Ilidža, Sarajevo · Nature · Austro-Hungarian heritage
Vrelo Bosne
The spring of the Bosna river, 12 km from Sarajevo. Horse carriage rides, swans, wooden bridges and tips for visiting.
- Time needed
- 2 to 3 hours
- Best time
- Weekday mornings. Spring and autumn are especially beautiful
- Region
- Ilidža, Sarajevo
Why visit Vrelo Bosne?
Vrelo Bosne is where the Bosna river, which gives the country its name, rises out of the ground at the foot of Mount Igman. Dozens of clear springs bubble up and join into streams crossed by small wooden bridges, with swans and ducks on the water and old trees all around. It is one of Sarajevo's favorite places for a walk, and it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year.
The avenue
The best way in is along Velika Aleja, a straight avenue about 3.5 km long lined with old plane and chestnut trees, built in the Austro-Hungarian period. Cars are not allowed on it. You can walk, cycle, or take a horse-drawn carriage (fijaker), which is the classic way to arrive.
Getting there
Tram 3 from central Sarajevo to Ilidža (the last stop), then walk, cycle or take a carriage down the avenue. About 15 minutes by car.
Food
Restaurants inside the park serve trout and Bosnian food.
Practical info
- Entry
- Small entry fee to the park, a few KM
- Carriage
- Horse carriage along the avenue, about 5 KM per person or a set price per carriage
- Last checked
- October 2026. Prices and hours change, so confirm before you go.
FAQ
How do I get to Vrelo Bosne from Sarajevo?
Take tram 3 to Ilidža, then walk the 3.5 km avenue or take a horse carriage.
Is Vrelo Bosne worth visiting?
Yes. It is the easiest nature escape from Sarajevo and good for all ages.
Can you swim at Vrelo Bosne?
No. It is a protected natural monument.
