A rainy day in Sarajevo
City Hall’s interior, a museum that interests you and an afternoon at your own pace.
On a rainy day in Sarajevo, choose one or two indoor visits: City Hall for its painted atrium and stained glass, the National Museum for archaeology and natural history, or the War Childhood Museum. The National Museum is closed on Mondays. Close to Ilidža, the indoor thermal pools and the Tunnel of Hope museum are the nearest options.
From River Walk in Ilidža
City Hall12 km
TramLine 3 to BaščaršijaIlidža tram stopThe last stop of tram line 3, which runs between Ilidža and Baščaršija in Sarajevo’s old town.600 m · about 7 min on foot, about 7 min on foot from River Walk
Car or taxiabout 16 min
National Museum9.2 km
TramLine 3 towards BaščaršijaIlidža tram stopThe last stop of tram line 3, which runs between Ilidža and Baščaršija in Sarajevo’s old town.600 m · about 7 min on foot, about 7 min on foot from River Walk
Car or taxiabout 13 min
Time to allowAllow 4-6 hours, from a half day to most of the day.
The Ilidža tram terminal is about 7 minutes (600 m) away on foot via Trg Sabita Hadžića. Line 3 goes towards BaščaršijaSarajevo’s Ottoman-era bazaar and old town, with craft shops, cafés and restaurants around the Sebilj fountain. Tram line 3 from Ilidža runs here.12 km · tram line 3 · about 17 min by car. Check current service and your return before travelling.
In this guide
City Hall
Look up at City Hall’s stained-glass atrium, then explore the decorated staircase and galleries. The building opened in 1896 and reopened after reconstruction in 2014. Check visitor information, as events can limit access to parts of the building.
National Museum
The National Museum covers archaeology, ethnology and natural sciences. Choose a collection that interests you, and let children help decide what to see. The botanical garden is outdoors, so add it if the weather improves.
War Childhood Museum
The War Childhood Museum tells stories of childhood in conflict through personal belongings and testimony. Themes include fear, displacement and loss; parents should judge whether they suit their children. Allow time afterwards to talk or take a quiet break.
Opening hours
Check opening hours before planning your day; the National Museum lists Monday closure. City Hall can be paired with lunch in the old town, leaving a clearer day for a mountain outing.
Questions
What is closed on Mondays in Sarajevo?
The National Museum lists Monday as its closing day, and the Trebević cable car currently starts at 12:00 on Mondays. Check each venue before you go.
What can children do in Sarajevo when it rains?
The indoor thermal pools in Ilidža, the natural-history rooms of the National Museum and a short visit to City Hall.
Is the Trebević cable car worth taking in the rain?
No. The ride is for the view, so keep it for a clear day and choose a museum instead.
Sources and visitor information
More ideas for your days
