Franz Ferdinand Assassination – The Shot That Sparked WWI

Tour Overview

Step into the past and relive one of the most defining moments in world history—the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo. This pivotal event set off a chain reaction that led to the outbreak of World War I, forever altering the course of history.

On this tour, you’ll explore Sarajevo during the Austro-Hungarian era, unravel the political tensions of 1914, and understand the motives behind the Young Bosnia movement. Through expert storytelling and historical insights, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the power struggles of the time and how a single gunshot reshaped the world.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Unlike conventional history tours, this experience transports you to 1914 Sarajevo, bringing history to life through authentic sites, expert narratives, and exclusive access to key locations linked to the assassination. Perfect for those who want to explore the fine details of the event that started World War I.

Tour Highlights

• Stand at the exact location of the assassination at Latin Bridge.
• Visit the Museum 1878-1918, filled with original artifacts from the Austro-Hungarian period.
• Learn about Gavrilo Princip and the Young Bosnia movement.
• Walk through key Austro-Hungarian landmarks that shaped Sarajevo.
• Gain insight into the political tensions that led to World War I.

What You Will Experience

This two-hour walking tour takes you through the events leading up to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, giving you insight into the political and social tensions of the time. You’ll walk through some of Sarajevo’s most iconic Austro-Hungarian landmarks, visit the assassination site, and explore the Museum 1878-1918, where exhibits from the era bring history to life.

Your guide will reveal hidden details and lesser-known facts about the assassination plot, the conspirators, and how a single act in Sarajevo triggered a war that reshaped the world.

1. The Saint Marko Cemetery and the Vidovdan Heroes Chapel
   This cemetery is the final resting place of Gavrilo Princip and his fellow conspirators, buried in secrecy by Austro-Hungarian authorities. The Vidovdan Heroes Chapel now serves as a memorial to the Young Bosnia movement, whose actions sparked the outbreak of World War I.
2. Presidency Palace of Bosnia & Herzegovina
   Built during the Austro-Hungarian administration, this imposing structure once housed imperial officials overseeing Bosnia’s governance. On June 28, 1914, just a short distance from here, the fateful motorcade carrying Archduke Franz Ferdinand passed through Sarajevo’s streets.
3. VRX Museum (Optional)
   This immersive museum brings Sarajevo under Austro-Hungarian rule to life, showcasing the city’s transformation and rising nationalist tensions. Visitors can virtually witness the moments leading up to Franz Ferdinand’s assassination.
4. Eternal Flame
   While primarily a World War II memorial, the Eternal Flame stands near key Austro-Hungarian-era buildings. These structures, erected to cement imperial rule, bore witness to Sarajevo’s political unrest in the years leading to the assassination.
5. City Market Markale
   Established during Austro-Hungarian rule, Markale Market became a bustling trade hub reflecting the empire’s modernization efforts. On the morning of the assassination, locals gathered here, unaware that their city was about to become the center of world history.
6. Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
   Built in 1889, this Neo-Gothic cathedral symbolized Austro-Hungary’s efforts to solidify its presence in Bosnia. It stood along the route taken by Franz Ferdinand’s motorcade, witnessing the tension and chaos of that historic day.
7. The Latin Bridge
   One of Sarajevo’s most iconic sites, this Ottoman-era bridge became infamous as the location where Gavrilo Princip fired the shots that altered world history. Standing here, one can visualize the fateful moments that led to World War I.
8. Museum 1878-1914
   Located near the Latin Bridge, this museum houses crucial artifacts from the Austro-Hungarian period and the assassination. Through exhibits detailing Franz Ferdinand’s visit and its aftermath, it offers an in-depth look at the empire’s rule and the rising nationalist movements.
9. The Konak Residence
   Once the residence of Austro-Hungarian governors, Konak played a key role in hosting officials during Franz Ferdinand’s visit. Hours before the assassination, it was at the center of imperial decision-making in Sarajevo.
10. Sarajevo Brewery
    Founded under Austro-Hungarian rule, Sarajevo Brewery became a hub of industrial progress and social gatherings. On the day of the assassination, it stood as a silent witness to the unfolding of history.
11. Sarajevo City Hall
    A grand symbol of Austro-Hungarian influence, Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica) hosted Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s official reception just before his assassination. That morning, he stood on its steps unaware that his fate—and the course of world history—had already been sealed.

Start time: Every day except Sunday at 10:00 AM

Duration: 2 hours

Private tour: Any time can be selected

Bosnian, English, and German

*Other languages available upon request.