Travnik, the Birthplace of Ivo Andrić
Castle, cheese and Nobel author
Once the seat of Bosnia’s viziers (Ottoman governors), the castle town of Travnik is now best known for its sheep’s cheese and as the birthplace of Nobel Prize–winning author Ivo Andrić, who set his classic novel Bosnian Chronicle (The Days of the Consuls) here. It’s a pleasant place to spend a couple of hours while travelling between Sarajevo and Jajce.
Travnik’s 15th-century Old Town Fortress surveys the city from a shoulder of hillside. The stone walls gleam so brightly in the sunshine that they appear to have been scrubbed. The fortress looks over Plava Voda (‘Blue Water’), a convivial gaggle of restaurants flanking a merrily gurgling stream, crisscrossed by small bridges – you should definitely have your lunch here.
Although officially called Sulejmanija Mosque, everyone in Travnik calls this Šarena Džamija (Many-Coloured Mosque), a longstanding nickname that references its famous frescoed facade. The colours have since faded but the building remains notable for the bezistan (mini-bazaar) built into the stone arched arcade. There’s been a mosque here, at Travnik’s centre point, since the 16th century. Its current form dates from 1757, although it was largely reconstructed after a major fire in 1815.
Don’t miss the Viziers’ Graves, a collection of finely carved turbe (tombs) of Bosnia’s Ottoman governors, clustered at the western end of the main shopping strip, along with those of prominent court officials and poets.
Our home is great for traveling families, has two bedrooms and living room couch which you can use for sleeping as well. It has one bathroom, kitchen, balcony with a beautiful view and free parking space and also the possibility to use our car for free to explore our country. Its located couple of minutes on foot from the centre of the city, has all the amenities you need for living there, and also markets and restaurants few meters away from the building.
The Space
The space has 2 bedrooms and open living room with a kitchen, living room has a couch that 2 people can sleep on also, it is a newly built building, with a new kitchen and all furniture inside also new. It has one bathroom with walk in shower and balcony with a lovely view on the town and mountains.
Guest Access
My apt is in a newly bulit building on a third floor with elevator access and free parking space.
Features
Washer
Dishwasher
Clothes dryer
Oven
Microwave
Coffee machine
Fridge
Iron
Hair dryer
Heating
Air conditioning
TV
WiFi
High Speed Internet
Bathtub
First aid kit
Wheelchair accessible
Smoke alarms
Fire extinguisher
Bed sheets
Towels
Workspace
Fireplace
Home cinema
Toys
Gym
Sauna
BBQ
Pool
Hot tub
Balcony
Garden / yard
Deck / patio / courtyard / terrace
Covered porch / verandah
Kosher home
Meat-free kitchen
Gated community
EV Home Charger
Bikes
Camping gear
Kayak
Tennis court
Standup paddleboard
Travel Styles
Long term
Weekend
Adventure
Family
Romantic
Foodie
Relaxing
City
Mountains
Skiing
Hiking
Last minute
House Rules
Suitable for infants under 2
Suitable for children ages 2-12
Pets not allowed
No smoking
Allergens
Cat free
Dog free
Smoke free
Dates of Availability
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Neighbourhood
In our neighborouhood you will find all the amenities needed for staying here, local restaurants with traditiinal cuisine and also international cuisine, coffe shops and big supermarkets and bakeries and all of that in a few meters from the building.
Once the seat of Bosnia’s viziers (Ottoman governors), the castle town of Travnik is now best known for its sheep’s cheese and as the birthplace of Nobel Prize–winning author Ivo Andrić, who set his classic novel Bosnian Chronicle (The Days of the Consuls) here. It’s a pleasant place to spend a couple of hours while travelling between Sarajevo and Jajce.
Travnik’s 15th-century Old Town Fortress surveys the city from a shoulder of hillside. The stone walls gleam so brightly in the sunshine that they appear to have been scrubbed. The fortress looks over Plava Voda (‘Blue Water’), a convivial gaggle of restaurants flanking a merrily gurgling stream, crisscrossed by small bridges – you should definitely have your lunch here.
Although officially called Sulejmanija Mosque, everyone in Travnik calls this Šarena Džamija (Many-Coloured Mosque), a longstanding nickname that references its famous frescoed facade. The colours have since faded but the building remains notable for the bezistan (mini-bazaar) built into the stone arched arcade. There’s been a mosque here, at Travnik’s centre point, since the 16th century. Its current form dates from 1757, although it was largely reconstructed after a major fire in 1815.
Don’t miss the Viziers’ Graves, a collection of finely carved turbe (tombs) of Bosnia’s Ottoman governors, clustered at the western end of the main shopping strip, along with those of prominent court officials and poets.
Old Town (Travnik Fortress)
Old Town Travnik is an impressive medieval fortress located on a hill overlooking the city. The fortress offers a panoramic view of the entire Travnik and its surroundings. Visitors can explore the ramparts, towers, and other remnants from the past.
Built in the 15th century, the fortress served as a defensive barrier against Ottoman conquests. Today, it is preserved as an important cultural monument. The fortress is a testament to the turbulent history and significance of Travnik as a strategic military-administrative center.
The fortress complex consists of inner and outer walls, several towers, and fortress walls. The tallest tower provides a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding area.
Birthplace of Ivo Andrić
This museum is dedicated to the Nobel laureate Ivo Andrić, the author of the novel “The Bridge on the Drina.” The house has been transformed into a museum where you can see his manuscripts, personal belongings, and learn more about his life.
Ivo Andrić was born in Travnik in 1892. His works are deeply rooted in Bosnian culture and history. The house has been authentically restored to showcase the life and work of one of the most significant writers from this region.
The museum displays Andrić’s manuscripts, first editions of his books, photographs, and personal items that provide insight into his life and creativity.
Blue Water
is a beautiful spring located in the city center, surrounded by greenery, restaurants, and cafes. It’s an ideal place for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty. The water is crystal clear, and the surroundings are well-kept for walking and picnicking.
This spot is popular among locals and tourists alike due to its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Blue Water is a frequent inspiration for poets and painters because of its unique color and setting.
Visitors can enjoy walks along the water, biking, or simply savoring local specialties in nearby restaurants.
Try local specialties in nearby restaurants while enjoying the view of Blue Water. It’s a perfect place for an afternoon stroll and relaxation amidst the sounds of nature.
Colorful Mosque
This beautiful Ottoman mosque is known for its colorful wall decorations and detailed decor. The Colorful Mosque is a perfect place to experience Ottoman architecture and art.
Built in the 16th century, the mosque served as an important religious and cultural center. Its unique style and vibrant decorations make it stand out among mosques in Bosnia.
The interior of the mosque is adorned with colorful wall drawings and ornaments that showcase the richness of Ottoman art. The facade is decorated with vivid tiles that attract the attention of visitors.
Travnik Clock Tower
A historic tower with a clock that dates back to the Ottoman period. The Clock Tower is a significant symbol of Travnik and one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. This tower, standing several dozen meters tall, dominates the old part of the town and serves as an important landmark for the local population.
The Clock Tower was built in the 18th century during Ottoman rule. The tower is made of stone and was an important part of Travnik’s urban landscape. It served as a place where residents could find out the exact time, which was crucial in the era before modern clocks. The tower has been restored several times to preserve its structure and functionality.
The Clock Tower is constructed in the traditional Ottoman style, featuring simple yet elegant architecture. The interior of the tower contains a clock mechanism that is still functional, while the exterior is adorned with ornaments typical of the Ottoman period.
An ideal spot for photography and enjoying views of the old part of the city. A visit is recommended during the day when the light is best for photos. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of Travnik and its surroundings.
Hiking and Mountaineering
Travnik and its surroundings offer numerous trails for hiking and mountaineering, including Mount Vlašić, which is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, clean air, and diverse hiking routes. Vlašić is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers, featuring trails of varying difficulty that lead through dense forests, across meadows, and to summits with spectacular views.
During the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring nature. In winter, Vlašić becomes a popular ski resort attracting skiers from across the region. Besides skiing, visitors can partake in snowboarding, sledding, and other winter sports.
Bring comfortable footwear and enough water. Plan your route in advance and check the weather conditions before heading out. If you are new to hiking, consider hiring a local guide who can show you the best trails and provide additional information about the local flora and fauna. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT IN TRAVNIK
Travnik is known for its rich culinary offerings that include traditional Bosnian dishes such as grilled meat, Bosnian pot, pastries, and various roasts. Additionally, specialties like Travnik cheese and homemade desserts are also a must-try. The cuisine of Travnik reflects a blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Balkan influences, resulting in diverse and flavorful dishes.
The food in Travnik is renowned for its rich and varied flavors, often seasoned with paprika, onions, and various spices that add a unique taste to the dishes. In local restaurants, you can expect to be served fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Travnik cheese, with its distinctive salty note, is an essential part of every meal.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit Travnik due to pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes. In winter, Travnik is also popular for its ski resort on Vlašić. During summer, the city offers comfortable temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities.
If you plan to visit during spring or autumn, bring layered clothing as temperatures can vary throughout the day. During the winter months, prepare for colder weather and the possibility of snow, especially if you plan to visit Vlašić.
Getting to my home
Nearest airport is an hour away, you can use bus to get there, it has multiple lines troughout the day.
Nearest airport
Sarajevo airport is an hour away
Getting Around
Our apt is in quiet residential part of the city but really close to the center all the amenities are there, few minutes walking and you will find all the famous historical places in Travnik, such as Old fortress and Colorful Mosque, old part of the city, but also you can go to the Vlasic mountain in a 20 min drive where you can enjoy ski centre and local delicacies, and a lot of hiking.
Travnik is well-connected by road, and local buses run regularly. The city is easily accessible by car, and parking is available at most tourist locations. Additionally, there is an option to rent a car for greater comfort and flexibility in exploring the surrounding areas.
If you are using public transport, check the bus schedule in advance to avoid waiting. For those traveling by car, it is recommended to use navigation systems for easier navigation around the city and its surroundings.
Map of Approximate Location
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People Like Us Local Guide
I can meet with you and show you around our city so you can get to know our local culture and history a little better from first hand. We can eat a meal together at one of many local restaurants and i can give you recommendationa for whot to see and where to eat also.
Feedback
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Premium
Elmir
Hi to all fellow travelers, we are a family of three, enthusiasts of travel and meeting and exploring new countries, cities and cultures. We are also looking forward to hosting you at our home where you can enjoy peace and tranquility after exploring everything our country and city has to offer. Im a psychologist and my wife is a pediatrician, our little boy is 2 years old and we are looking forward to traveling as a family and exploring all the places with our little boy.
People Like Us is the world's most trusted home exchange community. We believe in sharing, trust, generosity, respect, communication, equality, cooperation, honesty, hospitality, friendship, flexibility and adventure. We take pride in our homes and we care about the environment in which we live: our village, city, country and our planet. We care about the ethos of home exchange and we do it because we love the experience and the friendships that it generates.
Old town of Travnik and its fortress
Nobody is entirely sure when Travnik’s fortress was initially built, but the form we find today suggests somewhere between the 14th and 15th centuries when Tvrtko II was in charge. We shouldn’t get bogged down with dates, as the fortress is a place of real beauty and intrigue. The walls of the fortress remain intact, and there is also a small museum telling the story of the castle and the town below. Nice views of Travnik’s heritage architecture, too.
Blue Water (Plava Voda) is a captivating tourist attraction located Travnik. Renowned for its mesmerizing turquoise waters that shimmer under the sun, this enchanting location invites visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty. The pristine waters are surrounded by lush greenery and majestic hills, creating a picturesque backdrop ideal for photography, picnics, or simply unwinding amidst nature. As you stroll along the banks, the gentle sounds of water flowing and the rustling leaves provide a soothing soundtrack that enhances the serene atmosphere.
For those looking to experience the outdoors, Blue Water offers a variety of activities including hiking, swimming, and relaxing in shaded areas perfect for enjoying a good book or a meal with family and friends. The tranquil setting is also ideal for birdwatching and observing local wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. While visiting, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to savor local delicacies from nearby eateries, adding a culinary dimension to your experience.
The attraction is easily accessible and provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you are traveling alone, with family, or friends, Blue Water (Plava Voda) is a must-visit location that promises to leave you rejuvenated and inspired by the beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Vlašić is a high mountain barrier which, like a huge fortress, hovers over the environment. It occupies an important place in the tourism industry of the region due to its forests, meadows and numerous sources. The highest peak – Paljenik reaches 1943 meters above sea level. This mountain beauty is located in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and even during the Austro-Hungarian rule it was recognized as an excellent tourist center. The Devečani area (1760m) and the top of Galica represent attractive targets for hikers and have well-marked trails. On Babanovac (1260 m), which is connected to Travnik with a 20 km long road, is a famous winter sports center, which has 5 ski lifts, trails for ski walking in a total length of 15 km and 4 jumps.
For years Vlašić has been known for the international Bowl Vlašić Europe Cup, which has been held 13 times at the 90-meter ski jump where in front of 12,000 spectators competitors from 10 European countries, Japan and the U.S. performed; for its status of an acclimatization sports center reserve of the XIV Olympic Games and the prestigious Silver Flake admission.
Wooded pasture areas with ski-lifts are excellent trails for Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding and sledding. Lifts are the following: “Ugar” – with a capacity of 650 skiers per hour, “Markovac” – also with 650 skiers per hour, a double anchor-lift “Babanovac” – capacity of 2100 skiers per hour of night skiing, a recently built ski-lift “Visovi” – with a capacity of 900 skiers per hour and a “Baby” ski-lift for children and beginners with a capacity of 300 skiers per hour. This lift is equipped with floodlights for night skiing, which starts each night from 5 pm to 10 pm.
Although all seasons can interchange in the span of one day, Vlašić is often shown in scenes with skiers sunbathing whilst leaning on their skis. The benefits of the area for tourism are evidenced by the large number of private homes, and many hotels and guest houses on Babanovac. On Vlašić and Babanovac snow remains during 5 months of the year. Stormy days are extremely rare, and trails for skiers are protected from strong winds. This is an attractive place for visitors in other seasons as well, especially in the summer. Excursions, hiking, walks in the most beautiful areas of Vlašić, like the river Ugar and its source, Kraljica (one of the best parts of Vlašić), Devečani (mountain home), and the top of Vlašić – Opaljenik, at an altitude of 1943m, where a broadcasting relay is situated, a visit to Katuni where by long line tradition, a well-known Vlašić cheese and other local products are produced.
The quality of air on Vlašić has positive effects on blood counts, and is particularly recommended for people suffering bronchitis and pulmonary disease, and those in the postoperative period, children, seniors, sports teams, etc. Here for centuries already a sheep breeding tradition has been upheld; the most famous product of this livestock industry is the Vlašić cheese, which can be purchased directly from the shepherds. Vlašić, among other things, is known for its cheese, which is among the best white cheese in brine. The assumption is that the technique of cheese manufacturing in these areas was brought by nomadic herders from the East called Vlachs, hence the name Vlašić. This tradition was later adopted by herders from the surrounding mountains, and now Vlašić cheese is produced all over the country and the wider region. Villagers from Vlašić brought it to Travnik and sold it there, and because of this it is also called Travnik cheese. However, Vlašić cheese is also made out of cow’s milk for those who find the flavor of sheep milk too strong. It is traditionally cut into slices and packaged in wooden tubs.
Main entrance to Sulejmanija or Colorful mosque
Travnik is a small but lively town in central Bosnia and Herzegovina. It’s mostly known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. The star of the show is definitely the šarena džamija or painted (or coloured) mosque, with its unique decorations and small, relaxed muslim community. Travnik is also famous for its fortress which offers great views on the old town. The town has an interesting history, having been the capital of the Ottoman governors in Bosnia for a while. Plus, it’s the hometown of Nobel-winning writer Ivo Andrić, so there’s a museum dedicated to him.
Šarena Džamija or Painted Mosque
The Šarena Džamija (sometimes called Sulejmanija) is a mosque located in the historical part of Travnik, where the trading district, or čaršija, used to be. It is believed to have been built in the 16th century. Its current form dates back to the early 19th century when it was rebuilt after a fire. The mosque got its name because of the unusual decorations on both the interior and exterior, which are full of floral and geometric details in various colors.
Travnik’s Sulejmanija Mosque perfectly straddles the line between aesthetic beauty and absolute functionality. The world knows it better as the Šarena Mosque, a description that falls between colourful and ornamented, both of which are apt. The mosque is the shining light of Travnik’s old square, the old town centre, with delicate decorative drawings affording it an aura of importance, of care. It is calligraphy in architectural form, homages to nature that speaks of a desire to bring the human soul closer to the glittering world it is lucky enough to physically inhabit.
The mosque was constructed in the 16th century, its purpose to provide Travnik with a central mosque for its rapidly-expanding population. A community developed around it, shops, markets, inns and the rest, as Travnik grew from a small settlement into a regional centre. It was extended in 1757 by then-Bosnian Vizier Ćamil Ahmed-pasha, a man about whom I could find little information, but what do the biographies of men matter when legacy lies in structure?
Besides, the structures we build aren’t eternal. The elements often see to that. A fire in 1815 razed the mosque before renovations were completed by Sulejman Pasha Skopljak, an Ottoman military commander who became the first Vizier of Belgrade following the quashing of the First Serbian Uprising in 1813. It was under the watchful eye of Skopljak that the artistic edits became more pronounced. The Šarena Mosque remained the centre of Islamic life in the old heart of Travnik, but now it came with added artistic value. The great fire of 1903 wasn’t strong enough to destroy it. The mosque had found its final form.
Hadži Ali-bey Mosque, most notable for the clock tower that stands patiently next to it. This mosque was built by Mehmed-pasha Kukavica in 1758, a man who came to the area from Foča on orders of calming the then-fiery situation down. Mehmed-pasha went about his business by focusing on development, building this mosque and much more. It was destroyed by fire, of course, but Hadži Ali-bey Hasanpasić rebuilt it just a decade later. The necropolis is the final resting place of Kukavica and his sons, along with many other Travnik benefactors, while the clock tower curiously begins its day with sunrise, not midnight. It has a point.
Inside walls and courtyard of Travnik Fortress overlooking the city
After the formation of the Austro-Hungarian rule in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Travnik became an important economic and traffic centre. The Medieval Fortress „Old Town“ in Travnik is one of the most beautiful and preserved fortified objects in Bosnia and Herzegovina, on which every historical period left its specific mark.
There are no exact data in historical books and articles about the construction period of the Medieval Fortress „Old Town“ in Travnik, however, historians agree that it was built in the second half of the 14th century or in the first half of the 15th century. The construction type and other characteristics indicate that it was built by the order of king Tvrtko Kotromanić II, but some historians think that is is also possible that it was built by the order of King Stjepan Dabiša. Today’s fortes walls represent a result of the Turkish military builders. It was a very important military object, with great strategic significance for the military that was placed there.
A walk down Travnik’s main pedestrian artery brings you to the Lukačka Mosque, constructed at the beginning of the 17th century and rebuilt over the centuries, most notably financed by Austrian diplomat Baron von Burian. The mosque door remains one of the most photographed things in Travnik, a stunning celebration of colour that juxtaposes magnificently with the austere white of the mosque itself. It might be the single most beautiful image in the city.
Continue on away from the pedestrian street, and your feet will bring you to the Hadži Ali-bey Mosque, most notable for the clock tower that stands patiently next to it. This mosque was built by Mehmed-pasha Kukavica in 1758, a man who came to the area from Foča on orders of calming the then-fiery situation down. Mehmed-pasha went about his business by focusing on development, building this mosque and much more. It was destroyed by fire, of course, but Hadži Ali-bey Hasanpasić rebuilt it just a decade later. The necropolis is the final resting place of Kukavica and his sons, along with many other Travnik benefactors, while the clock tower curiously begins its day with sunrise, not midnight. It has a point.
Inside of Sulejmanija or Colorful mosque
Part of Travnik called Blue water, couple of minutes from my apt