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Where to Stay in Sarajevo

Where to Stay in Sarajevo

Sarajevo Federation Of B-h, Bosnia And Herzegovina Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Budget-Friendly Stays

  • Hostels

    Numerous budget-friendly options, especially in the Old Town (Baščaršija). Dormitories and private rooms offer a social atmosphere.

  • Guesthouses (Pansion/Pansion)

    Often family-run, these offer a private and local experience. Ranging from straightforward to well-appointed spaces.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Widely available via platforms like Booking.com and Vrbo. Flexibility, more space, and often a kitchen, a favorite for families or longer visits.

  • Apart-Hotels

    Combining hotel amenities with self-catering facilities, serviced apartments. Well-suited for longer stays or families seeking more space.

Upscale & Unique Stays

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    Standard hotels with various amenities, balancing comfort and value. Found across the city center.

  • Luxury Hotels

    International chains and upscale local properties delivering premium services, fine dining, and up-to-date facilities. Consider IHG Hotels for international options.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Many in renovated historical buildings, notably in Baščaršija. Unique character and personalized service.

  • Camping and Outdoor Lodging

    No official campsites within Sarajevo city limits. Campsites in surrounding natural areas near Olympic mountains (e.g., Bjelašnica, Jahorina).

Neighborhood Guide

Each area of Sarajevo is a distinct character, proximity to attractions, and ambiance.

Baščaršija Old Town

Character & Pros
  • Historical heart of Sarajevo, Ottoman-era bazaar.
  • Lively and lively.
  • Best for walking to Ottoman sites.
Cons & Considerations
  • Can be noisy and crowded.
  • Limited vehicle access.
  • Accommodation prices sometimes higher.
  • Be aware of petty theft.

Centar City Center

Character & Pros
  • Austro-Hungarian architecture, modern commercial zones, museums.
  • Close to cultural institutions, shopping.
  • Good transport links.
  • Very safe.
Cons & Considerations
  • Can be busy with traffic.
  • Slightly less "traditional" feel than Baščaršija.
  • Busy during the day.

Marijin Dvor

Character & Pros
  • Modern business and residential zone with shopping malls.
  • Upscale area, modern amenities.
  • Excellent tram connections.
  • Very safe and well-lit.
Cons & Considerations
  • Further from the historic Old Town (20-30 minute walk or short tram ride).
  • Slightly less traditional feel.
  • Mainly residential and business focused.

Considerations

Proximity to Attractions

Baščaršija for walking to Ottoman-era sites. Centar for museums and Austro-Hungarian architecture. Marijin Dvor, a major tram hub, connecting well across the city.

Ambiance & Noise Levels

Baščaršija is lively and can be noisy as evening approaches. Centar is busy during the day, generally quieter in the evenings. Residential areas are typically quieter and offer a more local ambiance.

Booking Strategies

Booking accommodation in Sarajevo varies by season and platform choice.

Advance Planning

  • High Season (June-August) & Major Festivals: Reserve several months ahead for best options and prices.
  • Shoulder Season: Book 1-2 months in advance for good availability and competitive prices.
  • Low Season: Great offers are often found closer to your travel date, but booking a few weeks ahead is wise for selection.
  • Trusted Platforms: Booking.com and Airbnb are widely used. Many local hotels offer direct booking.

Policies & Fluctuations

  • Negotiation Customs: Not common for established hotels. May happen for smaller guesthouses off-season, but online booking dominance limits this.
  • Security DEPOSIT & Cancellation terms: Terms vary by property. Always check conditions before booking. Online platforms show details.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Highest in summer and during major events. Significantly lower in winter, excluding properties near ski resorts.
  • Insider Insight: A guesthouse in Baščaršija can offer an authentic local experience. Owners often share excellent tips and hospitality.

Important Reminders

Check Policies
  • Always review deposit and cancellation terms carefully before finalizing any reservation.
  • Ensure clarity on refund options and potential charges.
  • Understand check-in and check-out times.
Seasonal Timing
  • Prices are highest during peak summer and festival times.
  • Lowest in off-peak winter months, excluding ski areas.
  • Booking early during peak times secures better availability.

Booking Tips

Early Booking

For high season or major events, secure your accommodation well in advance.

Read Reviews

Always check recent guest reviews for insights into comfort and service.

Location Matters

Choose a neighborhood that matches your travel style and proximity preferences.

Accommodation Recommendations

Discover top picks tailored to different travel styles and budgets in Sarajevo.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget-Friendly Hostels

Social atmosphere and central locations. Search on Hostelworld.

  • Hostel Franz Ferdinand
  • Hostel City Center Sarajevo
  • Balkan Han Hostel
  • Traveller's Home Hostel
Comfortable Mid-Range Hotels

Balance of comfort, amenities, and value.

  • Hotel Europe
  • Hotel President
  • Boutique Hotel Central
  • Hotel Story

Luxury & Specialized Options

Premium Luxury Hotels

Upscale properties with refined services and modern facilities. Explore Booking.com for top choices.

  • Hotel Bristol
  • Swissôtel Sarajevo
  • Hotel Hills Sarajevo Congress & Thermal Spa Resort
  • Malak Regency Hotel
Family & Long-Stay Friendly

Options for additional space and amenities, including kitchen access. Look for vacation rentals on Airbnb.

  • Apartments with Kitchens (via Booking.com/Airbnb)
  • Hotel Hills Sarajevo (with pools for families)
  • Larger Hotel Suites
  • Vacation rentals for extended visits

Solo Traveler Focused

  • Hostels

    Provide social interaction and possibilities to meet other people traveling.

  • Centrally Located Guesthouses

    Offer safety and convenience for easy exploration.

  • Boutique Hotel Central

    Stylish and well-located, offering a blend of comfort and access.

  • Hostel Franz Ferdinand

    Known for its history-themed rooms and central location, good for socializing.

Culturally Significant Properties

  • Hotel Europe

    Experience Austro-Hungarian era grandeur and history.

  • Hotel Central

    Housed in an old building, blending tradition and modern comfort.

  • Boutique Hotels in Baščaršija

    Unique character and local charm within the Old Town.

  • Classic Guesthouses

    Offer authentic local experiences with warm hospitality.

Considerations for your Stay

Location Choices

Baščaršija offers historical charm, while Centar has European elegance. Marijin Dvor has modern amenities and convenience.

  • Old Town for historical sites.
  • City Center for museums and convenience.
  • Modern districts for shopping and transport.
Booking Flexibility

Platforms like Booking.com provide a wide choice, or check direct hotel websites for specific deals. Compare for the best fit.

  • Compare prices across platforms.
  • Look for direct booking perks.
  • Check cancellation policies.

Beyond the Mainstay

Homestay Insights

While less formally organized, staying in guesthouses can offer similar local interaction. Some local NGOs promote community tourism in wider Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Luxury Chain Benefits

Hotels like Swissôtel Sarajevo offer modern luxury and comprehensive amenities, catering to discerning travelers.

Apartment Comforts

Vacation rentals (Vrbo) are ideal for prolonged visits, providing a home-like environment with added space and flexibility.