Embarking on a journey to or from Tuzla Airport? This is your essential guide to ensure a seamless airport experience. Beyond the airport intricacies, Tuzla itself unfolds as a city with a rich cultural tapestry and historical wonders waiting to be explored.
For a lot of travellers, the main reason to visit Tuzla is for the budget flights from the airport. There are several things that I wish I knew about Tuzla Airport before arriving there. If you do end up flying into/out of Tuzla Airport, why not spend some time exploring the city. Tuzla may just surprise you.
Tuzla
Located in north-eastern Bosnia, Tuzla the third-largest city in the country and a cultural and economic hub. Renowned for its rich history, Tuzla is known for its famous salt lakes, a unique saline oasis in the heart of the city. With a diverse population and a blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences, Tuzla offers a captivating mix of tradition and modernity.
Tuzla Airport
Tuzla Airport, in north-eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina, stands as the county’s second largest airport. It is an important transportation hub for the region, operating both domestic and international flights. As of early 2024, two airlines operate from Tuzla Airport, Wizz Air and Lumiwings. The airport connects the city of Tuzla and the surrounding areas to destinations across Europe and beyond.
The airport offers limited dining options, a small duty-free shop, and a car rental service. Check out the official airport website here.
How Get to Tuzla Airport
Departures
From Tuzla.
The airport is approximately 15km from Tuzla City Centre and takes about 20-25 minutes drive. Unfortunately, there is no bus that runs to/from Tuzla airport but a taxi should cost no more than 10-15 euros.
From Sarajevo
There are two options for coming from Sarajevo:
- Depending on your flight time, consider taking a public bus to Tuzla and then a taxi to the airport.
- Wizz Air offers a transfer directly from Sarajevo (approximately two hours and 30-40 euros per person). Just make sure to book it in advance.
Arrivals
To Tuzla
Take a Taxi to the city centre. A 20-25 minute drive costing around 10-15 euros.
To Sarajevo
There are two options for getting to Sarajevo:
- Taxi + Public Bus: Take a taxi to Tuzla (see above), then take a public bus to Sarajevo. Buses leave from Tuzla Bus Terminal regularly, taking just over three hours. Check the schedule here with fares around 15 euros.
- Wizz Air Transfer: Book a Wizz Air transfer directly from the airport to Sarajevo (approximately two hours and 30-40 euros per person). Just make sure to book it in advance.
Flying from Tuzla Airport
There are five things I think everyone should know before heading to Tuzla Airport:
- No Public Transport: Public transport does not extend from Tuzla city to the airport.
- Compact Size: Tuzla Airport is super small.
- Airport Tax: Be prepared to pay an airport tax of approximately 2.00 BAM.
- Limited Wi-Fi: Don’t expect Free Wi-Fi.
- Non-smokers: Enter the waiting area only when absolutely necessary.
Departing From Tuzla Airport.
In this section I share what it is like to catch a flight from Tuzla Airport.
Departing from Tuzla airport unfolds as a memorable experience. To get there I organised a transfer with my accommodation (I spent the night in Tuzla). Upon arriving at the airport, I had two immediate goals before my flight.
- Find something to eat, and
- Connect to some Wi-Fi to call my family.
My first goal was accomplished easily, with a delightful burek purchase. Unfortunately, goal two (finding Wi-Fi) was slightly more difficult. To access the Wi-Fi, I needed to pay for an hour of connectivity at the airport information desk. I handed over my last few BAM and was provided with an access code. As this point there was an announcement about something to do with paying tax, but I didn’t quite catch it and just assumed it was about duty-free.
Paying Airport Taxes
As I finished my burek, an announcement prompted all passengers to go through to the security to the departure area. Following instructions, I presented my ticket and realized the earlier tax announcement was pertinent to me. A return to the information desk ensued, where I had recently spent my last coins on Wi-Fi.
Thankfully, as I had just spent my last BAM, payment for the airport tax could be paid by card. With the tax receipt in hand, I cleared security.
The Departure Lounge – Smokers Paradise
The departure lounge mirrored the airport’s compact nature, featuring a small duty-free shop, a café, restrooms, and insufficient seating. There was a little smoking room in the corner. After a while I noticed that the entire departure lounge had become hazy. Turns out it was cigarette smoke from the so many people going in and out of that little smoking room. Boy do Bosnians love to smoke. At this point I decided to investigate the duty-free shop. Trying out the free perfumes was a nice alternative to the smell of cigarettes. To avoid this for non-smokers, delay entry to the departure lounge at until necessary.
Stay For a Night – What to do in Tuzla
Exploring Tuzla is a delightful experience and easily achievable in an afternoon. Take advantage of Tuzla’s compact layout, easily navigable on foot, and explore these highlights:
The Panoramic Salt Lakes
Whether you choose to swim in one of the three large saltwater lakes, indulge in waterslides, or simply soak in the view it an absolute must-visit on a hot day. The entrance fee is only 1-2 euros (depending on day of the week and times). I spent a lovely final afternoon here before my flight.
Stari Grad (Old Town)
Take a leisurely stroll through the old town, a charming district teeming with cafes, shops, pubs, bars, and restaurants. The central focus around this mosque unveils a mesmerizing blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian buildings, interspersed with communist and modern architectures. An evening spent wandering these historic streets and dining here is a must. Don’t forget to explore the poignant memorial gate dedicated to the victims of the Tuzla massacre. Read more about the massacre.
Kicelj Viewpoint
For the best panoramic view of the city, venture northwest of the Old Town to Kicelj Viewpoint. A walk uphill rewards you with a breathtaking sunset, providing a picturesque perspective that truly captures the essence of Tuzla.
Slana Banja and Memorial Park
Located to the northeast of the city centre, Slana Banja and Memorial Park offer a serene escape for walking and relaxation. Delve into the city’s recent history through memorials dedicated to World War Two and the 1992-1995 war. The park also houses a cemetery for the victims of the Tuzla massacre.
More Bosnia and Herzegovina
If you’re planning a visit to Bosnia, check out my guide on taking a boat from Serbia into Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Conclusion
Come for the airport, stay for the city. Tuzla is a gateway to a city steeped in history and cultural richness. Before or after you navigate the airport nuances, consider a stay in Tuzla. From the enchanting Salt Lakes to the historic Old Town, Tuzla promises a memorable experience.
Happy Exploring!
Kieren