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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a international, professional, and classy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. 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. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Geneva and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Geneva or Sarajevo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarajevo than Geneva. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sarajevo is very popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Geneva attracts visitors for its shopping and big city activities. Geneva is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. 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 Geneva different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Geneva and Sarajevo have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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 Geneva or Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Geneva has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Geneva or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Geneva or Sarajevo has a better nightlife scene.

Geneva has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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 Geneva or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Is Geneva or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Sarajevo?

Geneva is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Geneva draws large crowds to its stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva or Sarajevo Better for Families?

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

Geneva is a family-friendly city. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

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 Geneva or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

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

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

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 Geneva or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sarajevo is a great destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Sarajevo Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Geneva 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 Geneva can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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

Is Geneva or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Geneva 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.

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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 Geneva Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Geneva and Sarajevo. In our opinion, Geneva has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Geneva than Sarajevo. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sarajevo than Geneva 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 Geneva or Sarajevo?

Geneva is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Geneva or Sarajevo?

Geneva 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Geneva, a weekend is sufficent for most. 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 Geneva or Sarajevo?

Geneva is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping 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.

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 Geneva or Sarajevo?

Geneva is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 beautiful 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, 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 Geneva and Sarajevo, we can see that Geneva 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 Geneva would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Geneva 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 Geneva Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Geneva or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Geneva. When comparing the sizes of Geneva 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 Geneva 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 Geneva or Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Sarajevo. The summer months attract visitors to Geneva because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In the summer, Geneva is cooler than Sarajevo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Geneva in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 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 Geneva this time of the year. In the summer, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in July than Sarajevo. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

Both Sarajevo and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Geneva this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Geneva is generally cooler than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 14°C (56°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Geneva gets 127 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, Geneva usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Geneva or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Geneva during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Geneva for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Geneva. Geneva is much colder than Sarajevo in the winter. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Geneva gets 62 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. Geneva usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Sarajevo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Sarajevo. Many visitors come to Geneva in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Geneva is cooler than Sarajevo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Geneva in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Geneva usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo during spring. Geneva gets 174 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, Geneva usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Geneva