Things To Do
in Novi Grad
Novi Grad is a modern municipality of the Sarajevo Canton that blends urban convenience with leafy residential areas. It’s known for wide boulevards, parks, and a growing array of cafes and shops. The neighborhood is well-connected to the rest of Sarajevo by public transit and major roads.
Visitors can use Novi Grad as a comfortable base for city sights and easy mountain escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in the bustling heart of Novi Grad, where you can visit the historic Old Town and admire its unique architecture. Enjoy a breakfast of traditional Bosnian pastries at a local café, soaking in the morning atmosphere. The vibrant streets come alive as locals begin their day, providing a lively backdrop for your exploration.
After lunch, continue to the Novi Grad Museum to delve into the city’s rich history and culture. Spend some time walking along the banks of the Sava River, taking in the serene landscape and perhaps enjoying a riverside picnic. Don’t miss stopping by local shops for unique handcrafted souvenirs.
As the sun sets, make your way to a nearby restaurant to taste traditional Bosnian cuisine, such as ćevapi and sarma. Enjoy the ambiance of live music reflecting the local culture while engaging with fellow travelers and locals. End the evening with a leisurely stroll through the town, relishing the calmness of the night.
Visit a local gallery or art space to immerse yourself in the contemporary art scene of Novi Grad. Engage with local artists and learn about the cultural influences that shape their work. Follow this with a coffee break at a quaint café, discussing the artworks you have seen.
After lunch, explore a local craft market where you can see artisans at work and purchase handmade items such as pottery and textiles. Attend a workshop on traditional crafts to create your own unique souvenir to take home. This experience will deepen your appreciation for the local cultural heritage.
Dine at a restaurant known for its cultural performances, where you can watch traditional dance and music showcases. Savor every bite of your meal as you enjoy the vibrant festivities surrounding you. Cap off the night with a visit to a local bar for a taste of Bosnian wines.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) | $50-120 per night |
| 🚎Public transit ticket (1 ride) | $0.80-1.60 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable and welcoming destination with rich history.
- Compact, walkable neighborhoods and easy day trips to mountains.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger European capitals.
- Some areas rely on car travel; public transport can be crowded during rush hours.
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Gdje je toalet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Možete mi pomoći?" - Can you help me?
- "Govoriš li engleski?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Novi Grad
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil water edge in the Otoka neighborhood with reflections at dawn and dusk.
Colorful street art along the main avenues—great for urban photography.
A hillside viewpoint in the Kosevo area offering sweeping city and mountain backdrops.
Riverside paths nearby provide intimate cityscapes, especially during golden hour.
Food in Novi Grad
Novi Grad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small grilled minced meat sausages served with fluffy Bosnian flatbread (somun) and chopped onions.
Must-Try!
Flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach; widely available in local bakeries.
A rich chicken and vegetable soup, often enjoyed as a comforting starter.
Strong, thick coffee served in small cups accompanied by sweet pastries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets in Novi Grad offering fresh produce, dairy, and regional snacks; great for a quick, affordable bite.
Cevapi, burek, and other fried specialties popular for a fast, inexpensive meal on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake and direct eye contact are common. Use formal titles when addressing strangers.
Guests are welcomed warmly; accepting coffee or tea is courteous.
Dress modestly in religious sites and follow local photography rules; remove hats during prayers where required.
Safety
Tipping in Novi Grad
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, tipping around 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is not included. You can round up the bill and leave a small tip for taxi drivers.
Cash (BAM) is widely accepted, cards are commonly accepted in restaurants and shops; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with plenty of sun; hydrate, wear light clothing, and seek shade. Evenings are pleasant for outdoor dining and walks.
Mild days and colorful foliage; cool mornings ideal for morning walks and photography.
Cold with possible snow; dress in layers and plan for indoor activities or short outdoor excursions.
Moderate temperatures with blooming trees; great for park visits and city strolls.
Novi Grad at Night
Hiking in Novi Grad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking and panoramic routes just outside the city; varied difficulty levels.
Forested trails with scenic views; ideal for day trips from Sarajevo.
Gentle, family-friendly trails around the Bosna river springs near Ilidža.
Airports
How to reach Novi Grad by plane.
Main international airport serving the region; about a 15–25 minute drive from Novi Grad depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Bosniaks, with communities of Croats and Serbs; multiethnic cultural heritage is visible in daily life.
A large portion of the population includes university students and young workers, contributing to a vibrant youth culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and community fields.
Widely played in schools and clubs; common social leagues.
Popular team sports with local clubs and facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Novi Grad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be tailored to vegetarian preferences; look for cheese or mushroom burek and veggie stews; ask for meat-free options.