The spirit of the Winter Olympics | Hike along the bobsleigh track

If you’re planning a trip to Sarajevo, this tour offers a fascinating mix of history, nature, and panoramic views, all wrapped up in a manageable four-hour experience. While it’s not a typical sightseeing walk, it’s a chance to connect with Sarajevo’s Olympic and wartime past in a way that feels authentic and a bit adventurous.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines a brisk hike with storytelling, giving you a sense of the city’s resilience and history. The visit to the old bobsleigh track from the 1984 Winter Olympics is particularly striking, especially as it’s now a graffiti-covered remnant of a bygone era. Plus, the views from the mountain and the traditional Bosnian snack at the end add layers of local flavor and visual splendor.

One potential consideration is the hiking distance—about 8 kilometers total, which requires comfortable shoes and a decent level of fitness. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with anyone with mobility concerns.

This tour is best suited for travelers interested in history, outdoor activities, and scenic vistas—those who enjoy a little physical activity paired with cultural insights. It’s particularly appealing if you want a deeper, more personal look at Sarajevo beyond its well-trodden city center.

Key Points

• Historical significance: Walk along the remnants of the 1984 Winter Olympics bobsleigh track.
• Stunning views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Sarajevo from high viewpoints.
• Authentic experience: Combine hiking through old neighborhoods with local Bosnian cuisine.
• Accessible details: The tour is approximately 4 hours with an 8-kilometer hike, suitable for active travelers.
• Small group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Practical logistics: Includes cable car tickets and a snack, with options for transport back to the city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at Sarajevo City Hall: Setting the Stage

Your adventure begins at Sarajevo City Hall, a central hub of the city’s history and culture. Here, your guide shares stories about Sarajevo’s resilience through the siege and how the city’s Olympic history is intertwined with its identity. The friendly atmosphere and local insights set a relaxed tone for what’s to come. Standing opposite the Sarajevo sign, you get a perfect photo opportunity to mark the start.

The Gondola Ride Up Trebevi

Next, you hop onto a cable car that whisks you up to Trebevi mountain in just a few minutes. This short ride offers some of the best views of Sarajevo sprawled below, with the distant Dinaric Alps framing the city. It’s a quick but scenic ascent that feels like stepping into another world, away from the busy streets.

Hiking Along the Old Bobsleigh Track

Once on top, your first stop is one of the most evocative remnants of Sarajevo’s Olympic past—the old bobsleigh track. Built for the 1984 Winter Olympics, the track now serves as a graffiti-covered monument to a different era.

We loved the way the concrete walls are now canvases for vibrant art, reflecting a mix of local expression and tourist curiosity. The track’s steep curves and long stretches evoke memories of the athletes who once raced down them, but now it’s a quiet, slightly haunting space. As you walk downhill along the track, your guide shares stories of the 1984 Olympics, which was a moment of pride for Yugoslavia, and how the track fell into disuse after the war.

The Best Viewpoints and Hidden Gems

At the end of the bobsleigh track, you arrive at another spectacular viewpoint. Here, you can take a moment to soak in the expansive view of Sarajevo lying beneath you—an urban tapestry surrounded by mountains. Many tour reviews highlight how these viewpoints are the highlight, offering a chance for photos and reflection.

From there, the trail continues downhill on gravel paths, leading you through old neighborhoods and village lanes. This portion of the hike feels like a gentle journey through time—past traditional houses, narrow streets, and local life—before arriving at the destination.

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Local Bosnian Cuisine and Relaxation

Your final stop is a typical Bosnian restaurant with breathtaking views. Here, you’ll be treated to a small Bosnian mezze—an assortment of local snacks—and perhaps a cold drink. It’s an ideal way to unwind, reflect on the hike, and enjoy the scenery. Several reviews mention how relaxing and authentic this part of the tour is, offering a genuine taste of local hospitality.

Return to Sarajevo

You have options at this point: either walk back to the city center (about 15 minutes) or arrange for a taxi. The tour guide will assist with transportation, making sure your journey back is hassle-free.

The entire experience covers roughly 8 kilometers, blending physical activity with cultural discovery. The small group size (limited to 8 people) ensures personalized attention and plenty of opportunity to ask questions or just enjoy the moment.

Overall Value and Practicality

When considering the cost, this tour offers good value. It includes the cable car ticket, your guide, and a local snack—all in a manageable time frame. For history buffs, outdoor lovers, or those simply seeking scenic views combined with authentic local flavor, it’s a thoughtful way to spend half a day.

The tour’s pace is moderate, making it accessible for most active travelers who enjoy a bit of walking. The inclusion of transport arrangements and small group size enhances convenience and intimacy, making it feel less like a tour and more like a local adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re curious about Sarajevo’s Olympic history, enjoy hiking with a view, or want to see the city from a different angle, this tour is a perfect fit. It suits travelers seeking a balance of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and relaxed sightseeing. Keep in mind, it’s best for those comfortable on their feet and prepared for some gravel paths and uphill walking.

Those with mobility restrictions or who prefer a purely indoor experience might find it less suitable. But for most active explorers, it offers a rewarding glimpse into Sarajevo’s resilient spirit and scenic beauty.

This tour stands out because it combines history, nature, and local culture in a way that feels genuine and unpretentious. Hiking along the old bobsleigh track is not just about the physical activity but about reconnecting with Sarajevo’s Olympic pride and wartime endurance. The views are stunning at every turn, making it a memorable experience for photography lovers and scenery seekers alike.

The inclusion of a traditional Bosnian snack adds a tasty, authentic touch, complementing the visual feast. Small groups mean more personalized attention, so you’re likely to leave with a deeper understanding of the stories behind the sights.

This experience offers excellent value for those wanting an active, insightful, and picturesque outing. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of exercise, have an interest in Olympic history, or simply want to see Sarajevo from a new perspective—mountain air, mountain views, and meaningful stories included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While there’s no specific age limit, the hike covers about 8 kilometers and involves walking on gravel paths. Active children or teenagers should find it manageable, but it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor walking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must—sports shoes or hiking shoes are recommended. Bring layers depending on the weather, and don’t forget a reusable water bottle.

Can I join the tour if I have limited mobility?
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the hiking paths and terrain.

How long does the cable car ride take?
The cable car that takes you up Trebevi lasts just a few minutes, offering a quick ascent with excellent views.

What’s included in the tour?
You get a guide, the cable car ticket, and a Bosnian snack. Transport back to the city is either arranged or will be explained, so you can plan accordingly.

Is the tour available year-round?
Check with the provider for availability, but generally, hiking tours like this are best in mild weather. Always confirm the schedule beforehand.

How do I book or cancel?
You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: