A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Baden-Baden vs. Sarajevo for Food, Hiking, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Baden-Baden 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.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a peaceful, historic, and relaxing spa town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a quaint, historical, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Baden-Baden and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sarajevo than Baden-Baden. Sarajevo is bigger than Baden-Baden, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Baden-Baden is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals. Sarajevo is well known for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. Also, Sarajevo is famous for The Old Town.

How is Baden-Baden different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

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

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Baden-Baden. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.


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

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Foodies will find both Baden-Baden and Sarajevo both to be world-class destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Baden-Baden is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

Many restaurants in Sarajevo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Baden-Baden or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Both Baden-Baden and Sarajevo are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Baden-Baden. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

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 Baden-Baden or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Baden-Baden 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.

Baden-Baden does not have a historic old town.


Is Baden-Baden or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Baden-Baden. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its shopping areas.

Sarajevo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Baden-Baden has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

Is Baden-Baden or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Baden-Baden 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, Baden-Baden is very family-friendly. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

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 Baden-Baden or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

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

Baden-Baden makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

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 Baden-Baden or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sarajevo is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Baden-Baden is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find a hostel or two in town, but most of the tourists aren't backpackers so you may have trouble meeting other like-minded travelers.

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

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Sarajevo can get you around easily. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

Public transit is mostly limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.


Is Baden-Baden or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Baden-Baden
Sarajevo

Baden-Baden and Sarajevo both are notable when exploring on foot.

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable spa town. 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 Baden-Baden Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Baden-Baden?

How long in Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Baden-Baden and Sarajevo. In our opinion, Sarajevo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sarajevo than Baden-Baden. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sarajevo than Baden-Baden. 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 Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden or Sarajevo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baden-Baden 1-3 
    Sarajevo 1-3

One day in Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

The spa town of Baden-Baden offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint city of Sarajevo. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Sarajevo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

Baden-Baden is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

The quaint city of Sarajevo offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

Baden-Baden is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This spa town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarajevo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Baden-Baden?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baden-Baden is €154, 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 Baden-Baden and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baden-Baden 87
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baden-Baden 174
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Baden-Baden and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden


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: Baden-Baden Hotel Prices and Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baden-Baden 33
    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:

  • 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 Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Baden-Baden 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
    Baden-Baden 41
    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.
    Baden-Baden 34
    Sarajevo 11

Tours and Activities in Baden-Baden

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

  • Baden-Baden Private walking tour: $374
  • Baden-Baden Yuletide Stroll: Experience the Festive Charm: $359
  • Christmas Market Walking Tour: $254
  • Powerful Women Themed Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Private Guided KNUMO e-Scooter Tour VIP: $138
  • Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $248
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $232
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $252
  • Private Walking Tour in Baden Neuweirs Vineyard: $653
  • Romance in Baden-Baden – Private Walking Tour: $252
  • Scenic Baden-Baden Walking Tour: Discovering Historic Charm: $373

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
    Baden-Baden 12
    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 Baden-Baden and Sarajevo, we can see that Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baden-Baden or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Baden-Baden. When comparing the sizes of Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden or Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and Baden-Baden during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Baden-Baden is cooler than Sarajevo in the summer. The daily temperature in Baden-Baden averages around 20°C (67°F) in July, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In Sarajevo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Baden-Baden. In the summer, Baden-Baden often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Baden-Baden gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Baden-Baden usually gets more rain in July than Sarajevo. Baden-Baden gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baden-Baden 20°C (67°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Baden-Baden and Sarajevo. Many visitors come to Baden-Baden in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. 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 the autumn, Baden-Baden is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Baden-Baden in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Baden-Baden usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Baden-Baden gets 91 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Baden-Baden usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Baden-Baden gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baden-Baden 11°C (52°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Baden-Baden as well as Sarajevo. Most visitors come to Baden-Baden for 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.

Baden-Baden can be very cold during winter. In January, Baden-Baden is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Baden-Baden average around 2°C (35°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Baden-Baden often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Baden-Baden gets 35 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Baden-Baden usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Baden-Baden gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baden-Baden 2°C (35°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Baden-Baden are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Baden-Baden because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

Baden-Baden is cooler than Sarajevo in the spring. The daily temperature in Baden-Baden averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Baden-Baden usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Baden-Baden gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In April, Baden-Baden usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Baden-Baden gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baden-Baden 10°C (50°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 102 mm (4 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 109 mm (4.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 20°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)