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

Should you visit Budapest or Sarajevo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Budapest and Sarajevo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a authentic, bustling, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a overlooked, quaint, and historical 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Budapest and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Sarajevo?

Both Sarajevo and Budapest have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Budapest is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Sarajevo is more popular for its food, historical sights, and hiking. Budapest is more touristy than Sarajevo and is known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. 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.

How is Budapest different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Budapest and Sarajevo.

Many visitors head to Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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.

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

Sarajevo is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sarajevo has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Budapest 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.

Budapest has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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 Budapest or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is terrific for its old town. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Sarajevo has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is Budapest or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is terrific for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Sarajevo specifically for its hiking. 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Budapest or Sarajevo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Budapest and Sarajevo both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Budapest is well-known for its shopping. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Budapest or Sarajevo Better for Families?

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

Budapest is a family-friendly city. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

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 Budapest or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

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

Budapest makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

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 Budapest or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest 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, Budapest is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Budapest is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is not popular with students.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Budapest is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors in Budapest can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Budapest or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Budapest is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Budapest and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than in Sarajevo. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest 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 Budapest.

One day in Budapest or Sarajevo?

Budapest 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.

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 Budapest or Sarajevo?

Budapest 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 Budapest, 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 Budapest or Sarajevo?

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

Budapest is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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 The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest, 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 Budapest and Sarajevo, we can see that Budapest 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 Budapest would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Budapest 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 Budapest Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Sarajevo?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Sarajevo. When comparing the sizes of Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest or Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Budapest and Sarajevo. Many visitors come to Budapest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Budapest is cooler than Sarajevo in the summer. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarajevo this time of the year. In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Budapest usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Budapest or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Budapest as well as Sarajevo. Most visitors come to Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Budapest is cooler than Sarajevo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Budapest in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Budapest gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Budapest usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Budapest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

The weather in Budapest can be very cold. In January, Budapest is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around -1°C (31°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Budapest gets 61 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, Budapest usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Budapest or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Budapest during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Budapest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Budapest is cooler than Sarajevo in the spring. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Budapest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Budapest gets 178 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. Budapest usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Budapest