BANJA LUKA BREWERY BECOMES AN INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT TOURIST ATTRACTION

Banjalučka pivara is steadily becoming one of the most recognizable tourist destinations in the largest city of Republika Srpska, as confirmed by the fact that more than a thousand visitors from around the world toured the brewery over the past year.

PHOTO: Banjalučka pivara

With a tradition spanning more than 152 years, the brewery attracts the highest number of visitors from the region, particularly from Slovenia, but also from Austria, Sweden, the United Kingdom, China, Serbia, and across Bosnia and Herzegovina. During the tour, guests have the opportunity to learn about the rich history of the Trappist monks who launched beer production in the 19th century, leaving a profound mark on the city’s economic and cultural development.

The brewery has been operating continuously since 1873, when Trappist monks from the Mariastern Abbey, led by Father Franz Pfanner, began producing beer.

Today, it stands as a symbol of tradition, quality, and continuity in the region

“Our goal is to provide visitors with an authentic experience by introducing them to the history and production process of ‘Nektar’ beer, including a tasting of fresh beer directly from the fermenter. We want everyone who visits the brewery to feel the unique atmosphere of one of the oldest breweries in the region. The growing interest shows that we are recognized as an attractive tourist destination,” said Andrea Lizdek, Marketing Manager of Banjalučka pivara.

According to the Tourist Organization of Banja Luka, tours of local producers significantly strengthen the city’s tourism offer while further promoting the “Nektar” beer brand. Visitors, they note, are particularly impressed by the rich heritage of the Trappists and their lasting influence.

“During visits to the brewery, guests are fascinated by how rich the history of the Trappists is and how much their work shaped not only the spiritual, but also the economic and cultural life of Banja Luka,” said Minja Šurlan, Director of the Tourist Organization of the City of Banja Luka.

The brewery tour concludes with a beer tasting session, which for many visitors remains the highlight of the experience, combining history, craftsmanship, and flavor in one authentic Banja Luka story.