Giro di Ciro Sarajevo is the newest cycling route in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it is a special one. The country has just gained another world-class outdoor attraction that perfectly blends historical heritage, untouched nature, and active tourism. In early June 2026, the "Giro di Ciro Sarajevo - Pale" cycling route was officially opened. This spectacular trail is built on the path of the legendary former narrow-gauge railway. It's not just new infrastructure for cyclists; it is a symbolic bridge connecting cities and communities, opening a completely new dimension of cycling tourism in the Balkans.
Giro di Ciro Sarajevo at a glance:
- Giro di Ciro: A revitalization project converting a 13 km historic railway line into a bike path through the spectacular Miljacka canyon.
- Infrastructure: 9 historic tunnels have been reconstructed (equipped with solar lighting) and the route is fully secured.
- Profile: A gentle and constant 3% incline from Sarajevo towards Pale, making it accessible for riders of all fitness levels.
- Main Guide: Check out our comprehensive guide and GPX maps at the Giro di Ciro Sarajevo – Pale route page.
What is the Giro di Ciro Sarajevo project?
The Giro di Ciro is a visionary initiative aimed at revitalizing abandoned railway corridors from the Austro-Hungarian era, transforming them into modern, eco-friendly cycling and hiking trails. Inspired by successful European models (like the famous Greenways in Spain and Italy), this project seeks to breathe new life into old tracks where steam locomotives once roared.
This specific route is the first section being restored as part of a broader network in the Sarajevo and East Sarajevo region. The goal is to create a unified cycle-tourism network that attracts both domestic and international tourists, boosts local businesses, and promotes healthy lifestyles.
What sets the "Giro di Ciro" apart from standard bike paths is its journey through protected natural areas and immediate contact with early 20th-century architectural marvels—hand-carved stone walls, bridges, and tunnels deep within steep canyon cliffs.
The History: An Austro-Hungarian Engineering Marvel
To fully grasp the significance of this trail, we have to travel back to the early 20th century. Following the Austro-Hungarian Empire's arrival in Bosnia and Herzegovina, massive industrialization and railway construction began. The Eastern Railway (Ostbahn), connecting Sarajevo to the empire's eastern border toward Serbia, was one of the most demanding projects of its time.
The Sarajevo–Pale–Visegrad section opened on July 4, 1906. Building it was a true engineering feat. Workers battled the harsh terrain of the Miljacka river canyon, overcoming massive altitude differences. Across the entire Eastern Railway, a staggering 99 tunnels were built, alongside countless viaducts and retaining walls that still defy time today.
The legendary steam locomotive, affectionately named "Ciro", was the only connection to the outside world for locals for decades. Sadly, modernization made narrow-gauge railways economically unviable. The last "Ciro" passed through this route in 1978. The tracks were dismantled, and the path was reclaimed by nature—until today.
Official Opening and Route Restoration
The official opening of the "Giro di Ciro Sarajevo - Pale" cycling trail took place on June 8, 2026. This festive event gathered citizens, cycling enthusiasts, and high-ranking officials who supported this historic project.
Funded by a 2.3 million Euro grant from the European Union, the massive investment allowed for the complete reconstruction and securing of the route. The works included:
- Rehabilitation of approximately 13 kilometers of the trail.
- Complete reconstruction of 9 tunnels, now equipped with modern, motion-sensor solar lighting.
- Restoration of two historic bridges and the construction of one bypass.
- Installation of complete vertical and horizontal traffic signage.
- Placement of safety fences on critical sections along the canyon drop-offs.
Giro di Ciro Sarajevo: length and profile
The new cycling trail is designed to be accessible to absolutely everyone—from professional athletes to families on e-bikes.
- Total length
- 13 km
- Start / finish
- Sarajevo (Dariva) – Pale
- Average incline
- ~3%
- Surface
- Gravel / asphalt
Because the trail follows a former railway embankment, the climb is constant but extremely mild. Old steam locomotives couldn't handle steep grades, so the route was engineered for gradual elevation gain. Riding from Sarajevo to Pale requires only mild effort, while the return trip from Pale back to Sarajevo is a completely relaxing downhill cruise through the canyon.
Points of Interest Along the Route
Riding the "Giro di Ciro Sarajevo" is a journey through time. Over these 13 kilometers, you will pass breathtaking sights:
1. City Hall (Vijećnica) & Dariva Promenade
Your adventure begins in front of the iconic Sarajevo City Hall. You immediately connect to the Dariva promenade, located within the "Bentbasa" Protected Landscape, rich in greenery and riverside views.
2. Goat's Bridge (Kozija ćuprija)
One of the oldest and most beautiful bridges from the Ottoman period in BiH. This single-arch stone bridge spans the Miljacka river and once served as the eastern gate of the city on the old Imperial Road to Istanbul.
3. The Nine Illuminated Tunnels
The absolute highlight of the trail! Passing through these hand-carved rock tunnels used to be dark and risky. Today, all nine tunnels are secured and feature eco-friendly solar lighting that triggers via motion sensors as you approach.
4. Old Pale Railway Station
After passing through the Trebevic Nature Park, the trail ends at the entrance to Pale, right next to the old Austro-Hungarian railway station built in a recognizable alpine wooden style.
Giro di Ciro Sarajevo: GPX map and riding tips
Navigation is incredibly simple since the trail is clearly defined and follows the old railway bed without many turns. However, having a GPX file helps track your remaining mileage, elevation profile, and tunnel locations.
Before heading into the canyon, ensure your brakes and tires are in top condition and bring basic tools. To download the official GPX route and read detailed tips on parking and bike rentals, visit our main hub for the Ciro Trail Sarajevo Pale.
For a longer loop over Trebević, see our MTB Bosnia guide, and check current trail conditions on Trailforks before you ride. If your bike needs a check-up before the canyon, visit our bicycle service in East Sarajevo.
Frequently asked questions about Giro di Ciro Sarajevo
What is the Giro di Ciro project?
Giro di Ciro is an initiative to turn old Austro-Hungarian railways in Bosnia and Herzegovina into cycling routes. The first completed section connects Sarajevo and Pale over 13 km through the Miljacka canyon.
Are the tunnels on the Ciro trail safe to ride through?
Yes. During the 2026 reconstruction all nine tunnels were secured against rockfall and fitted with solar lighting that switches on automatically as cyclists approach.
How difficult is the Sarajevo – Pale cycling route?
It is easy. The route follows an old railway grade with an average incline of about 3% towards Pale, and the return to Sarajevo is a gentle downhill ride.