Sarajevo is a deeply interesting city for those looking for historical attractions! As the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it was once the starting point of the First World War and a major occupied city during the Yugoslav conflicts. In modern times it is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, just like any other European capital.

As it is spread along a valley, finding the best place to stay in Sarajevo can be tricky. It is still a relatively under-visited destination, so there is not a lot of information online about which neighborhoods are best.

That’s why we created this guide! We’ve figured out the seven best areas of Sarajevo to stay in, and what they are best for.

So let’s just get started!

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Sarajevo

• Where to stay in Sarajevo for your first time? Gorica
• Where to stay in Sarajevo close to everything? Marijin Dvor
• Where to stay in Sarajevo for nightlife? Bascarsija
• Best neighborhood in Sarajevo for families? Konjic
• Where to stay in Sarajevo on a budget? Ciglane
• Where to stay in Sarajevo for couples? Bistrik
• Best neighborhood in Sarajevo for local life? Hrasno

Where to Stay in Sarajevo

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Sarajevo.

Sarajevo 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods in Sarajevo. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you.

Neighborhood #1 – Gorica

Best neighbourhood in Sarajevo for your first time!

• COOLEST thing to do in Gorica – Bemitour, based in Gorica, offer great tours across the city and wider Bosnia and Herzegovina
• BEST place to visit in Gorica – head up to the 35th floor of the Avaz Tower where you can enjoy great views across the city and a cheap menu

Just north of the city centre, Gorica is a somewhat up and coming neighborhood as far as tourism is concerned! For first time visitors, Gorica offers easy access to all the main sights in the city, whilst still remaining a peaceful area for you to relax and unwind when you need a break from exploring.

Gorica also has some great attractions in its own right – including the Avaz Tower! This is the largest building the Balkans, and despite being a popular tourist attraction is nevertheless well priced. The sheer size of the building makes it a great spot for orienting yourself around the city.

• For great nightlife, head to The Brew Pub where you can mingle with locals and tourists alike whilst enjoying excellent craft beer
• Karting Centar Sarajevo is a popular recreational facility in the city where you can whizz around a racetrack in motorised go-karts
• Enjoy some of the finest Bosnian pastries in the city at Maison Coco – they are also excellently priced
• Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Fojnica is an important religious landmark in Sarajevo with excellent historic exhibits
• To sample the local cuisine, head to Rive Gauche – entirely locally owned, this is where you will get an authentic atmosphere and warm welcome

Best Budget Hotel in Gorica

Hotel Cosmopolit

Located on the boundary between Gorica and Bascarsija, Hotel Cosmopolit is the perfect hotel for first-time visitors that want easy access to all of the city’s main attractions! Rooms are fully air-conditioned and come with unlimited WiFi access. There is also free parking on-site – perfect if you are hiring a car.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Gorica

Aparthotel Centar Sarajevo

A modern apartment-style situated in the Center of Sarajevo, in the sought-after Gorica neighborhood, Aparthotel Centar Sarajevo provides sleek and fancy facilities at mid-range prices. This is the perfect place to stay if you want the comfortable amenities of a hotel, but also want the freedom of your own cooking space too.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Gorica

Hotel Holiday

This bright hotel is one of the most popular in the city – especially with those looking to splurge on excellent facilities! It comes with a fitness centre, spa, casino, massage facilities and, of course, a high-quality restaurant. A complimentary buffet breakfast is provided every morning, and free private parking is available.

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Neighborhood #2 – Marijin Dvor

Where to stay in Sarajevo close to everything!

• COOLEST thing to do in Marijin Dvor – shop until you drop at the Alta Shopping Centre – one of the largest in the city
• BEST place to visit in Marijin Dvor – discover the turbulent history of the region at the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Whilst packed with history, Marijin Dvor nowadays contains plenty of skyscrapers and modern architecture – making it the central business district in the city! The main railway station is just north of Marijin Dvor, keeping you well connected to other areas of the country. It is also right next to both Gorica and Bascarsija.

Aside from its convenient location, Marijin Dvor is the perfect place to discover modern life in Sarajevo! With plenty of great restaurants, attractions and facilities, you will find everything you need in Marijin Dvor. This makes it a great choice for those who are only visiting the city for a short time.

