Sports & Wellness

OUTDOOR SPORTS & ADVENTURE

Hiking

If you love the outdoors, Sarajevo is an ideal base for exploring some of the region’s most spectacular nature. Surrounded by lush hills and majestic mountains, the city offers trails for all levels, from relaxed forest walks to challenging alpine hikes. Just under an hour away, mountains like Bjelašnica and Jahorina offer panoramic views and well-maintained trails, while nearby Trebević Mountain is perfect for a quick escape into nature with breathtaking views of Sarajevo below. Another must-see is Skakavac Waterfall, located about 12 km from the city center. As one of the tallest waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The hike to Skakavac is both scenic and peaceful, with trails winding through dense forest, leading to stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.

Sarajevo is also part of the internationally recognized Via Dinarica trail network. Thanks to the efforts of USAID, UNDP, and GIZ, many of these trails – especially around Sarajevo – have been restored, clearly marked, and made more accessible, promoting safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences for all.

Planning your hike

Check out AllTrails and Wikiloc for trail maps, distances, difficulty levels, and reviews. For guided adventures and curated routes, Funky Tours is a great local resource. There are a couple of hiking groups in Sarajevo, so ask around…

Important Safety Note – Mines

While most marked trails are safe and well-maintained, Bosnia and Herzegovina still has areas affected by landmines – mainly in remote, unmarked zones. Always stay on official paths, follow posted signs, and use trusted sources when planning your route. If in doubt, join a guided tour for added safety and peace of mind.

BH Mine Suspected Areas: This project maps all areas in Bosnia and Herzegovina that are suspected or confirmed to be an active minefield. Last updated on July 11, 2024. For more information, visit Mine Demolition Center in Bosnia & Herzegovina’s website.

Rafting

For an exciting day trip, head to Konjic (about 1.5 hours from Sarajevo) for rafting on the Neretva River. Tours typically include all equipment, an English-speaking guide, hotel transfers, and a BBQ lunch by the river.The river offers a mix of calm and fun rapids, making it great for beginners and families. Popular providers include Funky Tours, Neretva Rafting, and local tour agencies.

For more adventure, some agencies also offer Tara River rafting trips in nearby Montenegro.

Quad Biking

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Quad biking and ATV tours are a fun way to explore Sarajevo’s stunning natural surroundings, including Mount Igman, Bjelašnica, and even Skakavac Waterfall. Tours are available for all skill levels and usually include equipment, a guide, and hotel pickup. You can book short rides or longer adventures that include scenic stops, hiking, or even village BBQs. Popular providers include Europa Adventure and Squad na Quad.

Horseback Riding

If you’re a horse enthusiast, Sarajevo offers several riding schools and clubs that welcome English-speaking riders of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll find options for lessons, training, and even guided riding tours for small groups. To learn more about each club and what they offer, visit the links below:

Camping

There are numerous camping sites in BiH if you own a caravan or you prefer setting up a tent. These are some of the most popular autocamps in BiH:

Cycling

Cycling in Sarajevo can be a great experience, especially if you’re staying in one of the flatter areas of the city. Between Skenderija and the airport, you’ll find designated bike lanes on both sides of the main roads, along with bike-friendly traffic lights and clearly marked paths that make riding safer and more enjoyable. For route planning, Bikemap offers detailed cycling paths, while Trailforks is a great resource for mountain biking, hiking, and trail running routes, as well as Wikiloc!

“Please be extra vigilent while cycling the streets in BiH. Unfortunately many drivers are not on the lookout for cyclists while driving, so accidents with cyclists do occur”.

If you’re looking to buy a bike, there are several options in the city, such as M-Bike (which also offers bike servicing), bike.ba, and the Planet Bike online store. Prefer to rent instead? You can easily do that too! Check out this link for bike and e-bike rentals in Sarajevo: https://meetbosnia.com/tour/rent-a-bike-or-e-bike-in-sarajevo.

If you’d like to join a cycling club, visit MTB XC Team Sarajevo‘s website!

Running

If you’re into running, the Sarajevo Running Club (SRC) is a fantastic place to start. They actively connect with members and share updates about group runs and training sessions on their Facebook page, so it’s easy to stay in the loop. For details on races and marathons across Bosnia and Herzegovina, check out deckiuplavom.ba.

One of the season’s highlights is the “Unusual Marathon” in Sarajevo on May 11, offering 42K, 21K, and 10.5K race options. You can register here: stotinka.hr.

If you’re more of a trail runner, the Skakavac Trail is a beautiful option, offering both full and half-distance routes through nature which is perfect for those who enjoy going off-road.

Winter Sports

Skiing and Snowboarding

If you are worried about finding activities to do on a cold winter’s day in Sarajevo, then it might be time to get out of your comfort zone and book a ski lesson. Sarajevo was the host of the 1984 Winter Olympics and, despite the devastating war that took place in the 90s, offers excellent ski resorts within just an hours’ drive of the city. The nearby Jahorina and Bjelašnica Mountains are renowned for their well-maintained slopes, catering to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders. With modern ski lifts and breathtaking views, Sarajevo’s ski facilities rival that of some of the famous European resorts but at only a fraction of the price. The two most populare mountains for skiing and snowboarding from Sarajevo are:

  • Jahorina – Olympic Center Jahorina – Located 30 km southeast of Sarajevo. Jahorina offers 45 km of ski slopes, catering to all skill levels. It features 11 ski lifts, a gondola, and an illuminated night skiing trail. During summer, the resort is popular for mountain biking and hiking. Other amenities include ski schools, rentals, and après-ski venues like Olimp Bar.
  • Bjelašnica – Olympic Center Bjelašnica – Located 25 km southwest of Sarajevo. Bjelašnica is known for its 30 km of ski slopes, including night skiing options. The resort is also popular for snowshoeing, tobogganing, and hiking. Bjelašnica offers various sports facilities and is easily accessible from Sarajevo.

