Great combination of history and landscape. This tour of Albania with a day and night in Kosovo highlighted both the natural world and complex anthropology of this little known region. Our enjoyment was greatly enhanced by a knowledgeable leader and invited expert.
Sarajevo and surroundings
Bosnia’s historic cities and mountain villages
Spend a few days exploring historic Sarajevo, from the Tunnel Museum which provided safe passage during the 1990s civil war, to the city’s ethnically diverse streets full of mosques, churches and synagogues, via the bridge where Gavrilo Princip assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand, sparking the first world war. Take a trip to the stunning town of Mostar for cobbled streets and its famous bridge, before exploring the mountain village of Lukomir, home to a small population of shepherds. End back in Sarajevo.
Suggested itinerary
Explore Europe’s history in Sarajevo
Day 1–2 in Sarajevo
Sarajevo has been a city at the centre of conflict for much of the 20th century, whether as the scene of Archduke Franz Ferdinand assassination which sparked World War One or for the brutal siege in the civil war of the 1990s. Today, it’s a place proud of its diversity of religion and ethnicity, but it’s worth exploring its history through places like the Tunnel Museum (a lifeline during the siege), the Kovaci Memorial Cemetery and the Jewish Museum.
Explore Mostar’s old town
Day 3 in Mostar
Picture-perfect Mostar is best experienced after dark, when the day-tripping hordes head off. Get a vantage point of Mostar’s famous bridge, arcing between two medieval towers as the waterfront restaurants begin to twinkle, before exploring the city’s cobbled streets.
Hike to the mountain village of Lukomir
Day 4 in Lukomir
The tiny mountain village of Lukomir is a three-hour trek from Rakitnica River on the southwestern slopes of Bjelašnica Mountain. Here, you can see shepherds tending their flocks in a place untouched by modernity.
Return to Sarajevo and depart
Day 5 in Sarajevo
Depending on your flight, there may be time to visit the Jewish quarter, established by Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain in the 15th century, or Svrzo’s house, the museum home of a wealthy 18th century Ottoman family before a transfer to the airport.
Where to stay
Classic
Hotel Ovo Malo Duše
In the heart of the Bašćaršija area in central Sarajevo, Hotel Ovo malo duše offers six individually designed unique rooms featuring local craftsmen and designers, a restaurant serving international cuisine and a summer terrace.
Deluxe
Hotel Europe
Built in 1882 and fully restored, the Austro-Hungarian building perfectly blends oriental and modern style. Located in the centre of Sarajevo, just a few steps from the Old Town, Hotel Europe offers guests a range of luxurious rooms, a wellness centre with gym and Turkish bath, acclaimed Viennese Cafe and an à la carte restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators would cost from £790pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.