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

Should you visit San Remo or Sarajevo?

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

Should I visit San Remo 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.

San Remo

San Remo is a historic, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

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. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

San Remo and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in San Remo or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarajevo than San Remo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sarajevo is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while San Remo is known for its beaches. San Remo is more touristy than Sarajevo and is known for its olives, lemons, and flower market. 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 San Remo different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Remo or Sarajevo?

San Remo
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

San Remo
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is terrific for its restaurants. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Remo makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is San Remo or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

San Remo
Sarajevo

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in San Remo and Sarajevo.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in San Remo. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

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 San Remo or Sarajevo Better for Beaches?

San Remo
Sarajevo

San Remo is a very popular place for the beache. However, Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Many people visit San Remo for it's beautiful beaches. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Sarajevo is not a beach destination.


Is San Remo or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

San Remo
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Sarajevo has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Is San Remo or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

San Remo
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is terrific for its hiking trails. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Remo or Sarajevo?

San Remo
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

San Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.


Is San Remo or Sarajevo Better for Families?

San Remo
Sarajevo

San Remo 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, San Remo is very family-friendly. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

San Remo
Sarajevo

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

San Remo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

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 San Remo or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Remo
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.


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

San Remo
Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is San Remo or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

San Remo
Sarajevo

San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very walkable coastal city. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable coastal 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 San Remo Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or San Remo?

How long in San Remo or Sarajevo?

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

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

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

One day in San Remo or Sarajevo?

The beautiful coastal city of San Remo offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The beautiful city of Sarajevo offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in San Remo or Sarajevo?

San Remo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Remo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in San Remo or Sarajevo?

San Remo 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 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.

A week in San Remo or Sarajevo?

San Remo 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

Sarajevo 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or San Remo?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Remo is €152, 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 San Remo and Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Remo 80
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Remo 160
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in San Remo and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in San Remo 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 San Remo


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: San Remo Hotel Prices and Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Remo 46
    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:

  • Transfer tour Sarajevo-Dubrovnik: $163
  • Transfer from/to Sarajevo - Neum: $176
  • Transfer from/to Sarajevo - Belgrade: $288
  • Transfer from city of Sarajevo to city of Mostar: $251
  • Transfer from Sarajevo to Kotor+Herzegovina tour: $126
  • Split Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Private Transfer to and from Sarajevo Airport: $25
  • Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Split: $321
  • Dubrovnik Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Airport transfers and all other transfers 4 people: $27
  • Sarajevo ⇄ Mostar / Private Transfer: $203
  • Sarajevo to/from Zagreb Transfer Day Tour (North-central Bosnia): $153

Is it cheaper to fly into San Remo or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and San Remo 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
    San Remo 44
    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.
    San Remo 23
    Sarajevo 11

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
    San Remo 14
    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 San Remo and Sarajevo, we can see that San Remo 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 San Remo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Remo 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 San Remo Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Remo or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of San Remo 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 San Remo 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 San Remo or Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and San Remo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Remo for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Remo is generally cooler than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 23°C (73°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Sarajevo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Remo. San Remo usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. San Remo gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Remo usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. San Remo gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit San Remo or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

Both Sarajevo and San Remo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to San Remo because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

San Remo is around the same temperature as Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Remo averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, San Remo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. San Remo gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in San Remo. San Remo usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. San Remo gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    San Remo 17°C (63°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both San Remo and Sarajevo. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to San Remo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, San Remo is a little warmer than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Remo in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

San Remo usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. San Remo gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, San Remo usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. San Remo gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Remo 9°C (48°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Sarajevo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to San Remo as well as Sarajevo. Many travelers come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, San Remo is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 13°C (56°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, San Remo often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. San Remo gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. San Remo usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. San Remo gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Remo 13°C (56°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and San Remo

San Remo Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)