It is fair to call Banja Luka – the administrative capital of the Republika Srpska – an underrated city. From a tourism standpoint, it is also pretty special. Nestled in green hills, it is full of culture, restaurants, and good lodging options. The relaxed feeling one has here comes from the Vrbas River, which is gentle as it putters through town but flexes its muscles just a short distance away. The region is world famous as a rafting haven. Banja Luka also has a thriving nightlife and is well known for both its club scene and its live music festivals, namely Demofest and Kozara ethno festival. Loaded with lots of leafy parks – so one doesn’t feel trapped in an urban jungle – Banja Luka also has a distinctly young vibe, which is fueled by its universities.