Sarajevo attracts growing number of tourists, direct flights are the main 'culprit'

(Patria) - The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina attracts an increasing number of tourists year after year.

Thanks to direct flights that increasingly connect Sarajevo with European and world metropolises, the tourist picture becomes richer from season to season.

According to a survey conducted by the Sarajevo Canton Tourist Board, the largest number of tourists come from cities with which Sarajevo has established direct flights.

Among them, Western countries dominate, and in the top 10 are tourists from the United Kingdom and Italy.

During this summer season, planes from Sarajevo Airport fly to 34 world destinations, including those in the Middle East, BHRT reports.

Statistics show that the number of flights and passengers from these destinations is not declining - on the contrary, most routes have recorded an increase in passenger numbers and better flight occupancy.

- There are quite a few new flights within the summer season, most of which have been realized, and we currently have 34 destinations from Sarajevo to the world, connecting 24 airlines - says Belma Čureković, spokesperson for Sarajevo International Airport.

She adds that after the summer ends, the focus will be on the winter flight schedule and the preparation of new routes.

The current situation in the Middle East does have an impact on the tourism sector. Agencies that offered packages to that part of the world were forced to make changes.

- The events in the Middle East have certainly affected our business since we had some tours and packages that we were forced to cancel, so our packages have been redirected to the West - says a guide from a tourist agency.

When it comes to the favorite destinations of citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, he adds that the greatest demand is for Turkey - the Antalya region.

This tourist season in Sarajevo promises to be good. More flights and more tourists are accompanied by a rich cultural program: the Sarajevo Film Festival, Baščaršija Nights, Street Food Festival, numerous music events - all of this makes the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina one of the most attractive destinations in the region.

"Enjoy the rich history, festival spirit, traditional cuisine, and unforgettable ambiance of our city," said the Sarajevo Canton Tourist Board.