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

Should you visit Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Innsbruck and Sarajevo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a high energy, outdoorsy, and mountainous city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a historical, cultural, and beautiful 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Innsbruck and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sarajevo than Innsbruck. Sarajevo is bigger than Innsbruck, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sarajevo is better known for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Innsbruck is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Innsbruck is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. 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 Innsbruck different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Innsbruck or Sarajevo Better for Skiing?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Innsbruck is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Sarajevo is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Innsbruck. This city offers easy access to excellent skiing without having to travel too far. There are 9 ski resorts around town that make up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. Each resort has its own personality and style. You can reach the Seegrube mountain in about 20 minutes using the funicular and cable car.

Sarajevo is not a skiing destination.


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

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is notable for its sights and museums. However, Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Innsbruck has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for the hearty and filling food that is perfect for a cold winter day. There are cafes and restaurants around old town that offer traditional dishes including käsespätzle, wiener schnitzel, and apfelstrudel. If you're ready for something a little less heavy, there are a number of ethnic restaurants to choose from outside of the old town.

Is Innsbruck or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Innsbruck 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.

Innsbruck has a large number of nightlife venues. With its large student population and wide range of young visitors who enjoy high energy activities, there's plenty to do here when the sunsets. There are bars and dance clubs that stay active late into the night.

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 Innsbruck or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Both Innsbruck and Sarajevo have fantastic historic old towns worth visiting.

Innsbruck has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with charming restaurants and cafes as well as comfortable outdoor places to relax when the weather is nice. One of the most notable landmarks is the The Goldenes Dachl, or the "little golden roof", but the atmosphere around old town is what makes this place really special.

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.

Is Innsbruck or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

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

Around Sarajevo visitors will find world-class hiking 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 explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Innsbruck. The city is nestled in the Austrian mountains with many beautiful hikes just outside of town. There are hikes for all skill levels that offer spectacular views of some of the best scenery in Austria.

Is the Shopping Better in Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Innsbruck or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Innsbruck 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, Innsbruck is very family-friendly. The city has a pleasant atmosphere with a charming old town and plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. There's also the popular Swarovski Crystal Worlds, which is fun for kids and adults alike. The Alpine Zoo and the city's many parks and playgrounds all make it a great stop if you're traveling with kids.

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 Innsbruck or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

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

Innsbruck makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's old town is filled with restaurants that make for great date nights. There are also many hikes, viewpoints, and activities that are perfect for a couple's getaway.

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 Innsbruck or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Both Innsbruck and Sarajevo are very good destinations for backpackers.

Innsbruck is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has a number of hostels and affordable restaurants that make it a reasonable option for backpackers and budget travelers. Outdoor activities like nearby hiking are affordable ways to spend the day as well.

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 Innsbruck or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

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

Many students visit Innsbruck. The city's laid back vibe and wide range of universities make it a great place for students. There are cafes, bars, and many outdoor activities that students enjoy while they're in the area.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Both Innsbruck and Sarajevo offer very good public transit options.

Innsbruck has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

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

Is Innsbruck or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Innsbruck
Sarajevo

Innsbruck 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.

Innsbruck is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, and if you stay anywhere nearby, it's easy to reach it 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 Innsbruck Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Innsbruck?

How long in Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Innsbruck and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Innsbruck than in Sarajevo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Innsbruck, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

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


  • How many days in Innsbruck or Sarajevo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Innsbruck 2-4 
    Sarajevo 1-3

One day in Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

The beautiful city of Innsbruck offers skiing 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sarajevo. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sarajevo has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Sarajevo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

Innsbruck 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the overlooked city of Sarajevo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

Innsbruck 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.

Sarajevo is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Innsbruck?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Innsbruck is €129, 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 Innsbruck and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Innsbruck 76
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Innsbruck 152
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Innsbruck and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck


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: Innsbruck Hotel Prices and Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Innsbruck 15
    Sarajevo 6.58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • St Anton am Arlberg to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $103
  • Roundtrip Transfer to Innsbruck Airport, Kitzbühel, and SkiWelt: $130
  • Private transfer from Innsbruck airport: $196
  • Private Transfer Innsbruck Airport INN to Saalbach-Hinterglemm: $49
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Salzburg: $255
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Munich, English Speaking Driver: $197
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck City to Zell am see City: $112
  • Innsbruck to Innsbruck Airport (INN) - Departure Private Transfer: $16
  • Innsbruck Swarovski Crystal Worlds Ticket and Transfer: $36
  • Innsbruck Private Transfer from Innsbruck Airport to City centre: $59
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport(INN) to Längenfeld/Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $63

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
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Sarajevo SJJ Airport to Sarajevo : $16
  • Airport transfer Sarajevo - Bosnia: $16
  • Private Transfer to and from Sarajevo Airport: $25
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo Chauffeur for Individual Clients: $27
  • Sarajevo Airport Private Transfer: $27
  • Airport Transfers Sarajevo for Individual Clients: $27
  • Airport transfers and all other transfers 4 people: $27
  • Airport Transfer in Sarajevo: $27
  • Sarajevo Airport Private Transfers (from/to): $30
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Lukavica: $33
  • Private Transfer from Sarajevo Downtown to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ): $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Innsbruck 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
    Innsbruck 40
    Sarajevo 29
Typical Food Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of dining costs in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Soup for Lunch
    3.75
  • Pasta Lunch
    8.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Innsbruck

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Innsbruck.

  • Half-Day Food Tour of Tyrolean Cuisine: $146
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $149

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: $43
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Host Family: $53
  • Cooking class: Traditional Bosnian Pie: $60
  • Bosnian Cooking Lessons: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Innsbruck 19
    Sarajevo 11
Typical Entertainment Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Schloss Ambras Entrance
    8.00
  • Botanical Garden Entrance Fee
    2.00

Tours and Activities in Innsbruck

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

  • AREA 47 Water AREA Entrance Ticket: $35
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21
  • Austrian Hidden Gem Tour: The Most Beautiful Villages: $190
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Bergisel SkiJump Area guided Tour incl Tickets: $85
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $20
  • Cultural and culinary pleasure tour through Innsbruck's old town: $179
  • Full day small group Tour in Neuschwanstein from Innsbruck: $211
  • Full-Day small group tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes, Braies : $216
  • Gin experience Tyrol: $119
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13
  • Innsbruck - "Welcome Tour"! The Guided City Tour for you.: $19

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:

  • Private Walking Self Guided Audio Tour Visit to Sarajevo: $6.00
  • 2 hours Small Group Old Town of Sarajevo Walking Tour with Local Tour Guide: $13
  • Sarajevo Talkie-Walkie Tour: $13
  • SARAJEVO CITY TOUR - Learn something in an interesting way.: $15
  • Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • Tito's Bunker Tour: $16
  • Sarajevo Essential Full Walking Tour: $16
  • Sarajevo Grand Walking Tour: $16
  • Sarajevo genuine walking tour: Steps through history: $16
  • HISTORY OF ISLAM IN SARAJEVO TOUR: $16
  • Sensational Sarajevo Sunset Walking Tour: $17
  • Discover Sarajevo Walking Tour with Local Guide: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Innsbruck 19
    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 Innsbruck and Sarajevo, we can see that Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Innsbruck or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Innsbruck. When comparing the sizes of Innsbruck 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.