Note to Snowboarders: the people of Sarajevo seem to favour skiing over snowboarding, so it can be difficult finding English speaking snowboard instructors.

Ice Rinks & Ice Skating

During the winter months, ice-skating rinks pop up around Sarajevo as part of the festive season. You can explore seasonal locations here.

For year-round skating, head to Zetra, part of the Juan Antonio Samaranch Olympic Complex . Zetra offers ice skating and hockey classes for children, with English-speaking coaches. The school runs from September through June, and the cost is 50 KM for 6 sessions or 100 KM per month, including equipment rental. Hockey training is grouped by skill level, with sessions scheduled accordingly. Memberships can be paid in cash or by card, and parking is available on-site at 1 KM per hour.

For more details, visit the club’s website: hkmedvjedi.ba or contact Bube, the school’s head coach, at +387 61 811 338. Bube is fluent in English, well-organized, and wonderfully supportive.

“Our children are very happy to attend Zetra’s classes three times per week. Club coaches are very kind, speak English and will genuinely help your child integrate quickly. Moreover, a lot of expat children train with this club”.

Racquet & Precision Sports

Tennis

Sarajevo is home to several tennis clubs that cater to players of all levels. Whether you’re looking to rent a court, take lessons (for both kids and adults), or join local tournaments, there are plenty of options across the city.

Most clubs operate year-round, with outdoor courts covered by bubbles during winter months. Many also offer rental equipment, on-site cafés, showers, and parking, making them convenient for regular play or casual visits.

For more information, check out these clubs:

Golf

Sarajevo has just one golf course, but it’s a charming one, Golf Klub Sarajevo, located just 2 km from the city center. The course features six holes, four lakes, a driving range, a putting green, and a chip-and-pitch practice area.All equipment can be rented on-site, and you can even book a trainer if you’d like to work on your swing.And if you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience, don’t miss the Golf Klub Restaurant, located at the course! Perfect for a relaxed meal with beautiful view

Swimming

Swimming Pools

Sarajevo has two main swimming complexes, each offering a unique experience depending on what you’re looking for:

Olympic Pool Otoka: This indoor pool is open year-round, operating daily from 7 AM to 11 PM. The facility includes a gym, café, hair salon, and a swim shop (note: swim caps are required and can be purchased on-site). Parking is available at 1 KM per hour, payable at reception. Memberships are available on a daily, monthly, or yearly basis. While English isn’t always spoken at reception, staff are helpful, and someone is usually available to assist.If you’re looking for an English-speaking instructor who is friendly and professional, ask for Muamer! He’s highly recommended and works with both children and adults, including many expats.

Terme Ilidža: Located within Hotel Hills in Ilidža, Terme offers a more relaxed and family-friendly swimming experience. Built on natural hot springs, it features indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, a kids’ water playground, wellness spa, gym, restaurant, and café. The pools are open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM. It’s a great weekend destination, especially for families, though swimming lessons are also offered for those looking to learn in a more laid-back setting.

Swimming in Lakes Around Sarajevo

While Sarajevo is best known for its mountains, it also offers a few peaceful lakeside spots perfect for a refreshing swim during the summer months. One of the most popular is Lake Stojčevac, located near Ilidža and surrounded by greenery – ideal for picnics, easy walks, and dipping your toes on a hot day (though it’s more of a nature escape than a formal swimming area). For a more structured lake-swimming experience, head a bit farther out to Ribnjak Hadžići or Rakovica Lake, where locals often gather for a swim and barbecue in the warmer months.

These spots may not have lifeguards or facilities, so it’s best to bring your own essentials and check with locals about current water conditions. While lake swimming isn’t as developed as in other parts of the region, it offers a calm, scenic alternative for nature lovers looking to cool off near the city.

Gyms & Fitness

Popular Gyms in Sarajevo

  • Brick Fit – A local gym praised by expats living near the city centre. Offers weight training and cardio in a lively community setting
  • Body Art – Focused on strength and sculpting, this gym provides a balance of machines and free weights—well suited for dedicated bodybuilding
  • All4Sport – A popular option offering multi-sports spaces and general fitness equipment—great for those who mix cardio and strength training
  • Oxide – A comfortable neighborhood gym favored by locals and expats for its welcoming atmosphere and well-equipped space
  • Fit4Life – Ranked among the best in Sarajevo; boasts modern Panatta-brand equipment, excellent hygiene, and a dedicated weightlifting area

City-Central & Premium Facilities

  • Avalon (Alta Shopping Centre) – Centrally located at Alta Mall. Clean and spacious, but more suited for general fitness rather than serious lifting
  • Hotel Central Gym & Spa – Includes a pool, steam room, and sauna, making it ideal for members who appreciate recovery and wellbeing alongside workouts. Pricier and more exclusive

Specialty & Group Training

  • Community Fitness Sarajevo (CrossFit) – The first official CrossFit affiliate in BiH, located near Koševo Stadium. Offers certified coaches and group classes in English
  • Elite Fitness – Well equiped gym offering MMA, kickboxing and grappling classes as well as an open gym
  • Combat Fitness Sarajevo – Focused on functional circuit training; emphasizes full-body workouts in a supportive, no-frills environment
  • No Limit Fitness – Offers both personal and group training sessions with motivating coaches. Contact via Instagram for membership and schedules
  • Lifestyle Club – A compact fitness centre near the Old Town, well-organized and offering personal coaching in a relaxed boutique setting

If you’re looking to try out a few gyms around the city or want to partake in classes across several gyms, it may be worth checking out Fitpass. Fitpass is a membership based platform providing access to various gyms and classes across Sarajevo.

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