Reasons Why Guests Choose Accommodation in Mrkonjić Grad
Tourism Appeal – Located in the western part of Republika Srpska, Mrkonjić Grad is known for its preserved nature, mountains, lakes, and deep-rooted history. It’s an ideal spot for guests looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s natural environment. Renting accommodation here means being close to destinations like Mount Lisina, the Zelenkovac eco-village, or Lake Balkana – all popular year-round.
- Main Attractions: Mount Lisina is just 4 km from the town and offers excellent conditions for hiking, winter sports, and nature excursions.
Lake Balkana, located at the foot of the mountain, consists of two artificial lakes suitable for walking, boating, and fishing.
Zelenkovac Eco-Village is 14 km (about 17 minutes by car) from Mrkonjić Grad. This unique artistic and ecological oasis is surrounded by dense forest.
Festivals and Events – A number of festivals and cultural events take place in Mrkonjić Grad throughout the year. Notable ones include:
- Zelenkovac Jazz Festival – Held annually in the eco-zone of Zelenkovac, located in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, 15 km from Mrkonjić Grad and 60 km south of Banja Luka. Taking place over three days in late July, the festival offers live jazz music and various workshops on topics like culture, environmental protection, and sustainable tourism.
- Mowing Day (Dani Kosidbe) – A traditional event that revives ancient customs of the Balkans. Skilled mowers from Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Slovenia demonstrate their craft. This event is also held in July.
- Guardians of Tradition and Customs – Usually held in August, this event showcases local, independent producers and their handmade goods.
- Mushroom Days at Balkana – Includes guided walks to mushroom habitats on Lisina, followed by lunch and a mushroom exhibition in the village of Podić above Lake Balkana.
Active Tourism – The natural surroundings and heritage of Mrkonjić Grad inspire many visitors to engage in outdoor activities, such as:
- Hunting – Mrkonjić Grad lies within one of the largest and most beautiful hunting grounds in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Mliništa–Lisina–Klekovača, spanning 40,000 hectares. Game includes deer, wild boar, bear, capercaillie, and hare.
- Fishing – Conditions for fishing are excellent, especially for trout and grayling. Popular fishing spots include Lake Balkana and the rivers Sana, Ponor, Vrbas, and Crna Reka.
- Camping and Ecotourism – Zelenkovac and surrounding villages offer opportunities to stay in nature, enjoy homemade cuisine, join cultural workshops, and experience genuine local hospitality.
- Hiking and Cycling – The “Pecka” Visitor Center, located in a former school in Gornja Pecka, is a great starting point for excursions, climbing, cycling, and hiking.
Accommodation in Mrkonjić Grad – Types
- Apartments in Mrkonjić Grad - Private apartments, or “stan na dan,” are significantly more affordable than hotel stays. You can find fully equipped apartments in the very center of town starting from just €23 per night. Standard features typically include air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and in many cases a full kitchen. Where a full kitchen isn’t available, a kitchenette is provided for preparing hot drinks or simple meals.
- Motels - Motels offer a practical and budget-friendly option, ideal for travelers in transit or those seeking a comfortable stay near nature. One example is Motel Lav, located in the village of Dabrac, about 15 km from the center of Mrkonjić Grad.
- Hotels - For those seeking luxury, hotels are the top-tier option. The most well-known is Hotel Balkana, a newly built hotel within the Balkana Tourist Center, constructed to high architectural and equipment standards. The hotel is located 5 km from Mrkonjić Grad, along the main road connecting Jajce, Mrkonjić Grad, and Bihać. Room rates start from €55 per night.
- Rural Households - If you’re looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle, rural tourism is an excellent choice. Sunčani Breg, the Ubović family estate, offers accommodation in rooms and a separate bungalow for guests, with overnight stays starting at €20. Also available is Lujina Koliba, a rustic log cabin located in the Zelenkovac area, offering a unique stay for €23 per night.
Average Accommodation Prices in Mrkonjić Grad
Average Prices for Apartments in Mrkonjić Grad (by Type and Capacity):
- Studio (for 2 people): average price €23
- One-bedroom apartments (for 2–4 people): from €29 to €50
- Larger apartments: from €42 up to €80
Overnight Stay in Mrkonjić Grad – One-Night Rental Options
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Where to Stay in Mrkonjić Grad When Visiting with Children
- City Center - For families who prefer to be close to all amenities—especially those geared toward children—the city center is the top choice. Here you’ll find parks, playgrounds, and a recently opened amusement park suitable for kids up to 14 years old. There's also a cinema located at Karađorđeva Street 1, offering child-friendly movie screenings that can add fun to your family’s day.
- Near Zelenkovac - Although located about 15 km outside the city, many families choose to stay in the eco-village of Zelenkovac. If you don’t mind being a bit farther from the urban center, this area offers tranquility, nature, and an authentic environment—perfect for outdoor play, exploration, and fresh air for kids.
Accommodation Near the Best Nightlife Spots in Mrkonjić Grad
- Picasso - Located in the heart of Mrkonjić Grad, on Svetog Save Street, Caffe Bar and Nightclub Picasso offers a vibrant atmosphere with great music and a premium drink selection—perfect for a fun and unforgettable night out. It's open on weekdays from 7 AM to midnight, and on weekends until 3 AM.
- Delta - Also situated on Svetog Save Street, Delta is a lively nightclub known for its late-night vibe. On weekends, you can catch performances by popular regional artists or enjoy curated DJ sets for a dynamic club experience.
- Omnia - Found on Sime Šolaje Street, right in the city center, Omnia operates as a relaxed café during the day and transforms into a hotspot for weekend parties by night. It serves guests until midnight on weekdays and into the early morning hours on weekends, with live DJ music and a lively crowd.
Best Restaurants Near Accommodation in Mrkonjić Grad
Šik Restaurant – Located on Cara Dušana Street, open daily from 7 AM to 11 PM. Highlights include ćevapi with kajmak, grilled meats, and various other meat specialties. The average meal price per person is around 800 RSD.
Damiano’s Restaurant – Located 8 km from the town center, in the Podbrdo settlement. Surrounded by nature, with a stunning view of mountains, hills, and lush forest, it provides a truly enjoyable experience. The menu includes a variety of flavors, from soups and stews to grilled dishes. The average meal price per person is 1,500 RSD.
Hilton – This restaurant and café is located on Boroca Srpskih R 412 Street. It is open daily from 12 PM to midnight. The average meal price per person is up to 1,200 RSD.
Hotel Balkana Restaurant – The menu includes regional culinary specialties (such as cicvara, pie, sour milk, pies under the sač, lamb roast, etc.), international dishes, and a wide selection of hot and refreshing drinks, wines, and alcoholic beverages. It is located about 5 km from Mrkonjić Grad. The average meal price is 1,500 RSD.
Top Attractions Near Apartments in Mrkonjić Grad
- Balkana Tourist and Recreation Center – Located four kilometers from town, it features two artificial lakes (Veliko and Malo), nestled in the valley of Mount Lisina. Balkana is equally attractive in all four seasons, offering visitors opportunities for walking, swimming, sunbathing, fishing, skiing, and hiking. There is also a paragliding camp at Balkana that brings together extreme sports enthusiasts from many European countries.
- Zelenkovac – A signature destination of Mrkonjić Grad is the mountain resort of Zelenkovac in the village of Podrašnica, located 14 km from town. It is a peaceful place adorned with pine forests, a haven for artists, and a place where jazz music can be heard.
- Lisina – A natural gem of Mrkonjić Grad, Mount Lisina lies at an altitude of 1,467 meters and is known for being one of the richest and best-researched mushroom habitats in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Pecka – Also drawing tourists is the Visitor Center “Pecka,” located in a former elementary school in the village of Gornja Pecka. The Sana River springs here, and just 15 kilometers away is the source of the Pliva River. Pecka is located about 30 km from Mrkonjić Grad.