• Sarajevo City Centre is the main shopping district in the city, hosting a variety of national and international brands and boutiques
• Most of the country’s government buildings are based here – whilst closed off to the public, their facades are perfect examples of Austro-Hungarian architecture
• Wander down the infamous Sniper Alley – this is where Serbian forces manned multiple sniper stations, making it a key hotspot during the Bosnian War
• Food Market is a great spot for a bite to eat, with a wide range of international cuisines as well as typical Bosnian treats
• For families, Aquarius is another great restaurant that has a varied menu and hosts a variety of child-friendly events

Best Budget Hotel in Marijin Dvor

Guesthouse Hurma Rooms

Guesthouse Burma Rooms is a traditional and authentic hotel with a super warming atmosphere. The hotel also has a fantastic location with numerous restaurants and taverns on its doorstep along with historical sites!

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Marijin Dvor

Vila Alexandra

Villa Alexandra has all the things you need for a comfortable stay in Marijin Dvor, including air-conditioned rooms with comfortable beds along with a 24-hour reception, and a tour desk! Boulevard Inn also has an excellent location, with it being just a stone’s throw away from an abundance of things to do and tasty restaurants to eat in!

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Best Luxury Hotel in Marijin Dvor

Swissotel Sarajevo

This five-star hotel is the epitome of elegance in Sarajevo! Rooms are beautifully designed with large windows overlooking the city, as well as modern technology enhancing your comfort and convenience. There is a Swiss Café on-site offering a complimentary breakfast buffet, as well as a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant.

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Neighborhood #3 – Bascarsija

Where to stay in Sarajevo for nightlife!

• COOLEST thing to do in Bascarsija – walk around the Bazaar area of Bascarsija for great bars, restaurants and shops
• BEST place to visit in Bascarsija – Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is the religious centre of the city and an interesting attraction to check out

Bascarsija is the Old Centre of Sarajevo, where you will find a lot of the city’s historical attractions as well as the main nightlife areas. This is by far the most touristy area of the city – but not without good reason! Simply walking through the streets will transport you back to the Ottoman era of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In terms of nightlife, all of the best bars and clubs are located within the heart of Bascarsija! The bazaar area is vibrant day and night, and you will find plenty of well-priced nightlife venues. Bascarsija is also well located for getting around the city.

• Ferhadija Pedestrian Street is the main hub of the area, lined with retail, dining and nightlife venues
• Galerija 11/07/95 is a sobering experience where you can look at photographs of the people killed during the Bosnian War
• Klopa is a bright and modern restaurant that transforms into a laid back craft beer bar during the evenings
• Nanina Kuhinja is one of the most authentic dining experiences you can get in the city – be prepared to share a table with complete strangers in this communal eatery
• Grab some fresh produce and mingle with the locals at the vibrant Pijaca Markale – a farmers market in the centre of the Bazaar

Best Budget Hotel in Bascarsija

Halvat Guesthouse

Located just north of the Bazaar area, Halvat Guesthouse has a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can truly enjoy Bosnian hospitality! Rooms are fully air-conditioned and have high-speed WiFi access. A complimentary continental breakfast is served every morning, with Italian and Bosnian options available.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Bascarsija

Hotel Sana

Hotel San has a fantastic locatiomnSet in the Old Town district in Sarajevo, 100 yards from Bascarsija Street. One of the main perks of this hotel is its beautiful terrace area which boats spectacular views of the city. We’ve heard its even better at golden hour so make sure you get yourself down for a sunset drunk.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Bascarsija

Hotel Europe

Another great five-star hotel, Hotel Europe is the ultimate luxury option if you want to be based in the heart of the city’s historic district! There is an indoor swimming pool on-site, as well as a large fitness centre. The spa facilities also offer Turkish baths, saunas and massage rooms.

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Neighborhood #4 – Konjic

Best neighbourhood in Sarajevo for families!

• COOLEST thing to do in Konjic – go white water rafting down the Neretva River – perfect for adventurers and families alike
• BEST place to visit in Konjic – discover the history of the town, as well as work by local creatives, at the Konjic Museum and Art Gallery

Though a separate town, Konjic is a great option for families visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina that want to be based away from the hustle and bustle of Sarajevo! Located only an hour away from the capital, it is also close to Kotor in Montenegro, giving you easy access to two of the most popular cities in the region.

