Sarajevo film festival

From 13 to 21 August 2026, Sarajevo hosts the 32nd Sarajevo Film Festival. Screenings, premieres, red-carpet events and open-air films fill the city centre throughout the week.

The Festival Center is at BKC, with events at central venues such as the National Theatre and Open Air Cinema. Paweł Pawlikowski’s Fatherland opens the festival; a restored version of Danis Tanović’s No Man’s Land closes it. Diego Luna, Emily Watson and Asghar Farhadi are among the honoured guests.

Tickets and programme

Online ticket sales opened on 4 August. Purchases through the official festival website or mobile app receive a 20% online discount. Popular premieres can sell out, so choose films early. Confirm the venue, keep tickets available offline and allow enough time between screenings because events are held in several locations.

Driving and parking

A rental car is useful for airport transfers, accommodation outside the centre and trips beyond Sarajevo. It is usually a poor choice for travelling between screenings. Central streets will be crowded, and parking near BKC, the National Theatre and festival gathering areas is limited. Reserve accommodation with confirmed parking, leave the car there and continue on foot, by tram or by taxi. If driving is necessary, arrive early and use a legal public garage or marked paid space outside the busiest streets. Check its closing time, hide valuables and photograph the location. Do not expect street parking immediately before an evening premiere.

Where to stay

Baščaršija, Centar and Marijin Dvor provide easy access to screenings and nightlife, but parking is difficult. Ilidža and the airport area offer easier road access and are convenient for Vrelo Bosne, although reaching evening events takes longer.

Book early: festival week creates strong demand for rooms, automatic rental cars and central parking. Make the rental car worthwhile Use the car for Trebević, Vrelo Bosne or longer trips to Mostar, Konjic, Travnik and Jajce. A compact vehicle is normally easiest for Sarajevo traffic and garages. Cross-border travel to Croatia, Serbia or Montenegro requires the rental company’s prior approval and insurance documents. If you drink alcohol, leave the car parked; driving under the influence can invalidate rental insurance.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is outside the EU roaming area, so check data charges and download offline maps. August days can be hot, but open-air screenings may feel cool after sunset. Carry water, comfortable shoes and a light layer. For the simplest visit, drive into Sarajevo once, park securely and explore the festival centre on foot. Save the rental car for the airport, mountains and day trips.