Sarajevo is a city that packs a punch — it’s a place where East meets West, old collides with new, and every street corner tells a story. That makes it a fantastic hub for full-day tours that reveal both its history and hidden corners. Whether you want to trace the Ottoman-era bridges, hike ancient trails, or explore nearby religious sites, Sarajevo offers options that suit every type of traveler. One of our favorites is the Best of Sarajevo – Ultimate Full-Day Experience, which combines Sarajevo’s core highlights and touches on its resilience and multicultural spirit.
For those interested in making a seamless connection between Bosnia and its neighbor Serbia, the one-way Sarajevo > Belgrade full-day tour offers the perfect mix: a scenic drive with cultural stops like UNESCO-listed bridges and Kusturica’s Drvengrad. For outdoor lovers, the hiking trip to Lukomir takes you straight into Bosnian rugged terrain, with unforgettable mountain views and a chance to meet local shepherds.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of the six top full-day tours, helping you pick the one that fits your interests and travel style.
1. ONE WAY Sarajevo > Belgrade – Full day tour in Eastern Bosnia / Western Serbia
At number one on our list, this full-day transfer and sightseeing is ideal for travelers who want to combine transportation with a cultural experience. The tour runs between Sarajevo and Belgrade, usually departing at 8:00 a.m., and includes a guided visit to Mehmed Pasa Sokolovic Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Andricgrad, a town created by filmmaker Emir Kusturica. The highlight is the optional ride on the narrow-gauge Šarganska Eight railway, which is a charming throwback to old Yugoslav engineering (tickets extra).
What makes this tour unique is the combination of efficient travel and sightseeing. It’s perfect if you’re pressed for time but want to see iconic sites like the Dobrunski Monastery and enjoy scenic views along the way. The reviews reflect this practicality — travelers mention the guide’s friendliness, the efficiency of the trip, and the opportunity to see sites you wouldn’t see on a typical transfer. At 12-14 hours, it’s a long day but offers tons of value for those crossing from Bosnia to Serbia.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers who want to transfer efficiently while also experiencing the landmarks and scenery along the route. It’s a great way to combine logistics with sightseeing.
2. From Sarajevo: Full-Day Hike to Lukomir Village
For those who love outdoor activities, this hiking tour to Lukomir offers an authentic taste of Bosnia’s rugged charm. The day begins with a pickup from Sarajevo, followed by a visit to Bjelasnica ski resort, known for hosting the 1984 Winter Olympics. The hike explores the highest-settled village in Bosnia, Lukomir, where you can meet local shepherds and learn about traditional mountain life.
What sets this tour apart is the blend of outdoor exercise and culture. The trail includes a 2.5-hour guided hike, stunning views of the Rakitnica Canyon, and a chance to taste Bosnian coffee in the village. Guests often rave about the scenery, with some reviewers calling the views “breathless” and praising the guide’s local knowledge.
The tour is well-suited for fit travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and want to see a living ethnological museum. The lunch in Lukomir is locally grown, adding to the authentic experience. Be prepared for uneven terrain, especially after rain.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for active travelers looking to combine trekking with cultural discovery. It’s a full-day adventure that rewards those willing to hike and explore remote Bosnian mountain villages.
3. From Sarajevo: Medjugorje Pilgrimage Full-Day Tour
If spiritual experiences are your thing, this full-day pilgrimage to Medjugorje is hard to beat. Departing from Sarajevo, you’ll drive through scenic Herzegovina landscapes en route to the renowned Catholic pilgrimage site. The visit typically includes St. James Church, where pilgrims gather, and the statue of the Risen Christ, a focal point for prayer.
The tour also features a stop in Mostar, with its famous Old Bridge and lively market stalls, offering a quick but meaningful taste of the region’s history and culture. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to combine a spiritual visit with sightseeing, and reviews highlight the smooth logistics and the guide’s informative commentary.
While this tour is mainly suited for devout visitors or those interested in religious sites, it also offers a glimpse of Bosnia’s diverse cultural fabric. The day is flexible, allowing some free time for reflection or shopping.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful cultural and spiritual experience, this tour balances religious significance with scenic drives and historic stops.
