Top 10 Things To Do In Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina

1. Beat the heat by Vrbas River

Vrbas River is beautiful and offers fetching views. The river has a hydro dam that generates electricity and it is also a right tributary of the Sava River. It is recommended to wear slippers with a very strong grip because the area is a bit rocky. The river is the perfect place to visit on a hot day. You can dip your feet in the cool water and spend some relaxing time by the river. The atmosphere around the river is calm and serene. You can even indulge in river rafting.

Vrbas River

Address: Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina

2. Explore the architecture of Christ the Savior Orthodox Cathedral

Christ the Savior Orthodox Cathedral, which is situated in Banja Luka, features Byzantine Revival architecture. It was rebuilt after the second world war. It looks beautiful and historic and it is an ideal place for those who want to explore the age-old architecture and history of Banja Luka. One can buy devotional items such as books, collectibles, and other souvenirs here. The church also boasts artwork and bright interiors. This is the right place for architecture enthusiasts.

Christ the Savior Orthodox Cathedral

Address: Trg srpskih vladara 3, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Website: Christ the Savior Orthodox Cathedral

Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)

3. Drop by Museum of Contemporary Art of Republic of Srpska

Museum of Contemporary Art of Republic of Srpska is an interesting place that can be visited by those who like modern and contemporary art. The museum has several exhibits and it even holds exciting events. The museum used to be a train station but now it offers a glimpse of several masterpieces. If you are in Banja Luka, do not miss out on this attraction.

Museum of Contemporary Art of Republic of Srpska

Address: Serbian Heroes Square 2, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Website: Museum of Contemporary Art of Republic of Srpska

Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)

4. Learn more about the history of Kastel Fortress

Kastel Fortress is one of the oldest monuments in the city. It offers stunning panoramic views of the entire city. There’s a river in close proximity to the fortress. The entire scenery looks gorgeous. The atmosphere of the area is peaceful and calm and it has the vibe to make you feel refreshed. There are several signs which have information about the historical significance of the place. If you’re hungry, you can head to the restaurants nearby and have a sumptuous and filling meal.

Kastel Fortress

Address: Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

5. Attend an event at Banski Dvor Cultural Centre

Banski Dvor Cultural Centre is a nice place that holds cultural events, book signings, dance shows, and a number of other events. The cultural center looks magnificent and has beautiful exteriors and interiors. It is one of the oldest buildings and those interested in architecture or history can admire the beauty of this place. This is perhaps the right place to learn more about the culture of Banja Luka.

Banski Dvor Cultural Centre

Address: Serbian Rulers Square 2, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Website: Banski Dvor Cultural Centre

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 9pm (closed on Sat - Sun)

6. Grab a cup of coffee at The Master Craft Brewery

The Master Craft Brewery is a place that boasts warm hospitality. The staff is nice and welcoming. There’s plenty of space to park your car and the interiors remain bright and clean. It is one of the spots which remain bustling with a crowd. The interiors are decorated and they have an industrial-style setup. The food served here is fulfilling and tasty. If you don’t enjoy loud noises and crowds, then you may look for more quiet spaces in town.

The Master Craft Brewery

Address: Bulevar vojvode Stepe Stepanovića, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Website: The Master Craft Brewery

Opening hours: 7am - 12am (daily)

7. Explore the busy Gospodska Street

Gospodska Street is officially known as Veselin Maslesa street and it was named after an activist of the same name. The locals, however. continue to call it Gospodska Street which translates to ‘gentleman’s street’. The buildings feature Neo-Renaissance architecture. It remains bustling with a crowd at all times and has a cheerful vibe. There are numerous clothing stores, jewelry shops, and specialty shops that you can visit.

Gospodska Street

Address: Veselina Masleše, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia and Herzegovina

8. Go on a family trip to Aquana

Aquana is a water park which is a great place for a family trip. You can visit the place on a hot summer day and cool off. It is great for children as they enjoy playing in the water. It usually remains crowded with locals and tourists. It also features a giant slide. If you’re hungry, you can find delectable meals in the restaurant nearby.

Aquana

Address: Alley of Saint Sava 80, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Website: Aquana

Opening hours: Tue, Thu & Fri: 10am - 8pm; Wed: 10am - 10:30pm; Sat: 9am - 8:30pm; Sun: 9am - 8pm

9. Explore the history and architecture of Ferhat Pasha Mosque

Ferhat Pasha Mosque features the lovely Ottoman Islamic architecture. It is one of the must-visit places in Banja Luka. The mosque is a magnificent, historic building that can be visited regardless of your religion. It has a rich 500-year-old history which is one of the reasons why you can see the intricate detailing inside and outside the mosque. It was rebuilt after it was destroyed during the Bosnian War. It has been recently reopened to the public. The mosque has a peaceful atmosphere and there’s lush greenery around which adds to the vibe of the place.

Ferhat Pasha Mosque

Address: King Peter I Karadjordjevic, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

10. Grab a meal at the best restaurant in the city: Mala Stanica

Mala Stanica is a nice restaurant in Banja Luka which offers a cozy and pleasant ambiance. The menu is quite expansive and has a variety of items that one can try. The interiors are quite intriguing and you can find parking in front of the restaurant. It is a great place to visit when you’re hungry and want to grab comfort food like a pizza, burger, or hotdog.

Mala Stanica

Address: King Peter I Karadjordjevic, Banja Luka 78000, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Website: Mala Stanica

Opening hours: 7am - 12am (daily)

A place like Banja Luka cannot be missed

These were our top picks for the things that you can do in Banja Luka. It is definitely a place worth exploring for its rich history and architecture. The fetching landscapes will give you amazing backdrops for pictures that you can take back home as memories. Make sure to add Banja Luka to your bucket list.