A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Sarajevo for Food, Old Town, Hiking, and Attractions

Should you visit Arachova or Sarajevo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Sarajevo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a quaint, historical, and cultural 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Arachova or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarajevo. Although Arachova and Sarajevo are popular destinations, Sarajevo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sarajevo is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Arachova attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, and small town charm. Arachova is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. 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 Arachova different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Sarajevo Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Arachova is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Sarajevo is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Sarajevo is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sarajevo can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Sarajevo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Arachova or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Arachova is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Arachova has a large number of nightlife venues. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Sarajevo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Arachova or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Sarajevo offers plenty to see. 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.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Known for its hiking, Sarajevo draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Many visitors go to Arachova for the hiking trails. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Sarajevo?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.


Is Arachova or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Arachova is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Arachova is very family-friendly. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

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 Arachova or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Arachova is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

Arachova makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

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 Arachova or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


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

Arachova
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is well known for its public transit. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Sarajevo is fairly effecient and thorough. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

While Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.

Is Arachova or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Arachova
Sarajevo

Arachova and Sarajevo both are nice when exploring on foot.

Arachova is somewhat walkable. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore 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 Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Sarajevo?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sarajevo than Arachova 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 Arachova or Sarajevo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Sarajevo 1-3

One day in Arachova or Sarajevo?

The town of Arachova offers museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

The beautiful city of Sarajevo offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Sarajevo?

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

Sarajevo 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sarajevo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Sarajevo?

Arachova 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 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.

A week in Arachova or Sarajevo?

Arachova is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Sarajevo is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Sarajevo is €66. 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 Arachova and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Arachova 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 Arachova


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.
    Arachova 51
    Sarajevo 6.58

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo

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


  • Tram Tickets (for 2)
    1.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo

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

  • Airport Transfer in Sarajevo: $27
  • Airport Transfers & Private Tours with Luxury minibus Bosnia: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo Chauffeur for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport transfer Sarajevo - Bosnia: $16
  • One-way Private Airport Transfer to Sarajevo: $15
  • Private Sarajevo Airport Transfer: $55
  • Private Transfer From Sarajevo To Beograd : $142
  • Private Transfer from Hrasnica to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $68
  • Private Transfer from Konjic to Mostar Airport (OMO): $174
  • Private Transfer from Konjic to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $155
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Bojnik : $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Sarajevo 29

Typical Food Prices in Sarajevo

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


  • Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    11

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.
    Arachova 28
    Sarajevo 11

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)
    7.16

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
    Arachova 6.43
    Sarajevo 6.88

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 Arachova and Sarajevo, we can see that Arachova 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 Arachova would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arachova 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 Arachova Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Sarajevo. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arachova is around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Sarajevo. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

Both Sarajevo and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Arachova is much warmer than Sarajevo in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Sarajevo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Sarajevo. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In the spring, Arachova is around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Arachova

Arachova Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)