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

Should you visit Chania or Sarajevo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania 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.

Chania

Chania is a idyllic, charming, and picturesque city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a quaint, historical, and cultural 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Chania and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Sarajevo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chania than Sarajevo. While Sarajevo is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chania is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches, while Sarajevo is known for its historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Chania is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. 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 Chania different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chania or Sarajevo.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Chania can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sarajevo. 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 Chania or Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

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 Chania or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Chania and Sarajevo.

Chania has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarajevo has a few options to choose from. 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 Chania or Sarajevo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sarajevo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Chania. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Sarajevo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Sarajevo Better for Beaches?

Chania is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Chania offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Chania is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

Is Chania or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Chania for the hiking trails. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chania. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Is Chania or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Chania 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, Chania is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

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 Chania or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

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

Chania makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

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 Chania or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania and Sarajevo are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay 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.

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

Sarajevo is well known for its public transit. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Sarajevo. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

While Chania offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

Is Chania or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Chania 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.

Chania is a very walkable city. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

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 Chania Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Chania?

How long in Chania or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chania and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chania than in Sarajevo. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sarajevo than Chania 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.

One day in Chania or Sarajevo?

The city of Chania offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sarajevo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Sarajevo?

Chania is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Sarajevo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Chania or Sarajevo?

Chania 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarajevo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Chania or Sarajevo?

Chania 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Sarajevo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, 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 Chania and Sarajevo, we can see that Chania 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 Chania would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chania 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 Chania Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chania or Sarajevo?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Chania as well as Sarajevo. Many travelers come to Chania for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chania is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°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 Chania this time of the year. In the summer, Chania often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in July than Sarajevo. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

Both Sarajevo and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. 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.

Chania is a little warmer than Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Chania gets 198 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, Chania usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chania or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Chania during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Chania 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.

In the winter, Chania is much warmer than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Chania gets 118 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Sarajevo. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Sarajevo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Sarajevo. The spring months attract visitors to Chania because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In April, Chania is generally a little warmer than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Chania gets 237 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, Chania usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Chania