The city of Bihać is recording continuous growth in tourism, with the local administration and the Tourist Board investing significant efforts in improving accommodation capacities, infrastructure, and destination promotion. This year, more than 125,000 guests from 124 countries stayed in Bihać, and revenue from tourist taxes reached 232,063 BAM, according to data presented at the Local Economic Forum of the city.
Records show that five new hotels have opened in the past two years, bringing the total number to 16. The city also has three motels, while other accommodation facilities make up a total of 521 units with 1,132 rooms and 2,045 beds available to tourists.
“All investments in tourism are the result of domestic efforts. Data show that this year we had visitors from 124 countries, who generated 125,678 overnight stays, and tourist taxes brought in 232,063 BAM. The most numerous guests come from Arab countries, followed by domestic tourists and visitors from Europe and the region. The number of accommodation capacities and tourist attractions is growing, the accompanying offer is richer, the communal and transport infrastructure is improving, and there is an increasing number of registered supporting activities such as crafts, souvenir shops, tourist guides, and taxi services. Therefore, we expect continued growth next year as well,” said Nihad Šušnjar, coordinator of the Business Club, at the meeting of the Local Economic Forum of the City of Bihać.
Mayor Elvedin Sedić highlighted that many projects have been implemented in recent years, including the construction of the asphalt road section from Kulen Vakuf to Martin Brod, the arrangement of parking areas for tourist buses, public restrooms, and communal and transport infrastructure in micro-locations such as Lohovo, Račići, Pritoka, and Kostela. Funds have also been invested in international promotion and the development of winter activities, as well as in the demining of the Željava site, which has been established as a tourist destination.
“Almost 95 percent of the tourist tax in the Una-Sana Canton is collected in Bihać, which is a clear indicator of where we stand compared to other local communities. Our wish is for them to develop as well, because we also benefit from every neighbour who performs well,” Sedić emphasised.
The Tourist Board is actively working on branding Bihać and organising events, and this year’s Summer Fest on the City Island was rated the best so far. According to visitor feedback, Bihać has established itself as a regional centre for New Year’s celebrations, with a significant influx of tourists and additional revenue for the tourism development budget.
