Sarajevo is a safe city for tourists. Although many still associate it with images of the war in the 1990s, the reality is completely different: today Sarajevo is one of the safest and most hospitable capitals in the region. A city that was once a symbol of division is now a symbol of unity – of East and West, religions and cultures, tradition and modern life.
Still, it’s understandable that every traveler asks the question: “Is Sarajevo safe?”. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before visiting – from documents and visa requirements, to local laws, safety tips, top attractions, and the best restaurants in the city.
Table of Contents
Documents and Visas – What You Need to Enter Sarajevo
Entering Bosnia and Herzegovina is straightforward for most travelers. If you’re coming from the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, or Australia, you do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. All you need is a valid passport that must be valid for at least three months after your planned entry.
For citizens of countries outside the visa-free regime, a visa application is required at a Bosnian embassy or consulate. It’s always best to check updated information on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before traveling.
The good news is that no special vaccinations or health certificates are needed – visiting Sarajevo is as simple as traveling to any other European destination.
How Many Tourists Visit Sarajevo Each Year?
Sarajevo attracts more visitors every year. According to official statistics, the city welcomes over 600,000 tourists annually, and the number continues to grow. Most visitors come from Turkey, Croatia, Serbia, Germany, and Austria, but in recent years more and more tourists are arriving from the Middle East.
The city is especially appealing because it offers a mix of affordable prices, rich history, and authentic experiences you won’t find in larger Western European capitals. That’s why Sarajevo is also becoming popular among digital nomads and young backpackers looking for something different.
Top Attractions in Sarajevo
Sarajevo is an open-air museum – at every corner you’ll discover traces of different epochs and cultures. The most famous spot is, of course, Baščaršija, the Ottoman-era bazaar filled with narrow streets, the smell of coffee, and the sound of coppersmiths shaping metal the same way for centuries.
Just a few minutes’ walk away is the Latin Bridge, the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand – the event that triggered World War I. Then there’s the Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica), once a library destroyed during the war and now beautifully restored as a symbol of resilience.
For those interested in more recent history, the Tunnel of Hope is a must-see. This underground passage allowed Sarajevo’s citizens to receive food, medicine, and supplies during the siege. For a different view, the cable car will take you up to Mount Trebević, home to the abandoned 1984 Olympic bobsleigh track, now covered in graffiti – a striking mix of sports and art.
👉 For even more inspiration, check out our article 10 Things to See in Sarajevo.
Food in Sarajevo – A City of Flavors You’ll Never Forget
One of the main reasons tourists return to Sarajevo is the food. Here, meals aren’t just about eating – they’re about culture, ritual, and experience.
The city’s most famous dish is undoubtedly ćevapi – grilled minced meat served in flatbread with chopped onions. Ask a local where to find the best ones and you’ll hear passionate debates, but names like “Željo,” “Hodžić,” and “Petica” are Sarajevo institutions.
Pastries are another story: burek with meat, cheese pies, potato pies, or spinach pies – all hand-made with thin layers of dough. Just one bite is enough to understand why locals proudly say “pita can be breakfast, lunch, or dinner.”
For something hearty, try begova čorba (Bey’s soup), a creamy stew with vegetables and meat. And when it’s time for dessert, you can’t leave without tasting baklava, tufahija (stuffed apples), or hurmašice.
Recommended restaurants include Dženita and Avlija for authentic Bosnian cuisine, Kibe Mahala for panoramic city views, and 4 Sobe Gospođe Safije for an elegant fine dining experience. And of course – don’t miss Bosnian coffee. Served in a small copper pot called a džezva, alongside a piece of rahat lokum (Turkish delight), it’s not just a drink but a ritual of conversation and connection.
Safety in Sarajevo – The Real Picture
So, is Sarajevo safe? The short answer is – yes, very safe.
According to statistics, Sarajevo has a lower rate of violent crime compared to many European capitals. The biggest risk for tourists is the same as in Rome, Barcelona, or Istanbul – pickpockets in crowded areas. That’s why it’s smart to keep your wallet and documents in a secure place and be extra careful in busy spots like Baščaršija or on public transport.
The nightlife in Sarajevo is lively and safe, with the streets full of young people and tourists on weekends. If you need a taxi, use trusted apps like MojTaxi or Bolt. Uber does not operate in Sarajevo, so these are the best options.
Another thing to keep in mind is currency exchange. The Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM) is pegged to the Euro, so avoid street money changers and use only banks or licensed exchange offices.
Practical Tips for Tourists
To make your trip to Sarajevo as smooth as possible, here are some practical tips:
- Currency: Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM), fixed at 1 EUR = 1.95583 BAM.
- Language: Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian are official, but younger generations generally speak English.
- Transport: The city has trams and trolleybuses, and taxis are affordable compared to Western Europe.
- Internet: Local SIM cards are cheap and come with generous data packages (BH Telecom, MTEL, Eronet).
Health: Tap water is safe to drink and no vaccinations are required.
Final Thoughts – Is Sarajevo Safe?
Yes, Sarajevo is safe. More than half a million tourists visit the city every year, and most leave with the same impression: “I didn’t expect such a warm and peaceful place.”
The city is full of contrasts – Ottoman mosques and Austro-Hungarian palaces, modern cafés and Olympic mountains. The food alone is worth the trip, and the people are so welcoming that you’ll feel at home from the moment you arrive.
As long as you follow basic safety tips – keep an eye on your belongings and use trusted taxis – your trip will be completely carefree.
Sarajevo is not only a safe city; it is a city that inspires, opens your eyes, and proves that diversity can live side by side. And perhaps that is its greatest attraction of all.
Our Most Popular Tours To Sarajevo
We offer many tours that include a visit to Sarajevo and its most popular locations:
- Sarajevo Siege Tour & War Tunnel 1992 / 1996 (Most Popular)
- Full Day tour from Sarajevo to Međugorije & Mostar
- Full Day Tour from Sarajevo to Travnik and Jajce
- Full-Day 5 Cities Tour from Sarajevo to Herzegovina (Mostar)
- Full day Tour from Sarajevo to Dubrovnik (Kotor or Split)
- Full Day tour from Sarajevo to Belgrade
Don’t Hesitate To Say Hi!
Got any questions about our tours or the city? Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime for more info and booking.
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