Discover the enchanting region of the City of Tuzla in the northeast corner of Bosnia and Herzegovina. While known for its industrial prowess, this dynamic area offers a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Step off the beaten path and delve into a world of secluded mountains, refreshing streams, and lush green forests that will captivate your senses. As you journey along the Sava River, you’ll be greeted by the fertile landscapes of the region. Agriculture thrives here, occupying half of the territory and serving as the backbone of the local economy.
In the heart of it all lies Tuzla, a city named after its historic salt mines from the Ottoman era. Tuzla radiates a rich natural, cultural, and historical heritage that is waiting to be discovered. The city of Bijeljina stands as a striking contrast to Tuzla. Its vast plains make it an agricultural haven and a bustling transit hub connecting Bosnia and Herzegovina with Serbia. Beyond these urban centers, you’ll find picturesque towns like Gradačac, Doboj, and Srebrenik, each offering medieval fortresses, quaint town centers, and an authentic, homely ambiance.
Embrace the allure of the majestic mountains that crisscross the middle section of the northeast region. Konjuh, Majevica, and Ozren form natural boundaries between mountainous climates and the sprawling flatlands of Semberija in the extreme north. Explore the Via Dinarica Green Trail as it winds through the breathtaking Konjuh and , revealing the most captivating and picturesque landscapes in the entire region., revealing the most captivating and picturesque landscapes in the entire region.
Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals, who will gladly share their love for their homeland. While language barriers may exist, the local hikers are always eager to welcome guests and guide them through the rugged terrains. With a touch of perseverance and a sprinkle of sign language, you’ll forge unforgettable connections and embark on remarkable hiking adventures.
Tuzla
Located against the captivating slopes of Majevica Mountain, Tuzla invites travelers with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, industrial heritage, and poignant history. Explore the serene wonders of Pannonian Lakes, a series of picturesque lakes that offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Take a stroll through the vibrant streets of Tuzla’s city center, where you’ll encounter a fascinating mix of historical landmarks, lively cafes, and bustling markets. Delve into the rich heritage of this remarkable city as you uncover the stories of salt and admire the captivating architecture of the Old Town. From its diverse cultural scene to its breathtaking landscapes and poignant historical reminders, Tuzla promises a journey of exploration, reflection, and discovery.
Surroundings
Srebrenik
Srebrenik enjoys great connectivity to most other parts of the country, especially with Tuzla and its International Airport. The symbol of Srebrenik is its Old Town Fortress Gradina. Renowned for its historical significance, the city of Srebrenik and Gradina Medieval Fortress, birthplace of the first Bosnian king Tvrtko Kotromanić extend beyond the boundaries of the Tuzla Canton and is one of the most stunning medieval and heritage sites in the country. This national monument is one of the best-preserved sites of the medieval era, serving as a window to the past. While in Srebrenik, besides enjoying the centuries-old complex of Gradina Fortress, visitors can partake in nature retreats, hiking, and MTB activities, primarily in the untouched corners of Majevica Mountain. Charming rural households and welcoming locals such as Bašta Bešić will allow visitors to discover authentic pieces of local lifestyle and creativity, including mouthwatering homemade dishes and beverages. To rejuvenate body, soul, and mind in Srebrenik, one can recharge in authentic accommodation facilities such as Hotel Orion, where spa & wellness sessions, recreation in outdoor pools, wine tasting, and fantastic cuisine can be experienced.
Gradačac
Situated between the Majevica and Trebava mountains, Gradačac reveals an enchanting fusion of history and nature’s grace. It carries the whispers of Ottoman elegance, a noble tapestry interwoven with legends of the mystical Dragon of Bosnia. Behold the majestic Hussein’s Mosque, adorned with minarets that reach for the heavens, a testament to its rise in 1826. The Tower Clock, known by the Dragon’s name, stands as a sentinel of time, echoing stories of ages past. The Gradaščević family’s legacy unfolds as one steps into their meticulously restored ancestral dwelling, now a museum, where history comes alive. Gradačac beckons you to embrace its timeless charm, to wander amidst its history and scenic vistas, a journey that promises to enchant your senses and capture your heart.
