Sarajevo Olympic mountains – Driving and Walking Tour

Discover Sarajevo’s Olympic Mountains: A Practical and Authentic Tour Experience

When you visit Sarajevo, diving into the mountains that hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics is a must. This Sarajevo Olympic Mountains – Driving and Walking Tour offers a compact yet rich experience, priced at about $40.49 per person and lasting around 2 to 3 hours. Starting from the city’s center at Ferhadija 19, the tour whisks you away to explore iconic sites like Trebevic and Igman, combining a comfortable drive with short, insightful walks. With pickup options and a mobile ticket, it’s designed for travelers who want a hassle-free way to connect with Sarajevo’s past and natural beauty.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning views with history, especially the story of Sarajevo’s Olympic legacy. The abandoned bobsleigh track on Trebevic, often called the most beautiful abandoned place worldwide, is a highlight—an evocative reminder of a different era. Plus, the expert guidance from guides like Enes, praised for their passion and knowledge, adds a personal touch that elevates the experience.

A possible consideration is the short stopovers; if you’re looking for an in-depth tour or more time at each site, this might feel a bit brisk. But for those wanting a quick, authentic taste of Sarajevo’s Olympic past with great scenery, this tour hits the mark.

Ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone eager to see Sarajevo’s surrounding mountains without the hassle of planning logistics, this tour offers an engaging, authentic glimpse of a significant chapter in Sarajevo’s story.

Key Points

• Accessible and affordable: Great value at around $40 for a quick yet meaningful experience.
• Expert guides: Guides like Enes are praised for their passion, making the tour lively and informative.
• Stunning sights: Focused stops at Trebevic and Igman offer impressive views and photo opportunities.
• Historical significance: Learn about the 1984 Winter Olympics and Sarajevo’s Olympic legacy.
• Comfortable pacing: Short stops keep the tour relaxed, perfect for those with limited time.
• Authentic experiences: Visit iconic sites like the abandoned bobsleigh track, full of stories and history.

A Deep Dive into the Sarajevo Olympic Mountains Tour

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at Ferhadija 19, a central meeting point in Sarajevo, making it convenient for most travelers. Once underway, you’ll make your way to Trebevic Mountain—a charming, panoramic spot just about 30 minutes from the city. This mountain isn’t just a stunning backdrop; it’s a key part of Sarajevo’s Olympic story, hosting the bobsleigh and luge tracks. Here, you’ll get a short stop, during which you can soak in the views of Sarajevo and explore the abandoned bobsleigh track. Many visitors find this one of the most compelling sights—the ruins of a once vibrant Olympic venue, now a hauntingly beautiful relic, visited by sports journalists and fans alike.

Following Trebevic, the tour continues to Igman Mountain, another site of Olympic significance, also about 30 minutes away. Igman played a pivotal role during the 1984 games, particularly for cross-country skiing and biathlon. Today, it remains a favorite for winter sports and hiking, offering pristine landscapes that contrast sharply with the urban surroundings. During the visit, you’ll learn about how these mountains symbolized Sarajevo’s Olympic ambitions and resilience, especially considering the turbulent history that followed.

The tour wraps up with the chance to explore shorter stopovers that highlight the region’s natural beauty and historical importance. You’ll return to your starting point, feeling both inspired and more connected to Sarajevo’s Olympic past.

The Experience of Visiting Trebevic and Igman

What makes these stops truly special are the views and stories. The abandoned bobsleigh track on Trebevic delivers a sense of nostalgia and curiosity. Photographers and history enthusiasts love to walk around this eerie, rusting structure, imagining the thrill and pride of Sarajevo hosting the Winter Olympics. As one reviewer said, “It’s considered the most beautiful abandoned place in the world,” a spot that sparks both awe and reflection.

At Igman, the scenery is spectacular—snow-capped in winter or lush in summer—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The guide’s commentary often highlights the Olympic legacy, but also the natural importance of these mountains for Sarajevo’s residents. Many mention how knowledgeable guides like Enes make these stories come alive, filling the stops with passion and insight.

What Travelers Are Saying

Two glowing reviews underscore just how much visitors appreciate this experience. One reviewer raved about starting at the Tunnel of Hope, then touring the Olympic mountains with short stopovers—a format that keeps things lively. They found the guide Enes “really passionate,” which made their visit memorable. Another traveler, Takis from Greece, called Enes the best guide they’ve encountered, emphasizing his knowledge and cleverness. It’s clear that the quality of guiding is a big part of what elevates this tour from just a sightseeing trip to an engaging learning experience.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour’s small group cap of 100 travelers ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the transportation is comfortable, allowing you to relax and focus on the scenery and stories. The drive itself is part of the experience—short, scenic, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops.

Pricing & Value

At just over $40, this tour offers solid value. For that price, you gain insightful guides, stunning vistas, and the chance to walk where Olympic heroes once competed—and where history now lingers in the form of abandoned tracks and panoramic views. It’s an efficient way to see key sites without the hassle of organizing your own transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a compact, informative, and authentic connection to Sarajevo’s Olympic history. If you enjoy stunning mountain scenery and are curious about sports history or Sarajevo’s resilience, this tour provides a meaningful glimpse. It’s also perfect for short-term visitors who lack hours to dedicate but still wish to explore beyond the city streets.

The Sum Up

If you’re visiting Sarajevo and want to understand the city’s Olympic past while surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, this Sarajevo Olympic Mountains – Driving and Walking Tour is a smart choice. Its combination of short scenic stops, passionate guides, and manageable pace makes it accessible and engaging. You’ll leave with more than just photos—a sense of the area’s history, resilience, and natural beauty.

For history lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see Sarajevo’s mountains from a different perspective, this tour provides genuine insights and unforgettable views—all at a reasonable price. It’s a quick but rewarding way to connect with Sarajevo’s proud Olympic legacy and natural charms.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a perfect option for a morning or afternoon outing.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Ferhadija 19 in Sarajevo, with pickup options available for added convenience.

What sites are visited on this tour?
You’ll visit Trebevic Mountain, including the abandoned bobsleigh track, and Igman Mountain, both historically significant Olympic sites.

Is the admission to the sites included?
Yes, admission tickets are free for the stops included in the tour.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable vehicle for the drive between sites, with short walks at each stop.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Who guides the tour?
Guides like Enes are noted for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience more engaging.

Is this tour suitable for children or disabled travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, but check with the provider for specific accessibility questions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, layered clothing depending on weather, and a camera to capture the views.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the group is limited to a maximum of 100 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

This driving and walking tour is a compact, engaging way to see Sarajevo’s Olympic mountains, rich with history and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a history buff or just love mountain vistas, it’s a practical option that offers authentic experiences without overwhelming your schedule.