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

Should you visit Graz or Sarajevo?

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

Should I visit Graz or Sarajevo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Graz

Graz is a historical, beautiful, and medieval city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a beautiful, overlooked, and quaint 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Graz 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Graz or Sarajevo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sarajevo than Graz. Sarajevo is bigger than Graz, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sarajevo is better known for its food, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Graz is more popular for its nightlife. Graz is more touristy than Sarajevo and is known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. 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. Also, Sarajevo is famous for The Old Town.

How is Graz different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Graz
Sarajevo

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

Graz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

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.


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

Graz
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Sarajevo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Dining out in Graz is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Is Graz or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Sarajevo

Graz 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.

Graz has a large number of nightlife venues. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

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 Graz or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Sarajevo

It's fun to wander around the amazing old towns in both Graz and Sarajevo.

The old town of Graz is one of the most recognized in the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Sarajevo offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.


Is Graz or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Graz
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is renowned for hiking. However, Graz is not a hiking destination.

People visit Sarajevo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Graz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Sarajevo?

Graz
Sarajevo

If you're looking to go shopping, Graz and Sarajevo both offer plenty of superb spots.

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

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 Graz or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Graz
Sarajevo

Graz 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, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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 Graz or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Graz
Sarajevo

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

Graz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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 Graz or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many 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.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Graz or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Graz
Sarajevo

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

Many students visit Graz. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.


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

Graz
Sarajevo

Graz and Sarajevo both offer superb public transit to get you around.

The public transit in Graz can get you around easily. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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

Is Graz or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Graz
Sarajevo

Graz 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 Graz. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore 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 Graz Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Graz?

How long in Graz or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Graz and Sarajevo. In our opinion, Graz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Graz than Sarajevo. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

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

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

One day in Graz or Sarajevo?

The city of Graz offers food and shopping. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sarajevo. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Graz or Sarajevo?

Graz 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 Graz, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Sarajevo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Graz or Sarajevo?

Graz 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Sarajevo. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Graz or Sarajevo?

Graz 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.

The cultural city of Sarajevo offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Graz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, while the average daily cost in Sarajevo is €66. 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 Graz and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Graz and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Graz 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 Graz


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: Graz Hotel Prices and Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Sarajevo 6.58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

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

  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo

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


  • Tram Tickets (for 2)
    1.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo

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

  • Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Split: $321
  • Split Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Dubrovnik Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Transfer from/to Sarajevo - Belgrade: $288
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Lukavac: $271
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Doboj: $271
  • Transfer from city of Sarajevo to city of Mostar: $251
  • Private transfer (FROM-TO) Sarajevo - Kotor - Budva : $245
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Travnik: $232
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Živinice grad: $232
  • Private transfer (FROM-TO) Sarajevo - Dubrovnik: $229
  • Sarajevo ⇄ Mostar / Private Transfer: $203

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Graz 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
    Graz 32
    Sarajevo 29

Typical Food Prices in Sarajevo

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


  • Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    11

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.
    Graz 13
    Sarajevo 11

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

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)
    7.16

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
    Graz 16
    Sarajevo 6.88

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


Which is Bigger, Graz or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Graz. When comparing the sizes of Graz 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 Graz 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 Graz or Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Sarajevo. Most visitors come to Graz for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Graz is cooler than Sarajevo in the summer. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 23°C (73°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 Graz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Graz usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

Graz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Sarajevo. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Graz or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Graz as well as Sarajevo. The autumn months attract visitors to Graz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In the autumn, Graz is cooler than Sarajevo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Graz in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Graz often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Graz usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Graz or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Graz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Graz in the winter. In January, Graz is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 1°C (34°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Graz usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Graz gets 95 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, Graz usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Graz or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Graz during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Graz for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Graz is cooler than Sarajevo in the spring. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Graz often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Graz gets 158 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. Graz usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Graz

Graz Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)