Background

White Fortress: Sarajevo's Panoramic Sentinel

Explore the historic White Fortress in Sarajevo for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's rich past.

4.4

The White Fortress (Bijela Tabija) is a historic fortress overlooking Sarajevo, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding valley. Originally built in the Middle Ages, with expansions during Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian rule, it stands as a testament to Sarajevo's rich history and strategic importance.

A brief summary to White Fortress

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photographs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the path to the fortress can be steep and uneven.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Baščaršija, Sarajevo's old bazaar, walk east towards the Kovači Memorial Cemetery. Continue past the cemetery, following the road uphill towards the old Vratnik neighborhood. The walk is steep and takes approximately 25-35 minutes. There are no entrance fees to access the road leading to the fortress.

  • Public Transport

    Take the bus line 51 from Baščaršija to Vratnik. The bus operates every 20 minutes. From the Vratnik bus stop, follow the signs uphill to the White Fortress. A single bus fare costs approximately 1.60 BAM.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from the city center (Baščaršija) to the White Fortress costs approximately 10-12 BAM and takes around 15 minutes. Taxis are readily available throughout the city center.

Unlock the Best of White Fortress

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about White Fortress

The White Fortress, known locally as Bijela Tabija, is an ancient fortification that graces the skyline above Sarajevo, providing visitors with stunning panoramic views. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the eastern entrance to the Sarajevo valley, the fortress has been a silent witness to centuries of history. Believed to have originated in the Middle Ages, with some archeological evidence pointing to the late 14th or early 15th century, the fortress has seen numerous expansions and renovations under Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian rule. Its name is said to derive from the white stone used in its construction. The fortress once served as a key part of the defensive walls surrounding the old town of Vratnik. The fortress had a rectangular shape with four towers located in corners and once at the entrance to the fortress. Today, the White Fortress is a National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can explore the remains of the fortress, wander through its graffiti-covered walls, and soak in the breathtaking vistas of Sarajevo and the Miljacka River. The site is particularly enchanting during sunset.

Popular Experiences near White Fortress

Popular Hotels near White Fortress

Select Currency