Visiting Belgrade vs Sarajevo: Comparing Two Vibrant Balkan Cities

Should you visit Belgrade or Sarajevo on your next trip to the Balkans? 

For those who don’t know, Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Belgrade is the capital city of Serbia. Although both of these capital cities are rich in culture and have a lot to offer, there are many differences between Belgrade and Sarajevo.

I was born and raised in this part of Europe and have visited both cities on numerous occasions. This is why I decided to put together this comparison guide between Belgrade and Sarajevo to help you decide where to go.

From the overall vibe and getting around to the best day trips and which foods to try, this Belgrade vs Sarajevo guide has got you covered.

Belgrade vs Sarajevo: General vibe of the city

I have to admit that Belgrade and Sarajevo are two very different destinations. If you want to stay in a big city with awesome nightlife vibes, Belgrade is where to want to go. The accommodation options in Belgrade are plentiful and range from hostels and reasonably priced apartments that you can find via Airbnb to 5-star hotels.

The capital of Serbia is famous for its nightlife with a bunch of cocktail bars, live music venues, and posh nightclubs. Of course, Belgrade is not all about going out at night. Culture vultures visiting Belgrade can look forward to visiting amazing museums and art galleries.

There are also several picturesque green spaces in the city where you can go hiking or enjoy a picnic on the grass. To sum it all up, Belgrade is a big city that offers something for everyone.

On the other hand, Sarajevo is a city known for its rich history. A melting pot of cultures, this Balkan capital is home to one of the most unique and beautiful old towns (Baščaršija) in the Balkan region. Sarajevo may be smaller in size than Belgrade, but that means you can visit most of its attractions on foot.

I love the quirky architecture, as well as the east-meets-west vibes that you get here. So, if you are searching for a picturesque destination in the Balkans, look no further than Sarajevo.

Read also:

• Visiting Sarajevo: 3-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Sarajevo

Belgrade vs Sarajevo: Transport and accessibility

The easiest way to reach these two Balkan capitals from other countries is by booking a flight. The good news is that both Sarajevo and Belgrade have international airports. However, the airport in Belgrade (Surcin) definitely has more air traffic and options for cheap flights than Sarajevo.

For example, Wizz Air offers cheap flights from Belgrade to a bunch of places in Europe. You can book a return flight ticket to Belgrade for less than $70 from popular European destinations such as Rome, Barcelona, Paris, Munich, and Milan.

The airport in Sarajevo is smaller and receives less traffic. There are fewer options of destinations that you will have a direct connection to Sarajevo, but if you don’t mind having layovers, this airport is also an option. Read more about the best international airports in Bosnia.

Another popular and budget-friendly way of traveling through the Balkan region is by road. Travelers will find buses to and from Belgrade and Sarajevo from multiple destinations – we usually use Omio to check for tickets.

Keep in mind that you’ll have to wait at the border when traveling via bus to both Belgrade and Sarajevo since it is an international border crossing. In the summer season, crossing the borders to reach both of these Balkan capitals can be a real nightmare if you travel during holidays or vacation time.

Belgrade vs Sarajevo: Things to do in each city

There is no shortage of cool things to do in Belgrade and Sarajevo. Although they have a slightly different appeal, both cities are home to numerous historical sites, cultural attractions, and nature spots worth checking out. 

Here are some recommendations for the most popular things to do in Belgrade and Sarajevo.

Things to do in Belgrade

• Enjoy water activities like swimming and kayaking at Ada Ciganlija during the summer season
• Explore the Kalemegdan Park and fortress
• See over a thousand technical exhibits and inventors’ drawings for new gadgets at the world-famous Nikola Tesla Museum
• Go for a stroll along the main street in Belgrade, Knez Mihajlova. With upmarket boutiques and international brands, it’s a great place for shopaholics.
• For artisan cocktails and fabulous sunset/river views, visit Zemunski Kej
• Learn more about the history of Yugoslavia at the spectacular Museum of Yugoslavia
• To enjoy spectacular panoramic views and unique architecture, climb the Avala Tower

Things to do in Sarajevo

• Snap a photo in front of the beautiful Latin Bridge
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sarajevo from the 35th floor of the Avaz Twist Tower
• Explore the narrow cobbled streets of Baščaršija and admire the beauty of Ottoman architecture. Here, you will find everything from delicious local foods to traditional crafts.
• See the Abandoned Bobsleigh Track at the top of Mount Trebević. The site was used for the Winter Olympics of 1984 in Sarajevo. Nowadays, the track is known for its graffiti.
• Visit the Gazi Husrev-beg mosque, the largest historical mosque in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Beer lovers can check out the fabulous Sarajevo Brewery which is also a museum
• A lifeline for food and aid during the war and siege of Sarajevo, the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum is one of the most important museums in the city.

