Sarajevo Airport to City Center
Quick comparison
- Rental car: best if you plan to explore beyond the city, travel as a family or carry a lot of luggage. Pick it up in the terminal and go.
- Taxi: best if you are staying only in central Sarajevo and want a direct ride to your door.
- Airport shuttle bus: best if you are travelling light, on a budget and not in a hurry.
Option 1: Rental car from the terminal
If you are planning day trips, a ski weekend or a drive to Mostar, a rental car makes sense from the moment you land. You avoid paying for a taxi into town and then again for transport later.
TRIO rent a car has its desk inside the terminal at Sarajevo International Airport (Kurta Schorka 36, 71210 Ilidža). You collect your keys after baggage reclaim and walk out to the car. There is no shuttle to an off-site car park.
- Open every day from 08:00 to 21:00.
- Landing late or leaving early? Out-of-hours pick-up and return is available for €23.40.
- Unlimited mileage, and many of our cars are automatic.
- No online prepayment: you pay at pick-up, by card or cash.
- Full coverage insurance with no deposit and zero excess is available.
See our airport location and map for directions to the desk.
The drive into the city
The route from the airport to the centre is simple. You join the main east–west avenue and follow it along the valley towards the centre, with the tram line running alongside for much of the way. Outside rush hour, you will be in the centre in about 20 minutes.
Before you set off, it helps to know a few local rules. Dipped headlights must be on all day, and you should give way to trams. Our guide to driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina covers the essentials.
Where to park once you arrive
The old town is mostly pedestrian and parking in the centre is limited. Ask your hotel or apartment about parking before you arrive. Many offer it, and it saves time looking for a space. Our guide to parking in Sarajevo explains paid zones and garages.
Prefer the car delivered to your hotel?
If you only need a car for part of your stay, you can take a taxi into town and have the car brought to you later. TRIO delivers and collects cars in downtown Sarajevo for €23.40. Just mention it when you book or contact our team.
Option 2: Taxi
Taxis wait outside the arrivals hall. It is the easiest option if you have a lot of bags and are going straight to your accommodation.
- Use a licensed taxi with a roof sign and a meter.
- Ask the driver to use the meter, or agree on the fare before you set off.
- Fares change, so check current prices with your hotel or the taxi company in advance.
- Many drivers accept cash only. Have some convertible marks (KM) or euros ready, and ask before you get in if you want to pay by card.
The local currency is the convertible mark (KM, also written BAM), fixed at about 1.96 KM to one euro. You can withdraw cash from an ATM at the airport.
A taxi works well for a short city break. But if you then plan trips outside Sarajevo, the cost of taxis and tours can add up quickly. Compare it with a rental for the days you need it.
Option 3: Airport shuttle bus
There is an airport shuttle bus between the airport and the city centre. It is the cheapest way to get into town.
- It runs to a timetable, so check current times and fares before you fly.
- The schedule can change by season.
- It stops at set points in the city, so you may still need to walk or take a taxi to your accommodation.
Local buses and trams also serve the western suburbs, but there is no direct tram to the terminal. With luggage, the shuttle or a taxi is easier.
Which option should you choose?
Choose a rental car if:
- You want to visit places like Mostar, Konjic, Jajce or the mountains around Sarajevo.
- You are travelling as a family or a group, and need space for luggage or a child seat.
- You arrive late in the evening and want to go straight to your accommodation without waiting.
- You are staying outside the very centre, for example in Ilidža or near the mountains.
For ideas, see our guide to day trips from Sarajevo by car.
Choose a taxi or the shuttle if:
- You are staying only in central Sarajevo for a short trip.
- You plan to walk around the old town and do not need a car.
- You are happy to book organised tours for any trips outside the city.
Car rental at Sarajevo Airport: what you need
- Minimum age 21, with a driving licence held for at least 2 years.
- Your licence and passport or ID card.
- A credit or debit card if you choose basic insurance (€1,100 deposit). With full coverage, there is no deposit.
- If your licence is not in the Latin alphabet, bring an International Driving Permit as well.
Travelling between 15 November and 15 April? Winter tyres are required by law, and cost €13 per rental with TRIO. You can read the full conditions in our terms and conditions.
FAQ
How far is Sarajevo Airport from the city centre?
About 12 km. By car or taxi, it usually takes 20 to 30 minutes to reach Baščaršija, depending on traffic.
Are there taxis at Sarajevo Airport?
Yes. Taxis wait outside the arrivals hall. Use a licensed taxi with a meter, and check current fares before you travel.
Is there a bus from Sarajevo Airport to the city?
Yes. An airport shuttle bus runs between the airport and the city centre. Check the current timetable and fare before your flight, as they can change.
Can I pick up a rental car at Sarajevo Airport late at night?
Yes. The TRIO desk is open every day from 08:00 to 21:00. Outside those hours, pick-up and return can be arranged for €23.40. Let us know your flight details when you book.
Can I have a rental car delivered to my hotel in Sarajevo?
Yes. TRIO delivers and collects cars in downtown Sarajevo for €23.40.
Landing in Sarajevo soon? Check availability and book your car at Sarajevo Airport, then collect it in the terminal and start your trip straight away. Questions? Call or WhatsApp us on +387 61 922 307, or email reservations@triorent.ba.