population: 0.19 million

extension: 96.2 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Banja Luka and interested in visiting museums, I would recommend visiting the Muzej Republike Srpske or the Museum of Modern Art of Republika Srpska. Both of these museums offer exhibits on the history and culture of the region. If you're interested in similar types of places, there's also The National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina and The Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina located in Sarajevo, which is approximately 2.5 hours away from Banja Luka.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat in Banja Luka according to local people are:

1. Ćevapi - grilled minced meat served with somun bread, onions, and kajmak (a type of cream)

2. Burek - a baked pastry filled with either meat, cheese or spinach

3. Sarma - cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices

4. Pita - a savory pie that can be filled with cheese, spinach, potatoes, or meat

5. Ražnjići - skewered and grilled pork or chicken meat

6. Krompiruša - a potato pie topped with cheese and cream

7. Klepe - small dumplings filled with minced meat and served with sour cream

8. Grah - a stew made with beans and smoked meat

9. Teleća čorba - a soup made with veal and vegetables

10. Tufahije - baked apples stuffed with walnuts and sweetened with syrup.

These dishes are widely available at local restaurants and cafes in Banja Luka and are definitely worth trying if you're looking to sample some authentic Bosnian cuisine.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that local people enjoy in Banja Luka:

1. Visit the Kastel Fortress - Explore the ancient fortress and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

2. Stroll along the Vrbas Riverbank - Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic riverbank, which is lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars.

3. Explore Gospodska Street - This pedestrian street in the heart of the city is filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.

4. Relax in the city parks - The city has several beautiful parks such as Mladen Stojanovic Park and Petar Kocic Park, where locals often gather to relax and socialize.

5. Try traditional Bosnian food - Sample local specialties like cevapi (grilled meat), burek (savory pastry), and ajvar (a popular red pepper spread).

6. Attend a cultural event - Check out local festivals and events such as the Banja Luka Summer Nights Festival or the International Film Festival.

7. Enjoy thermal spas - Banja Luka is known for its thermal spas, such as Terme Banja Luka, where you can relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs.