Baščaršija

Why visit Baščaršija?

Baščaršija is Sarajevo's old Ottoman bazaar and the heart of the city. It was laid out in the 15th century, when Isa-beg Isaković founded Sarajevo, and it still works the way it always has: small shops grouped by trade, coppersmiths hammering on Kazandžiluk street, and the smell of grilled ćevapi from every corner.

Things to do

• Sebilj: The wooden fountain on Pigeon Square. It is the symbol of the city and the usual starting point for any walk. Local legend says whoever drinks from it will come back to Sarajevo.
• Kazandžiluk (Coppersmith Street): Copper coffee sets, plates and engraved trays made by hand in front of you.
• Gazi Husrev-beg Bezistan: A long covered market from 1555, still full of small shops.
• Morića Han: The last surviving Ottoman caravanserai (traveler's inn) in Sarajevo. Today its courtyard is a café and restaurant.
• Sarajevo Meeting of Cultures: A line on the pavement on Ferhadija street. Look east and you see Ottoman Sarajevo; look west and you see the Austro-Hungarian city. It sums up Sarajevo better than anything else.
• Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and the Clock Tower: One block away (see the mosque's own page).

Getting there

Tram to the Baščaršija stop, or walk from anywhere in the center.

Food

Baščaršija is the best place in Bosnia to try ćevapi (grilled minced meat in somun bread with raw onion and kajmak). Also try burek and other pita from a buregdžinica, Bosnian coffee served in a copper džezva, and baklava or tufahija for dessert.

Practical info

Entry

Free

Open

Always. Most shops open around 9:00 and close in the evening

Tips

Carry cash (KM). Many small shops do not take cards. Cobblestones are slippery when wet

Last checked

October 2026. Prices and hours change, so confirm before you go.

FAQ

Is Baščaršija free to visit?

Yes. It is an open public old town. You only pay for what you buy or eat.

How long do you need in Baščaršija?

Two to three hours covers the main sights and a meal. Add more time if you visit the mosque and museums nearby.

What is Baščaršija famous for?

Its Ottoman-era streets, the Sebilj fountain, copper crafts, Bosnian coffee and the best ćevapi in the country.

Also nearby

• Gallery 11/07/95 Sarajevo

  A memorial gallery in central Sarajevo about the 1995 Srebrenica genocide. Photos, film and personal stories. Tickets and hours.

• Svrzo's House and Despić House Sarajevo

  Two preserved family homes showing how Muslim and Orthodox merchant families lived in old Sarajevo. Tickets, hours and tips.