Bijeljina
Situated in the captivating northeast region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bijeljina beckons visitors with its unique blend of cultural influences and natural splendor. As the pivotal city in the Semberija plains, Bijeljina boasts rich, fertile soil, creating a picturesque landscape dotted with houses and gardens that mirror the charm of Hungary and Serbia. Explore the well-arranged parks and pedestrianized areas, adorned with neatly arranged fences and manicured lawns, offering a tranquil escape within the city. Discover the enchanting monasteries like the monastery of St. Basil of Ostrog and Tavna Orthodox Monastery. The Drina River’s nearby swimming and fishing areas provide a delightful retreat, while Bijeljina’s mild climate, boasting 1,800 hours of annual sunshine, adds to its allure. With its convenient access to Novi Sad and Belgrade in Serbia, Bijeljina serves as an ideal gateway to further exploration.
Tešanj
Tešanj, a town that recently gained recognition and acclaim, offers an intriguing blend of cultural and natural treasures. The renowned Tešanj’s mineral water has garnered international attention, winning a prestigious bronze medal in the Berkeley Springs Mineral Water Contest. Known as Tešanjski Dijamant, this exceptional water has even found its way to the White House, rumored to have been requested by President Bill Clinton. Experience the pure taste of Tešanjski Dijamant firsthand as you fill your bottle from the refreshing Tešanjski Kiseljak public source, located in a serene picnic area where you can relax and savor the moment. While in the old town, get ready to unveil centuries-old secrets and monuments. Additionally, enter the time chamber as you explore one of the most majestic fortresses in the country, the Tešanj Fortress.
Brčko
Embraced between Majevica and Semberija, and further adorned by the scenic background of Posavina, Brčko town is found. Situated on the swift yet gentle Sava River, the town first mentioned in the 16th century contains a rich history and diverse heritage that unfolds through its streets, where well-preserved architecture and landmarks bear witness to its multicultural and multiethnic nature. Brčko promises a journey through time with archaeological artifacts spanning various periods, complemented by prominent national monuments, religious sites, and a symbolic architectural legacy. At the heart of the town, you will find the cherished Ficibajer, a significant picnic ground and recreation site offering a blend of entertainment, refreshments, summer joy, and sports activities. Try fishing experiences or partake in boating, kayaking, and canoeing, creating lasting memories along the Sava River. For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, try hiking and nature retreats to Majevica and Posavina.
Banovići
Banovići is a town with a rich coal mining history. This town sits at the northwestern slopes of Konjuh Mountain, on the main road connecting two major industrial centers of Tuzla and Zenica, bordering the municipalities of Lukavac, Živinice, Kladanj, Olovo, and Zavidovići. Besides its coal mining heritage, Banovići and its surrounding areas are nowadays popular due to several sites and attractions that culture lovers, nature, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy. While in Banovići, some of the activities to do and sites to visit include panoramic sightseeing via tourist wagons of the Ćiro Tourist Train, bonding with nature, partaking in sports activities, hiking, and MTB the beautiful Konjuh Mountain, relaxing and fishing at lakes such as Ramić and Breštica, having fun and recharging at picnic sites such as Zlača and Zobik as well as visiting an ethnographic museum Ethno Park Mačkovac where the country’s wealthy history unfold through its authentic courtyards, distinctive buildings and architectural design, a large collection of items and fantastic cuisine.
