Sarajevo: Sarajevo City Market, Old Town Food Tasting Tour

Sarajevo: Sarajevo City Market, Old Town Food Tasting Tour
Location: Sarajevo Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Rating: 4.7/5 (based on 45 reviews)
Duration: Around 4 hours (check for available start times)
Supplier: Sarajevo Insider City Tours & Excursions

What We Like About This Tour

This food tour offers a fantastic way to get to know Sarajevo beyond its iconic sights. We especially appreciate how it takes you off the beaten path to hidden gems where locals shop, eat, and share traditional dishes. It’s a genuine peek into everyday Bosnian life, not just the tourist spots.

We also love the variety of tastes you’ll experience—from hearty Bosnian pies to sweet baklava and flavorful soups—making it a flavorful snapshot of the region’s culinary diversity. Plus, the guide’s stories add context, making each stop more meaningful.

That said, a potential consideration is the amount of walking involved—if mobility is an issue or you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a bit brisk. It’s also a tour that’s best suited for those comfortable with trying a lot of different foods in quick succession.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting an authentic local experience that combines tasting with cultural insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Local Flavors: Visit 10 different spots showcasing traditional Bosnian dishes and snacks.
• Insightful Guides: Knowledgable guides share stories about Sarajevo’s history and culture alongside the food.
• Hidden Spots: The tour explores places away from the main tourist zones, offering a more genuine experience.
• Tastings & Drinks: Expect a variety of bites, drinks like Bosnian coffee, and sweet treats like baklava.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, making it intimate and personalized.
• Value for Money: For the price, you get a good amount of food, drinks, and local stories—an enjoyable and filling experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Sarajevo Food Tour

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic food experiences and loves discovering places through their cuisine, this tour could be a highlight of your Sarajevo trip. It’s particularly well suited for those who enjoy walking, chatting with local guides, and trying new flavors, all while learning about the city’s past and present.

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off at the Insider City Tours office in Sarajevo, providing a central, easy-to-find meeting spot. From there, you’ll step into a 4-hour adventure that’s packed with tastings at 10 carefully chosen locations. The small group setting (up to 10 people) means you get a more personalized experience, with ample opportunity to ask questions and chat with your guide.

The Itinerary: What Stops Make It Special?

Each stop on this journey offers something unique, from lively markets to cozy eateries. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Sarajevo City Market

This is a sensory overload—in the best way. The market buzzes with activity and the smell of fresh produce and cured meats. You’ll taste some of the best dry meat in the country, which locals love. It’s a perfect introduction to Bosnian staples and gives you a feel for daily life.

Markale Open Market

Here, we loved seeing local farmers’ stalls filled with bright, fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s a great glimpse into what ingredients are in season and part of everyday cooking in Sarajevo.

Ukur Pita

This stop features a unique Bosnian traditional pie. We loved how each bite revealed layers of flavor, with crispy pastry and savory fillings—definitely a highlight for fans of comfort food.

Somun Tasting

You’ll get to try a special Sarajevo bread called somun, baked for just 20 seconds. It’s warm, soft, and perfect for pairing with meats or dips.

TipTop

Here, you’ll take a break with a traditional Bosnian Boza—a mildly fermented drink. It’s a refreshing palate cleanser and a chance to unwind before more tastings.

Ainica Stari Grad

This spot is famous for beys’ soup, which is hearty and flavorful, offering a taste of Bosnian culinary tradition. The guide often shares stories about the historical significance of such dishes.

Sarajevski Sahan & Ćevapi

The tour’s finale features Ćevapi, the must-try grilled sausages in Sarajevo. The guide emphasizes their importance in local cuisine, and many reviews highlight how much visitors enjoy these flavorful bites.

Coffee & Baklava

No Bosnian food tour is complete without experiencing the coffee-making process—see how locals prepare and enjoy their beloved Bosnian coffee. You’ll end on a sweet note with baklava, a rich, nutty pastry that caps the experience perfectly.

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What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who go beyond just describing food—they weave in stories about Sarajevo’s history and culture. One reviewer mentioned how their guide was “very friendly and informative,” creating a relaxing environment to enjoy the tastings.

Many note the generous portions and variety of dishes—one reviewer said, “Come hungry! You will leave full.” The focus on local, often hidden spots makes this a special experience for those wanting to see a less touristy side of Sarajevo.

However, some reviews also hint at the brisk pace—while most travelers find it manageable, if you have mobility issues or prefer a slower tour, it’s worth considering. Still, the small group size and friendly atmosphere help keep things comfortable.

The Value of the Tour

Compared to other experiences, this food tour offers excellent value—you’re sampling a broad spectrum of authentic dishes, learning about local traditions, and getting insider tips from guides who clearly love their city and cuisine. The cost includes food, drinks, and the guide’s insights, so it’s a well-rounded package.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Start & End: The tour begins at the Insider City Tours office and wraps up near the same spot.
• Duration: About 4 hours, plenty of time to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.
• Group Size: Limited to 10, which keeps the experience intimate.
• Price & Payment: Book now, pay later option available, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
• What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a good amount of walking involved.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re eager to explore Sarajevo through its cuisine and enjoy stories behind the dishes. Food lovers will appreciate the variety and authenticity, while curious travelers will love the chance to see how locals eat and shop. It’s also a good choice for those wanting a more personal, small-group experience rather than large, impersonal tours.

It’s less suited for vegetarians or people with significant mobility challenges, given the walking involved. But overall, it’s a great way to connect with Sarajevo’s culture in a flavorful, relaxed setting.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Most of the tastings focus on meat-based dishes, so vegetarians might find the options limited. It’s best to check with the tour provider if you have specific dietary needs.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking between stops, as the tour explores areas outside the main tourist zones. The pace is reasonable, but it might be a bit brisk if you prefer a very leisurely experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes tastings of drinks like Bosnian coffee and Boza, which are part of the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s a fair amount of walking. Dress appropriately for the weather—outdoor walking means layers are a good idea.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm if you have specific mobility needs.

Can I take leftovers with me?
Absolutely, many participants find they can bring home what they don’t finish, so don’t hesitate to ask your guide.

What’s the best time to book?
Check availability early, as small groups fill up quickly. The tour runs at different times, so pick what suits your schedule.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, older children who enjoy food and walking may find it interesting, but keep in mind the walking and tasting pace.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a taste of Sarajevo’s real character, this Old Town Food Tasting Tour is a fantastic way to spend a few hours. It combines delicious local dishes, friendly guides, and a genuine look at daily life in Sarajevo. Perfect for foodies, cultural explorers, and anyone who wants to go beyond the usual sightseeing.

You’ll leave not only full but also with a deeper understanding of what makes Sarajevo’s cuisine truly special. Just plan to wear comfy shoes, come hungry, and be ready to enjoy a flavorful journey through Bosnia’s capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: