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Visit Kosovo: Complete Itinerary of the Best Things to do in Kosovo

August 26, 2017 by Karen Turner 23 Comments

If you’re doing a Balkan trip, you might be passing through Kosovo.  Often, Pristina, Kosovo is a transfer point for Balkan buses, but Kosovo is much more than Pristina.

If you only visit Pristina, you’ll miss out on the many other things to do in Kosovo. Kosovo tourism is still developing, so expect friendly locals, cheap hotels, and a lot of beautiful places. Keep reading for a Kosovo itinerary with the best places to visit in Kosovo.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

This is a travel guide to Kosovo for independent travelers.  Although many people take tours in Kosovo, they are not necessary as Kosovo is safe with a robust bus system, friendly locals, and low crime. It is not a war zone.

However, there are regions ( Mitrovicë ) more prone to ethnic tensions that may not be advised for visitors ( check travel advisories beforehand).  I consider it one of the best countries to visit on a budget.  Let’s just get this of the way now saying that Kosovo is a country is political.

  • 1 Table of Contents
  • 2 Where is Kosovo?
  • 3 Kosovo’s History: A Quick Explanation WHY it matters
  • 4 Kosovo Travel Basics
  • 5 Visiting Kosovo and Serbia on one trip
  • 6 Why visit Kosovo?
  • 7 Quick summary of the best things to do in Kosovo
  • 9 Where to eat in Pristina
  • 10 Where to stay in Pristina
  • 11 How to get from Pristina Airport into City 
  • 12 Day Trip from Pristina
  • 14 Day Trips from Peja
  • 16 Day Trip from Gjakova
  • 18 Weekend trips from Prizren & Day trips from Prizren
  • 19 If you’re interested in moretips for Kosovo, check out Lavdi’s blog for insider tips from a Kosovo local. ​(Thank you to Lavdi for helping me edit/double check this guide!)
  • 20 Have you visited Kosovo? 

Table of Contents

Where is kosovo.

  • A brief history of Kosovo
  • Which currency is used in Kosovo?
  • Is Kosovo safe? Yes
  • Visa to Kosovo
  • Why Visit Kosovo?
  • Quick summary of things to do in Kosovo
  • Pristina.  Best things to do in Pristina & Day Trips from Pristina
  • Peja.  Best things to do in Peja & Day Trips from Peja.
  • Gjakova.  Best things to do in Peja & Day Trips from Gjakova.
  • Prizren.   Best things to do in Prizren & Day Trips from Prizren.

Kosovo is nestled in the Balkans. It’s in between Albania, Montenegro, Serbia, and Macedonia.  It’s okay if your geography isn’t great, however Kosovo has a great bus network to/from other countries, which makes both Prizren and Pristina great transfer points for buses in the Balkans.

Many people only visit Prizren or Pristina en route to other places; however, this tiny country has incredibly friendly locals who speak good English, gorgeous architecture, great transportation, a unique blend of cultures, and natural beauty.

Kosovo’s History: A Quick Explanation WHY it matters

That said, Kosovo has had many difficulties becoming recognized by different institutions (including the United Nations) as a result of Serbia’s contention that Kosovo is part of Serbia. As a result, Kosovo citizens have some of the worst passports in the world , marginally better than the passport of South Sudan and North Korea.

Kosovo is getting recognized by more countries, but Kosovo is not universally recognized as an independent country (hence why you might read that Kosovo is a disputed territory).  Simply, writing that Kosovo is a country is inherently political.

However, I call Kosovo a country and I am lucky to call Lavdi, a born and raised Kosovo citizen who has struggled to travel with a Kosovo passport, a friend.

(Edit: I’ve now visited Serbia and I understand this post may be very difficult for many Serbians, but I’ve met Serbians who have visited Kosovo recently.  They commented that they did not feel that people were hostile in any manner and if anything, many Albanians that they met wanted to practice Serbian with them as it had been many years since they had spoken with them.  However, others preferred to speak in English.)

Kosovo Travel Basics

Bus Station in Kosovo. Find out more about travel in Kosovo with tips for your visit to Kosovo.

  • The currency that is used is the Euro.
  • The predominant language and ethnic group is Albanian. Serbians and Serbian speakers are the biggest minority group. There are other ethnic groups as well.
  • Albanians and Serbians are culturally and religiously distinct .
  • Cities often have two names: An Albanian name and a Serbian name.
  • Kosovo has a robust bus system although you need to double-check the schedule one day before you leave (or just hop on the next bus). You typically pay on the bus.
  • Hitchhiking is easy (and fairly normal).  Buses in Kosovo run regularly between major cities, but schedules are less regular for smaller cities/natural parks.

Visiting Kosovo and Serbia on one trip

Why visit kosovo.

Kosovo is one of those countries that make you want to travel more and it’s also one of the best countries for Americans to visit.  People in Kosovo are very kind to travelers, sometimes to the point that you wonder what you’ve done to deserve the kindness that others show to you.

If you’re American, it’s due to America’s role in advocating Kosovo’s independence.  If you’re from anywhere else, it’s simply because you’re a tourist and Kosovo is developing itself as a European destination for tourism.

Simply:  You will feel welcome here.

People from Kosovo are often happy that you’re visiting their country as a tourist and out of ALL the countries in the world, you’d decide to spend your money visiting their country.  Be expected to answer the question on why you’ve decided to visit Kosovo.

View from Rooftop in Peja Kosovo, one of the most beautiful cities in Kosovo. Visit Kosovo for amazing cities and nature!

It might seem strange, but given Kosovo’s issues being recognized as a country, you will feel like a beloved guest everywhere you go.

Expect random acts of kindness: free desserts, strangers thanking you for coming to Kosovo, free rides to faraway towns, and strangers offering to help you.

As someone who has traveled many places, I have never experienced a country like Kosovo–and it’s really become a special place to me.

Kosovo is a place that can seem like a backpacker’s paradise as it’s inexpensive, but do not mistake its low costs for a lack of interesting things to do. It just means that Kosovo tourism will be booming in a few years once people realize how much is possible within this tiny country.

Quick summary of the best things to do in Kosovo

Hiking in Kosovo. Find out more about the best hikes in Kosovo and other things to do in Kosovo.

  • Visit Kosovo’s gems: Prizren, Peja, Gjakova, and Pristina
  • Visit Kosovo’s beautiful mosques!
  • Visit Kosovo’s UNESCO protected medieval monasteries. 
  • Explore Kosovo’s beautiful markets
  • Go hiking in Kosovo’s mountains!
  • Experience the ridiculously warm hospitality of Kosovo citizens.
  • Experience Kosovo’s historic cities and its new cities’ fascinating architecture

How many days to spend in Pristina?  One day in Pristina is probably enough, but maybe two days if you’ll be using it as a transit hub.

This modern capital of Kosovo hosts some of the most fascinating architecture and quirky statues that I’ve seen in a long time.  Pristina isn’t the most beautiful city, but it’s full of things to do.

Admittedly, if you only visit Pristina, you might be wondering where all the beautiful places in Kosovo are, but I encourage you to continue reading as Pristina is lovely and modern, but it’s not beautiful in a historic way as the other cities in Kosovo.

National Library of Kosovo. One of the ugliest buildings in the world...? Find out more things to do in Pristina!

One of the best things to do in Pristina includes the National Library of Kosovo , which reminds me of the Hunger Games. I was just fascinated by the architecture!  It’s surrounded by the University of Pristina.

If you’re a fan of the Clintons [or not], say hi to Bill Clinton’s statue in Pristina and stop into Hillary I or Hillary II .  A fan of Hillary Clinton created a line of women’s business clothes inspired by her wardrobe.

Of course, you’ll find the infamous pant suits, but you’ll also find other suitable business clothes.  Gender equality remains a significant issue in Kosovo with many women not part of the labor force. As a result, I found this quirky store inspired by Hillary Clinton interesting.

Hillary Clinton inspired store in Kosovo. Find out more quirky things to do in Pristina Kosovo!

If you’re into shopping , I recommend saving some euros to shop in Pristina in stores that aren’t necessarily inspired by Hillary Clinton.  Overall, Pristina felt even more fashionable than Amsterdam.

I ended up splurging on a fashionable jacket (30 euros) that I still use regularly. I routinely felt horribly underdressed when we were in Pristina as I went in my backpacker chic combination of hiking sneakers with jeans, and a hiking jacket.

A post shared by Lavdi Zymberi (@kosovogirltravels) on Jun 10, 2017 at 8:30am PDT

Some other things to do in Pristina include visiting the NEWBORN sign built to celebrate Kosovo’s independence, visiting the free Ethnographic Museum about Albanian traditions, and visiting some of Pristina’s ornate mosques .

Where to eat in Pristina

Pristina has some really cool and modern places to hang out in that make you feel like you’re anywhere in Europe.  If you’re looking for a more chill alternative place, eat at the cafe/restaurant Dit’ e Nat’ or hang out at Soma Bookstation , a bookstore/cafe/restaurant in Pristina.  We had a formal and delicious meal at Pishat for those looking for a good restaurant in Pristina.

Where to stay in Pristina

How to get from pristina airport into city , day trip from pristina.

Gračanica Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox monastery only about 20 minutes from Pristina that has been recognized by UNESCO. They are in the process of preserving the frescos and renovating the beautiful church in accordance with UNESCO requirements.

View of Peja from a rooftop. Read more tips for the best things to do in Peja and the most beautiful places in Kosovo!

Peja was a city in Kosovo that surprised us in a good way.  Everything I read focused on Prizren and Pristina, but Peja felt very cosmopolitan yet accessible.

We spent our evenings trekking along Esad Mekuli street stepping into the various cafes for a drinks and macarons. We had a tasteful dinner in a beautiful environment at Art Design.

The Bazaar of Peja. Visit Kosovo for incredible markets. Read more about Kosovo tourism!

The Bazaar of Peja was also non-touristy and fascinating for travelers interested in learning more about Kosovo’s  cultural traditions. I spent a while admiring the extravagant and traditional gowns outside the many dress shops.

I was standing outside of one of the shops admiring a beautiful gold and white dress when the shopkeeper invited me in. She showed me her technique of hand-sewing each of the dresses with gold thread, which was incredible to see.  These elaborate gowns are created for brides as well as recently married women.

However, the other beautiful gowns are for married women attending a traditional Albanian wedding. Next to the Bazaar, you’ll find Peja’s historic mosque. Women will need to dress modestly to enter the mosque and it’s possible to pick up a hijab at one of the nearby shops in the market.

At night, we spent our evening cafe hopping along the main cafe street although I fell in love with Green Cafe for their delicious drinks and their live Albanian music.

Albanian folk music varies depending on the region, however we heard something that resembled Tallava [one of the styles of Albanian music you’ll hear] the most.  I found Albanian music to be upbeat and energetic. (It will make you want to dance!)

Finding live Albanian music can take some work, but it’s worth checking ahead online which cafes will have live music.

Prince Coffee Shop in Kosovo. Eat here for delicious macarons and coffee in Kosovo.

Day Trips from Peja

Patriarchy of Peja / Patriarchy of Pec in Peja, Kosovo. Read more about the best things to do in Peja Kosovo & a complete itinerary!

The Patriarchy of Peja (Serbian: Patriarchy of Peć) is a must if you visit Peja. This UNESCO Serbian monastery dates back to the 13th century.

This Eastern Orthodox church is actually a series of three churches that were connected together at a later point in time to form one church, however it is absolutely magnificent in terms of its interior.

Patriarchy of Pec monastery in Peja, Kosovo. Planning to visit Kosovo? Read more tips on the best places to visit in Kosovo!

It is an easy day trip, even on foot from Peja. You’ll need to carry your passport with you and possibly have to give it to the police outside of the monastery.

The setting itself is very calm, however there have been some attempts to burn down this historic building, which has resulted in the police verifying the identities of everyone who enters the property.

From the Patriarchy of Peja, you can see the beauty of the Rugova mountains with its dazzling streams and views, even if you don’t have much time in Peja.

If you’re into hiking , you will want to spend at least 2 days hiking in the Rugova canyon and the surrounding Accursed Mountains.

It’s even possible to do a climbing course / via ferrata Ari for an epic view of the canyon.  Similarly, there’s just a lot of hiking in the Rugova canyon and a lot of beautiful waterfalls.

Without a car, this area is harder difficult to access, however hitchhiking down the main road is possible (according to others) with a lot of patience for waiting… (We were not successful.)

There are some other stunning areas along the road between Peja and the Montenegro border, however you’ll need to plan where you want to go accordingly as there are specific entry points to various “famous” areas in the National Park, including Gjeravica (the second tallest mountain in Kosovo).

We did not give ourselves enough time to do proper hiking in the Accursed Mountains in Kosovo, but there’s also some mountaineering possible for those interested in more intense outdoor activities in Kosovo.

White Drin Waterfall in Kosovo. One of the most beautiful places in Kosovo. Read more tips for your visit to Kosovo!

One of the prettiest waterfalls in Kosovo is White Drin Waterfall (Ujëvara e Drinit të Bardhë).  This beautiful waterfall (and one of the largest waterfalls in Kosovo) is about 20 minutes from Peja by car, but it is easy to spend most of a day here.   It’s possible by mini-bus (which doesn’t run often) or hitch-hiking towards Fierze [plus walking].

 Ujvara e Drinit, one of Peja's best restaurants with a view. Click for more reasons to visit Kosova!

We struggled to find this waterfall until we realize that you had to pass directly through one of Peja’s best restaurants, Ujvara e Drinit , which has situated itself directly before the waterfall.  The food at this restaurant is exceedingly fresh with massive portions and you’ll want to have the smoked trout if you eat here.

The White Drin Waterfall is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Peja–and certainty one that you’ll not want to miss.  The surrounding water has a beautiful color and it’s especially beautiful in autumn.

Radac Caves in Kosovo. Find out more about adventure travel & caving in Kosovo along with other adventure activities in Kosovo!

After walking near the top of the waterfall, you can follow a sign to the newly opened Radac Caves (Shpella e Radacit).   These beautiful caves, known as the Sleeping Beauty caves, are home to hundreds of bats. It’s possible to explore the public areas with a reservation.

It is also possible to go caving in the underground canyon (which is still being explored and mapped out). However, you must make a reservation at least 2 days beforehand to allow them to get the equipment.

Cave spelunking (with a private guide who speaks quite good English) costs about 20 euros. (Click for more information about  caving in Kosovo ).

Decani Monastery - Outside Peje (Pec) - Kosovo - 03

The Decani Monastery is another Serbian UNESCO protected monument in Kosovo. The monastery dates back to the 1300s and is one of the most well protected monuments as a result of the various arson attempts to destroy it.

The Decani Monastery has some of the best preserved frescoes of the Serbian Orthodox monasteries in Kosovo, so it is worth a visit.

You will need to give your passport to the NATO troops (who protect the building) at the checkpoint prior to entry. It’s a possible day trip from Peja although it’s probably best to stop off in Decani en route from Peja to Gjakova.

Grand Bazaar in Gjakove, Kosovo. Find out more about the most beautiful cities in Kosovo!

This market town has a really interesting laid back vibe. If you’re traveling from Peja to Prizren, it’s likely that you’ll transfer (or at least pass through) Gjakova by bus.

Gjakovë is famous for the oldest bazaar in Kosovo [ Grand Bazaar ] (although it’s partially rebuilt now). There’s something so charming about the beautiful wood lined stalls with artisans showing off their crafts and the many cozy cafes to sip coffee in as night falls. (It’s pronounced like Jack-o-va.)

Grand Bazaar Market in Gjakova Kosovo. Find out the best things to do in Gjakova with tips for Kosovo tourism.

 If you’re not entirely sold on Kosovo, you need to spend even one hour strolling the romantic and wide Çarshia e Madhe to soak in the culture and architecture.

Unfortunately, the main street of the Grand Bazaar in Gjakova was partially destroyed in World War I, World War II, and during the Kosovo War, however the residents have come back following a mass exodus of the population during the war.

Gjakova has many artisans that specialize in horse-related crafts if you’re looking for a unique gift to bring home with you although there’s no shortage of shops in this historic Balkan trading town.

Hadum Mosque in Gjakova. One of the best things to do in Gjakova, Kosovo. Visit this Balkan country!

Most important of all is the Hadum Mosque , which dates back to the 1500s. This beautiful and ornate mosque is built in a classic Islamic-Kosovar style, but its ornate paintings all over amazed me.

We had visited several mosques by this point, but the ornate decorations lining the dome certainly amazed me.

The most famous mosque of Gjakove is typically open day time to tourists, so however it’s good to say hi to the friendly imam who welcomes anyone into his mosque.

