Vrelo Bosne: tickets, hours and how to get there
The springs of the River Bosna, reached on foot or by carriage along a 3.5 km avenue closed to cars.
Vrelo BosneThe springs where the Bosna River begins. Paths and small bridges cross the channels under the trees, with benches and a children’s playground.3.8 km · about 51 min on foot · about 9 min by car is the park at the springs of the River Bosna in Ilidža, about 3.8 km from River Walk. The park authority lists hours of 09:00–21:00 and entry of 6 KM for adult visitors from abroad, 3 KM for children aged 6 to 18, and free under 6. Most visitors arrive on foot or by carriage along 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..
From River Walk in Ilidža
Vrelo Bosne3.8 km
On footabout 51 min
Car or taxiabout 9 min5.1 km
In this guide
What Vrelo Bosne is
The Bosna rises here, at the foot of IgmanThe mountain above Ilidža, with woodland, open meadows and picnic spots.23 km · about 30 min by car, from a group of springs that join into clear streams. Paths and small bridges cross the water under tall trees, swans live on the pools, and there are benches and a children’s playground. The area is a protected natural monument managed by the Sarajevo Canton protected-areas authority.
Opening hours and tickets
These are the figures the park authority publishes at present. Pay at the entrance, and check the authority’s page before you go, as prices and hours can change.
- Opening hours: 09:00–21:00
- Adults visiting from abroad: 6 KM
- Children aged 6 to 18 visiting from abroad: 3 KM
- Children under 6: free
- Residents of Bosnia and Herzegovina: 3 KM for adults, 2 KM for pensioners and children aged 6 to 18
Getting there from River Walk
On foot it is about 3.8 km, about 51 minutes. The last part is Velika aleja, a straight 3.5 km avenue of chestnut and plane trees that is closed to motor vehicles. By car it is about 5 km, about 9 minutes, to one of the two paid car parks: one at the Ilidža end of the avenue and one reached from the Sarajevo–Mostar road. A taxi from the rank at the Ilidža 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 saves the walk in one direction.
Carriages on Velika aleja
Horse-drawn carriages wait on the avenue and carry visitors to the springs and back. Agree the route and the price with the driver before you get in. The park authority’s own price list gives 20 KM each way for a ride of up to three people between Vrelo Bosne and Stojčevac.
How long to allow
Allow half a day if you walk both ways: about two hours of walking in total, plus an hour or more in the park. With a carriage or taxi in one direction, two to three hours is enough. There is a restaurant in the park; bring water for the walk.
With children and pushchairs
The avenue is level and free of traffic, so it works well for pushchairs, scooters and bikes. In the park, children can watch the swans, cross the bridges and use the playground. If you need step-free access throughout, check the paths at the entrance before you go further in.
Park rules
Keep your distance from the swans and other wildlife and do not feed them. Barbecues are allowed only where and when the park authority announces it. Take your litter with you.
Through the year
The park is open in every season. Spring and early summer are greenest, autumn brings colour to the avenue, and in winter the paths can be icy. In the short days of December and January, set off by early afternoon to be back before dark.
Questions
How much is the entrance fee for Vrelo Bosne?
For visitors from abroad it is currently 6 KM for adults and 3 KM for children aged 6 to 18; children under 6 enter free. Residents pay 3 KM and 2 KM.
What are the opening hours of Vrelo Bosne?
The park authority lists 09:00–21:00. Check its page before a visit early or late in the day.
How do I get to Vrelo Bosne from Sarajevo city centre?
Take tram line 3 to its last stop, Ilidža. From there it is about a 10-minute walk to the start of Velika aleja, then 3.5 km along the avenue on foot or by carriage.
Can you drive to Vrelo Bosne?
Yes, to the paid car parks near the entrances. Velika aleja itself is closed to motor vehicles.
How long is the walk along Velika aleja?
The avenue is 3.5 km long, about 45 minutes at an easy pace in each direction.
Sources and visitor information
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