Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo or Varna?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Varna 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 Varna 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.
Where Should I go: Varna or Sarajevo?
Varna
Varna is a coastal city on the Black Sea. It's the third largest city in Bulgaria and many people consider it the summer capital of the country. It's a major tourist destination and it can make for a relaxing escape at the beach if you're in Bulgaria during the summer. It is the only city in Bulgaria that cruises visit, and as such, it's tourist infrastructure has grown. In addition to being a tourist destination, Varna is also a business and university center, seaport, and the headquarters of the Bulgarian Navy and merchant marine.
Sarajevo
Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and is one of the most culturally and historically interesting cities to visit in Europe. The city was at the crossroads where the Eastern and Western Roman Empires divided, and the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches divided. Today it is most associated with the Civil War that occurred here between 1992 and 1995. There are still many remnants of the war left, from the cemeteries that dot the countryside to the leftover damage done by bombs. Despite its brutal history, Sarajevo has begun to thrive again, both economically and as a tourist destination.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Bulgaria, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Bulgaria, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayVarna $65Sarajevo $70
The average daily cost (per person) in Varna is $65, while the average daily cost in Sarajevo is $70. 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 Varna and Sarajevo in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personVarna $35Sarajevo $27
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomVarna $70Sarajevo $54
Compare Hotels in Varna and Sarajevo
Looking for a hotel in Varna 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.
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: Varna Hotel Prices and Sarajevo Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Varna $9.33Sarajevo $7.02
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Varna
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Varna:
- Varna to Bucharest - Private Transfer: $642
- Varna Airport - Nessebar | Airport Transfer,Taxi, Bus, Van Service | Book Now: $131
- Private Transfer from Varna to Burgas (BOJ) Airport: $127
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Varna City: $22
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Sveti Vlas: $108
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Sunny Beach: $217
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Sofia: $271
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Saints Constantine and Helena: $25
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Pomorie: $117
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Nesebar: $109
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Lozenets: $164
- Private Transfer from Varna (VAR) Airport to Kavarna: $81
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Sarajevo:
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Tram Tickets (for 2)$1.64
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo
Also for Sarajevo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Airport Transfer in Sarajevo: $27
- Airport Transfers Sarajevo Chauffeur for Individual Clients: $27
- Airport Transfers Sarajevo for Individual Clients: $27
- Airport transfer Sarajevo - Bosnia: $16
- One-way Private Airport Transfer to Sarajevo: $15
- Private Sarajevo Airport Transfer: $54
- Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Lukavac: $270
- Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Lukavica: $33
- Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Mostar: $290
- Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Mostarsko raskršće: $67
- Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Podlugovi: $69
- Private Transfer from Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) to Rakovica: $67
Is it cheaper to fly into Varna or Sarajevo?
Prices for flights to both Sarajevo and Varna 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
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Food Meals for one dayVarna $23Sarajevo $31
Typical Food Prices in Sarajevo
For Sarajevo, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
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Restaurant Dinner (for 2)$12
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarajevo
For Sarajevo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- 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
- Sarajevo Food Tour off the beaten path: $84
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Varna $8.55Sarajevo $12
Tours and Activities in Varna
Here are a few actual costs in Varna for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Action Aqua Park Entrance Ticket: $23
- Audio Guide for All Sunny Beach Sights, Attractions or Experiences: $15
- Audio Guide for All Varna Sights, Attractions or Experiences: $15
- Birdwatching and cultural heritage tour from Varna: $205
- Bulgaria Day Bike & E-bike Tours - country & sea: $63
- E-Motorcycle Tour in Old Rock Monastery and Old Roman Fortress : $114
- From Hiking and Climbing Day Tour: $73
- From Rock Sanctuaries Hiking Tour: $73
- Full Day Private Sightseeing Tour to the North of Varna: $155
- Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour to the North of Varna: $205
- Full-Day Private Sightseeing Tour to the South of Varna: $205
- Full-Day Small-Group Tour of Bulgaria by Minivan with Lunch: $87
Typical Entertainment Prices in Sarajevo
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Sarajevo's activities, tours, and tickets:
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National Museum (for 2)$7.64
Tours and Activities in Sarajevo
For Sarajevo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- Svrzo House Entrance Ticket: $3.25
- Museum Of Crimes Against Humanity And Genocide 1992-1995 Entrance Ticket: $6.26
- Konjic City Tour: $12
- Sarajevo Talkie-Walkie Tour: $13
- Grand Walking Tour: $16
- SARAJEVO CITY TOUR - Learn something in an interesting way.: $16
- Tito's Bunker Tour: $16
- Sarajevo Grand Walking Tour: $16
- Sarajevo genuine walking tour: Steps through history: $16
- Sensational Sarajevo Sunset Walking Tour: $17
- Discover Sarajevo Walking Tour with Local Guide: $17
- HISTORY OF ISLAM IN SARAJEVO TOUR: $19
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayVarna $8.52Sarajevo $7.34
Sample the Local Flavors in Varna
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Varna:
- Private Exploration: French Influence in Varna + Walking + Wine tasting tour: $53
- Bulgarian Wine Tasting & Art Gallery Experience in Varna: $53
- Varna Exquisite Wine Tasting: $64
- Private Varna Gourmet Tour with Superb Wine Tasting: $64
- The Ultimate Private Varna Walking, Culture & Wine Tasting Tour: $75
- E-bike & Wine Tour to the Bulgarian Coast: $103
- Varna Gourmet Tour including Wine Tasting: $127
When comparing the travel costs between Varna and Sarajevo, we can see that Sarajevo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Varna Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Varna or Sarajevo?
Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Varna. When comparing the sizes of Varna 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 Varna 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 Varna or Sarajevo in the Summer?
The summer brings many poeple to Varna as well as Sarajevo. Additionally, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Varna is generally cooler than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Varna average around 23°C (73°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Varna this time of the year. In the summer, Varna often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Varna gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.
Varna usually gets less rain in July than Sarajevo. Varna gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyVarna 23°C (73°F)Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)
Should I visit Varna or Sarajevo in the Autumn?
Both Sarajevo and Varna are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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.
Varna is cooler than Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Varna averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).
Varna usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Varna gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In October, Varna usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Varna gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberVarna 14°C (57°F)Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)
Should I visit Varna or Sarajevo in the Winter?
Both Sarajevo and Varna during the winter are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.
Varna can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Varna is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Varna in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).
In the winter, Varna often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Varna gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.
Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Varna usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Varna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryVarna 3°C (37°F)Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)
Should I visit Varna or Sarajevo in the Spring?
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Varna and Sarajevo. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In April, Varna is generally cooler than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Varna average around 11°C (52°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).
Varna usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Varna gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.
Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Varna usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Varna gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilVarna 11°C (52°F)Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)
Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Varna
| Varna | Sarajevo | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 3°C (37°F) | 38 mm (1.5 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 148 mm (5.8 in) |
| Feb | 3°C (37°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 134 mm (5.3 in) |
| Mar | 6°C (43°F) | 34 mm (1.3 in) | 11°C (51°F) | 124 mm (4.9 in) |
| Apr | 11°C (52°F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) | 14°C (58°F) | 127 mm (5 in) |
| May | 16°C (61°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
| Jun | 21°C (70°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
| Jul | 23°C (73°F) | 37 mm (1.5 in) | 26°C (78°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
| Aug | 23°C (73°F) | 32 mm (1.3 in) | 26°C (78°F) | 65 mm (2.5 in) |
| Sep | 19°C (66°F) | 31 mm (1.2 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 109 mm (4.3 in) |
| Oct | 14°C (57°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 153 mm (6 in) |
| Nov | 9°C (48°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 203 mm (8 in) |
| Dec | 5°C (41°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) | 7°C (45°F) | 196 mm (7.7 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.