Sarajevo Sevdah time Tour

Duration

Not Limited

Tour Type

Walking tour

Group Size

Min. 10 person

Discount

Discount for larger groups

Departure

Every day, Optional

About this tour

The traditional music of Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly during the Ottoman period, can be divided in urban and rural. The urban music is better known as ‘sevdalinka’, a word which originates from the concept of ‘sevdah’. This term comes from the Arabic word ‘sawda’, which means ‘dark gall’, but in Turkish it is associated with a melancholic mood and feeling. The Bosnian meaning is more like ‘lust’, ‘love passion’ or ‘love suffering’. The Ottoman occupation, the rule of the Sultan, the historical battles and the way of life and specific customs brought to Bosnia have been a great source of inspiration for the poets who created the ‘sevdalinka’. The texts and melodies are still echoing lively after many years of intense history. ‘Sevdalinka’ is a unique blend of eastern and western music influences and which differ considerably from all neighbouring folk heritage. Some songs show a unique form of melancholic feelings with slow rhythm, and some are cheerful and optimistic.

Many ‘sevdalinka’ are love songs, which describe special stories between girls and boys, and some are historical accounts of significant events in the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In this way, many ‘sevdalinka’ are a unique remnants of Bosnian history and culture and are extremely important for Bosnia and Herzegovina and its people. Often, the terms ‘sevdah’ and ‘sevdalinka’ are mixed. ‘Sevdalinka’ is a song typical for Bosnia and Herzegovina, and ‘sevdah’ is a state of mind that is achieved by listening to ‘sevdalinka’, but also by other things, such as, for example, the ‘sevdah’ achievede by looking at an old picture or at a kind of a landscape.

Today life is fast, with not so many social interactions between people, not many people sing, or they sing without love, no emotions, motive, sincerity, no sense and inspiration. With these feelings there is no room for ‘sevdah’. ‘Sevdah’ is testimony to the days that were a moment in time, and then, they became an eternity. When in Sarajevo, in many small coffee shops, ‘sevdalinka’ can be heard, but don’t miss the opportunity to have a live performance of ‘sevdalinka’ right in front of Your eyes, to absorb the energy of the traditional Bosnian love song, to feel the Bosnian spirit in a relaxed atmosphere of a mahala. In the cosiness of a traditional Bosnian house, You will be told impressive stories about Bosnian culture and the way of life. Offering a unique experience, Bosnian coffee, rahatlokum and other finest delicacies, accompanied by the soothing ‘sevdalinka’ live performance, we will make You fall in love with Bosnia and Herzegovina! Be our guests in this beautiful night to remember.

Highlights

Traditional food in local restaurant
Bosnian traditional coffee at local coffee house
Live performance of sevdah

Included/Excluded

Tour guide
Food and drinks

Private tour ( on request )

Frequently asked questions

1. What is included in the tour price?

The tour price includes the services of a professional guide, comfortable transportation, admission tickets to attractions or activities according to the tour itinerary, and usually lunch or a snack pack, depending on the tour’s offering.

2. How to book a tour?

You can book a tour through our website using the reservation form, by phone, or in person at our reservation office.

3. Can I choose my activities on the tour?

Our tours usually have pre-planned activities and attractions to ensure a complete experience for our guests. However, you can always contact our team to check the possibility of customizing the tour according to your preferences.

4. How can I cancel my reservation?

If you wish to cancel your reservation, please contact us as soon as possible. Our cancellation terms depend on the tourist package and the notice period. More detailed information can be found on our website or obtained from our reservation team.

5. Can I purchase additional insurance?

Yes, we offer additional insurance that you can purchase for coverage of unexpected events during your trip. Our reservation team will be available to provide you with more information about the available insurance options and how to add them to your reservation.

6. How can I obtain more information about a specific tour?

For more information about a specific tour, you can visit our website and find a detailed description of the tour, itinerary, photos, and reviews from other travelers. Additionally, our reservation team is always available to answer any additional questions or provide further information about the tour you are interested in.