How to Plan Your Sarajevo Jewish Tour
Are you planning a trip to Sarajevo and want to experience the rich Jewish heritage of the city? Look no further than the Sarajevo Jewish Tour! This walking tour will take you through the streets of Sarajevo to visit synagogues, cemeteries, and museums while learning about the history of Jews in Bosnia. Here are some tips to help you plan your perfect Sarajevo Jewish Tour.Overview
The Sarajevo Jewish Tour is a must-do for visitors interested in the Jewish history of Sarajevo. The tour lasts approximately three hours and covers many important locations within the city. During the tour, you’ll learn about the arrival of Jews in Bosnia in the 15th century, as well as their struggles during the Spanish Inquisition. Your local licensed guide will lead you through the city streets to visit many important religious and cultural landmarks.What’s Included
The Sarajevo Jewish Tour includes a local guide to lead you throughout the city. The tour also includes a professional guide to provide in-depth historical knowledge. The air-conditioned vehicle is also included in the tour package. Food and drinks are not provided, but there will be opportunities to purchase refreshments throughout the tour.Meeting and Pickup
If you’re staying in the city center, you can head directly to the meeting point, which is located near the National Theatre. If you’d like pickup from your hotel or accommodation, you can request it at the time of booking.Itinerary
During the Sarajevo Jewish Tour, you’ll visit many important religious and cultural landmarks throughout the city. Here’s a breakdown of the tour itinerary:Jewish Cemetery
The tour begins at the Jewish Cemetery, which was established in the 16th century. Your guide will provide background on the important people buried in the cemetery.Jewish Museum
Next, the tour heads to the Jewish Museum, which is located in the historic synagogue complex. The museum features exhibits on Jewish life in Sarajevo, including the Holocaust and the Bosnian War.Ashkenazi Synagogue
The tour then moves to the Ashkenazi Synagogue, which is one of the largest remaining synagogues in the Balkans. Your guide will provide a history of the synagogue, including its role during World War II.Old Jewish Quarter
The next stop on the tour is the Old Jewish Quarter, where you’ll see many historic buildings dating back to the Ottoman era. Your guide will provide background on the Jewish community that lived in the area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina
The tour then moves to the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which features exhibits on the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina from the prehistoric period to modern times. Your guide will highlight the exhibits related to Jewish history.Sephardic Synagogue
The tour ends at the Sephardic Synagogue, which was built in the late 19th century. Your guide will provide background on the Sephardic community that lived in the area during the late Ottoman period.Booking the Tour
Ready to experience the rich Jewish heritage of Sarajevo? Book the Sarajevo Jewish Tour today through Viator, a reputable tour provider. You won’t regret delving into the history and culture of the Jewish community in Sarajevo while exploring the scenic streets of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo is a beautiful city located in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Balkans due to its rich cultural heritage, diverse history, and stunning landscapes. This FAQ post aims to provide answers to common queries about Sarajevo.1. What is the best time to visit Sarajevo?
Sarajevo has a continental climate with mild summers and cold winters. The best time to visit the city is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. However, if you want to experience the winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, then December to February is the perfect time.2. How to reach Sarajevo?
The easiest way to reach Sarajevo is by air. The city has a well-connected international airport, and flights from major European cities such as London, Munich, and Istanbul are available. Alternatively, you can take a bus from major cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro.3. What are the top tourist attractions in Sarajevo?
Sarajevo has several tourist attractions that reflect its diverse history and cultural heritage. The top tourist attractions in Sarajevo are:- Old Town (Bascarsija): It is the heart of the city and features Ottoman-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and shops selling traditional crafts and food.
- Sarajevo City Hall (Vijecnica): It is an iconic building that was destroyed during the Bosnian War and later reconstructed to its former glory.
- National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina: It showcases the country’s archaeological, cultural, and natural heritage.
- Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque: It is a 16th-century Ottoman mosque and one of the largest in the region.
- Sarajevo Tunnel Museum: It is a museum that showcases the history of the Sarajevo tunnel, which was built during the Bosnian War to supply the city with food and weapons.
4. What is Bosnian cuisine, and what are the must-try dishes in Sarajevo?
Bosnian cuisine is a blend of Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Central European influences. The must-try dishes in Sarajevo are:- Cevapi: Grilled sausages made of minced meat served in pita bread with onions and sour cream.
- Burek: A savory pastry filled with meat or cheese.
- Bosnian coffee: A strong and aromatic coffee served with Turkish delight.
- Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo, chopped nuts, and honey syrup.
5. Is Sarajevo a safe city for tourists?
Yes, Sarajevo is generally a safe city for tourists. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded areas, so it’s best to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.6. What is the currency used in Sarajevo?
The currency used in Sarajevo is the Bosnia and Herzegovina convertible mark (BAM). Euro and US dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas.7. Is English spoken in Sarajevo?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Sarajevo, especially in tourist areas. However, knowledge of basic Bosnian phrases can be helpful in communicating with the locals.8. What are the best day trips from Sarajevo?
