Times of Misfortune - Life Under Siege and the Tunnel of Hope
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join the Times of Misfortune Tour to uncover the powerful and moving history of Sarajevo during the 1990s Siege of Sarajevo and the fall of Yugoslavia. This 3.5-hour Sarajevo war tour offers a comprehensive look at the siege that tested the city’s spirit, visiting key sites that tell the story of endurance and resilience.
Begin your journey at the Yellow Fortress, where stunning views provide the backdrop for an introduction to the siege's origins and Sarajevo’s early defense efforts. Pass through historically significant locations such as Sniper Alley and the Sarajevo Maternity Hospital, where medical staff became unsung heroes. The tour culminates at the Tunnel of Hope Museum, an underground passage that symbolized Sarajevo’s survival. This tour is a deep dive into a city's courage during one of its darkest periods.
Available options
Private Times of Misfortune
Private tour
Times of Misfortune - English
Times of Misfortune in Italian
Times of Misfortune in French
Times of Misfortune in Spanish
Times of Misfortune in German
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Minivan
What's included
Licensed guide
Transportation
Detailed itinerary
1
Meeting point with the guide.
2
Yellow Fortress: Offers breathtaking views and insight into Sarajevo’s wartime defenses.
3
Kovači Cemetery: Reflect at this national memorial honoring Bosnia’s defenders from the 1992-1995 war.
4
City Hall (Pass By): Learn about its role during the war, including its destruction and symbolic restoration.
5
Markale City Market (Pass By): Glimpse the bustling marketplace that bore witness to key moments of Sarajevo’s wartime history.
6
Trg Djece Sarajeva (Pass By): Pass through this square, a significant symbol of Sarajevo’s endurance.
7
Presidency Building (Pass By): View the historic seat of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s presidency, pivotal during the war.
8
Olympic Stadium and Hall Zetra: Discover Sarajevo’s dual identity as an Olympic hub and war-torn landscape.
9
Sarajevo Maternity Hospital: Learn about the heroic efforts of medical staff during the siege.
10
Parliament and Holiday Inn Hotel (Pass By): Witness these landmarks tied to wartime journalism and political decisions.
11
Sniper Alley: Drive along the city’s most dangerous street during the siege.
12
RTV Dom (TV Building) (Pass By): View the national TV building that broadcasted during key moments of the war.
13
Stop 13
Tunnel of Hope Museum: Explore the extraordinary underground passage that connected Sarajevo to the outside world, and learn about its construction, purpose, and significance.
What's not included
Tickets for the Tunnel of Hope museum: Adults 20 BAM (10.50€); Students 8 BAM (4.50€)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
6 reviews
5★
5
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
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Tripadvisor
4.9
47 reviews
5★
43
4★
3
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Across the museum Sarajevo 1878 - 1918 (Franz Ferdinand Assassination spot)
About Sarajevo
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city of rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning architecture. Known for its Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav heritage, Sarajevo offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Baščaršija
The old bazaar and cultural heart of Sarajevo, Baščaršija is a must-visit for its historic charm and traditional crafts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, but shopping and dining costs vary
Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum
This museum showcases the tunnel that was used to supply the city during the Siege of Sarajevo.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (around 10 EUR)
Yellow Fortress (Žuta Tabija)
A historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Miljacka River.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ćevapi
Grilled minced meat sausages, typically served with somun (flatbread) and onions.
Main Dish
Contains meat, gluten (from bread)
Burek
A flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach.
Snack
Contains gluten, can be vegetarian (cheese or spinach versions)
Begova Čorba
A rich and flavorful beef and vegetable soup, often served with noodles or rice.
Soup
Contains meat, gluten (from noodles or rice)
Popular Activities
Skiing
Hiking
Mountain biking
Coffee tasting
Spa treatments
Strolling through Baščaršija
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Sarajevo due to the pleasant weather and numerous outdoor activities and festivals.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Bosnian
- Widely spoken: English, Serbian, Croatian
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Bosnia and Herzegovina Convertible Mark (BAM)
Time Zone
CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sarajevo is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and take standard precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use official taxis and ensure the meter is used
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- Sarajevo International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Sarajevo Central Station
By bus
Sarajevo Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The tram system is efficient and affordable, connecting key areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yutong
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Stari Grad)
Marijin Dvor
Grbavica
Day trips
Mostar
130 km • Full day
Mostar is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and rich Ottoman heritage.
Travnik
90 km • Full day
Travnik is known for its Ottoman architecture and as the former residence of Bosnian governors.
Jahorina Mountain
30 km • Half day to full day
Jahorina is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Festivals
Sarajevo Film Festival • August
Sarajevo Winter Festival • December to February
Sarajevo Jazz Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit the Yellow Fortress at sunset for the best views of the city
- Try traditional Bosnian coffee at a local café for an authentic experience
- Explore the city's street art and murals, which tell stories of its history and culture
- Take a day trip to Mostar to see the iconic Stari Most and experience another side of Bosnia
- Learn a few basic phrases in Bosnian to enhance your interactions with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
