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Vrelo Bosne: A Natural Oasis

Discover Vrelo Bosne: Sarajevo's natural spring, offering serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful escape for all nature lovers.

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Vrelo Bosne, or the Spring of Bosna River, is a serene natural park located on the outskirts of Sarajevo, near Ilidža. It's a popular destination known for its beautiful springs, lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

A brief summary to Vrelo Bosne

Local tips

  • Visit during late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Take a horse-drawn carriage ride along Velika Aleja for a unique and scenic experience.
  • Enjoy a picnic by the springs or dine at the restaurant for a taste of local cuisine.
  • Explore the nearby Roman Bridge, built from the ruins of a Roman settlement, for a glimpse into the area's history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the park's trails and wooden walkways.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Sarajevo city center, take tram number 3 towards Ilidža. Alight at the last stop in Ilidža. From there, walk approximately 10 minutes to the beginning of Velika Aleja. Walk or cycle along the 3.5 km Velika Aleja to reach Vrelo Bosne. A single tram fare costs around 2 KM. Alternatively, from Ilidža, take bus line 28 directly to Vrelo Bosne. The bus journey takes about 6 minutes and costs 1 KM.

  • Taxi

    From Sarajevo city center, a taxi ride to Vrelo Bosne takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between 9-12 KM. Taxis are readily available throughout the city center.

  • Driving

    From Sarajevo, follow the M-17 road towards Mostar. Turn left at the Old Orthodox Church towards Vrelo Bosne. Paid parking is available near Vrelo Bosne. Parking fees are approximately 2 KM per hour or 5 KM for 24 hours. Another option is to drive from Ilidža to the beginning of Velika Aleja, where paid parking is also available. Note that Velika Aleja is closed to motor vehicles.

  • Walking

    From the Ilidža tram stop, you can walk to Vrelo Bosne. Walk east, cross one of the bridges to the other side of the river, and continue through Park Banjska until you reach Velika Aleja Street. Then, walk straight down Velika Aleja to the park entrance. The walk from Ilidža to the beginning of Velika Aleja is about 10 minutes (850m), and the walk along Velika Aleja to Vrelo Bosne is 3.5 km.

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Discover more about Vrelo Bosne

Vrelo Bosne, meaning the Spring of Bosna, is a stunning natural monument where the Bosna River originates, situated at the foot of Mount Igman, in Ilidža, near Sarajevo. This protected park offers a tranquil retreat with its network of springs, streams, and small islands connected by wooden bridges. The area spans over 600 hectares and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including swans, ducks, and various plant species. The park has been a cherished spot for centuries, with evidence of Roman settlements in the nearby area. During the Austro-Hungarian period, Vrelo Bosne became a popular recreational area for the elite, who enjoyed carriage rides along the tree-lined avenues. Today, visitors can still experience this tradition with horse-drawn carriages available for hire. Vrelo Bosne provides a refreshing escape, with temperatures often lower than in Sarajevo, especially during the summer. Visitors can explore walking trails, enjoy picnics, dine at the restaurant, or simply relax by the crystal-clear waters. The park is well-maintained, featuring benches, covered rest areas, and playgrounds, making it an ideal destination for families and nature enthusiasts. The park suffered neglect during the Bosnian War, but it was restored in 2000 by local youths and an international ecological organization. Today, Vrelo Bosne stands as a testament to the region's natural beauty and resilience, attracting over 60,000 tourists annually.

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