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

Should you visit Tartu 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 Tartu 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.

Tartu

Tartu is a historical, lively, and intellectual university town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife.

Sarajevo

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

Tartu and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tartu or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarajevo than Tartu, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sarajevo is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Tartu is known for its nightlife. Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university. 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 Tartu different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sarajevo is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tartu 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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sarajevo is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and 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.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Tartu 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.

Tartu has a large number of nightlife venues. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

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 Tartu or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its historic old town.

Sarajevo offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Is Tartu or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Tartu is not a hiking destination.

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.

Tartu is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known 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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Sarajevo Better for Families?

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

Tartu is a family-friendly university town. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

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 Tartu or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Neither Tartu or Sarajevo is generally regarded as a top spot for a couple to visit.

Tartu is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Sarajevo is not the best destination for a couple to visit. 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 Tartu or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tartu and Sarajevo are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Tartu or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Tartu is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is not popular with students.

Tartu is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Sarajevo is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Sarajevo. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Tartu or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Tartu 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.

Tartu is a very walkable university town. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable university town. 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 Tartu Worth Visiting? and Is Sarajevo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tartu and Sarajevo. In our opinion, Sarajevo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sarajevo than Tartu. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sarajevo than Tartu. 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 Tartu 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.

One day in Tartu or Sarajevo?

The university town of Tartu offers nightlife. 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.

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 Tartu or Sarajevo?

Tartu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this university town 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 Tartu, 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 Tartu or Sarajevo?

Tartu 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 Tartu or Sarajevo?

Tartu 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 university town 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tartu and Sarajevo, we can see that Tartu 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 Tartu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tartu 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 Tartu Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tartu or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu 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 Tartu 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 Tartu or Sarajevo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Sarajevo. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tartu is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 17°C (62°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarajevo this time of the year. In Tartu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tartu usually receives more rain than Sarajevo. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tartu or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Sarajevo. Many travelers come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Tartu is much colder than Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 6°C (43°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Tartu usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tartu or Sarajevo in the Winter?

Both Sarajevo and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tartu in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Tartu can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Tartu is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tartu in January average around -7°C (19°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In January, Tartu usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tartu or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Tartu during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tartu for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Tartu can be very cold during spring. In April, Tartu is generally much colder than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 5°C (41°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Tartu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tartu usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Tartu