Travelling the World on a Budget: How I Spent 24 Hours in Sarajevo for Less Than £100

Looking for a budget-friendly travel destination packed with history, culture, and stunning scenery? Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia & Herzegovina, is an absolute must-visit! I recently went on a 24-hour Extreme Day Trip (ETD) to this fascinating city, and the entire trip cost me less than £100. Here’s a full breakdown of my experience and what you need to know to plan your own affordable adventure.

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Top Things to Do in Sarajevo in 24 Hours

If you’re wondering what to do in Sarajevo in a day, here’s how I made the most of my time in this remarkable city:

1. Sarajevo Roses

One of the first things I noticed in Sarajevo was the poignant Sarajevo Roses. These are red resin-filled scars in the concrete, marking spots where mortar explosions during the siege of Sarajevo (1992–1996) killed at least three people. There are over 200 of these memorials across the city, and they stand as a haunting reminder of the war’s impact. Did you know over 500,000 missiles were fired at Sarajevo during the siege? This moving part of the city’s history is impossible to ignore.

2. Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide

This museum is both emotional and educational, shedding light on the atrocities committed during the Bosnian War. It’s filled with artefacts, personal stories, and messages from survivors. The messages left by visitors from around the world are incredibly touching and serve as a reminder of the importance of learning from history.

3. Siege of Sarajevo Museum

Another must-visit for history enthusiasts, this small but impactful museum showcases how the people of Sarajevo endured the siege. From smuggling food and water to stories of resilience, it paints a vivid picture of life in the city during those harrowing four years.

4. Franz Ferdinand’s Assassination Site

Sarajevo is where history changed forever. Standing in the footprints of Gavrilo Princip, the assassin who killed Archduke Franz Ferdinand and started WWI, was surreal. I also visited the nearby museum, which displays the gun used in the assassination. Walking across the iconic Latin Bridge, where the event unfolded, felt like stepping back in time.

5. Walking Tour of Sarajevo

I joined a free walking tour, which was a fantastic way to explore the city and learn about its history from a local perspective. The guide shared fascinating insights about Sarajevo’s politics, culture, and history. My favourite quote? “Bosnia is the least corrupt country in the world – if everywhere is corrupt, then nowhere is corrupt!”

6. Sarajevo Illuminations

At night, Sarajevo lights up beautifully. The city pays tribute to its hosting of the 1984 Winter Olympics with gorgeous illuminations, and the atmosphere is magical.

7. Sarajevo’s Street Animals

One unexpected highlight of my trip was the city’s friendly street cats, dogs, and even pigeons. They roam freely and are surprisingly sociable – a quirky but memorable part of the experience!

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How Much Does a Trip to Sarajevo Cost?

One of the best things about visiting Sarajevo is how affordable it is. Here’s the full breakdown of what I spent:

• Flights: £30 return with Wizz Air from London Luton.
• Parking: £15 for 24 hours at Luton Asda car park (I took an Uber to the terminal for £5.90 each way).
• Hotel: £8 for the night – not luxurious, but clean, safe, and even upgradeable for £2.50 if you want a room with a kitchen!
• Museums: £16 for entry to three museums: Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide, Siege of Sarajevo Museum, and the museum near the Latin Bridge.
• Walking Tour: Free of charge (but I left a tip).
• Bus from the Airport: £1.20 each way. Note: the bus only accepts local currency, but depending on the driver, you might get a free ride! 😉
• Food & Drinks: Incredibly cheap! Meals at local restaurants were very affordable, and a bottle of Coca-Cola from a shop was just 60p.

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Why Visit Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is a city like no other, combining rich history with a welcoming atmosphere and incredible affordability. Whether you’re interested in modern history (like the 1990s Bosnian War) or older events (such as the assassination that triggered WWI), there’s so much to learn and explore here.

It’s also a foodie’s paradise, with delicious traditional dishes and no global chains like McDonald’s in sight – the locals prefer their own cuisine, and it’s easy to see why!

For less than £100, I had an eye-opening adventure filled with culture, history, and memorable experiences. If you’re planning a European getaway on a budget, make sure Sarajevo is on your list. ❤️

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Plan Your Budget-Friendly Sarajevo Trip Today

Ready to explore Sarajevo? With cheap flights, affordable accommodation, and an array of free or low-cost activities, this city is perfect for travellers looking to stretch their money while experiencing something truly unique.

Let me know if you’re planning your own trip to Sarajevo – I’d love to hear about it!

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