Konjic exhibits an interesting combination of national historic attractions and gorgeous scenery! There are plenty of excellent outdoor attractions – perfect for travellers with an adventurous spirit. It is also home to Tito’s Bunker – a significant historic site in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

• Visit Tito’s Bunker – this huge underground complex is where the Yugoslavian Government planned their nuclear strategy, giving insight into Cold War history
• Mulic Record Museum is an interesting attraction where you can check out wooden furniture that holds historical significance
• Visit the neighbouring Visocica Mountain Range – there are some great hiking trails, mountain biking areas and skiing tracks
• MERAK Fastfood is somewhat of a local institution – though the fare is not dissimilar to what you might find in the US, it is highly popular with residents of Konjic
• For a more typical experience, dine at Restoran Orahovica – perfect for families on a budget!

Best Budget Hotel in Konjic

Hotel Oaza

Despite being a budget-friendly accommodation choice, Hotel Oaza has some great added extras to give you a touch of luxury during your stay! They offer a car rental service – perfect for taking day trips to both Sarajevo and Kotor. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided every morning.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Konjic

Hotel Noor Konjic

Hotel Noor Koijic hotel has some fantastic facilities at very reasonable prices in Konjic. The hotel features a garden, terrace, and restaurant, along with a beautiful outdoor pool. It also has a great location overlooking the beachfront.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Konjic

Garden City Hotel Konjic

A Konjic’s premiere splurge option, Garden City Hotel is the perfect choice for families looking to splash the cash a little on a visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina! There are plenty of sports facilities on-site, including a wellness centre where you can unwind after a day of activities. Free parking is also available.

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Neighborhood #5 – Ciglane

Where to stay in Sarajevo on a budget!

• COOLEST thing to do in Ciglane – take a trip to Ciglane Market, a relatively unknown flea market with most tourists with plenty of hidden gems
• BEST place to visit in Ciglane – Sarajevo Zoo is located just north of Ciglane and has a great range of animal exhibits

Located north of Gorica, Ciglane is a little off the beaten path as far as tourism is concerned but should absolutely be included on any itinerary of the city! The Soviet-style apartment blocks give you an insight into life during the Cold War era Yugoslavia, and many of the restaurants and bars are decades old.

As it is a little less touristy, Ciglane is also a delight for any travellers sticking to a tight budget! The food and drinks are a lot cheaper here, and simply walking around Ciglane’s streets will make for a great day of exploration.

• Also located just north of Ciglane, Sarajevo Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track is a relic from the 1984 Winter Olympics with perfect photo opportunities
• Mezarje Stadion is another relic from the Olympics, however, it has been converted into a cemetery for those lost during the Bosnian War – a sobering experience for history fans
• Kino Bosna is a nightlife venue that seems a little run down from the outside, but adventurous travellers will enjoy the authentic experience with live music
• BistroNomie is a great restaurant for experiencing fine cuisine whilst sticking to a strict budget
• Looking for gluten-free eats? Head straight to No Gluten Factory!

Best Budget Hotel in Ciglane

Hotel Grand

Though this hostel has a somewhat Soviet appearance, this adds to the charm of staying in Ciglane! Rooms are very well priced, and all of them come with private bathrooms and modern technology. A large buffet breakfast is provided free of charge to all guests, and WiFi can be accessed throughout.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Ciglane

Modern and Bright Apartments – Main Street

This apartment-style hotel provides a variety of different room options, all of which are brightly lit and equipped with ultra-modern facilities. Pick from small boutique studios, larger family rooms, or grand suites.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Ciglane

Hotel Colors Inn

Hotel Colors Inn has a nearly 10-star review, 9.6, on booking.com with nearly 1,000 reviews and we can why with sleek and modern furnishing throughout, a complimentary buffet breakfast every morning, and an epic location in the heart of Sarajevo.

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Neighborhood #6 – Bistrik

Best neighbourhood in Sarajevo for couples!

• COOLEST thing to do in Bistrik – take a tour of the Sarajevo Brewery – it is historically significant to the city and still functions as a brewery to this day
• BEST place to visit in Bistrik – check out the Emperor’s Mosque, the oldest religious building in the city!

Just on the opposite side of the river from Bascarsija, Bistrik is well connected to the main attractions of the city whilst still maintaining and quiet and suburban atmosphere! This makes it a great choice for couples staying in Sarajevo for a short break. The leafy streets have a romantic atmosphere and have plenty of local boutiques and restaurants.