Živinice
Živinice, a town located about 8km from the City of Tuzla and 5km from the Tuzla International Airport is an accessible destination surrounded by mountains Konjuh, Bišina, Majevica, and Ozren. Besides outdoor activities, the town’s relief and geographical position where rivers and streams intertwine with plains and hilly areas allow visitors to enjoy authentic cuisine and charms of rural lifestyle at several ethno-courtyards, gardens and ponds such as Priluk Pond, Ethno Restaurant Bardak, Ethno fishpond Gornja Višća, PPG Jelen Deer Farm to name some. Natural landscapes, hilly and mountain areas, peaceful atmosphere, picnic grounds, and excursion sites surround the town, adding to its allure while providing opportunities for cycling, MTB, hiking, summer refreshments, and nature retreats. If you are looking for summer enjoyment, entertainment, and relief from the hot weather, some recommended sites are Bašigovci Lake, AQUA Živinice pools, Toplica, and Erna Priluk. In the summer, individuals with a passion for fishing and a love for nature can also take pleasure in visiting the lakes known as “Bare-Šljunkara” and “Hadžije”. Živinice also has monuments that hold high religious, cultural, and historical importance. Some of the monuments to witness in Živinice are medieval tombstones stećci in Bašigovci and Đurđevik, the Old Mosque in Priluk, Džebarska Mosque, the Chapel of St. Anthony Padua, the Orthodox Church in Podgajevi. The experience in Živinice is further elevated by API Chamber Handalić and ethno workshops organized by local associations.
Gračanica
Gračanica is a town in the northeastern part of the country, known for trade, and skilled workmanship. Visiting Gračanica and walking its streets allows witnessing a bazaar that has kept the spirit of the past times, including a modern promenade where authentic objects are preserved to its day. One of the most striking landmarks of Gračanica is its centuries-old clock tower situated in the bazaar’s center, also referred to as the “Leaning Tower”. When in Gračanica, visitors can also observe several other attractions that span numerous historical epochs. Notable sites include the neolithic site Korića han, remains of the medieval town Soko, the mosques Ahmed-pasha and Fethija, the Mula Dedo Turbe, the Gračanica Town Hall, and the Osman-Captain Madrassa. Additionally, the Ćiro Train showcases the town’s varied history, while a museum display at the Bosnian Culture Center Gračanica offers an extra opportunity for historical exploration and discovery of local culture. However, a trip to Gračanica is often completed by experiencing the advantages and therapeutic properties of its thermomineral waters, which are well appreciated by visitors at Terme Gračanica.
Kladanj
Stretching along the valley of the Drinjača River, positioned between the Konjuh Mountain on one side and Javornik Mountain on the other, Kladanj is one of the most well-known destinations of Tuzla Canton. Establishing itself as a green oasis, Kladanj, and its surroundings provide diverse opportunities for sports and outdoor activities as well as nature retreats, with MTB and hiking on Protected Landscape Konjuh and exploration of magnificent natural attractions such as Maiden’s Cave, Bebrava Cave, and Paučko Lake taking the central stage. Those who enjoy the activities and fresh mountain air on Konjuh Mountain often spend time in the hotel complex Muška Voda and take mild hikes to visit the source of the famous and praised Muška Voda/Men’s Water, which is sometimes called the fountain of youth. However, summer adventure and outdoor activities in Kladanj do not end there, as picnic grounds Bebrava and Studenac, a thrilling Via Ferrata Paolo Dieci, UNESCO-inscribed medieval tombstones stećci in Olovci adorn the already attractive landscapes and enrich the offerings. As winter season comes, Kladanj becomes a popular destination among skiing and winter lovers, thanks to the Ski Center Karaula and its ski lift located about 800 meters from the town center.
Lukavac
Once known as an industrial town, nowadays Lukavac and its surroundings are popular among those seeking recreation and outdoor activities. Those usually take place at several locations. Primarily at Lake Bistarac where swimming, relaxation, outdoor team sports, fishing, and tasty cuisine can be experienced, and at Lake Modrac, the other water pearl and widely popular attraction where numerous accommodation facilities, restaurants, cafes, and fantastic views serve as a haven for visitors who can partake in activities such as fishing, summer boat rides and beach relaxation. The natural landscapes and terrain of Lukavac are more than convenient for nature retreats, team bondings, cycling, MTB, and hiking activities, with picnic grounds Svatovac and Tirinovac, Modrac Lake, Smoluća Lake and authentic Farm Milo Selo often being included in such experiences.Lukavac also contains five stunning national monuments, the Old Mosque in Turija, the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, the Church of St. Elijah, Ćamdžič House, and the NOR Monument, each representing a significant asset of the town’s intriguing cultural, historical and religious heritage.
Čelić
Čelić is a town and municipality located on the hilly slopes of Mount Majevica and parts of the flat Posavina region. They say Čelić is a “name that smells like strawberries”. It is characterized by intriguing cultural and natural heritage, as well as vast agricultural and fertile areas. Strawberries are a symbol of the municipality, and the Days of Berry Fruit, for which Čelić is recognized and unique, have a long tradition of celebration. The tourist offer is based on hunting, agro-rural, health-recreational, and religious tourism. This little undiscovered place is perfect for visitors looking for a stay in a natural environment, to enjoy organic food, and clean air. The destination dates back to the Stone Age, as evidenced by the material remains found near the settlement. The destination is home to several necropolises of stećaks, two mosques from the Ottoman period, and several folk architecture buildings. Ecological development is the perspective of the entire area. The hilly and gently sloping slopes of Mount Majevica, with altitudes ranging from 140 to 711 meters and a moderate continental climate, provide good conditions for the cultivation of fruits, grains, and vegetables.
Sapna
Sapna is typically hilly-mountainous with rare flat areas, and the entire territory has characteristic slopes towards the east and partly towards the northwest. The central part of the municipality is located along the Sapna River. It is known that people have lived in the area of Sapna since ancient times. Symbols of the past can be found throughout the area in the form of numerous stećci and gravestones. One of the most important locations of this type is the Sječa Necropolis. Its natural assets, such as the distinctive Lake Snježnica, position Sapna as an attractive retreat for enthusiasts of countryside getaways and outdoor adventures. The Sapna Summer Festival, also known as the Days of Apples and Jam, stands out as a renowned occasion drawing visitors to this area.
Doboj Istok
Doboj Istok enjoys a convenient location, being only about 1 hour of driving distance from Tuzla. The municipality especially appeals to enthusiasts of authentic folklore, rural tourism, and hiking. Positioned along the shore of the Spreča River and covering the southern slopes of Mountain Trebava, Doboj Istok is a destination that can be visited in a combined trip to the likes of Gračanica, Gradačac, and Srebrenik. With a visit to authentic sites such as Ethno Park “Avlija Mujkić”, a place that cherishes Bosnian and Herzegovinian tradition by collecting antiques of invaluable worth, visitors can also enjoy Bosnian coffee, admire the hosts’ hard work and passion, authentic heritage, and parks’ traditional architecture, and leave inspired. For a more active experience in the outdoor setting, picnic grounds such as Gaj Klokotnica are an option.
Teočak
Teočak municipality is situated on the northeastern slopes of Mount Majevica, ranging from 300 to 600 meters above sea level. In the past times, Teočak held significance due to its fortress and strategic location. Remnants of the fortress, along with settlements, can still be found in Old Teočak, including mysterious stone balls. Beneath the fortress lies a mosque, believed to have been built during Sultan Mehmed II’s reign after the Ottoman conquest of the fortress from the Hungarians in early 1474, bringing the Tuzla region under Ottoman control. Legends persist about a Hungarian and Roman church and monastery in Teočak. Two stećak necropolises, Mramor and Harci, underscore the area’s heritage, with some medieval tombstones still intact in Teočak today. Boasting abundant fish stocks, Lake Snježnica stands as the ultimate pearl in the region. Within its calming setting, visitors can enjoy recreational activities. Enveloped by greenery, this lake offers an ideal sanctuary for relaxation and shelter from the sun’s rays.
