A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Alesund vs. Sarajevo for Food, Attractions, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alesund or Sarajevo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Alesund or Sarajevo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Alesund

Alesund is a welcoming, friendly, and scenic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a beautiful, overlooked, and quaint city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Alesund and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Alesund or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarajevo. Although Alesund and Sarajevo are popular destinations, Sarajevo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alesund is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords. Sarajevo is famous for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also well known for The Old Town.

How is Alesund different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sarajevo and Alesund. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alesund or Sarajevo?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Sarajevo offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.


Is the Food Better in Alesund or Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Sarajevo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

Alesund has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Is Alesund or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Both Alesund and Sarajevo are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sarajevo. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Alesund or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Sarajevo is revered around the world. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.


Is Alesund or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Alesund is not a hiking destination.

People visit Sarajevo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Alesund is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alesund or Sarajevo?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Sarajevo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Alesund or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Alesund is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Alesund is a family-friendly city. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.


Is Alesund or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Alesund is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Alesund or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Sarajevo. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Alesund or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Alesund is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Alesund. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.


Is Alesund or Sarajevo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Sarajevo can move around easily with public transportation. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.

Is Alesund or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Alesund
Sarajevo

Alesund and Sarajevo both are nice when exploring on foot.

Alesund is somewhat walkable. The city center can be explored on foot.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

For even more information, also check out Is Alesund Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Alesund?

How long in Alesund or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alesund and Sarajevo. In our opinion, Sarajevo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sarajevo than Alesund. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Alesund, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

Families should spend more time in Alesund than Sarajevo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Alesund, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Sarajevo than Alesund. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sarajevo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sarajevo than Alesund if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Sarajevo.


  • How many days in Alesund or Sarajevo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alesund 2-3 
    Sarajevo 1-3

One day in Alesund or Sarajevo?

The city of Alesund offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Sarajevo, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Alesund or Sarajevo?

Alesund is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Alesund, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Sarajevo, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sarajevo has to offer.

Five days in Alesund or Sarajevo?

Alesund is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Sarajevo is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Alesund or Sarajevo?

Alesund is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarajevo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarajevo. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, The Best Contiki Tours to Norway, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Alesund?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alesund is $99, while the average daily cost in Sarajevo is $70. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Alesund and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alesund $53
    Sarajevo $27
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alesund $106
    Sarajevo $54
Compare Hotels in Alesund and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Alesund or Sarajevo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Alesund


Hotels in Sarajevo


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alesund $25
    Sarajevo $7.02

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Private Transfer from Molde Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $37
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Olden Port: $64
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Alesund Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Olden Cruise Port: $60
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Molde Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Alesund Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Geiranger Port: $185
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Sarajevo:


  • Tram Tickets (for 2)
    $1.64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo

Also for Sarajevo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • One-way Private Airport Transfer to Sarajevo: $15
  • Airport transfer Sarajevo - Bosnia: $16
  • Private Transfer to and from Sarajevo Airport: $25
  • Sarajevo Airport Private Transfer: $27
  • Airport transfers and all other transfers 4 people: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport Transfers & Private Tours with Luxury minibus Bosnia: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo Chauffeur for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport Transfer in Sarajevo: $27
  • Sarajevo Airport Private Transfers (from/to): $30
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Ilidža: $33
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Downtown to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Alesund or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Alesund change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Alesund $30
    Sarajevo $31

Typical Food Prices in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sarajevo Local Food Tour: $27
  • Walking Food Tour with Local Craft Experience: $43
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with your Host Family: $44
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Host Family: $53
  • Bosnian Cooking Lessons: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alesund $16
    Sarajevo $12

Tours and Activities in Alesund

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Alesund are as follows:

  • Ålesund Round Trip – A Great Kayak Adventure: $186
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $102
  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $140
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Fjordcruise Ålesund Geirangerfjord T/R: $163
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Sarajevo's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • National Museum (for 2)
    $7.64

Tours and Activities in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Sarajevo Walking Tour In Small Group: $11
  • Sarajevo Talkie-Walkie Tour: $13
  • Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • Sarajevo Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • HISTORY OF ISLAM IN SARAJEVO TOUR: $16
  • SARAJEVO CITY TOUR - Learn something in an interesting way.: $17
  • Discover Sarajevo Walking Tour with Local Guide: $17
  • Sarajevo genuine walking tour: Steps through history: $19
  • Sarajevo Old Town: Bosnian Ethnic Food & Coffee Walking Tour: $19
  • Tunnel of Hope Siege Tour: $20
  • Uncovering Islam Tour: $20
  • Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alesund $12
    Sarajevo $7.34

Sample the Local Flavors in Sarajevo

Also in Sarajevo, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Small-group Wine Tasting Expiriance, with lunch in vineyard: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alesund and Sarajevo, we can see that Alesund is more expensive. And not only is Sarajevo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sarajevo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sarajevo and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Alesund would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Alesund than you might in Sarajevo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alesund Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Alesund or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Alesund and Sarajevo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Alesund or Sarajevo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alesund or Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and Alesund during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Alesund for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Alesund is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Alesund in July average around 12°C (54°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

Alesund usually gets more rain in July than Sarajevo. Alesund gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alesund 12°C (54°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Alesund or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Alesund and Sarajevo. The autumn months attract visitors to Alesund because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In October, Alesund is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Alesund average around 9°C (48°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Alesund gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Alesund usually receives more rain than Sarajevo. Alesund gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alesund 9°C (48°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Alesund or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Alesund as well as Sarajevo. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alesund this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Alesund in the winter. Alesund is much colder than Sarajevo in the winter. The daily temperature in Alesund averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Alesund receives a lot of rain in the winter. Alesund usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Alesund gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alesund 3°C (37°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Alesund or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Alesund are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Alesund for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Alesund. In the spring, Alesund is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Alesund in April average around 5°C (40°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In April, Alesund usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Alesund gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alesund 5°C (40°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Alesund

Alesund Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)