Getting around

Getting Around Sarajevo: A Complete Transportation Guide for North American Travelers

Updated Tue, Nov 11, 2025

Sarajevo's compact center is perfect for walking, with reliable trams and buses connecting neighborhoods efficiently for budget-friendly exploration.

Getting Around Sarajevo: A Complete Transportation Guide for North American Travelers

Overview

Ease of getting around

Sarajevo offers multiple ways to explore its historic streets and cultural landmarks. The compact city center makes walking the best option for major attractions, while trams and buses connect outer neighborhoods efficiently. Public transport operates frequently with affordable fares, though English signage is limited. Rental cars work for day trips but parking downtown proves challenging. Biking remains difficult due to hills and limited infrastructure. Most visitors find walking combined with occasional tram rides covers their transportation needs perfectly. The city's size allows covering significant ground on foot within reasonable timeframes.

Public transit

GRAS operates Sarajevo's tram and bus network with five tram lines and numerous bus routes covering the metropolitan area. Single tickets cost around 1.60 BAM and day passes offer better value for multiple trips. Purchase tickets at kiosks, from drivers, or via mobile apps. Trams run frequently during peak hours with reduced evening service. Limited English signage means having route maps helps navigation considerably.

Driving

Major international rental companies operate from Sarajevo International Airport and downtown locations including Hertz, Avis, and Budget. Expect to pay premium rates compared to Western Europe. Parking downtown is scarce and expensive, with most hotels charging additional fees. Mountain roads outside the city can be challenging. An International Driving Permit is required alongside your home country license for legal driving.

Walking

Sarajevo's Old Town and central districts are highly walkable with most major attractions within a few kilometers of each other. Baščaršija, the Latin Bridge, and main museums connect via pedestrian-friendly streets. Some areas feature cobblestones and hills that may challenge some visitors. Winter ice and snow can make sidewalks slippery, requiring appropriate footwear for safe navigation year-round.

Biking

Sarajevo does have steep hills, limited bike lanes, and heavy traffic in central areas, which could challenge some cyclists. Few bike rental options exist, and cycling infrastructure remains underdeveloped compared to Western European cities. Some parks and riverside paths offer pleasant riding, but overall the city favors pedestrians over cyclists. Mountain biking opportunities exist in surrounding hills for adventure seekers.