The Festina Lente footbridge is one of the most interesting modern structures in Sarajevo. It isn’t worth making a special trip just to see the bridge itself, but you should definitely include it in a stroll along the Miljacka River between the historic centre and the Skenderija district.

The bridge is freely accessible and takes just a few minutes to cross. The best view is from the north bank, where you can photograph it alongside the Academy of Fine Arts building.

Why does the bridge have a loop in the middle?

The Latin saying ‘Festina lente’ means ‘Hurry slowly’. The bridge’s structure therefore curves into a distinctive loop in the middle, designed to encourage pedestrians to slow down and pause for a moment.

Inside the loop, you’ll find two benches sheltered from the rain. According to the designers, the curved structure also represents a symbolic gateway between the two distinct banks of the river.

The 38-metre-long bridge was designed by Adnan Alagić, Bojan Kanlić and Amila Hrustić, who were students at the Academy of Fine Arts at the time. Their design won the architectural competition and the bridge opened in 2012.

Academy of Fine Arts

The striking building beyond the bridge originally served as an Evangelical church. It was built in 1899 to a design by the Czech architect Karel Pařík, and the Academy of Fine Arts has been using it since 1981.

It is precisely the combination of this historic building and the curved, modern bridge that creates one of the most photogenic views along the Miljacka. In the evening, the bridge’s structure is further highlighted by white lighting.

How to get to the bridge

From Latinska Čuprija, head upstream along the Miljacka on the northern embankment. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to reach the bridge; from Baščaršija, allow around 20 minutes.

After crossing the bridge, you can continue along the quieter Obala Maka Dizdara promenade towards Skenderija. From there, you can also easily reach the Marijin Dvor district and the Snipers’ Alley.

Admission and duration of visit

The bridge is for pedestrians only and is accessible free of charge with no restrictions. Allow around 10 to 15 minutes to cross the bridge, sit for a short while and take some photos.

Accommodation in the area

The area around Skenderija is a good alternative to the bustling Baščaršija. The historic centre remains within walking distance, but the hotels are more modern and are usually easier to reach by car.

• Courtyard by Marriott Sarajevo – a modern hotel by the river, a few minutes’ walk from the bridge, with a rooftop bar offering views
• Residence Inn by Marriott Sarajevo – spacious studios with kitchenettes, also suitable for longer stays

You’ll find further options amongst the hotels in the Skenderija area.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Sarajevo.