Sarajevo

Few cities in the world endured a tragic past like Sarajevo, and even fewer lived to become a center where western flair meets oriental intimacy. The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina thrives as a romantic city. But beyond war and glory, Sarajevo is famous for a motley collection of religious sanctuaries. They are all open to visitors in a single neighborhood. This cultural wealth has earned the city its much-deserved fame as ‘the Jerusalem of the Balkans’. And today, it is one of the many things that make Sarajevo a Balkan favorite for many travelers.

There are two elements to Sarajevo’s unique character: exquisite food and a medley of architectural styles. As you stroll the neighborhood of Baščaršija, you will see how the settlers of the old town each left their mark on the buildings. Yet, a classical Ottoman style dominates both architecture and daily life. Under its influence, the district brims with coppersmith shops, street stalls, cafes serving Turkish coffee, and caravanserais offering a peek into medieval dwellings. After a full day of exploring, you can treat your appetite in the cozy diners. Delightful dishes from the Ottoman court kitchen will have your tastebuds overwhelmed with pleasure.

In the center, a series of landmarks and museums host relics from the military history of Sarajevo. Pay a visit to the Tunnel of Hope for a heartfelt experience of the three-year siege that left Sarajevo helpless in the 1920s. The refreshing mountain air will greet you once again at the end of the tunnel. And the profound history will stick with you for a while.