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

Should you visit Imperia or Sarajevo?

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

Should I visit Imperia 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.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. 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. 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Imperia 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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


Is there more to do in Imperia or Sarajevo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarajevo. Although Imperia and Sarajevo are both popular with visitors, Sarajevo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline. Sarajevo is popular for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is Imperia different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Imperia
Sarajevo

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

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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Imperia
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Sarajevo

Evening events are good in both Imperia and Sarajevo.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sarajevo. 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 Imperia or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Imperia
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is Imperia or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Imperia
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Sarajevo?

Imperia
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Imperia or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Imperia
Sarajevo

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

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

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 Imperia or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Imperia
Sarajevo

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

Imperia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

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 Imperia or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Imperia
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sarajevo is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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

Imperia
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is notable for its public transit. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Imperia has some public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Imperia or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Imperia
Sarajevo

Imperia and Sarajevo both are good when exploring on foot.

Imperia is a somewhat walkable town. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

Sarajevo is somewhat walkable. 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 Imperia Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

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

One day in Imperia or Sarajevo?

The town of Imperia 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.

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 Imperia or Sarajevo?

Imperia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Imperia, 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 Imperia or Sarajevo?

Imperia 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.

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 Imperia or Sarajevo?

Imperia 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 town 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 Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Imperia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, 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 Imperia and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Imperia 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 Imperia


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: Imperia Hotel Prices and Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Sarajevo 6.58

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:

  • One-way Private Airport Transfer to Sarajevo: $15
  • Airport transfer Sarajevo - Bosnia: $16
  • Private Transfer to and from Sarajevo Airport: $25
  • Sarajevo Airport Private Transfer: $27
  • Airport transfers and all other transfers 4 people: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport Transfers & Private Tours with Luxury minibus Bosnia: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo Chauffeur for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport Transfer in Sarajevo: $27
  • Sarajevo Airport Private Transfers (from/to): $30
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Ilidža: $33
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Downtown to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Imperia or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Imperia 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
    Imperia 35
    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.
    Imperia 13
    Sarajevo 11

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

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:

  • Sarajevo Walking Tour In Small Group: $11
  • Sarajevo Talkie-Walkie Tour: $13
  • Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • Sarajevo Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • HISTORY OF ISLAM IN SARAJEVO TOUR: $16
  • SARAJEVO CITY TOUR - Learn something in an interesting way.: $17
  • Discover Sarajevo Walking Tour with Local Guide: $17
  • Sarajevo genuine walking tour: Steps through history: $19
  • Sarajevo Old Town: Bosnian Ethnic Food & Coffee Walking Tour: $19
  • Tunnel of Hope Siege Tour: $20
  • Uncovering Islam Tour: $20
  • Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Imperia 7.50
    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 Imperia and Sarajevo, we can see that Imperia 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 Imperia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Imperia 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 Imperia Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Imperia or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Imperia 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 Imperia 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 Imperia or Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and Imperia during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Imperia 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.

In July, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 25°C (76°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In Sarajevo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Imperia. In the summer, Imperia often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets less rain in July than Sarajevo. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Imperia 25°C (76°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Sarajevo. The autumn months attract visitors to Imperia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

Imperia is a little warmer than Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo during autumn. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Imperia usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Imperia 19°C (66°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Sarajevo. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Imperia is much warmer than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Imperia in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Imperia often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Imperia usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Imperia 11°C (51°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Imperia for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 15°C (58°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Imperia usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Imperia gets 198 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, Imperia usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Imperia 15°C (58°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Imperia

Imperia Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)