Sarajevo in Depth: Free of Charge Walking Tour of Sarajevo

As soon as we leave our starting point, our office at Besarina Čikma 5 in the heart of the old town of Sarajevo, first stop of the walk is Baščaršija square and its most interesting symbol, fountain, Sebilj.

Next stop is Kazandžiluk street and story of origins of copper and tin industry in Sarajevo.

Bravadžiluk street in 16th century used to be heart of production of locks and padlocks and that is how it got the name (brava = lock). Today however is home to some of the finest Bosnian food places – Ćevabdžinicas and Buregdžinicas.

We will continue towards Vijećnica (Sarajevo city hall) and walk over Šeher-ćehaja bridge with stories about Yellow and White Bastions including a photo stop at famous Inat Kuća (House of Spite).

In the very vicinity of Vijećnica, there is a Sarajevo Brewery which was founded on May 24th, 1864, and historians consider it to be the oldest industrial plant in Bosnia and Herzegovina and charming Franciscan monastery which is a “must” while learning about the city.

Next stop will be the oldest mosque in Sarajevo, Imperial mosque which will provide a unique  insight into traditions of Islam in Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Just bridge further down the Miljacka river, we shall arrive to Atmejdan park, Latin bridge and assassination point of Franz Ferdinand where we will learn the inevitable story of the WWI.

After WII it is time for a bit older history and a stroll in Gazihusref-beys covered market-bazaar (Gazi Husref-beys bezistan) which was built in early 16th century for trading reasons still today serves the original purpose.

History of Jewish people in Sarajevo and visit to Jewish Synagogue is unmissable part of the tour. Once expelled from Spain in 1492 majority of Sephardic Jews settled regions of the Ottoman Empire, amongst which Sarajevo and Bosnia have hosted large numbers.

>Sarajevo old town Bascarsija coppersmith street – Kazandziluk

Next in line of religions who have dominated life and culture of Sarajevo, are Bosnian catholics, and next site on the visit is their greatest temple in Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cathedral of Sacred Jesus Hearth.

Just at the square, if you look around, you will notice red stains on the ground. Those are the worldwide known Sarajevo Roses.

Couple of minutes away from pedestrian zone we will be welcomed by local farmers at green “Markale Pijaca“. Markale was on front page two times during the 1990ies, due to massacres that took place during the siege of Sarajevo. T

Few steps away will take us to the junction of Mula Mustafa Bašeskija, Titova and Ferhadija street where we we will make a short stop at the Eternal flame (Vječna vatra), favourite meeting place of locals which will give us a chance to soak up some good local atmosphere.

As we continue with the amazing European Jerusalem experience, our next stop will be just a perfect way to display the rich history of religious and cultural diversity that is simply breathtaking – The Orthodox Cathedral Church of the Nativity of the Theotokos.

Afterwards, we will admire the Hotel Europe which is both and hotel and historic building. Built and opened in the early days of what turned out to be a 40-year Austro-Hungarian occupation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

>Eternal Flame: symbol of fallen fighters and civilians in World War II, but also a symbol of life and vibrancy of the city.

Summer garden of this hotel Europe which is an Austro-Hungarian building was actually built on top of the remains of Tašlihan, place constructed in Ottoman period. Two historical places on one sight. Tašlihan was one of three caravanserais in Sarajevo, which served both travellers and horses.

We will go through endowment of Gazi Husref bey, by visiting the Gazi Husref beys mosque, Clock tower famously called Sahat Kula and its belonging building Muvekithana, Madrassa, Khanikah and Library, first public toilette in Sarajevo, Imaret kitchen (once serving only poor), burial place of Gazi Husrev-bey and few other locations important for understanding this complex which is biggest in the Balkans.

Morića Han will be our next stop and this is certainly one of those corners where you can imagine yourself being in a tale from 1001 Nights Middle Eastern Book . This inn is Sarajevo’s only remaining caravanserai, a place where merchant caravans could find accommodation during the Ottoman period.

Old Orthodox Church, the oldest religious structure in the city will be our last stop for a day and will offer you a shocking experience of “time travel” as soon as you place your foot in its stunning garden.

>Sarajevo Gazi Husref Bey Mosque Built in 1531