Bosnia and Herzegovina Joins with Greece, Kosovo , Montenegro, Portugal, Albania, Spain and More Seeing Surge in Overnight Stays, Driven by Global Visitors : Here’s what you Need to Know More

Published on February 27, 2026

Image generated with Ai

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is off to a strong start in 2026, with impressive growth in both visitor arrivals and overnight stays. According to the latest data from the Tourist Board of Sarajevo Canton (TZ KS), the city recorded a total of 50,546 visitors in January 2026, generating 152,798 overnight stays. This represents a 3% increase in the number of visitors compared to January 2025, while the number of overnight stays saw a substantial rise of 26.9%.

This surge in tourist activity indicates growing international interest in Sarajevo and its surrounding canton. The increased number of overnight stays highlights a trend towards longer visits, as tourists are choosing to stay for extended periods in the city, exploring its rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and vibrant atmosphere.

International and Domestic Tourism in Sarajevo

The data shows that foreign visitors accounted for the majority of arrivals in Sarajevo in January 2026, with 40,018 international tourists, compared to 10,528 domestic visitors. Foreign tourists also accounted for the bulk of overnight stays, totaling 126,601, while domestic tourists contributed 26,197 overnight stays.

The rise in international tourism is significant, with Sarajevo continuing to attract travelers from across the globe. Among the top countries of origin for visitors to Sarajevo were Turkey, Croatia, China, Serbia, Germany, Montenegro, the United States, Austria, Slovenia, and Italy. These countries not only contributed to the number of arrivals but also recorded the highest number of overnight stays.

Top Countries Contributing to Sarajevo’s Tourism Surge

The highest number of foreign visitors came from Turkey, which has consistently been one of the largest markets for Sarajevo’s tourism. The city’s cultural connections to Turkey, along with the growing interest in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s historic sites, make Sarajevo a popular destination for Turkish travelers. Croatia and Montenegro also contributed significantly to the tourist influx, likely due to the proximity of these countries to Sarajevo, making it an easy and appealing destination for regional travelers.

Beyond the Balkans, Sarajevo’s appeal is spreading further across the globe, with notable numbers of visitors from China, India, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Austria, and the United States. The Chinese market, in particular, has shown an increasing interest in visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Sarajevo offering a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultural influences.

Why Tourists Are Staying Longer in Sarajevo

The 26.9% rise in overnight stays indicates that visitors are not only choosing Sarajevo as a short stop but are increasingly staying for extended periods. This trend reflects growing interest in the city’s historical and cultural attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Baščaršija old town, the stunning Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum. Tourists are also drawn to Sarajevo’s vibrant arts and music scene, along with its excellent cuisine, which combines Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Mediterranean influences.

The city’s winter charm also plays a role in attracting visitors during the colder months. Sarajevo’s nearby mountains offer great opportunities for winter sports, particularly skiing and snowboarding, at resorts such as Jahorina and Bjelasnica, which have long been favorites for both local and international tourists. The combination of urban and natural attractions makes Sarajevo a well-rounded destination for travelers seeking both cultural experiences and outdoor activities.

The Impact of Sarajevo’s Growing Popularity on the Tourism Industry

The increase in overnight stays also has a positive impact on Sarajevo’s local economy. The hospitality sector, including hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants, benefits from longer stays, as tourists spend more on accommodation, food, and other services. In turn, this contributes to the wider economy, boosting sectors such as transport, retail, and entertainment.

The growing number of international visitors also presents new opportunities for Sarajevo to further develop its tourism infrastructure, including better transport links, upgraded hotel facilities, and expanded services. As Sarajevo continues to grow as a regional hub for tourism, the city is likely to see further investment in tourism-related services, making the city even more accessible and appealing to global travelers.

Looking Forward: Tourism Trends for Sarajevo in 2026 and Beyond

Sarajevo’s impressive start to 2026 signals positive trends for the rest of the year. With continued growth in both international and domestic tourism, Sarajevo is on track to build on its status as a key tourist destination in the Balkans. As the city becomes increasingly popular with tourists from around the world, it is expected that both the volume of visitors and the length of stays will continue to rise throughout 2026.

The city’s unique combination of historical charm, cultural richness, and modern amenities positions it as a year-round destination, attracting a diverse range of tourists from all walks of life. Whether travelers are coming for Sarajevo’s historical landmarks, vibrant festivals, or stunning natural scenery, the city offers a memorable and enriching experience for all.

In the coming months, Sarajevo is set to welcome even more visitors, and the tourism sector is preparing for continued growth. The strong January performance sets the stage for a busy and prosperous year ahead, cementing Sarajevo’s place as one of Europe’s most captivating travel destinations.