Sarajevo is surrounded by stunning landscapes and historic sites that make great day trips. The best day trips from Sarajevo are:- Mostar: A historic town famous for its iconic bridge over the Neretva River and Ottoman-era architecture.
- Jajce: A small town known for its stunning waterfall and medieval castle.
- Srebrno Jezero: A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and forests.
- Olympic Mountains: A group of mountains that hosted the Winter Olympics in 1984 and offer great opportunities for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
9. What are the best accommodations in Sarajevo?
Sarajevo offers a wide range of accommodations for all budgets and preferences. Some of the best accommodations in Sarajevo are:- Hotel Europe: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city and offering top-notch amenities and services.
- Pino Nature Hotel: A boutique hotel located in Jahorina mountain and offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
- Hostel Franz Ferdinand: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city center and offering comfortable accommodations and friendly atmosphere.
10. What are the customs and etiquette in Sarajevo?
Sarajevo has a diverse culture and set of customs and etiquette. Some common customs and etiquette in Sarajevo are:- Greeting: It is customary to greet people with a handshake and eye contact.
- Dress code: Sarajevo has a conservative dress code, especially in religious places. It’s best to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.
- Religion: Sarajevo has a mix of religions, including Islam, Orthodox, and Catholic. It’s essential to show respect for religious sites and customs.
- Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s common to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants and cafes if the service was excellent.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sarajevo
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a city that has a rich history and a unique blend of cultures. As a tourist, you may find it overwhelming to decide what to do or where to go. In this guide, we will provide an overview of how to spend your time in Sarajevo, from historical landmarks to local cuisine and more.1. Visit the Historic Sites
Sarajevo has a rich history, and there are many historic sites to visit. Here are some of the top historical landmarks to explore:a. The Old Town (Bascarsija)
The Old Town, also known as Bascarsija, is the heart and soul of Sarajevo. The cobblestone streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Sarajevo’s culture. Make sure to visit the Sebilj, a wooden fountain that symbolizes the heart of Sarajevo.b. Sarajevo City Hall
Sarajevo City Hall, also known as the Vijećnica, is a stunning example of neo-Moorish architecture. The building was destroyed during the war in the 1990s but has since been restored to its former glory. It now houses the National and University Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and you can take a guided tour to learn more about its history.c. Svrzo’s House
Svrzo’s House, located in the heart of the Old Town, is a museum that showcases the traditional way of life in Sarajevo during the Ottoman period. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s history and culture.2. Explore Nature
Sarajevo is surrounded by mountains, and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Here are some of the top natural attractions to explore:a. Vrelo Bosne
Vrelo Bosne, located on the outskirts of Sarajevo, is a park that features a beautiful spring and walking trails. It’s an excellent place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air.b. Trebević Mountain
Trebević Mountain, located just outside of Sarajevo, offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. You can hike to the top or take a cable car for a more leisurely experience.3. Try Local Cuisine
Sarajevo has a rich culinary tradition, and there are plenty of delicious dishes to try. Here are some of the top foods to taste:a. Cevapi
Cevapi, a grilled meat dish, is a staple of Bosnian cuisine. It’s typically served with pita bread and onions and is a must-try when in Sarajevo.b. Burek
Burek, a pastry filled with meat or cheese, is another popular dish in Sarajevo. It’s perfect for a quick snack or a light meal.c. Bosnian Coffee
Bosnian coffee, also known as Turkish coffee, is a strong and flavorful coffee that is a favorite among locals. It’s typically served with a small dessert, so make sure to enjoy the entire experience.4. Enjoy the Nightlife
Sarajevo has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Here are some of the top places to visit:a. City Pub
City Pub is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It features live music and a wide selection of drinks.b. Kino Bosna
Kino Bosna is a cinema that doubles as a club on the weekends. It’s a unique experience and a great place to dance the night away.c. Vatra
Vatra is a cozy bar that features a fireplace, perfect for a chilly night. It’s an excellent place to relax with a drink and some friends.5. Shop for Souvenirs
No trip to Sarajevo is complete without buying some souvenirs. Here are some of the top places to shop:a. Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque Bazaar
The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque Bazaar, located in the heart of the Old Town, is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs. It features a wide selection of traditional crafts, such as pottery and jewelry.b. BBI Centar
BBI Centar is a shopping mall that features both local and international brands. It’s an excellent place to find gifts for friends and family back home.c. Markale Market
Markale Market is a bustling outdoor market that features a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as other local products. It’s an excellent place to pick up some snacks or ingredients for a home-cooked meal.Book Your Tour Now
Sarajevo is a beautiful and unique city, with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Sarajevo. By visiting the historic sites, exploring nature, trying local cuisine, enjoying the nightlife, and shopping for souvenirs, you’ll be able to make the most of your time as a tourist in this incredible city.Table of Contents
