Sarajevo Under Siege: A War History Tour

Sarajevo Under Siege: A War History Tour

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About This Tour in Sarajevo

Step into Sarajevo’s past with a tour led by someone who lived through it. As a child during the war in Bosnia (1992–1995), I experienced firsthand the resilience and challenges of this besieged city. This tour offers a unique blend of history and personal storytelling. We’ll explore the Siege of Sarajevo, including a visit to the Tunnel of Hope—the city’s vital lifeline during the war. I’ll share personal accounts of survival, courage, and the indomitable spirit of Sarajevo’s people. This isn’t just a war tour. We’ll also visit key landmarks that showcase Sarajevo’s rich culture and history. Whether you’re staying in a hotel or elsewhere, I’ll meet you where it’s convenient and arrange seamless transportation. This tour offers a deeply personal and unforgettable journey into Sarajevo’s past. Book now to gain a unique perspective on the city’s history and its remarkable spirit.

Why Visit Sarajevo?

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Sarajevo provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.

Getting to Sarajevo

The easiest way to reach Sarajevo is by flying into Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ). The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.

What's Included

  • Private transportation
  • WiFi on board
  • Air-conditioned vehicle

What's Not Included

  • Entrance fees for Adults, War tour in Sarajevo
  • Entrance fees for students, War tour in Sarajevo

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point

White Fortress (Bijela tabija), Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina Start

We Will pick you up with a comfortable White van!

End Point

We Will pick you up with a comfortable White van!

Pickup Information

Pickup Option: Pickup available or meet at start point

Pickup Time: 15 minutes before departure

Custom pickup locations may be available. Please contact the supplier for details.

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

White Fortress (Bijela tabija), Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina Start... 30 minutes

White Fortress (Bijela tabija), Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina Start your journey with a visit to one of Sarajevo’s most scenic viewpoints. The White Fortress, originally built in the 16th century, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city. From here, your guide will introduce the story of Sarajevo’s strategic position throughout history — from Ottoman times to the Siege of Sarajevo.

Visit the neighborhood where your local guide lived during the war 15 minutes

Visit the neighborhood where your local guide lived during the war. This area, located near the former maternity hospital that was heavily bombed, witnessed some of the harshest days of the Siege of Sarajevo. Here you will hear a deeply personal story — about childhood under siege, daily survival, and life surrounded by constant shelling. This stop includes a visit to the place where the guide’s father was buried, as well as the very street where he grew up and used to play during the war.

Drive along one of the most infamous streets...

Drive along one of the most infamous streets of Sarajevo during the war — known as Sniper Alley. This main city avenue was under constant sniper fire, making every crossing a matter of life and death. Your guide will share powerful stories of how residents risked their lives daily just to fetch water, food, or reach safety. Standing here today, surrounded by modern buildings, it’s hard to imagine that this same road once symbolized fear, resilience, and survival.

Explore one of the most important historical sites... 1 hour 20 minutes

Explore one of the most important historical sites of the Bosnian War — the Tunnel of Salvation. Dug secretly beneath the airport runway in 1993, this narrow underground passage connected the besieged city of Sarajevo with the outside world. It served as a lifeline for food, medicine, and hope, allowing thousands of people to survive. During your visit, you’ll walk through a section of the original tunnel, see authentic wartime artifacts, and watch a short documentary about the Siege.

The tour concludes with a drive through Lukavica...

The tour concludes with a drive through Lukavica — once part of the front line during the Siege of Sarajevo, today belonging to Republika Srpska. Here you will learn about the post-war division of Bosnia and Herzegovina into two entities: the Federation of BiH and Republika Srpska. Your guide will point out the former front lines, explain how the Dayton Peace Agreement reshaped the city, and show graffiti and murals that glorify wartime figures such as Ratko Mladić — offering a stark reminder of how memories of the war remain politically divided even today. This part of the tour encourages reflection on reconciliation, identity, and the long road to peace in post-war Bosnia.

Visit one of the city’s most symbolic landmarks...

Visit one of the city’s most symbolic landmarks — Sarajevo City Hall, originally built in 1896 during the Austro-Hungarian period. Once the seat of the National Library, it was completely destroyed in August 1992 when Serbian forces shelled it, burning almost two million books and manuscripts. Today, beautifully restored, Vijećnica stands as a powerful symbol of both destruction and rebirth. Your guide will share stories about its tragic past and what it means for Sarajevo’s cultural identity today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How do I book this tour?

Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.

Book Your Experience

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