National Theater Sarajevo
Sarajevo's National Theater: A historic gem showcasing opera, ballet, and plays with stunning classical architecture and excellent acoustics.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience captivating performances
National Theater Sarajevo
Best Time
Experience captivating performances

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sarajevo's National Theater: A historic gem showcasing opera, ballet, and plays with stunning classical architecture and excellent acoustics.
"This place is a gem and if given the opportunity, I would not hesitate to see another performance here."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets online for convenience or buy them on the spot. Doors usually open 15 mins before the show.
🎭 Check Performance Schedule
See what's playing – opera, ballet, or plays. A great way to spend an evening in Sarajevo.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elegant Classical Architecture
Exterior
Admire the beautiful, classical facade of this historic cultural landmark in the heart of Sarajevo.

Stunning Interior Entrance Hall
Lobby
Step inside to a gorgeous, well-preserved entrance hall that sets the stage for a memorable cultural experience.

Live Performance Experience
Auditorium
Enjoy opera, ballet, or theater with great acoustics and comfortable seating for an immersive cultural evening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Performance Schedules
Embrace Local Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sarajevo during the Film Festival.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets online for convenience or buy them on the spot. Doors usually open 15 mins before the show.
🎭 Check Performance Schedule
See what's playing – opera, ballet, or plays. A great way to spend an evening in Sarajevo.
✨ Enjoy the Architecture
Even if you don't see a show, the building's exterior and interior are beautiful to admire.
💰 Look for Free Shows
Sometimes performances are open to the public for free. Keep an eye out for these community initiatives!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets online for convenience or buy them on the spot. Doors usually open 15 mins before the show.
🎭 Check Performance Schedule
See what's playing – opera, ballet, or plays. A great way to spend an evening in Sarajevo.
✨ Enjoy the Architecture
Even if you don't see a show, the building's exterior and interior are beautiful to admire.
💰 Look for Free Shows
Sometimes performances are open to the public for free. Keep an eye out for these community initiatives!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the National Theater for its beautiful classical architecture, both inside and out, and its excellent acoustics. The comfortable seating and talented performers contribute to a high-quality cultural experience. While some find specific renditions mediocre, the venue itself is consistently lauded as a gem.
"We had the chance to visit the Sarajevo National Theatre for a local performance, which was open to the public for free — a wonderful initiative that brings culture closer to the community. Unfortunately, due to a change in our evening plans, we weren’t able to stay for the show or see the interior.
Still, the exterior of the building is beautiful, with its elegant, classical architecture standing as a proud part of Sarajevo’s cultural identity. We definitely hope to return and attend a performance inside next time. If you’re in the city, it’s worth checking their schedule — it could be a great way to spend an evening."
Vivacious D
"Architecture is pleasant to the eyes. Seats are comfortable and most importantly, the acoustics of the place were great for its size and height. You can hear the orchestra and singers quite well.
I saw Tosca here on FEB2025. While the venue was ripe for great performances, I found this rendition of Tosca to be mediocre. That is more subjective though. Objectively speaking this place is a gem and if given the opportunity, I would not hesitate to see another performance here."
Nabil R
"I was fortunate to see a ballet as well as an opera here. What a beautiful theater and such talented individuals. Do check out what is on if you are visiting Sarajevo."
Leslie Shoemaker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Theater is centrally located in Sarajevo, making it easily accessible by public transport like trams and buses. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from other city center attractions. Taxis are readily available as well.
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's advisable to use public transport or taxis, or to research nearby public parking garages if you plan to drive.
Yes, the National Theater is within walking distance from the Baščaršija old town. It's a scenic stroll through the city, taking approximately 10-15 minutes depending on your pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets online through the official National Theater website or directly at the box office. Some reviews mention buying tickets on the spot is also an option.
Ticket prices vary depending on the performance and seating. Some performances might even be free for the public. It's best to check the official schedule for current pricing.
Doors typically open about 15 minutes before the scheduled start time of the performance. Arriving a bit earlier is recommended to find your seats comfortably.
During the Sarajevo Film Festival, there might be special screenings or events at or around the National Theater. It's advisable to check the festival's program and the theater's schedule for specific details and ticketing information.
Generally, entry is straightforward with a valid ticket. Ensure you arrive on time, as late entry might not be permitted for certain performances to avoid disturbing the audience.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The National Theater hosts a diverse range of performances including opera, ballet, and various theatrical plays, showcasing talented local actors and actresses.
Reviewers often praise the comfortable seats and excellent acoustics, noting that the orchestra and singers can be heard very well, making for a great auditory experience.
Some seats, particularly those on the side, might have restricted views. It's a good idea to check the seating chart when booking tickets to ensure the best possible view.
Information on accessibility for people with disabilities is not widely detailed in reviews. It's recommended to contact the theater directly to inquire about specific facilities and accommodations.
While there isn't a strict formal dress code mentioned, dressing smart-casual is generally appropriate for attending a theater performance. It's a cultural venue, so dressing respectfully is advised.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography are typically not allowed inside the auditorium during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. You might be able to take photos in the lobby area before or after the show.
The exterior of the building, with its elegant classical architecture, is a great subject for photos. The interior entrance hall is also quite grand and photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Gem of Sarajevo's Cultural Heritage
Visitors have the opportunity to experience everything from opera and ballet to theatrical plays, all performed by talented local artists. The interior, particularly the gorgeous entrance hall, is well-preserved and adds to the overall grandeur of the experience. Reviewers consistently highlight the comfortable seating and excellent acoustics, ensuring that performances are not only visually engaging but also sonically rich. This makes it a truly special venue for enjoying live arts.
Attending a performance here is more than just entertainment; it's a chance to connect with the soul of the city. The theater's commitment to bringing culture closer to the community, sometimes through free public performances, further solidifies its importance. For anyone visiting Sarajevo, checking the schedule and securing tickets for a show is highly recommended for a memorable cultural immersion.
Navigating Performances and Tickets
When it comes to tickets, flexibility is key. You have the option to purchase tickets online in advance, which is often recommended for popular shows, or you can buy them on the spot at the box office. Reviews suggest that doors usually open about 15 minutes before the performance begins, so arriving a little early is a good idea. While some seats might offer restricted views, the overall quality of entertainment and the historic ambiance make it a worthwhile experience, especially given the reasonable ticket prices for the quality offered.
For those looking for budget-friendly cultural experiences, keep an eye out for free public performances. The theater occasionally hosts such events, making its offerings accessible to a wider audience. This initiative underscores the theater's role as a community cultural center. Whether you're a seasoned theater-goer or a first-time visitor, the National Theater promises an enriching evening steeped in art and history.
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