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

Should you visit Athens or Sarajevo?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Sarajevo. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a cultural, beautiful, and overlooked city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Athens and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Sarajevo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Sarajevo are about the same size, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Sarajevo is known for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Athens is more touristy than Sarajevo and is known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Sarajevo is popular for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Athens are world-renowned. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Sarajevo can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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.

Is Athens or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Athens is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the terrific old town areas in both Athens and Sarajevo.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Sarajevo can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Is Athens or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Sarajevo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sarajevo. 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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Athens 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, Athens is very family-friendly. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

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

Athens makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

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 Athens or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Sarajevo is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Athens or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Athens is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is not popular with students.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Athens and Sarajevo both offer excellent public transit to get you around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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

Is Athens or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Athens is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Athens?

How long in Athens or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Sarajevo. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Sarajevo 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Sarajevo?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sarajevo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Sarajevo?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sarajevo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Sarajevo?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarajevo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Sarajevo?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Sarajevo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Sarajevo, we can see that Athens 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Sarajevo?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Sarajevo. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Sarajevo?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Sarajevo. The summer months attract visitors to Athens because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In July, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarajevo this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Sarajevo. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Athens is a little warmer than Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Athens