Banja Luka has severe winters and pleasant summers, averaging 33 degrees in the winter and 70 degrees in the summer. It rains in the city a little less than half the days of the year.
The the Museum of Bosanska Krajina and the Ethnographic Museum are the city's two most famous museums. The former concentrates on art and artifacts from the western region of the country. Another popular museum is the Museum of Modern Art of Republika Srpska.
Another famous spot is the Banski Dvor, or Halls of the Ban. Ban was the title for the rulers of the region. Within the Hall is a gallery, theater and restaurant. It is also where the National Assembly meets.
Banja Luka is home to hotels that date back to the late 1800s. Most of them sit on the bank of the Vrbas. A Marriott Hotel occupies one of these old buildings.
Other attractions include the thousands of old trees that line the city streets, thermal pools, spas and gardens. Rafting on the river is also a popular option for tourists.