Bistrik also has some interesting historical attractions in its own right – including the Sarajevo Brewery and Emperor’s Mosque! These are a little less touristy than the bigger attractions across the river, but provide just as much insight into the city’s past.

• Head to the Latin Bridge – connecting the neighborhood with Bascarsija, it is also where Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, kicking off the First World War
• Saint Anthony’s Church and Monastery is another important religious building, serving as the hub for the local Christian community
• Bosnian Experience, based in Bistrik, offer excellent tours for those looking to explore further afield in the country
• Park Princeva is a small restaurant popular with local couples thanks to its excellent views across the city and varied menu
• Spite House is another great restaurant housed within a historic building – only a stone’s throw away from the riverfront!

Best Budget Hotel in Bistrik

Hotel Kandilj

Hotel Kandilj has a beautiful design with traditionally decorated rooms with local paintings and handcrafted art, which creates a combination of a traditional Bosnian atmosphere with modern comfort. It also has a fantastic location in Bistrick in the heart of the bazaar Baščaršija.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Bistrik

BA Apartments

BA Apartments offer a wide range of holiday apartments in Bistrik, giving you extra privacy and some additional facilities! The kitchens are well equipped, making them a great choice for couples and families that want to self-cater. Free high-speed WiFi is available in every apartment, as are parking facilities.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Bistrik

Diamond Rain Boutique Hotel

A swanky and luxurious hotel situated in the sought-after Bistrik District, Diamond Rain Boutique Hotel is an amazing place to stay in Sarajevo for those who don’t mind splashing the cash. Some of the facilities you can expect to find on-site at the hotel include an indoor pool, sauna, and a 24-hour front desk.

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Neighborhood #7 – Hrasno

Best neighbourhood in Sarajevo for local life!

• COOLEST thing to do in Hrasno – outdoorsy people will love the tours offered by Superb Adventures, including hikes in the Bosnian countryside
• BEST place to visit in Hrasno – catch a local soccer match at Stadion Grbavica

Located deep within the mountain suburbs, Hrasno offers an entirely different experience from central Sarajevo! This is where traditional Bosnia and Herzegovina life blends with urban culture to give you a more authentic feel during your trip. We suggest checking out the local bars and restaurants to learn more about modern Bosnian culture.

Despite its distance from the city centre, it is well connected to the rest of Sarajevo with public transport, allowing you to easily get around! As it is further out, it is also a great option for budget travellers that want something a bit quieter than the inner city suburbs.

• Check out Euphoria Lounge Bar – a local nightlife spot where you will discover how Bosnians really like to party
• Unwind after a long day of exploring at the Ma’ab Spa Centar in neighboring Grbavica
• Sarajevo Bosnia Tours offer bespoke tours of the city and surrounding area by taxi and minivan
• Grab a coffee and local pastry at Cafe and Patisserie Palma – the perfect spot for some people watching
• Konoba Magarac is an excellent seafood restaurant right on the riverfront with great reviews from locals and tourists alike!

Best Budget Hotel in Hrasno

Hotel Terex

For a super budget-friendly hotel, Hotel Terex offers some fantastic on-site facilities including a garden, terrace and restaurant that serving up a storm of tasty local specialities and delicious international dishes.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Hrasno

Hotel Grad

Hotel Grad features and urban and contemporary design with immaculate facilities fitted throughout. On-site at the hotel you can find a very of room options from small doubles, to quadruple rooms for bigger groups of friends and families.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Hrasno

Novotel Sarajevo Bristol

Located between Hrasno and Marijin Dvor, Novotel Sarajevo Bristol gives you the peace and quiet of the suburbs whilst still being within close proximity to the city centre! Rooms are fully soundproofed, giving you an extra level of calm for the perfect night’s sleep. A large buffet is provided every morning.

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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is a fantastic destination that should be included on every Balkan itinerary! With multiple historic attractions, great scenery and vibrant bars, there’s truly something for everyone in the Bosnia and Herzegovina capital.

For the best area, we have to go with Bascarsija. Yes, this is the obvious choice – but there’s a reason it is so popular with tourists. With history around every corner and a wide range of cultural delights, you simply can’t miss the city’s old Bazaar!

Nevertheless, this magnificent city has a lot to offer – and every area mentioned in this guide has its own unique aspects that make them great places to stay. We hope we have helped you to plan your itinerary for Sarajevo.

Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments!

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