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

Should you visit Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a scholarly, charming, and historic university town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a cultural, beautiful, and overlooked 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. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Cambridge and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cambridge or Sarajevo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarajevo than Cambridge. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sarajevo is very popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Cambridge attracts visitors for its small town charm. Cambridge is more touristy than Sarajevo and is known for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it. 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 Cambridge different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cambridge
Sarajevo

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Cambridge or Sarajevo.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cambridge. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

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 Cambridge or Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cambridge. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Is Cambridge or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

Both Cambridge and Sarajevo have nice vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cambridge. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

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 Cambridge or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

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.

Cambridge does not have a historic old town.


Is Cambridge or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Cambridge 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.

Cambridge is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cambridge or Sarajevo?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Cambridge and Sarajevo.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cambridge. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

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.

Is Cambridge or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

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

Cambridge is a family-friendly university town. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

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 Cambridge or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

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

Cambridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.

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 Cambridge or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Is Cambridge or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

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

Cambridge is a very popular place to visit for students. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.


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

Cambridge
Sarajevo

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Cambridge, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.

Is Cambridge or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Cambridge
Sarajevo

Cambridge 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 Cambridge. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable university 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 Cambridge Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Cambridge?

How long in Cambridge or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cambridge or Sarajevo?

The beautiful university town of Cambridge 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sarajevo. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sarajevo has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Cambridge or Sarajevo?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Sarajevo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Cambridge or Sarajevo?

Cambridge 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Sarajevo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cambridge or Sarajevo?

Cambridge is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This university town offers something for everyone.

Sarajevo is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Cambridge?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cambridge is £134, while the average daily cost in Sarajevo is £57. 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 Cambridge and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cambridge £72
    Sarajevo £22
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cambridge £144
    Sarajevo £44
Compare Hotels in Cambridge and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Cambridge 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 Cambridge


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: Cambridge Hotel Prices and Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cambridge £24
    Sarajevo £5.68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cambridge

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

  • Private Transfer Heathrow To Cambridge: $175

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo

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


  • Tram Tickets (for 2)
    £1.32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo

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

  • Transfer tour Sarajevo-Dubrovnik: $163
  • Transfer from/to Sarajevo - Neum: $176
  • Transfer from/to Sarajevo - Belgrade: $288
  • Transfer from city of Sarajevo to city of Mostar: $251
  • Transfer from Sarajevo to Kotor+Herzegovina tour: $126
  • Split Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Private Transfer to and from Sarajevo Airport: $25
  • Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Split: $321
  • Dubrovnik Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Airport transfers and all other transfers 4 people: $27
  • Sarajevo ⇄ Mostar / Private Transfer: $203
  • Sarajevo to/from Zagreb Transfer Day Tour (North-central Bosnia): $153

Is it cheaper to fly into Cambridge or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Cambridge 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
    Cambridge £41
    Sarajevo £25

Typical Food Prices in Sarajevo

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


  • Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    £9.71

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.
    Cambridge £22
    Sarajevo £9.56

Tours and Activities in Cambridge

For Cambridge, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Historic Walking Tour of Cambridge with Guide and Peek: $25
  • A Guided Public Tour of Historic Cambridge: $32
  • Cambridge - Shared Punting Tour: $13
  • Cambridge Highlights Walking Tour by Cantab Tours: $25
  • Cambridge Instagram Self-Guided Tour - Top Photo Spots: $6.35
  • Cambridge Science Tour : $32
  • Cambridge's History & Secrets with Self-Guided Walking Tours: $32
  • Cambridge’s Colleges and Classic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • 2-Hour Private University Walking Tour: $94
  • Adventure Through Cross-Disciplinary Revolutions: $22
  • Chauffeured Punting Tour: $62
  • Chinese University Student-Guided Walking Tour: $40

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)
    £6.18

Tours and Activities in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Days Private Guided Tour in Sarajevo and Mostar: $163
  • 4-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour with Food Tastings and Craft Experience: $44
  • 8 to 9 Hours Daily Tour To Travnik and Jajce From Sarajevo: $104
  • Amazing Prokoško jezero - Full day Tour: $82
  • Assassination Tour: $27
  • BOSNIAN PYRAMIDS TOUR (nature, history & archeology): $64
  • Best of Sarajevo - Full Day All Inclusive Tour: $76
  • Bijambare Cave & Bosnia Spring Park: Half-Day Tour from Sarajevo: $81
  • Bijambare Cave & Bosnia Spring Park: Tour from Sarajevo: $79
  • Bijambare Cave and Spring of River Bosna Tour: $45
  • Bosnia's Treasures: 7-Day Private Tour: $1,310
  • Bosnian Castles Tour: Vranduk Tešanj Srebrenik from Sarajevo: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cambridge £23
    Sarajevo £5.94

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


Which is Bigger, Cambridge or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cambridge. When comparing the sizes of Cambridge 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.