Banja Luka
Bosnia and Herzegovina · Republika Srpska · 163 m
Description
Banja Luka is the second city of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the seat of Republika Srpska, set on the Vrbas where the river leaves its canyon. The Kastel fortress holds the left bank on Roman foundations and is the oldest thing standing in the city. The Ferhadija mosque of 1579 was blown up in 1993 and rebuilt from its own recovered stone. Along Gospodska street the café terraces run the length of the pedestrian zone. Upstream the Vrbas canyon carries the rafting the city is known for, including a floodlit night course.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: May – September
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Kastel fortress on the Vrbas
- Ferhadija mosque rebuilt from its own stone
- Gospodska street and its café terraces
- Christ the Saviour Cathedral
- Rafting the Vrbas canyon and its night course
- Krupa na Vrbasu waterfalls and watermills(Day trip)
- Banski Dvor cultural centre
- Šehitluci and the Banj brdo memorial above the city
- Museum of Republika Srpska
- Trappist monastery and its cheese
- Vrbas riverside bathing spots
- Kozara National Park and the Mrakovica memorial(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- BNX
- Train stations:
- Banja Luka