Kotor Varo??

Kotor Varoš (Котор Варош) is a town in west-central Republika Srpska, situated in the Vrbas River valley between Banja Luka and Mrkonjić Grad. With a population of about 8,000 in the town and 20,000 in the municipality, it lies in a region of rolling hills, forests, and farmland. The Vrbas River flows through the municipality, and the surrounding countryside is known for its natural beauty and traditional rural life.

The town was heavily affected by the Bosnian War but has since rebuilt. Its economy is based on agriculture, forestry, and wood processing. The climate is continental with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is from May to September when the hills are green and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

By Plane

Banja Luka International Airport (BNX, IATA) is about 50 km north, about a 1-hour drive.

By Train

By Car / Road

Kotor Varoš is on the R-413 road connecting Banja Luka (45 km north) with Mrkonjić Grad (30 km south). Buses run regularly from Banja Luka (1 hour).

The town is compact and walkable. For exploring the surrounding hills and villages, a car is recommended.

• Vrbas River Valley — Scenic viewpoints along the river valley with forested hillsides.

• Kotor Varoš Town Square — The central square with the municipal building, church, and cafes.

• Surrounding Woodlands — The forests around the town are home to diverse wildlife and hiking trails.

• Medieval Stećak Tombs — Several medieval tombstones are scattered in the hills around the municipality.

• Hiking in the Surrounding Hills — Trails through forests and pastures offer excellent day hikes.

• Fishing in the Vrbas — The river is known for trout fishing.

• Visit Local Farms — Agritourism experiences with home-cooked meals and rural activities.

• Hunting — The forested hills are popular for deer and wild boar hunting.

• Cycling — Country roads through the hills offer scenic cycling routes.

• Restoran Vrbas — Riverside dining with grilled meats and local specialities. Main courses 8–14 KM.
• Kafana Kotor — A central café with light meals and Bosnian coffee.
• Local farm produce — Cheese, cream, honey, and rakija from surrounding farms.

Bosnian coffee, local rakija, and river water from mountain springs.

• Budget: Guesthouse Kotor Varoš — basic rooms from 25 KM.
• Mid-range: Motel Vrbas — double rooms from 45 KM with a restaurant.

• Banja Luka (45 km north, 45 minutes) — The administrative capital of Republika Srpska.
• Mrkonjić Grad (30 km south, 30 minutes) — A historic town in a forested mountain setting.
• Jajce (60 km south, 1.5 hours) — A town with a spectacular waterfall in the centre and a medieval fortress.
• Šipovo (45 km south, 1 hour) — A town at the source of the Pliva River, known for fishing and the Pliva Waterfall.
• Kozara National Park (90 km north, 1.5 hours) — A forested park with hiking and WWII memorials.