Sarajevo to Travnik & Jajce: Pliva Lakes, Watermills, Lunch

Summary

Travnik’s towers Jajce’s waterfalls and Pliva lakes in one day

You’ll travel from Sarajevo through pine hills to Travnik’s colorful streets and fortress views before reaching Jajce’s roaring waterfall and medieval castle. Wander by Pliva lakes’ storybook watermills and share a traditional lunch with your guide—expect laughter, local flavors, and moments that linger long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely left Sarajevo when the landscape started to shift—hills thick with pine, then suddenly the minarets of Travnik poking up through the morning mist. Our guide, Emir, handed out water bottles and pointed at the Colorful Mosque. “Locals call it Šarena džamija,” he said. I tried repeating it—Li laughed at my accent. The air smelled like wood smoke and bakery bread as we wandered past blue-shuttered houses. There was this quietness in the old fortress above town that made me pause longer than I meant to.

The drive from Travnik to Jajce felt shorter than I expected—maybe because Emir kept telling stories about kings and sieges (and which roadside stands had the best cheese pies). When we reached Jajce, the waterfall was louder than any photo can show—like standing next to a train. There were kids skipping stones below while an old woman sold honey by the bridge. We climbed up to the medieval castle; my legs complained but the view over red roofs and green rivers was worth it. Somewhere along those stone walls I realized how much history is just... layered here.

I didn’t expect to love the Pliva lakes so much—the light on the water looked almost unreal. The wooden watermills sit right over the river, creaking gently as they’ve done for ages. Emir explained how families used them for grinding wheat; I ran my hand along one of the beams and it felt smooth from years of use. Lunch was ćevapi in Travnik (vegetarian option too), eaten outside with our hands still chilly from the breeze. The whole day felt both busy and slow at once—you know that feeling? On the way back to Sarajevo, I kept thinking about those little huts on stilts over rushing water. Still do sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Travnik and Jajce highlights

• Start tour at 8:00 a.m. Meet Bosnia Agency
• Visit Travnik town and traditional houses
• See Sarena dzamija (Colorful Mosque)
• Explore Jajce fortress and medieval castle
• View Pliva Lakes from the road
• Visit historic watermills on Pliva River
• See Pliva waterfall in Jajce center
• Visit Hrvatnić family crypt

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Sarajevo to Travnik and Jajce?

The tour typically lasts a full day, starting around 8:00 a.m., returning in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Sarajevo.

Are meals or snacks provided during the tour?

A traditional Bosnian sandwich or pastry is included for lunch; vegetarian options are available.

What sights will we see on this Sarajevo day trip?

You’ll visit Travnik (including its fortress and Colorful Mosque), Jajce (with its waterfall and medieval castle), plus Pliva lakes and historic watermills.

Is there a local guide on this tour?

Yes, a professional licensed guide leads the tour throughout.

Are infants or children allowed on this tour?

Yes; infants can ride in a stroller or pram, specialized seats are available, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is public transportation available near pickup points?

Yes, public transportation options are nearby if needed.

How far is Travnik from Sarajevo by car?

Travnik is about two hours’ drive from Sarajevo; Jajce is further along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Sarajevo, bottled water for everyone on board, all fuel charges covered by your driver-guide, entry to key sites like Travnik fortress and Jajce castle, plus a traditional Bosnian sandwich or pastry for lunch—with vegetarian choices if you ask ahead—before heading back in comfort that evening.