Discover Bosnia’s Natural Wonders and Cultural Heritage on the Sarajevo-Vares Tourist Train

Published on December 8, 2025

The launch of the Sarajevo-Vares tourist train marks an exciting new chapter for tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina, offering visitors a unique way to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and industrial history. A collaboration between the Railways of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH), the Municipality of Vares, and the Tourist Board of the Zenica-Doboj Canton (ZDC), this new tourism initiative aims to attract visitors to the region and promote the local economy.

The Sarajevo-Vares train journey is designed to showcase some of the country’s most scenic routes, weaving through rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque villages. Along the way, passengers are treated to views of Vares’s industrial legacy, which includes the town’s historical importance in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s mining industry, as well as opportunities to experience its vibrant cultural and culinary offerings.

Promoting Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage

The Sarajevo-Vares tourist train offers more than just a scenic journey; it is a gateway to discovering the diverse natural and cultural riches of the region. The route takes visitors through the heart of Central Bosnia, where the Dinaric Alps provide a breathtaking backdrop of rugged mountains, forests, and deep valleys. The journey’s natural beauty is complemented by stops in towns that offer historical and cultural experiences.

Vares, in particular, has a rich industrial heritage, with a history rooted in mining, particularly iron ore. This industrial legacy is reflected in the town’s architecture and museums, where visitors can learn about its role in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s industrial development. The train offers tourists a chance to experience this blend of industrial history and natural beauty, showcasing the unique combination of past and present in this part of the country.

In addition to its natural and industrial attractions, the Sarajevo-Vares route also highlights local traditions and culture. Passengers can explore the nearby cultural landmarks, such as the Vares Old Town, the Church of St. Joseph, and the Vares Castle, where history lovers can delve into the area’s medieval past.

Gastronomy and Local Delights

One of the key features of the Sarajevo-Vares tourist train is its focus on local gastronomy. As part of the journey, passengers are encouraged to experience the regional culinary delights of Central Bosnia. Local delicacies, including ćevapi, burek, and sufle (traditional desserts), are served on board or at designated stops along the route. This focus on food enhances the visitor experience, allowing tourists to savor the flavors of Bosnia and Herzegovina while exploring the area’s natural beauty.

The train also stops at local restaurants and markets, where visitors can sample fresh produce and products from the region. The inclusion of food as part of the tourist experience is an important aspect of the project, as it allows visitors to engage with the culture through one of its most cherished traditions: food.

Revitalising Local Economies and Promoting Sustainable Tourism

The launch of the Sarajevo-Vares tourist train is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable tourism and revitalise local economies in Bosnia and Herzegovina. By focusing on local attractions, products, and services, the project aims to encourage tourists to explore lesser-known areas of the country, contributing to the diversification of the tourism sector.

The train is expected to attract both domestic and international visitors, with potential to bring in tourists from neighboring countries as well as farther afield. This initiative also aligns with the growing trend of slow tourism, which encourages travelers to take their time and enjoy the journey, rather than rushing to the next destination. With its focus on local culture, history, and nature, the Sarajevo-Vares train is designed to offer a more immersive and reflective travel experience.

In addition to promoting tourism, the train project also helps create jobs and stimulate the local economy by encouraging visitors to spend money in the communities along the route. Local businesses, including those offering hospitality, food, and cultural experiences, stand to benefit from the increase in tourism, helping to generate income and create sustainable growth in the region.

Looking Forward: A Boost to Regional Tourism

The introduction of the Sarajevo-Vares tourist train is part of a larger effort to improve transportation infrastructure and promote tourism across Bosnia and Herzegovina. The train route offers a new and exciting way for visitors to explore the country, providing access to some of the region’s most beautiful and historically significant destinations.

As the train service gains popularity, future expansion and additional routes are likely to follow, further strengthening Bosnia and Herzegovina’s position as a key destination for regional and international tourism. The success of this project could serve as a model for other parts of the country looking to tap into the growing interest in sustainable tourism and heritage-based travel.

Conclusion

The Sarajevo-Vares tourist train is a new and exciting development in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s tourism sector, offering visitors a chance to experience the country’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food in a unique and sustainable way. By connecting the towns of Sarajevo and Vares, the train offers a scenic and immersive travel experience that showcases the best of Central Bosnia. As part of a broader push to boost tourism and support local communities, the Sarajevo-Vares train is set to become a major attraction for travelers seeking an authentic and rewarding journey through Bosnia and Herzegovina.