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

Should you visit Beijing or Sarajevo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Sarajevo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a massive, jam-packed, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a historical, cultural, and beautiful 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Beijing and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beijing than Sarajevo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Beijing is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Sarajevo is known for its historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Sarajevo is popular for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food.

How is Beijing different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beijing 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 Beijing are world-renowned. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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 Beijing or Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Eat your way through Sarajevo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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 Beijing or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Beijing 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.

Beijing has a large number of nightlife venues. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

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 Beijing or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic 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.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is Beijing or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Around Sarajevo visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Sarajevo?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sarajevo and Beijing.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Beijing or Sarajevo Better for Families?

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

Beijing is a family-friendly city. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

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 Beijing or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

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

Beijing makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

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 Beijing or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing and Sarajevo are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Sarajevo is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Beijing or Sarajevo Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Beijing and Sarajevo.

Beijing offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Sarajevo. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

Is Beijing or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Sarajevo is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

One day in Beijing or Sarajevo?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Beijing or Sarajevo?

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

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 Beijing or Sarajevo?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, five days is sufficent for most. 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 Beijing or Sarajevo?

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. 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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

When comparing the travel costs between Beijing and Sarajevo, we can see that Beijing is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Beijing is in Asia and Sarajevo is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Sarajevo?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Sarajevo. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beijing is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 27°C (80°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 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 Beijing this time of the year. In the summer, Beijing often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Sarajevo. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

Both Sarajevo and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Beijing is cooler than Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Beijing gets 227 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, Beijing usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Beijing during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Beijing in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Beijing can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Beijing is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beijing in January average around -4°C (26°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Beijing gets 201 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. Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Sarajevo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Sarajevo. Most visitors come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Beijing is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (57°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Beijing gets 247 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, Beijing usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Beijing