Start with Sarajevo's layers, not a long checklist
1. Walk Baščaršija in the morning. Begin around Sebilj, then take Bravadžiluk and Kazandžiluk toward Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and Morića Han. This is a compact route with cobbles, shops and coffee stops, so give it two hours rather than racing through it. Dress respectfully for mosque entry and check visiting hours outside prayer times. It is also the easiest place to plan a lunch from the Sarajevo food guide.
2. Walk west to understand the Austro-Hungarian city and the 1914 site. The Latin Bridge and the nearby museum put the assassination of Franz Ferdinand in context; continue along Ferhadija toward the Eternal Flame if you want the change in architecture to make sense on foot. This is mostly level and works well after Baščaršija. Do not expect the small museum to occupy a whole afternoon.
3. Make space for one careful account of the 1990s siege. The Tunnel of Hope is outside the centre, so arrange a taxi, tour or public transport connection and allow the travel time both ways. It is an important visit, but it is not light viewing. Gallery 11/07/95 is another serious option in the centre, focused on the Srebrenica genocide. Choose one or both according to your time and emotional bandwidth, then check current opening days before you go.
4. Take the Trebević cable car for the city-and-hills view. The lower station is near the Old Town; the ride is quick, but the upper area rewards a slower walk and can feel markedly cooler. Check weather and operating status before setting out. The abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track is a walk from the upper station, so wear proper shoes. Pick a base near the tram or Old Town only after comparing Sarajevo's neighbourhoods.