Ilidža’s history: springs, villas and a bridge
A walk through Ilidža brings together thermal springs, Roman archaeology, an Ottoman bridge and an old spa quarter.
Ilidža has been a spa since Roman times. A Roman settlement grew around its thermal springs; the bridge known as Rimski mostA stone bridge over the Bosna at Plandište. Despite its Roman name, it was built in Ottoman times using older Roman stonework.2.2 km · about 29 min on foot · about 5 min by car was built in the Ottoman period, between 1530 and 1550, using older Roman stone; and the hotels, villas and Velika AlejaA 3.5 km avenue of chestnut and plane trees between Ilidža’s spa quarter and the springs of the Bosna. It is closed to motor vehicles. date from the Austro-Hungarian resort of the late nineteenth century.
From River Walk in Ilidža
Rimski most2.2 km
On footabout 29 min
Car or taxiabout 5 min2.9 km
You can explore Ilidža and central Sarajevo without a car. Mountain and other city trips need additional transport planning.
In this guide
Thermal springs
Thermal springs shaped Ilidža’s history. Walk through the spa quarter to see its villas, hotels and gardens, then add a separate stop at the Plandište bridge for a glimpse of Ottoman construction.
Roman Ilidža
Roman Ilidža grew around the thermal waters, and excavations have revealed buildings and villas. Before visiting the archaeological area, check which sites are open to visitors and how to reach them.
Rimski most
Rimski most, the bridge at Plandište, was built in Ottoman times using older Roman stonework. Plan a separate stop to see its arches and the river, checking the route from the spa quarter.
The nineteenth-century spa quarter
Hotels, villas and tree-lined avenues developed under Austro-Hungarian administration. Explore the spa quarter’s façades and gardens on foot. For entry to private buildings or use of spa facilities, check the venue’s visiting and booking arrangements.
Butmir
Butmir’s Neolithic culture is known for decorated pottery and small figurines. Explore it further at Sarajevo’s National Museum; check the current exhibition if there is a particular object you want to see.
Questions
Is the Roman bridge in Ilidža really Roman?
No. Rimski most was built in the Ottoman period, between 1530 and 1550. It takes its name from the Roman stone reused in it.
How far is Rimski most from River Walk?
About 2.2 km on foot, about 29 minutes, or about 5 minutes by car.
Can I swim in thermal water in Ilidža?
The thermal pools at Butmirska cesta 18 are about 9 minutes from River Walk on foot, with indoor pools open all year. Pay the venue directly.
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