Turkish area Sarajevo - A Saville
The small nation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of Europe's most naturally beautiful places. Its history, nature, people and mixture of influences are reasons to visit.
Bosnia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. From its recent turbulent history, to the unimaginable beauty of its nature, the Ottoman remnants of the Turkish quarters in Sarajevo, and the laid back attitude of the people, a trip to the Balkans is not complete without seeing all Bosnia has to offer. Its small size makes it easy to get around (even if you have to wait longer for a bus because it's running on 'Bosnian time' and there's no guarantee you will get a seat), and the hospitality and friendliness of the people means any place in the country you visit will be enjoyable.
The Best Things to do in Sarajevo
- A walking tour in Sarajevo is a worthwhile hour to be spent wandering the city. It gives an informative introduction of the city today and the country's history. Along with seeing influences from the Ottoman empire and Austria side by side, and the charming streets to walk around, the most interesting attraction that the eyes are drawn to are bullet holes in buildings, a reminder of Bosnia's tumultuous past. Many run down, derelict buildings are left standing, noting 1990's Sarajevo - same with the plethora of white graves in the cemetery aligned overlooking the city.
- Eat cake, try burek or sip coffee in the Turkish quarters of Sarajevo. The city is abound with places to relax. Adopt the laid-back Bosnian attitude and unwind with an espresso in the beautiful and interesting area of Sarajevo.
- Museums in Sarajevo and the National Art Gallery are excellent alternatives to a walking tour which showcase a range of artworks from old works to modern art, many which link to Bosnia's recent past.
- There are plenty of cafes and bars throughout Sarajevo, and Zlanta Ribica is one of the best to sit in for hours just for the interior. A truly individual bar, it is decorated with anything and everything leaving no empty spaces and a fascinating array of furniture and knick-knacks. You can sit here for hours still finding new things while enjoying a quiet drink.
- Rafting along the Neretva River. Not far from the town of Bihac, this takes a full day going through the unbelievably scenic nature that epitomises Bosnia's beauty. Passing through the waterfalls, the rich flora and fauna, the clarity of the beautiful coloured green water is an unforgettable experience to take in the organic elements that are unmatched elsewhere. Various companies have day tours, Badžo-Raft is a good one to go with (www.badzoraft.com).
- Wander around Travnik, what was once the capital of Bosnia, to take in the beautiful view from the old ruins at the top of the hill. The small river in the middle of the village has the most pure drinking water, and this town has great places to try a traditional Bosnian hotpot for lunch.
- Talk to locals in the villages. They are very friendly people who love nothing more than to share their knowledge of their town.
- Take photos in Mostar. Picturesque and charming, it is classified as a city but is completely walkable, and everything can be seen within one morning. It is also beautiful at night, especially along the river near the famous bridge.
Copyright Anna Saville. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication.
