Avaz Twist Tower

The Avaz Twist Tower is an impressive modern skyscraper that has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is not just an office building, but a true architectural landmark that attracts attention with its unusual shape and height.

Standing 175 meters tall including the spire (142 meters without it), the Avaz Twist Tower proudly holds the title of the tallest building in the Balkans and the second tallest structure in the region after the Avala Tower. Its name "Twist" perfectly describes its unique design: the glass and steel facade seems to twist around its axis, creating a dynamic and futuristic look. This 40-story structure, including the underground level, is a prime example of modern architecture.

Beyond its architectural significance, the tower serves as the headquarters for the major Bosnian newspaper company "Dnevni avaz". Located in the Marijin Dvor business district in Sarajevo’s central municipality, it has become an important hub for the city's business life and a prominent landmark on its map, symbolizing the capital's modern development.

To get the most up-to-date information on visiting the Avaz Twist Tower, including opening hours and potential changes, it is recommended to consult official sources. You can find useful details on the landmark's official website.

The main reason to visit the Avaz Twist Tower is undoubtedly the chance to see Sarajevo from a bird's-eye view. There is an observation deck on the 36th floor of the skyscraper, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its picturesque surroundings. Getting to the top is a small adventure in itself: first, a high-speed panoramic elevator takes you to the 35th floor, followed by a short climb up the stairs.

Before heading to the very top, or after coming back down, you can enjoy some time at one of the tower's establishments. There is a cafe on the 35th floor where you can have a cup of coffee and relax. If you're hungry, the 31st floor, at a height of 100 meters, features a restaurant with a 360-degree panorama. Here, you can have lunch or dinner while enjoying magnificent views of the city slowly unfolding outside the window.

There is a fee to visit the observation deck. Entry costs 2 Convertible Marks (KM), which is equivalent to approximately 1 euro. It is important to note that there is a turnstile at the entrance that accepts coins in denominations of 50 pfennigs, 1 KM, and 2 KM. The turnstile does not give change, so it is highly recommended to have the necessary coins with you to enter and enjoy the views without any issues.

The Avaz Twist Tower is conveniently located in the Marijin Dvor district, a central area of Sarajevo. Thanks to this strategic location, getting to this modern skyscraper is quite easy. If you are staying in the city center, you can take a pleasant walk to the tower, exploring the architecture and atmosphere of the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina along the way.

For those who prefer public transport, there are also convenient options. The Marijin Dvor area is well-connected to other parts of Sarajevo. You can take a tram or a bus; it is recommended to check the most suitable routes based on your location. A taxi ride from central areas of the city is also quick and relatively inexpensive.

If you plan to visit the Avaz Twist Tower by private or rental car, parking shouldn't be an issue. The building has over 400 parking spaces, making it easily accessible for road travelers. This is particularly convenient if you plan to spend an extended period at the tower and its surroundings.

Finding the Avaz Twist Tower is very easy, even if it's your first time in Sarajevo. As one of the tallest and most prominent buildings in the Balkans, it dominates the cityscape and serves as an excellent landmark. Its unique "twisted" design is visible from afar, so you can easily spot its location.

The construction of the Avaz Twist Tower was a significant event in the architectural life of Sarajevo. Construction began in 2006 and, remarkably, took only three years—the building was completed in 2008. The official opening of this modern symbol of Bosnia and Herzegovina took place in May 2009. The tower's design was developed by the talented architect Faruk Kapidžić in collaboration with specialists from the ADS Group Sarajevo architectural firm.

One of the most striking features of the Avaz Twist Tower is its unique design with a characteristic twisted facade, which immediately catches the eye and makes it one of the most recognizable buildings not only in Sarajevo but in the entire region. Notably, about 200 companies from Bosnia and Herzegovina participated in the construction and equipping of this ambitious project, highlighting its importance to the national economy and serving as a demonstration of local business capabilities.

The architectural value of the Avaz Twist Tower has also received international recognition. In 2009, the well-known German company Schuco, specializing in the production of toys and models, included the Sarajevo skyscraper in its prestigious list of the ten most beautiful buildings in the world. This fact speaks volumes about the boldness and originality of the architectural concept. For a long time, and as of 2016, the Avaz Twist Tower held the title of the tallest skyscraper in Bosnia and Herzegovina, serving as a true landmark of the urban landscape.

When planning a visit to the Avaz Twist Tower, you should allow for approximately 1-2 hours. This is generally enough time to take the high-speed elevator up to the observation deck, enjoy the impressive panoramic views of Sarajevo and its surroundings, and take some memorable photos. The primary goal for most visitors is the spectacular views, and taking them in leisurely accounts for most of the time within this window.

If your plans are more extensive and include not just admiring the city from above but also a longer break, your stay may be longer. For example, you might want to enjoy a cup of aromatic coffee at the cafe on the 35th floor or have a full lunch or dinner at the restaurant with panoramic views on the 31st floor. In this case, you should add at least another hour or two to the time spent at the observation deck, depending on your preferences and the pace of your meal.

The exact opening hours of the Avaz Twist Tower, including the observation deck and the cafe/restaurant, may vary depending on the season and day of the week. Generally, such tourist sites are open to visitors daily, but for the most current information, it is highly recommended to check the tower's official website or confirm the details on-site upon arrival in Sarajevo. Usually, the observation deck is accessible during the day and evening, allowing guests to enjoy both daytime and nighttime views of the city.

Regarding bookings, prior registration is generally not required for individual visits to the observation deck. However, if you plan to visit the restaurant in the tower, especially during peak times or with a large group, it is recommended to book a table in advance. Overall, the Avaz Twist Tower is a year-round attraction, but it's always useful to check the details before your visit, especially if your trip coincides with public holidays.

A visit to the Avaz Twist Tower will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression thanks to the breathtaking views of Sarajevo. However, to make your trip even more fulfilling, it is worth paying attention to the attractions located nearby. Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and discover new interesting places.

The area around the Avaz Twist Tower offers a variety of options for further exploration, from cultural sites to places for relaxation and shopping. Within a few minutes' walk or a short ride, you will find other iconic spots in Sarajevo that will complete your impression of this amazing city in Bosnia and Herzegovina.