The Best Bars in Banja Luka, Bosnia

Want to enjoy a Bosnian coffee in the morning or an evening beer with a view? Check out Vinski Bar Provence. A selection of wines, beer and soft drinks fill the menu and are at very reasonable prices, as well as food and snacks. Diners tend to enjoy the outdoor terraced seating area overlooking a small fountain and garden. The setting of Vinski Bar makes for a perfect evening in the warm Banja Luka sunshine. Or, the cozy interior creates a desirable atmosphere in the colder months.

Jelen Pub, inside Hotel Bosna in Banja Luka’s city centre, can accommodate more than 200 patrons at any one time. The typical crowd tends to be young, 20-somethings, many of whom have a basic command of English, making it easy to strike up a conversation here. An outdoor bar opens in the warmer months, where you can enjoy their outdoor seating area. Live music and bands playing a range of genres, from local rock and traditional Balkan music, can be heard here. Jelen Pub also serves a selection of food at affordable prices.

Banja Luka’s student population and young adults can often be found sipping coffee, beer or a glass of wine at K.S.E.T. Pab. Located behind Ferhad Pasha Mosque and just a few minutes on foot from Kastel Fortress, K.E.S.T. makes a convenient stop for sightseeing tourists. Expect cheap drinks and live entertainment (such as bands, film and sports events) in the evenings every night of the week. Local students will come for their morning coffee and later take part in afternoon games before dancing into the early hours. And you should join them.

Banja Luka’s Irish Pub has a wide selection of craft beers on tap from around Europe, including English ales and–of course–Guinness. Like Irish Pubs around the globe, patrons feel as if they’ve been transported into the heart of Dublin with the interior design and atmosphere. Weekends are a particularly good time to visit Shamrock to soak up the energetic atmosphere and knock back a few fresh pints while enjoying live bands. Everyone feels welcome and has a good night at Shamrock.

If you’re looking to enjoy a couple of cocktails while dancing to the latest music, check out Smuggler Cocktails and Stuff, in the heart of Banja Luka. The interior is modern, and skilful bartenders mix cocktails in this bar/nightclub. Regular events and themed nights take place on weekends, attracting locals from all walks of life to dress up and unwind. Many revellers say Smuggler has some of the best cocktails in Banja Luka.