I'm looking for a private tour guide for a half day in Sarajevo in August. I'd like to find someone who can explain the Bosnian war as well as the beginning of WWI to my girls, ages 11 and 13. I have a quote from one guide for over 200 Euros, which seems high to me. Or is that the going rate?
Any suggestions for other guides? Thanks!
-Betsy
Betsy, check out my answer on this thread:
I don't know if Amir is still available or what he charges nowadays, but in 2014 it was about 50 euros for the full day.
I would go to the tourist info office while you're on the ground and sign up for a tour. Or find a tour via Viator, although you'll end up paying more than the local rate. The cost of living in Bosnia is extremely low when translated to US dollars, so a 200 Euro tour is definitely on the high side. I think I paid no more than 50 Euros, if that, for a half day (or more) tour hitting the major sites in Sarajevo. The guide was a local and, like all locals, they have lived through the siege and are very willing to share their perspective. I found my tour through the tourist info center, and it was a van of perhaps 8 people from all over the world.
I did a "free" walking tour with Neno & friends. http://www.sarajevowalkingtours.com/ Merima was the guide and did an excellent job on the history of the city as well as answering questions. Very open and a great tour touching on the key points.
If you haven't booked a hotel yet, I would suggest Garni Hotel Konak. The owner's sons run the place and made excellent recommendations (they also offered to arrange tours, but I didn't take them . My favorite part of my trip to Sarajevo was having tea and talking with the evening staff Arnes who is a teacher. The hotel is right in old town, a great spot (parking is tough if you have a car).