Belgrade vs Sarajevo: Which Destination is Cheaper

Overall, Sarajevo is much cheaper than Belgrade. On average, grocery prices in Belgrade are 14.5% higher than in Sarajevo, and when it comes to dining out, restaurant prices in Belgrade are 58.7% higher than in Sarajevo. 

For travelers who are on a tight budget, the choice between Sarajevo and Belgrade is easy as you can get much more affordable prices in Sarajevo. That being said, both cities are on the cheaper side when compared to other European capitals such as Rome, Paris, and Amsterdam.

Belgrade vs Sarajevo: Getting around the city

When it comes to how easy it is to get around the city, the winner is Sarajevo.

I have to admit that getting around Sarajevo is much easier simply because Belgrade is a big city. Also, finding parking in Sarajevo is much easier than in Belgrade. Let’s see how to get around Belgrade and Sarajevo.

Getting around Belgrade

• Buses: With nearly 150 routes, the bus transportation system in Belgrade is definitely the most common way to get around the city. Keep in mind that buses in Belgrade can get extremely busy in the morning and in the afternoon when people are coming home from work.
• Trams: To reach popular tourist attractions in Belgrade, you can always hop on one of the trams.
• Taxis: Travelers visiting Belgrade can use taxi services to get around the city. Besides local taxi companies, CarGo also operates in Belgrade. It is a ride-sharing app similar to Bolt and Uber.
• Bicycle: Belgrade has a relatively reliable infrastructure for bicycles. Of course, it’s not Amsterdam, but getting around some parts of the city with a bicycle is easy except for a few parts of Belgrade that are quite steep.
• Car rentals: If you prefer, you can always rent a car to explore Belgrade, even though it is not something I recommend if Belgrade is the only city you will be visiting in Serbia.

Getting Around Sarajevo

• Trams: The easiest way to get around Sarajevo is by hopping on a tram.  Tram Line 3: Baščaršija – Ilidža is the most popular line among tourists and it is quite a scenic one.
• Buses: Sarajevo also has a few bus and minibus lines operating in the city. If you wish to reach the suburban areas in Sarajevo, you should use this form of transportation.
• Taxis: You will find a few taxi companies in this Balkan capital. The good news is that taxi prices in Sarajevo are quite cheap when compared to taxi transportation services in Western Europe. A typical taxi ride within the city will cost you less than 10 euros.
• Walking: Sarajevo wins the transport category because you can walk to almost every main attraction in the city. The center is small, so it is very well connected. You won’t miss having a car unless you want to do road trips to other cities close by.

Belgrade vs Sarajevo: Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife in the battle of Belgrade vs Sarajevo, I would have to say that Belgrade wins.

With dozens of cute cafes, craft beer bars, and nightclubs, Sarajevo does have options for places to go at night. Partygoers visiting Sarajevo should definitely check out Sloga, a large nightclub spread across 2 floors. For a more laid-back night out in Sarajevo, I recommend going to places like Café Tito, La Cava, Birtija, and Kino Bosna.

However, Belgrade has much more going on at night. Whether you wish to dance the night away at one of the popular splavovi, see a jazz concert, enjoy artisan cocktails, or spend your evenings in an old-school hole-in-the-wall joint, there is so much to choose from. 

If you wish to listen to alternative music, head out to the popular Cetinska Street where you will find dozens of cafes and bars. You can also dress to the nines and party until morning at Belgrade nightclubs like Freestyler, Hype, and Beton.

Belgrade vs Sarajevo: Which city offers the best day trips

Most people considering a trip to Belgrade and Sarajevo will also be interested in exploring a bit of the country. In this matter, both Belgrade and Sarajevo have great options for day trips to offer.

Day Trips from Belgrade

The capital of Vojvodina, Novi Sad is definitely the best destination for a day trip from Belgrade. It will take you about 35 minutes to reach Novi Sad via the new train line. Check this recommended day tour from Belgrade to Novi Sad. 

The 14th-century Golubac Fortress is an amazing historic structure in Serbia and a popular weekend getaway spot from Belgrade. This tour is a great day trip option for visiting Golucbac Fortress.

