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White Fortress: Sarajevo's Panoramic Sentinel

A historic fortress in Sarajevo offering stunning panoramic views of the city, blending medieval origins with Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences.

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The White Fortress (Bijela Tabija) is a historic fortress offering panoramic views of Sarajevo. Dating back to medieval times with Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian expansions, it stands as a national monument and a popular spot to soak in the city's beauty.

A brief summary to White Fortress

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk to the fortress can be steep and uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Sarajevo from the fortress.
  • Check local schedules for any cultural events or exhibitions that may be taking place at the fortress.
  • Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Yellow Fortress for a mini-hike and more viewpoints.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Baščaršija, Sarajevo's old bazaar, walk along the path towards Bistrik. Follow the road uphill, passing Kovači Memorial Cemetery. Continue towards the old Vratnik area. The walk to the White Fortress takes approximately 25-35 minutes. Be prepared for a steep incline.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, take a tram or bus to Baščaršija. From there, take bus number 31 towards Bistrik. Ask the driver to announce the stop closest to the White Fortress. After getting off the bus, walk uphill for about 10 minutes to reach the fortress. A single bus fare costs around 1.60 KM.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from the Sarajevo Airport to the White Fortress takes approximately 24 minutes and costs around 14 KM. A taxi from the city center will be less expensive. Expect to pay around 10-12 KM for a taxi from the city center.

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Discover more about White Fortress

The White Fortress, known locally as Bijela Tabija, is perched atop a hill overlooking Sarajevo, offering visitors a stunning panoramic vista of the city and its surrounding landscape. This ancient fortress is one of five that once formed a defensive wall around the old town of Vratnik. Believed to have originated in the late 14th or early 15th century, the fortress has seen various periods of construction and renovation under Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian rule. Its name is thought to derive from the white stone used in its construction. Throughout history, it served as a strategic point for defending Sarajevo, witnessing attacks such as those by Prince Eugen of Savoy in the 17th century and the Austro-Hungarian army in 1878. Today, the White Fortress is a National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina and a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can explore the remains of the fortress, including its walls and towers, and enjoy the breathtaking views. The site is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, with an entrance fee of 5 KM. Though some find the ruins basic, the view is worth the visit. The fortress is also located near walking paths, making it ideal for a scenic hike.

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