Grbavica

Residential neighborhood of socialist-era apartment blocks. Affordable and authentic but almost no English speakers and limited evening activities. Good for budget travelers wanting real local life, though you'll travel for attractions.

Grbavica is socialist-era high-rise apartment blocks from the 1960s-70s. It's a residential neighborhood on the southern bank of the Miljacka River with about 10,000 residents. Local bakeries, small cafes, and shops serve the community, not tourists - this is where Sarajevans actually live. The concrete architecture is functional socialist modernist planning. Some people find the Soviet-era blocks ugly, but they're part of Sarajevo's recent history. The Grbavica Marketplace is where locals gather. Almost no one speaks English here - you'll need basic phrases or a translator app. Crime is reportedly low and it's safe to walk around during the day. But it's very residential with limited evening activities, so you'll go to Centar or Baščaršija for dining and nightlife. Think of it as an affordable, authentic base if you want real Sarajevo life, though you'll travel to tourist areas.