Incredible EU city just 2.5-hours from UK with £1.70 pints is still 16C in April
Ditch the never-ending crowds with this ethereal city you’ve probably never heard of. Neighboured by the snow-capped Dinaric Alps, Sarajevo has managed to escape the tourist radar for some time, but its natural beauty, rich history, and cheap pints are starting to lure visitors in.
Located in Bosnia & Herzegovina, the compact city is perhaps most famous for its link to one of the biggest events in European history: the start of World War One. This is because Sarajevo was the capital where the archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Sophie the Duchess of Hohenberg, his wife, were shot. You can learn more about WW1 and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s history at the Tunnel of Salvation, the National Museum, as well as the Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide.
For those wanting to unwind, Sarajevo is renowned for its impressive architecture and vibrant street life. Meandering around the fairytale streets and stopping at the odd cafe or bar is a great way to see the capital, and it won’t cost the bank. In fact, a pint will only set you back £1.70 – and a caffeine hit is even cheaper.
A visit to the Latin Bridge is a must for any Instagram-obsessed holidaymakers, while BaÅ¡ÄarÅ¡ija, a popular marketplace dating back to the 1400s, is essential for those wanting to pick up a souvenir or two. At night, the gothic Sacred Heart Cathedral makes for a stunning sight.
Temperatures will reach up to 16C in April, making it a great time to visit for hikers wanting to take on some of the surrounding mountains. “BjelaÅ¡nica is a fantastic base for hiking to traditional mountain villages like Umoljani, a remote spot where customs have not changed for hundreds of years,” said travel experts over at Lonely Planet. “You can also take Sarajevo’s cable car, which climbs some 500m (1640ft) up to a viewpoint 1164m (3820ft) on Mt TrebeviÄ, or go to the popular large park Vrelo Bosne. Locals love to go to this collection of lush mini-islands at the Bosna River springs for picnics or restaurant lunches on weekends.”
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Direct flights are only available from London airports, including Luton and Stansted, and take between two and a half to two hours and forty minutes. If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab a return fare in April for as little as £47.
When it comes to accommodation, you can get a lot more for your money. A long weekend (Friday, April 4-6) in a well-reviewed aparthotel would set you back just £85. A more luxury stay at the Hotel Boutique Anoma, which includes free breakfast, costs £119 for the exact same dates.
*Prices based on Skyscanner and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.
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