Sarajevo for the curious! These are just some of the city’s hidden gems!

Sarajevo is a city that, apart from its famous tourist attractions such as Baščaršija, Sebilj, Town hall, and the Gazi Husrev Bey Mosque, also hides many lesser-known places that are worth discovering. In order to truly experience Sarajevo from the perspective of locals and discover its hidden side, I suggest you visit the following ten gems that tell stories about the city’s past, culture and natural beauty.

Sarajevo, Photo: alexeys Depositphotos

1. YELLOW AND WHITE BASTION

One of the most beautiful views of Sarajevo is from the Yellow and White Bastions, two fortresses located on the hills above the city. These fortresses, built in the Ottoman period, offer spectacular city views, especially at sunset.

The white one originates from the 16th century, and the yellow one from the 18th century, so you have to explore them!

Yellow Bastion, Photo: Julian Nyča, CC BY-SA 3.0

2. BOSNIA RIVER SPRING – VRELO BOSNE

Vrelo Bosne, located in Ilidža, is the perfect place to escape to nature. This peaceful source of the Bosna River is surrounded by greenery and offers pleasant walks, carriage rides, and the opportunity to relax with the sounds of nature, all just a short drive from the city.

Vrelo Bosne, Photo: Muamero, Dreamstime

3. War Childhood Museum

An indispensable place for those who want to feel the deepest emotions of Sarajevo is the War Childhood Museum. This museum space is filled with objects and personal stories of children who survived the war, which provides all visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about the challenges and courage of the youngest Sarajevo citizens in difficult times.

War Childhood Museum, Photo: Hibasi, CC BY-SA 4.0

4. SEVDAH ART HOUSE

Sarajevo is also home to the Sevdah Art House, a small museum dedicated to sevdah, traditional Bosnian music. Here you can find old instruments, costumes, and photos that tell the story of sevdah, and at the same time drink coffee in the courtyard, enjoying the historical atmosphere of this place.

5. ĐERZELEZ’S HOUSE

Đerzelez’s house is another hidden treasure, especially for those who want to see traditional Bosnian architecture from the Ottoman era. Located in the heart of Sarajevo, this historic house has been preserved to show how people lived centuries ago, with authentic furniture and decorations that tell the story of everyday life at that time.

It is believed that it belonged to the hero Alija Đerzelez.

6. GOAT’s bridge

Kozija ćuprija or Goat’s Bridge, an old stone bridge over the Miljacka river, is located on the edge of the city and is the perfect place for lovers of nature and history. The bridge surrounded by greenery creates a unique and peaceful atmosphere and is also part of the old trade routes from the Ottoman period.

This is just one of the few examples of bridges in the city.

Kozja ćuprija – Goat’s bridge, Photo: Jocelyn Erskine-Kellie CC BY-SA 2.0

7. KAZANDŽILUK

In the immediate vicinity of Baščaršija, Kazandžiluk Street, also known as Kazandžija Street, is a special place that revives the artisanal tradition of Sarajevo. Here you will find craftsmen making copper pots, trays, and traditional coffee pots by hand. Kazandžiluk preserves the spirit of old crafts and offers the opportunity to take a unique souvenir with you.

Kazandžiluk, Photo: Adria.fun

8. ČOLINA KAPA

If you want an even more unusual view of Sarajevo, there is Čolina kapa, that is, the Bistrik Tower observatory located on a hill above the city. Built in the time of Yugoslavia, this place offers incredible panoramas of Sarajevo and starry nights that will enchant you.

9. BISTRIK RAILWAY STATION

Bistrik railway station, formerly an important railway station from the Austro-Hungarian era, is another place worth visiting. Although now abandoned, this building exudes the spirit of the past and offers great opportunities for photography in a unique setting.

Bistrik railway station building, Photo: Julian Nyča, CC BY-SA 3.0

10. TUNNEL OF SALVATION

Finally, don’t forget to visit the Tunnel of Salvation, which played a key role during the siege of the city in the war. Although it is visited by many, the experience of the tunnel goes beyond the museum, connecting visitors with stories of the bravery and survival of the citizens of Sarajevo.

I invite you to explore these jewels of Sarajevo and discover the untold stories that make up the heart of this incredible city.