Sarajevo named among Europe's most beautiful cities for a winter getaway in 2026

Time Out experts have compiled a list of the best European city breaks for winter 2026, spanning destinations from the Arctic Circle to the Balkans.

The list of Europe’s best winter cities also includes Zagreb, Paris, Ljubljana, Amsterdam, Tallinn, Tromsø, Edinburgh, Antwerp, Innsbruck and Reykjavik. Time Out experts note that Sarajevo is particularly appealing to visitors because of its blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Yugoslav heritage, as well as its proximity to ski resorts on the Olympic mountains.

Snow-covered minarets may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about winter tourism, but Sarajevo is a city that defies stereotypes.

The capital of BiH brings together Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Yugoslav heritage, visible at every turn. Visitors can enjoy traditional Bosnian coffee, explore the old town’s streets, visit mosques and discover the city’s modern dining and hospitality scene.

The nearby Olympic mountains add to the city’s appeal, offering opportunities for skiing during the day and a vibrant nightlife after returning to the city.