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

Should you visit Rouen or Sarajevo?

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

Should I visit Rouen 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.

Rouen

Rouen is a historical, charming, and compact city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Rouen and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 Rouen or Sarajevo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sarajevo than Rouen. Sarajevo is bigger than Rouen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rouen is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture. 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 Rouen different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rouen
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.


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

Rouen
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Rouen or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Rouen
Sarajevo

Evening events are notable in both Rouen and Sarajevo.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

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 Rouen or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Rouen
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.


Is Rouen or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Rouen
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rouen or Sarajevo?

Rouen
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Rouen or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Rouen
Sarajevo

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

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

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 Rouen or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Rouen
Sarajevo

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

Rouen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

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 Rouen or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rouen
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is notable for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sarajevo is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

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

Rouen
Sarajevo

Both Rouen and Sarajevo offer superb public transit options.

Rouen has some very good public transit options. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

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


Is Rouen or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Rouen
Sarajevo

Rouen 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.

Rouen is a very walkable city. There are many parts of town that can easily be 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 Rouen Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Rouen?

How long in Rouen or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

One day in Rouen or Sarajevo?

The beautiful city of Rouen 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this overlooked destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Rouen or Sarajevo?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarajevo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Rouen or Sarajevo?

Rouen 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sarajevo. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Rouen or Sarajevo?

Rouen 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 city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the overlooked destination of Sarajevo. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Rouen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Rouen is €109, 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 Rouen and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rouen 52
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rouen 104
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Rouen and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Rouen 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 Rouen


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: Rouen Hotel Prices and Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rouen 34
    Sarajevo 6.58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rouen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rouen:

  • Round-Trip Private Transfer Rouen Airport URO to Rouen by Minivan: $164

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 Rouen or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Rouen 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
    Rouen 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.
    Rouen 18
    Sarajevo 11

Tours and Activities in Rouen

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

  • Audio guided tour : Rouen retold - Joan of Arc retold: $16
  • From Normandy D-Day Beaches Private Full-Day Tour: $1,283
  • From Normandy’s Regional Highlights Private Tour: $933
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center of Rouen: $26
  • Private Custom Walking Guided Tour in Rouen: $51
  • Rouen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Rouen audio guided tour: $13
  • American Landing Beaches Discovery Private Tour: $1,128
  • Castles and Abbeys Private Full-Day Tour: $1,283
  • Discover Rouen with a licenced tour guide: $59
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center: $26
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $307

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
    Rouen 7.86
    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 Rouen and Sarajevo, we can see that Rouen 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 Rouen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rouen 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 Rouen Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Rouen or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Rouen 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 Rouen 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 Rouen or Sarajevo in the Summer?

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

Rouen is cooler than Sarajevo in the summer. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In Sarajevo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Rouen. In the summer, Rouen often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Rouen gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets more rain in July than Sarajevo. Rouen gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Rouen 17°C (63°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Rouen or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rouen and Sarajevo. The autumn months attract visitors to Rouen 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.

In the autumn, Rouen is cooler than Sarajevo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rouen in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Rouen usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Rouen gets 127 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, Rouen usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Rouen gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Rouen 12°C (53°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Rouen or Sarajevo in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Rouen in the winter. In January, Rouen is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Rouen average around 4°C (39°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Rouen often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Rouen gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Rouen usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Rouen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rouen 4°C (39°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Rouen or Sarajevo in the Spring?

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

Rouen is much colder than Sarajevo in the spring. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Rouen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo during spring. Rouen gets 172 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, Rouen usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Rouen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Rouen 9°C (48°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Rouen

Rouen Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)