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How to get from Belgrade to Sarajevo
There is no passenger train between Belgrade and Sarajevo, so the choice is bus, car or a short flight. Buses take about 7 to 8 h and are the cheapest option; Air Serbia flies the route in under an hour, and driving takes about 5 to 6 h.
Best option: Bus. Buses run several times a day and cost a fraction of the flight, and they are the only public transport overland.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Direct buses from Belgrade's main bus station to Sarajevo (several regional companies) | about 7 to 8 h | several a day, including overnight departures | about €25–35 | Some buses arrive at Sarajevo's East Sarajevo (Lukavica) station rather than the main station near the centre; check when you buy. |
| flight Direct Air Serbia flights from Belgrade Nikola Tesla to Sarajevo | about 50 min flying, about 3 h 30 door to door | usually daily | about €80–200 | Check current schedules; frequency can change by season. |
| car Via Šabac or Valjevo and the Drina crossings (Zvornik or Višegrad routes), mostly two-lane roads | about 5 to 6 h | fuel plus small Serbian motorway tolls on any motorway sections | Rental cars need a cross-border permission and a valid Green Card; roads are winding and slow in winter. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Carry your passport; there are border checks between Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina uses the convertible mark (KM); Serbia uses the dinar.
- Ask which Sarajevo bus station your bus terminates at before buying.
- Overnight buses save a hotel night but stop at the border in the small hours.
Common questions
Is there a train from Belgrade to Sarajevo?
No. There is currently no passenger train service between Belgrade and Sarajevo. The realistic options are direct buses, which take about seven to eight hours, driving yourself in about five to six hours, or a short Air Serbia flight. Check again before travelling in case a rail service is reintroduced.
How long is the bus from Belgrade to Sarajevo?
About seven to eight hours, depending on the route, the border queue and the number of stops. Several buses leave each day, including overnight departures. Some services end at the East Sarajevo (Lukavica) bus station, which is a taxi or local bus ride from the old town, so check the arrival station.
What is the cheapest way from Belgrade to Sarajevo?
The bus, at about €25–35 one way. Tickets can be bought at the Belgrade bus station, where a small platform fee is also charged, or online for some companies. Flights cost more but save several hours. Driving is good value for groups but needs cross-border paperwork for rental cars.
Do I need a visa to cross from Serbia to Bosnia?
Many nationalities, including EU, UK and US citizens, can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa for short stays, but rules depend on your passport, so check with an official source. Carry your passport on the bus, as border police check every passenger. Your ID card may be enough for some EU and regional citizens.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.