Sarajevo International Airport
Sarajevo, BA · about 10 km (6 mi) southwest of central Sarajevo
Getting to the city
| Mode |
|---|
| Airport Bus City center |
| Taxi Curbside |
Insider notes
The Business Lounge in Terminal B offers value with pay-at-the-door entry, useful for anyone wanting some quiet time before a flight.
Get the best Wi-Fi in the Departures area — 1 hour free compared to only 15 minutes elsewhere in the airport.
Sleeping at the airport overnight; the terminal closes, and passengers must leave.
Welcome
Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ) boasts a layout where everything feels close and accessible. Located just about 10 km (6 mi) southwest of central Sarajevo, this compact airport doesn’t skimp on traveler amenities. Despite operating more like a regional gateway than a hub, it offers useful services like pay-at-door lounges and a straightforward city transport link via bus or taxi.
At a glance
This airport handles 4,286,686 passengers annually and operates a single runway. Austrian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Croatia Airlines are among the carriers using its three gates in Terminal B. While it does not serve as a hub, its efficient operations are deemed practical for city connections.
Terminals & layout
SJJ comprises a single terminal, Terminal B, with only three gates. This simplifies navigation considerably — you're never far from where you need to be. There are eateries like the Snack Bar and Refreshment Bar, and if time permits, the overlooked Restaurant Bar in the old terminal is a considered choice. Note the limited shopping options, including a Duty-Free and BiH-BH Telecom shop for local SIM cards.
Getting to and from the city
For a budget-friendly transfer, the airport bus to Baščaršija in the old town costs about 5 BAM, inclusive of one under-23kg bag. Be wary of its infrequent schedule, though. Taxis offer a more reliable door-to-door service, with a ride to Baščaršija costing 15–20 BAM plus 1 BAM per bag. Remember, these are cash-only transactions.
Traveller essentials
Free Wi-Fi access is limited — 1 hour in Departures but only 15 minutes in Arrivals and the main lobby. If extending your time online is necessary, consider buying a coffee in one of the airport's cafes for potentially longer access. Plan ATM or currency exchange needs on the ground-floor public area of Terminal B, where these services are readily available.
Dining & shopping highlights
The dining options are modest but functional. While snacks and refreshments in Terminal B suffice for quick meals, those wanting a meal should consider dining before security. Shopping is limited to the Duty-Free store and the telecom shop, which might come in handy for immediate connectivity needs.
Lounges
The Business Lounge and VIP Lounge in Terminal B stand out for their accessibility and amenities. Both allow pay-at-door entry and are available for non-business class travelers. The VIP Lounge offers flexibility with partial or full bookings for meetings or hosting guests.
Insider tips
- Insider: The Business Lounge in Terminal B offers value with pay-at-the-door entry, useful for anyone wanting some quiet time before a flight.
- Time: Get the best Wi-Fi in the Departures area — 1 hour free compared to only 15 minutes elsewhere in the airport.
- Avoid: Sleeping at the airport overnight; the terminal closes, and passengers must leave.
- Money: The airport bus to Baščaršija might be inexpensive but check schedules; it's infrequent at 5 BAM per ride with luggage charges.
- Local: The metered taxi to Baščaršija is about 15–20 BAM in cash, plus 1 BAM per bag — expect no card payments.
- Quiet: Don’t miss the often-overlooked Restaurant Bar in the old terminal, ideal for a meal away from the main hustle.
- Local: Need phone connectivity? Grab a local SIM from the BiH-BH Telecom on the ground floor of Terminal B.