The abandoned Olympic bobsled track in Sarajevo is one of the city’s most unusual attractions. Built for the 1984 Winter Olympics, it once hosted athletes from around the world racing at high speed down the Trebević Mountain. Today, it’s a haunting relic covered in graffiti, slowly reclaimed by nature, and a favorite spot for curious travelers, urban explorers, and photographers.
Getting there isn’t always straightforward, though. The track is tucked into the forests above Sarajevo, and depending on your time, budget, and energy, there are several ways to reach it.
In this guide, you’ll learn the best ways to get to the Sarajevo bobsled track—by cable car, hiking, driving, or tours—plus tips on safety, when to go, and what to expect once you’re there.
Where Is the Sarajevo Bobsled Track?
The bobsled track is located on Trebević Mountain, about 7 km from central Sarajevo. The mountain rises right behind the city, and the track winds through its forested slopes. Because of its altitude and setting, it feels worlds away from the urban bustle below, but in reality it’s only a short ride from downtown.
The site is free to visit and open at all hours, though it’s not managed or fenced off. Travelers usually combine the visit with a hike or a ride up the Sarajevo cable car, making it a popular half-day trip.
Best Ways to Get to Sarajevo Bobsled Track
1. By Cable Car (Trebevićka žičara)
The easiest and most scenic way to reach the track is by cable car. The Trebević cable car, originally built in 1959 and fully rebuilt in 2018, runs directly from Sarajevo’s old town (Baščaršija) up to the mountain.
- Journey time: 7–10 minutes one way
- Cost: Around 20 KM (about €10) return ticket
- Operating hours: Typically 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in summer, shorter in winter
Once at the top station, the bobsled track is about a 20-minute walk. Trails are well-marked, and you’ll quickly reach the starting point of the track.
This option is ideal if you want to enjoy panoramic views over Sarajevo, save energy, and experience a piece of local history—the cable car itself is a symbol of the city.
2. Hiking from Sarajevo
If you enjoy walking, you can hike up to the track from the city. The hike begins near the old town and climbs steadily up Trebević Mountain.
- Distance: About 5–7 km depending on the route
- Time: 1.5–2.5 hours each way
- Difficulty: Moderate—steep in sections but manageable with good shoes
The most common route is via the Yellow Fortress and the village of Hrastovi. Along the way, you’ll get fantastic views of Sarajevo, pass through quiet neighborhoods, and eventually reach forest paths leading to the track.
This option is free, rewarding, and gives you a deeper sense of the city’s geography. But it can be tiring, especially in summer heat, and you’ll need a good map or GPS app to avoid wrong turns.
3. Driving or Taxi
If you prefer convenience, you can drive or take a taxi to the track. The road winds up Trebević Mountain, passing hotels, restaurants, and picnic spots.
- Driving time: About 20 minutes from central Sarajevo
- Taxi fare: Usually 15–20 KM (€7–10) one way
- Parking: Available near Hotel Pino and along access roads
Taxis are plentiful in Sarajevo, and many drivers know exactly where the track is. If language is a barrier, just say “bobsled track Trebević” or show them a map. Arrange for pickup if you’re visiting late, as taxis may be scarcer in the evening.
4. Guided Tours
For travelers short on time or wanting more context, guided tours are a good option. Many Sarajevo agencies offer trips combining the bobsled track with other sites from the Siege of Sarajevo or the 1984 Olympics.
Tours often include:
- Transport to and from the city
- A local guide with stories about the track’s past and wartime use
- Stops at Trebević viewpoints and war history landmarks
Prices start around €20–30 per person for a half-day trip.
What to Expect at the Bobsled Track
When you arrive, you’ll see a long concrete ribbon winding through the trees. The structure is still intact but weathered, with cracked surfaces and moss creeping over the sides.
- Graffiti: Nearly every section is covered in colorful street art, making it one of the largest open-air galleries in the Balkans.
- Length: The track runs about 1.3 km, and you can walk its entire length.
- Nature: The forest around the track is peaceful, with birdsong and mountain air—a stark contrast to the city below.
- History: The track was used as an artillery position during the 1990s war, leaving behind scars and bullet marks.
It’s a mix of eerie, beautiful, and fascinating. Some travelers describe it as one of Sarajevo’s must-see attractions for its combination of history, decay, and creativity.
Safety Tips
- Daylight visits are best. The track isn’t lit at night, and paths can be uneven.
- Wear sturdy shoes. The concrete can be slippery, especially after rain.
- Stay alert. Though generally safe, avoid wandering off marked trails too far into the forest.
- Respect the art. The graffiti is constantly changing; treat it as part of the experience.
- Travel in pairs if possible. The track is remote enough that having company feels more secure.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring and Summer: Lush greenery, easier hikes, longer cable car hours.
- Autumn: Beautiful foliage around the track.
- Winter: The mountain can be snowy and magical, but access is harder—some paths are icy.
Morning visits are usually quieter, while afternoons bring more locals and tourists.
Things to Combine with the Bobsled Track
Since you’re already on Trebević Mountain, you can extend your trip with:
- Trebević Viewpoints: Stunning panoramas over Sarajevo.
- Hotel Pino Nature: A café/restaurant with a terrace, great for a meal or coffee.
- Austro-Hungarian Fort (Bijela Tabija): Another historic landmark near the track.
- Hiking Trails: Continue deeper into Trebević for longer walks.
Pros and Cons of Each Transport Option
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cable car | Scenic views, quick, iconic experience | Costs more than hiking |
| Hiking | Free, rewarding, exercise | Strenuous, time-consuming |
| Taxi/Driving | Convenient, fast | Less atmospheric, parking can be tricky |
| Guided tour | History and context, no planning needed | More expensive, less freedom |
FAQs
Is the Sarajevo bobsled track free to visit?
Yes, it’s completely free and open to the public.
How long does it take to walk the track?
Walking the full length takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on stops for photos.
Is the track safe for children?
Yes, but keep an eye on kids since there are steep drops in some sections and no railings.
Can I bike the track?
Some locals do, but the surface is cracked and uneven. Walking is safer.
Was the track really used in the war?
Yes. During the Siege of Sarajevo (1992–1996), the track was used as an artillery position by Bosnian Serb forces.
Final Thoughts
The Sarajevo bobsled track is one of the most striking reminders of the city’s layered past—Olympic glory, war scars, and rebirth as a creative canvas. Getting there isn’t hard, whether you choose the scenic cable car, a challenging hike, a quick taxi, or a guided tour. Once you arrive, take your time walking along the curves, taking in the street art, and reflecting on how a sports venue transformed into a powerful symbol of resilience.
