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

Should you visit Catania 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 Catania and Sarajevo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a lively, youthful, and fun port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Catania and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Sarajevo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Catania than Sarajevo. While Sarajevo is larger than Catania, Catania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Catania is better known for its nightlife and beaches, while Sarajevo is more popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Catania is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. Also, Catania is famous for Mount Etna. 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 Catania different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sarajevo is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Sarajevo specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

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

Both Catania and Sarajevo offer first-rate local cuisine and restaurants.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Sarajevo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Catania or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Catania 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.

Catania has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

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 Catania or Sarajevo Better for Beaches?

Catania is a good destination for the beache. However, Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Catania offers a nice beach destination. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Is Catania or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is very popular for its old town. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Sarajevo has a world-famous historical 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.

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Catania or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city 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.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Catania or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Catania 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, Catania is very family-friendly. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

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 Catania or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

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

Catania makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

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 Catania or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Catania and Sarajevo are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Catania is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Sarajevo. 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 Catania or Sarajevo Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Catania. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Both Catania and Sarajevo offer high quality public transit options.

The public transit in Catania can get you around easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

Sarajevo offers a very effecient public transportation network. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

Is Catania or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Catania 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.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable port 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 Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Catania?

How long in Catania or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

One day in Catania or Sarajevo?

The port city of Catania 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.

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 Catania or Sarajevo?

Catania is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Catania, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Catania or Sarajevo?

Catania 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.

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 Catania or Sarajevo?

Catania is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 port 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, 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 Catania and Sarajevo, we can see that Catania 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 Catania would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Catania 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 Catania Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Catania or Sarajevo?

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

Both Sarajevo and Catania during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Catania in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, 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.

Catania is around the same temperature as Sarajevo in the summer. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 26°C (79°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 Catania. In the summer, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in July than Sarajevo. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Sarajevo. Most visitors come to Catania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, 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, Catania is a little warmer than Sarajevo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Catania in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo during autumn. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Catania usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Catania or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Catania as well as Sarajevo. The winter months attract visitors to Catania because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In January, Catania is generally much warmer than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 10°C (51°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Catania often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Catania usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Catania is around the same temperature as Sarajevo in the spring. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. Catania usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Catania gets 204 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, Catania usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Catania