National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Discover Bosnia's rich history and culture through diverse exhibits, from ancient artifacts to natural wonders, set around a tranquil botanical garden...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Bosnia's rich history and culture through diverse exhibits, from ancient artifacts to natural wonders, set around a tranquil botanical garden.
"The botanical garden is a highlight, offering a peaceful escape and a perfect spot for photos. "
Inquire Before You Buy 🎟️
Ask about specific artifact accessibility before purchasing tickets to avoid disappointment.
Garden is a Gem 🌸
The botanical garden is a highlight, perfect for photos and a peaceful break.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Botanical Garden Oasis
Central Courtyard
A beautifully landscaped garden with a fountain, offering a peaceful escape and a perfect spot for photos.
Natural Science Hall
Natural Science Building
Impressive life-size displays of animals and insects, showcasing a vast collection of regional and even some exotic species.
Ethnology Exhibits
Ethnology Building
Discover Ottoman tapestries and 19th-century life models, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Artifacts
Focus on the Garden
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Inquire Before You Buy 🎟️
Ask about specific artifact accessibility before purchasing tickets to avoid disappointment.
Garden is a Gem 🌸
The botanical garden is a highlight, perfect for photos and a peaceful break.
Which museum in Sarajevo is the best?
upcoming sarajevo trip - must see museums/attractions?
Check English Labels 🗣️
Some exhibits may have limited English labeling; look for QR codes for audio guides.
Snack Break Spot ☕
A vending machine offers coffee, snacks, and drinks behind the main building.
Tips
from all over the internet
Inquire Before You Buy 🎟️
Ask about specific artifact accessibility before purchasing tickets to avoid disappointment.
Garden is a Gem 🌸
The botanical garden is a highlight, perfect for photos and a peaceful break.
Check English Labels 🗣️
Some exhibits may have limited English labeling; look for QR codes for audio guides.
Snack Break Spot ☕
A vending machine offers coffee, snacks, and drinks behind the main building.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a glimpse into regional history and culture, with its botanical garden and natural science exhibits being particular highlights. While some visitors find the entrance fee steep for the content and note issues with English labeling and artifact accessibility, the staff's friendliness and the garden's tranquility are often praised.
"Museums like this give me immense joy. It is not pretentious, nor huge, nor particularly unique. However, its modesty and the friendliness of its wonderful staff make you want to enjoy the museum multiple times. Frankly there is not all that much to see and at 20 BAM per person I will not be able to go back anytime soon. Nevertheless, it is well worth your time if you are visiting Sarajevo."
Mustafa Serdar Karakaya
"Let me put it this way — this museum starts off strong, showcasing the incredible history of Bosnia and the broader Balkan region. It’s divided into four main sections, and the charming botanical garden in the center adds to the overall experience.
There’s a small vending machine behind the main building where you can grab coffee, snacks, and drinks, which is a nice touch.
However, the flora and fauna section felt a bit puzzling. While the display of stuffed animals is visually impressive, the inclusion of species like camels, penguins, and kangaroos—completely unrelated to Bosnia or the Balkans—felt out of place. It would make more sense to focus on local wildlife.
Another issue: after a certain point, many artifacts were no longer labeled in English, which makes it difficult for international visitors. There is a QR code for an audio guide, but unfortunately, it doesn’t work.
That said, it’s still a must-visit for anyone interested in regional history and culture — but there’s definitely room for improvement"
Mohamed Aslam
"While the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina holds historical and cultural value, I found the overall experience to be somewhat underwhelming. The exhibitions were rather basic and not particularly distinctive compared to what you might see in other national museums. For the entrance fee, I didn’t feel the content justified the cost. That said, the inner courtyard with the fountain and garden was the highlight — beautifully landscaped and offering a peaceful space to relax or take photos. It’s a calm spot in the middle of the city, worth a short visit for the garden alone, but the museum displays themselves could benefit from more depth and modernization."
Vivacious D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Sarajevo, making it easily accessible by public transport or a short walk from the city center. Trams and buses frequently pass nearby.
Street parking can be challenging in Sarajevo. It's advisable to use public transport or a taxi to reach the museum.
From Baščaršija (Old Town), you can enjoy a pleasant 15-20 minute walk or take a short tram ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official museum website or inquire locally upon arrival.
Admission fees are around 20 BAM per person, which some visitors find a bit high for the content.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not widely available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets at the museum.
Details on discounts are not readily available. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter for any available concessions.
Crucially, inquire about the accessibility of specific artifacts before buying tickets, as some may be behind locked doors or require special arrangements and fees.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
A visit can range from 1-3 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and time spent in the botanical garden.
The natural science hall with its animal displays might appeal to children, but the historical exhibits may be less engaging for younger visitors.
Information on guided tours is limited. You may be able to arrange one with advance notice or inquire upon arrival.
While the ground floor and garden are generally accessible, some upper levels or older sections might present challenges. Inquire about specific accessibility.
While some exhibits have English labels, many artifacts are only labeled in Bosnian, which can be a barrier for international visitors.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
There isn't a full-service cafe, but a vending machine behind the main building offers coffee, snacks, and drinks.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the exhibition halls. The garden offers a pleasant spot for a break.
The museum is located in a central area with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby, offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to check for signage or ask staff before taking pictures, especially of specific artifacts.
The botanical garden with its fountain is a highly recommended spot for photography. The natural science hall also offers unique visual opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be mindful that historical and ethnological exhibits might not hold the attention of younger children for long. It's advisable to manage expectations and perhaps focus on the more visually appealing sections. Inquire about any specific family-friendly activities or educational programs the museum might offer.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider if your primary interest lies in understanding the broader history and culture of Bosnia and Herzegovina. If so, the museum provides a foundational overview. For those on a very tight budget, you might opt to enjoy the exterior and the garden area if access is permitted without a full ticket, or prioritize other attractions in Sarajevo.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be aware of potential restrictions on photography within certain exhibit areas. Always check for signage or ask museum staff before taking photos, especially of delicate artifacts. The architectural elements of the museum buildings themselves might also offer interesting photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Collections
The Ethnology section provides a fascinating look into the cultural traditions and daily life of the region. Highlights include intricate Ottoman tapestries and detailed models depicting 19th-century Ottoman life, offering insights into the social fabric and artistic expressions of the past.
Finally, the Natural Sciences building houses an extensive collection, most notably its impressive life-size displays of animals. While it features many species native to the Balkans, it also includes some exotic animals, which some visitors find puzzling but others find visually striking. The sheer scale of the insect collection is also noteworthy.
The Allure of the Botanical Garden
Many reviewers emphasize that the garden alone can make a visit worthwhile, even for those with limited time or who might find the museum's exhibits less engaging. Its peaceful ambiance and well-maintained flora provide a refreshing contrast to the historical artifacts housed within the museum buildings.
Visitor Experiences and Improvements
A significant concern for international visitors is the inconsistent labeling of exhibits, with many artifacts lacking English descriptions beyond a certain point. While QR codes for audio guides are provided, their functionality has been reported as unreliable.
Furthermore, some visitors have expressed confusion and disappointment regarding the accessibility of specific artifacts. It's crucial for potential visitors to inquire about the availability and any associated fees for viewing particular items before purchasing admission tickets, as this information is not always clearly communicated upfront.
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