
The nearest airport that serves Sarajevo is Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ), located approximately 12 kilometers southwest of the city center. It is a key hub for both domestic and international flights, offering connections to major European cities and beyond. Alternatively, travelers can also use Banja Luka Airport (BNX), located about 200 kilometers northwest of Sarajevo, though Sarajevo International Airport is more commonly used for visitors heading to the capital
Sarajevo is a vibrant capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which masterfully combines history, culture, and modernity. It is very often referred to as the city where East meets West, since one can see the combination of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences in the city. Among the main attractions are the historic Bašaršija bazaar, the famous Latin Bridge, and the impressive Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. With its diverse museums, lively café culture, and panoramic views from the hills surrounding the city, Sarajevo is a city one will never forget.
Due to its location and better connectivity, Sarajevo International Airport is the most convenient option for visitors. However, those arriving at Banja Luka Airport can easily travel to Sarajevo using a variety of transportation methods, such as buses, private transfers, or taxis, ensuring a journey to the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
About the Airport
Official Name: Banja Luka International Airport
IATA Code: BNX
Location: 25 kilometers north of Banja Luka city center, in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Facilities: Banja Luka International Airport provides essential traveler amenities, including a café, duty-free shopping, car rental services, and free Wi-Fi in designated areas.
So, how do you get from Banja Luka International Airport to Sarajevo?
Bus from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo
Journey Time: Traveling from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo by bus, respectively, it takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes in total: for the 30-minute traveling by airport shuttle to reach Banja Luka town and about 5 on the bus traveling toward Sarajevo.
Key Point: There is no direct bus service from the airport to Sarajevo. You first have to take a Smiljić shuttle bus upon the arrival of every flight to the old bus station in Banja Luka and then head to the new bus terminal from where buses run daily to Sarajevo.
Note: This whole journey will last longer, considering you are going to be waiting around the bus station in Banja Luka. Though the airport shuttle runs regularly in correlation with flight arrivals, the buses toward Sarajevo operate at 06:30, 07:45, 09:00, and 16:00. An additional run exists midnight, at 00:05, on certain days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Bus Fare from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo
Bus fare from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo is around €26.
Taxi from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo
Journey Time: A taxi from Banja Luka Airport for Sarajevo, takes about 3 hours.
Key Point: Taxis at Banja Luka Airport use taximeters. You might expect an average fare of roughly €160 or BAM 312, excluding tolls or possible surcharges.
Note: Banja Luka Airport is relatively small, and the availability of taxis can be limited, especially for such a long-distance trip. Arriving late in the evening might make spontaneous hires challenging. Pre-booking a Banja Luka Airport Taxi in advance is highly recommended for a smoother experience.
Taxi Fare from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo
You can expect to pay around €160 (BAM 312) to get from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo on average, excluding tolls or potential extra charges.
Banja Luka Airport Transfers
Private Transfers from Banja Luka airport to Sarajevo
Journey Time: The drive from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo via private transfer takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Key Point: Pre-book a transfer service, such as AirportTransfer.com, for reliability, professionalism of drivers, and a fixed price for your peace of mind.
Cost: Private transfer costs from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo generally range between €150 and €200, influenced by the type of vehicle, group size, and optional amenities such as child seats or premium services.
With AirportTransfer.com, you can book your private transfer through our website or mobile application, which is available on both the App Store and Play Store. You can make your reservation in advance and set preferences to ensure a seamless and smooth arrival. AT also has 24/7 customer support that can help with any questions or changes to your reservation.
Group Transfers from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo
At AirportTransfer.com, booking a bus rental in Banja Luka is made simple for families, business groups, and larger groups. Our selection of spacious airport vehicles, such as minibuses and coaches, are perfect for accommodating significant amounts of luggage, ensuring passengers a comfortable travel experience. This option is particularly convenient for tourist groups or companies traveling in large numbers. Contact us to arrange your Banja Luka bus hire for efficient transportation from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo.
Bus Rental in Banja Luka
Hotel Transfers from Banja Luka Airport to Sarajevo
AirportTransfer.com offers hotel transfers at Banja Luka Airport for visitors staying at the Hotel
Europe in the city center, the luxurious Swissôtel Sarajevo, or the historic Hotel President by the Miljacka River, professional drivers will ensure you arrive promptly and stress-free. Other popular options include the family-friendly Courtyard by Marriott Sarajevo or the tranquil Pino Nature Hotel on Trebević Mountain.
The best Banja Luka Airport reviews are at AirportTransfer.com!