpens in a new window is another 2.5-star lodge that allows pets and offers a welcoming atmosphere for furry friends.

What to do in Sarajevo

Three days in Sarajevo offers a captivating blend of hilly landscapes, lush forests, and vibrant countryside. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking through scenic trails, sledding down snowy slopes, and relaxing in serene parks, all while soaking in the city’s rich cultural history and stunning views. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Sarajevo:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Mt. Trebevic, where you can take in panoramic views of Sarajevo and enjoy the fresh mountain air. After soaking in the sights, make your way to Sunnyland, an amusement park that offers fun activities and stunning views, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Conclude the day with a visit to Mt. Jahorina, known for its beautiful landscapes and hiking trails, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or simply bask in the natural beauty.
• Day 2: Your day starts with a hike on Mt. Igman, offering invigorating trails and remarkable views of the surrounding countryside. Next, head to Plješevica Hill, a quieter spot ideal for reflection and enjoying the peaceful environment. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Bosnian Pyramid of the Moon, where you can explore the intriguing archaeological site and learn about the fascinating history that surrounds it.
• Day 3: Kick off your exploration at Mt. Bjelašnica, famous for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. After enjoying the mountain, journey to the Old Town of Visoki, where you can wander through its rich historical sites and experience the local culture. End your day with a visit to the Tunnel Ravne, an intriguing underground tunnel system that offers a glimpse into the area's history and the significance of this remarkable structure.

5 tips to find a great Sarajevo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Sarajevo is during January, October, and November, when hotel prices tend to drop. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least 5 months in advance to secure cheaper rates. Domestic travelers should aim to book at least 8 months ahead for the best deals. A stay of at least 3-4 days is perfect for discovering the city's main attractions, which include the beautiful hilly landscapes and historic ruins. Sarajevo offers great value for money, making it an excellent choice for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for affordable accommodations in Sarajevo, last-minute deals can offer significant savings. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you’re more likely to snag a great deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Sarajevo.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Sarajevo is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, trams, buses, and taxis to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Sarajevo and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Sarajevo

Here are some top-rated dishes in Sarajevo, Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bosnia and Herzegovina:

• Ćevapi: These grilled minced meat sausages are a must-try in Sarajevo, often served with somun (a type of flatbread) and onions. They embody the city’s social dining culture, where sharing a plate of ćevapi with friends or family is a cherished tradition.
• Burek: This savory pastry, filled with minced meat and wrapped in flaky dough, is a popular street food that you can find in many local bakeries. Enjoy it hot, often served with yogurt on the side, making it a perfect snack for a busy day of exploration.
• Baklava: A sweet treat made of layers of filo pastry, filled with nuts and drenched in honey syrup. This dessert is often enjoyed with coffee in a traditional Bosnian café, making it a delightful way to end a meal or relax while soaking in the local ambiance.

Best time to go to Sarajevo

Sarajevo experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 30.6°F (-0.8°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.2°F (20.1°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Sarajevo, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.