RECOMMENDATION: TOP 15 MUST-SEE PLACES WHEN VISITING THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA

Marko Radić, former director of the Trebinje Tourist Organization and now Head of the Tourism Promotion Sector at the Tourism Organization of the Republic of Srpska, often shares insights about domestic tourism on his blog and social media channels.

PHOTO: Mladen Trivunić

This time, Radić published an engaging feature listing 15 things no traveler should miss when visiting the Republic of Srpska. As he explains, answering the seemingly simple question “What should one definitely see?” became a true challenge on a terrain he knows so well that he feels familiar with every stone. “I thought I’d write down ten,” he says, “but how do you pick only ten when the region spans from Novi Grad to Trebinje, combining nature, culture, people and the overall experience?”

What follows is his personal list of 15 starting points — not final, not official — but a carefully crafted selection meant to guide visitors through the essential experiences before they explore hidden corners and discover their own treasures.

15. ETHNO MUSEUM – LJUBAČKE DOLINE, BANJA LUKA

One of the most picturesque places to visit if you appreciate rural charm, nature, tradition, and authentic food. This open-air museum faithfully recreates a late 19th-century rural household, with more than 40 objects and 6,000 carefully collected artifacts. A warm welcome from the hosts adds the finishing touch.

14. CITY OF THE SUN, TREBINJE

The largest tourism-sport resort complex in Bosnia and Herzegovina offers year-round recreation, entertainment, relaxation, and family activities — from aqua parks and sports fields to charming ethno corners and accommodation options.

13. VUČIJAK STUD FARM, PRNJAVOR

Home to noble Lipizzan horses and the only Lipizzaner stud in Bosnia and Herzegovina, listed as part of UNESCO’s intangible heritage. Though in need of revitalization, its potential is enormous. Entry is free — and bringing carrots is always welcome.

12. HERZEGOVINIAN GRAČANICA, TREBINJE

The most visited sacred complex in Eastern Herzegovina, built as the fulfillment of poet Jovan Dučić’s wish to rest in a church resembling the Kosovo Gračanica. The site includes his tomb, a monastery residence, a bell tower, and one of the most beautiful viewpoints over Trebinje.

11. ETNO SELO STANIŠIĆI, BIJELJINA

A unique place that transports visitors into the past through authentic architecture, wooden houses, medieval-style stone structures, watermills, craft workshops, and charming lakes. A destination that has drawn visitors for more than two decades.

10. COFFEE UNDER THE PLANE TREES, TREBINJE

More than a tradition — it is an experience. The famous alley of 16 giant plane trees, planted over 120 years ago, is considered one of the most beautiful outdoor cafés in the former Yugoslavia. As locals say: “If you haven’t had coffee under the plane trees, you haven’t been to Trebinje.”

9. BOAT RIDE ON THE UNA, NOVI GRAD

One of the most serene ways to enjoy one of Europe’s cleanest rivers. The recommendation: choose a sunset cruise for a magical experience, with stops at waterfalls for photos and swimming.

8. TVRDOŠ MONASTERY, TREBINJE

A spiritual and gastronomic gem. Built on the foundations of a 4th-century church, Tvrdoš is known for its renowned wines, olive oil, and traditional products, produced in both ancient and modern cellars.

7. PERUĆICA PRIMEVAL FOREST, SUTJESKA NATIONAL PARK, FOČA

One of Europe’s last remaining primeval forests, untouched for thousands of years. Together with Maglić (the highest peak in BiH), glacial lakes, and rich biodiversity, Sutjeska National Park offers unmatched experiences for hikers, cyclists, photographers, and nature lovers.

6. JANJ OASES, ŠIPOVO

A region of rivers, pastures, forests, and warm-hearted locals. Its gastronomic highlight is the renowned Janj braided cheese. The broader area — from Mrkonjić Grad to Jezero, Ribnik and Šipovo — offers endless natural beauty and great potential for sustainable tourism.

5. OK FEST, FOČA

More than a music festival — an explosion of energy, nature, and summer, held in the magical environment of Sutjeska National Park. A festival capable of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with global events.

4. DAJAK BOAT RIDE ON THE VRBAS, BANJA LUKA

Banja Luka’s signature symbol, just as gondolas are to Venice. A dajak ride offers an unforgettable and authentic view of the city, carried by the mastery of skilled boatmen.

3. SKIING ON JAHORINA, PALE

An Olympic mountain combining tradition and modern infrastructure, with over 50 kilometers of slopes and breathtaking views. A must for winter sports lovers.

2. MEHMED PAŠA SOKOLOVIĆ BRIDGE, VIŠEGRAD

A masterpiece of 16th-century Ottoman architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immortalized in Ivo Andrić’s Nobel-winning novel The Bridge on the Drina, it remains one of the most powerful symbols of the region.

1. RAFTING ON THE TARA RIVER, FOČA

The ultimate experience. One of the deepest canyons in the world, crystal-clear water you can drink directly from the river, and adrenaline-pumping rapids. Tara hosted two World Rafting Championships — proof of its global reputation.

Radić’s selection offers a balanced blend of nature, culture, history, heritage, adventure and atmosphere — an inspiring introduction to everything the Republic of Srpska has to offer before each traveler begins crafting their own story.