4. Sarajevo: Best of Sarajevo – Ultimate Full-Day Experience
At number four, this comprehensive full-day tour offers a deep dive into Sarajevo’s complex past and diverse architecture. It covers the siege of Sarajevo, the 1984 Winter Olympics, and religious landmarks such as the Gazi Husrev-Beg Mosque and the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
The tour includes a ride on the Trebević Cable Car, which offers panoramic views, and a visit to the Tunnel of Hope, Sarajevo’s wartime lifeline. Guides like Denis and Fariz receive praise for their engaging storytelling and extensive knowledge. Guests enjoy tasting Bosnian coffee and traditional food, making the day both educational and flavorful.
This tour is best for travelers who want an all-in-one overview of Sarajevo’s history, architecture, and resilience, all within about 7 hours. It’s a good value, considering the breadth of sites covered and the included experiences.
Bottom Line: This is a great pick for visitors wanting an immersive yet manageable daily tour that captures Sarajevo’s multifaceted identity.
5. From Sarajevo: Private Full-Day Kravica Waterfalls Tour
For a nature-focused escape, this private tour takes you from Sarajevo to the stunning Kravice Waterfalls. It’s perfect if you want a day of natural beauty and relaxation. The waterfalls are known for their crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings, especially magical in winter when the scenery is serene.
The journey includes a stop in Mostar, giving you time for photos and a quick exploration of its famous bridge. Summer visitors can enjoy swimming in the waterfalls, while winter travelers will appreciate the peaceful ambiance and views of nearby vineyards and mountains. The guide, Kenny, is praised for his patience and knowledge.
This tour suits travelers who prefer a luxury, private experience with flexibility for swimming, sightseeing, or just soaking in the scenery. It’s a relaxing break from cultural sites, with excellent value for those seeking tranquility.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers or couples looking for a private escape to waterfalls and scenic landscapes, with the convenience of door-to-door service.
6. Hiking around Sarajevo: Lukomir Village Full Day Hiking Tour
Lastly, this full-day hiking combines outdoor adventure with cultural insight. Unlike the previous hiking trip, this one emphasizes learning about Balkan nomadic traditions. You’ll walk through Umoljani before ascending to Lukomir, the highest nomad village in the Balkans, where locals still maintain traditional lifestyles.
The hike covers scenic views of Rakitnica Canyon and surrounding peaks, with an optional scenic viewpoint hike. The guide, Armin, is known for his friendliness and wealth of knowledge about Bosnian history and culture. The trip includes a home-cooked lunch and a chance to chat with villagers about their lifestyles.
Perfect for experienced hikers or those in good shape who want to combine natural beauty with cultural education, this tour offers an authentic and engaging experience. Reviewers mention the trail’s uneven terrain but praise the guide’s caring attitude and storytelling.
Bottom Line: For active travelers craving a mix of mountain scenery and cultural exchange, this full-day hike is a memorable choice.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sarajevo Full-Day Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and fitness level. If you want a comprehensive city overview, the Best of Sarajevo tour hits most highlights efficiently. For outdoor lovers, the Lukomir hiking and mountain hike tours provide spectacular scenery and cultural insights.
Travelers interested in regional connections should consider the Belgrade transfer and sightseeing — a practical way to combine transfer with sightseeing. For those seeking spiritual peace, the Medjugorje pilgrimage offers a meaningful experience with a touch of history.
Lastly, if nature is your focus, the Kravice Waterfalls provides a tranquil day amid spectacular scenery. Consider your fitness level, interests, and whether you prefer guided city tours or outdoor adventures when making your choice.
Final Thoughts
Sarajevo’s full-day tours cover a wide range of interests — from cultural sites and historical landmarks to outdoor hikes and scenic waterfalls. For history buffs, the Ultimate Sarajevo tour offers a rich narrative, while outdoor lovers will appreciate the Lukomir hikes and mountain trek. If you’re pressed for time or want to travel seamlessly between Bosnia and Serbia, the one-way transfer is a practical choice.
Booking early is always wise, especially in peak seasons, to guarantee availability. Whether you’re after culture, adventure, or spiritual reflection, Sarajevo’s full-day tours promise meaningful and memorable experiences.