Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Sarajevo sits in a valley at about 1,700 feet elevation, surrounded by mountains. The mix of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture is obvious - you'll see mosques next to Catholic churches and synagogues. Walking from the cobblestone Old Town (Baščaršija) into the Austro-Hungarian boulevards takes about 10 minutes. People eat alone in cafes regularly here, so you won't stand out.
• The cafe culture means you can sit with a book or laptop for hours without anyone bothering you. Most younger people and anyone working in tourism speaks English in Baščaršija and the city center. In residential neighborhoods, you'll need basic phrases or a translation app.
• The emergency number is 112 and operators speak English. You'll see police in the city center regularly. Violent crime against tourists is rare - the main issue is pickpocketing in crowded spots like Baščaršija market and on trams.
• The tram and bus system works well and got new vehicles in 2024-2025. There's an app for tickets. The city center is walkable but the hills get steep in some areas. At night, stick to main streets like Ferhadija and Marijin Dvor where there's foot traffic and good lighting.

People speak Bosnian, Serbian, and Croatian here - they're very similar languages. You'll find English speakers in tourist areas and among younger people, especially in Baščaršija and the city center. The emergency number (112) has English-speaking operators. Hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant workers in touristy areas usually speak English. In residential neighborhoods, download a translator app.

• Cover your knees and shoulders when visiting mosques or religious sites. Bosnia is conservative, so avoid very revealing clothing in general areas too. Smart casual works fine for restaurants and cafes.
• You'll hear English in tourist areas and from younger people. In residential neighborhoods, not so much. Learn 'Dobar dan' (hello), 'Hvala' (thank you), and 'Molim' (please). A translation app helps outside the city center.
• If someone invites you to their home, bring a small gift - flowers, sweets, or coffee. Greet people with a handshake and eye contact. Don't bring up politics or the war from the 1990s unless they do first.
• The city has Muslims, Orthodox Christians, and Catholics. Respect all religious sites - remove shoes when asked and check before taking photos inside.

• Trams and trolleybuses cover the main areas. Tickets cost 1.60 BAM ($0.90) from kiosks or 1.80 BAM if you buy from the driver. The JavniPrevozKS app lets you buy tickets, check timetables, and track when vehicles arrive. The city got 15 new trams in 2024-2025.
• Taxis are cheap - about 1.5 BAM to start and 1 BAM per kilometer. Make sure the meter is on or agree on the price before getting in. Use taxis with license plates starting with 'TA' - unofficial ones, especially at the airport, will overcharge.
• Most attractions in the city center are 15-20 minutes apart on foot. Areas like Vratnik and Yellow Fortress mean steep uphill walks. The views are worth it but expect to be out of breath. After 10pm, stick to main streets like Ferhadija and Marijin Dvor where there's still people around and good lighting.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Sarajevo with local guides and curated experiences.