Sarajevo’s Scars, Siege, and Spirit: An Audio Tour
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Sarajevo’s Scars, Siege, and Spirit: An Audio Tour

Active
2h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sarajevo stands at the true meeting point of East and West, where Ottoman influence gives way to Austro-Hungarian grandeur. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll journey through the capital’s most difficult chapter to discover how it’s transformed tragedy into a testament of human perseverance. You’ll start at the Meeting of Cultures, a brass line marking the city’s cultural divide. You’ll walk past the Latin Bridge where a wrong turn changed world history, and through the cobblestone streets of Baščaršija. As you walk, you’ll hear poignant stories of survival during the longest siege in modern history. We won’t shy away from difficult conversations about ‘ethnic cleansing’, the complex and painful debates around the term genocide, and the daily work of healing among neighbours who once found themselves on opposite sides. The tour ends at the Yellow Fortress, where panoramic views reveal how the city’s diverse architectural influences blend into a uniquely Sarajevan landscape.

Available options

Sarajevo’s Scars, Siege, and Spirit: An Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
App for Android and iOS
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

1

Marvel at the stunning neo-Gothic cathedral that stands as a symbol of Sarajevo's Catholic heritage and architectural grandeur. Explore how this 19th-century landmark survived the siege and represents the city's enduring religious diversity.

2
Stop 2 Pass by

Stand at the exact spot where Gavrilo Princip assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, triggering World War I. Discover how a wrong turn on this historic Ottoman bridge changed the course of world history forever.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

Stroll through the atmospheric cobblestone streets of Sarajevo's Ottoman old town, where copper craftsmen still create traditional wares. Experience the vibrant bazaar district with its historic clock tower, traditional shops, and the meeting point of Eastern and Western cultures.

4

Pass the iconic wooden fountain that has become Sarajevo's most recognisable symbol since the Ottoman era. Enjoy watching locals gather around this traditional Sebilj where pigeons congregate and visitors toss coins for good luck.

5

Walk through this historic covered market that once served as a bustling Ottoman-era trading center for silk and textiles. Explore the atmospheric stone arcade where merchants have sold goods for centuries, now housing traditional crafts and souvenirs.

6

Visit Sarajevo's oldest mosque, built in 1457, showcasing stunning Ottoman architecture and intricate interior decorations. Discover how this sacred site has witnessed the city's transformation through five centuries of religious and cultural evolution.

7

Marvel at the magnificent Austro-Hungarian building with its distinctive Moorish Revival architecture and colourful facade. Learn how this cultural landmark was deliberately destroyed during the 1992-1996 siege and painstakingly reconstructed as a symbol of resilience.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

Explore one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans, built in the 16th century. Experience the peaceful courtyard and learn how this mosque remains a vital center of worship and community life in Sarajevo.

9

Enjoy panoramic views from the mountain that overlooks Sarajevo, once a popular recreation spot transformed into a sniper position during the siege. Discover how this landscape tells the story of the city's darkest days and its ongoing healing process.

10

Stand at this historic Ottoman fortification offering breathtaking panoramic views of Sarajevo's diverse architectural landscape. Experience how the vista reveals the city's unique blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences stretching across the valley below.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour begins at the Meeting of Cultures, a brass line marking the city’s cultural divide. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

───

Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Sarajevo

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city of rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning architecture. Known for its Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav heritage, Sarajevo offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Baščaršija

The old bazaar and cultural heart of Sarajevo, Baščaršija is a must-visit for its historic charm and traditional crafts.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, but shopping and dining costs vary

Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum

This museum showcases the tunnel that was used to supply the city during the Siege of Sarajevo.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (around 10 EUR)

Yellow Fortress (Žuta Tabija)

A historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Miljacka River.

Historical 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ćevapi

Grilled minced meat sausages, typically served with somun (flatbread) and onions.

Main Dish Contains meat, gluten (from bread)

Burek

A flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach.

Snack Contains gluten, can be vegetarian (cheese or spinach versions)

Begova Čorba

A rich and flavorful beef and vegetable soup, often served with noodles or rice.

Soup Contains meat, gluten (from noodles or rice)

Popular Activities

Skiing Hiking Mountain biking Coffee tasting Spa treatments Strolling through Baščaršija Visiting museums Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Sarajevo due to the pleasant weather and numerous outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Bosnian
  • Widely spoken: English, Serbian, Croatian
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Bosnia and Herzegovina Convertible Mark (BAM)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sarajevo is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and take standard precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
  • • Use official taxis and ensure the meter is used
  • • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air
  • Sarajevo International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train

Sarajevo Central Station

By bus

Sarajevo Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and affordable, connecting key areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yutong

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Stari Grad) Marijin Dvor Grbavica

Day trips

Mostar
130 km • Full day

Mostar is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and rich Ottoman heritage.

Travnik
90 km • Full day

Travnik is known for its Ottoman architecture and as the former residence of Bosnian governors.

Jahorina Mountain
30 km • Half day to full day

Jahorina is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and enjoying nature.

Festivals

Sarajevo Film Festival • August Sarajevo Winter Festival • December to February Sarajevo Jazz Festival • November

Pro tips

  • Visit the Yellow Fortress at sunset for the best views of the city
  • Try traditional Bosnian coffee at a local café for an authentic experience
  • Explore the city's street art and murals, which tell stories of its history and culture
  • Take a day trip to Mostar to see the iconic Stari Most and experience another side of Bosnia
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Bosnian to enhance your interactions with locals
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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