Wine lovers will want to visit the spectacular town of Sremski Karlovci. In addition to dozens of wine estates, this cute town is home to many beautiful Baroque buildings.

Day Trips from Sarajevo

The city of Mostar is the most popular day trip from Sarajevo. With its old stone bridge, Stari Most, the picturesque town of Mostar is worth a visit.

Located just 40 km from Sarajevo, Jahorina is a great skiing resort. It has 45 km of world-class slopes, as well as numerous restaurants and bars.

Nestled on the Neretva River, Konjic is a small town known for its charming old town. It is also home to the world-famous Tito’s bunker, a secret shelter built to protect the former president of Yugoslavia in case of a nuclear attack.

Belgrade vs Sarajevo: Which city has better food

If there is something that Balkan countries are popular for, it is delicious food! 

I am definitely not going to pick a winner in this Belgrade vs Sarajevo category, simply because both destinations have their own food traditions which are amazing. I declare it a tie!

The food scene in Belgrade

In Belgrade, you are spoiled for choice when dining out. From old-school restaurants that serve traditional Serbian food delicacies to posh modern dining establishments where you can sample both international cuisine and local dishes with a twist, the options for having a memorable meal in Belgrade are countless.

What authentic Serbian dishes to try in Belgrade? I recommend going for classics like sarma, ustipci, pljeskavica, and karadjordeva snicla.   

Best food options in Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a mecca for foodies! This place offers some of the most delicious foods in the Balkan Peninsula. For breakfast, go for burek or sirnica and you won’t be disappointed. 

The most popular dish to try in Sarajevo is the traditional cevapi. Two of the most popular joints to try this authentic dish in Sarajevo are Zeljo and Ferhatovic.

Accommodation in Belgrade and Sarajevo

Both Belgrade and Sarajevo have a lot of options for places to stay, ranging from simple & budget-friendly to fancy & luxurious. To help you choose, here are some of my favorite picks:

Best places to stay in Belgrade

If you want to explore by foot as much as possible, one of the best areas to stay is close to the Skadarska region. There are great restaurants around and you can reach the center by foot while benefiting from a calmer neighborhood.

Hotel options in Belgrade:

• Twin Apartments Belgrade: This is the apartment Fe & Edo stayed in last time they were in Belgrade and they had a great experience. The apartment’s location is great, it comfortably accommodates four people and the owner even provides parking in his private garage.
• Amsterdam Hotel: This modern hotel is located close to the main bus station, so it is very easy to get around. The facilities are great; the hotel also has a rooftop pool which can come in handy during the summer months.
• Miha Luxury Apartment: This apartment hosts up to 4 people and offers a very good combination of comfort and location. The apartment is fully furnished with everything you may need for a pleasant stay.

Best places to stay in Sarajevo

The best area to stay in Sarajevo is in the surroundings of Baščaršija but not inside it. You want to be close enough that you can easily reach it on foot but also stay outside so it is a bit calmer and less crowded.

Recommendations for places to stay in Sarajevo:

• Apartment Sanny: This is the place where we stayed during our last trip to Sarajevo and we can definitely recommend it. The apartment was perfect for 4 people, with two rooms and two bathrooms. The location was amazing and our friendly host let us keep the car in her personal covered garage, which was perfect.
• Hotel Story: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Sarajevo. This hotel is a great option for couples and families, with great comfort and an impeccable location.
• Apartmani 071: Simple and functional, perfect for couples. Located steps away from the Old Town, this accommodation offers free parking which is very convenient.

Read also: Best areas to stay in Sarajevo – hotel recommendations per neighborhood

Final verdict between Belgrade vs Sarajevo: which city should you visit?

Choosing between Belgrade and Sarajevo is a tough one. Both of these Balkan capitals are popular travel destinations for a reason. Here is my recommendation:

• If you are looking for a laid-back place with a rich culture, great architecture, and delicious food, Sarajevo is where you want to go. 
• If you are into big city vibes and wish to experience an incredible nightlife scene, but at the same time visit museums and art galleries, you should spend your vacation days in Belgrade. 

Need more information to help you plan your trip through the Balkans?

Check some of our other guides:

• Comparison between Belgrade and Sofia
• Complete Bosnia travel itinerary
• Comparison between Sarajevo vs Mostar
• What to visit in Montenegro (Full itinerary)