Picture

Non-muslim women aren’t required to wear a hijab although appropriate dress is still important , but it’s considerate to cover your hair when entering a mosque. Part of the mosque, including the historic library, was destroyed during the war, but they are slowly restoring the building to its pre-war beauty.

It is also possible to visit some of the preserved homes of traditional homes, including the home of Abdullah Pashë Dreni.  He was an Albanian tribal leader and a member of the Ottoman army, however his home boasts traditional Kosovo style architecture and artifacts. (We spotted a cute kitty there too!)

If you’re considering staying in Gjakova, you’ll find a few guesthouses.  As there aren’t that many options, I recommend booking in advance.

Day Trip from Gjakova

Prizren is one of the most beautiful cities in Kosovo and the second that you arrive, you’ll understand why anyone who visits only Pristina is missing out on one of Kosovo’s most beautiful places.

Prizren is a historic city in the southern part of Kosovo. Those passing through Kosovo from Macedonia are likely to travel through Prizren, which makes it an important transfer point for Balkan buses.

Prizren itself was mostly untouched by the Kosovo war, however the areas around Prizren suffered. However, Prizren is considered to be one of Kosovo’s most diverse cities in terms of ethnicities, which makes Prizren a nice introduction to Kosovo in terms of food/culture/history/nature.

You’ll also find many historic ruins around the city for history lovers.  Note: There are easy bus connections to Skopje from Prizren and Pristina from Prizren.

View from the Kaljaja Prizren Fortress in Kosovo. One of the must see attractions in Kosovo!

Any visitor to Prizren cannot miss Prizren fortress ( Kaljaja) for an free and epic view over the city. It’s best to visit close to sunset.  The Kaljaja dates back to medieval times and was built by the Byzantines with some later renovations from the Ottomans.   I found it fascinating to wander around its spacious grounds and to sit on the edge enjoying the best view of Prizren.

The church of the Holy Savior Church in Prizren Kosovo from the best instagram spot in Prizren!

On your way up to the fortress, you may pass the entrance to the Church of the Holy Savior , a Serbian Orthodox church viewable from the fortress which dates back to the 1300s.

It was set on fire in 2004 and as a result, it may not be open for visitors when you visit Prizren.  There is a gate and a security guard, however if the security guard is not there, you cannot enter the church property.

The Stone Bridge, the famous bridge of Prizren. Read the must-see sites in Prizren and top attractions in Kosovo!

One another must-see in Prizren (and Kosovo) is the historic and iconic Stone Bridge (Ura e Gurit) of Prizren.

This bridge was originally built back to the 1500s, however heavy floods in the 1970s destroyed it. The locals rebuilt it with love and it serves as the major pedestrian bridge in Prizren.

Those interested in Kosovo’s cultural heritage will want to visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque.  It is an Ottoman-style mosque dating back to the 1600s, however this large mosque is also said to be built with parts of a nearby Serbian monastery that fell into disrepair. Some of its paintings have faded due to water damage.

Most locals and tourists hang out in the main part of the city at night, which has a lively bar/cafe culture around the square surrounding Sheshi i Shadervanit. We were also lucky enough to spot a wild hedgehog, which made its way into the city centre (somehow).

Thanks to the recommendation of our hosts at Driza’s House, we ended up visiting a small local traditional restaurant (with amazing food)  at the top of the stairs above the movie theatre DokuKino  with live traditional Albanian music (and dancing) on the night that we were there.

Most cafes in Prizren typically play modern Albanian music and some standard European music, so we enjoyed this cafe.

We stayed at Driza’s House , which is a small hostel with a lot of character. It’s run by a young Albanian couple, one of whom grew up in the very house that you’re staying in.  It’s ridiculously clean and social. If you’re looking for a memorable experience, stay here.  We found the owners so helpful in terms of figuring out logistics for Kosovo.

If you’re interested in more tips for Kosovo , check out Lavdi’s blog for insider tips from a Kosovo local . ​(Thank you to Lavdi for helping me edit/double check this guide!)

Have you visited kosovo .

places to visit in kosovo in winter

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

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August 27, 2017 at 4:30 am

I really did not know much about Kosovo and never really thought about visiting but know I am really intrigued. The history is really fascinating and nice to hear it is a great place to visit on a budget. Adding to my list, so pinning for future reference.

August 27, 2017 at 6:09 am

Fantastic posts! Awesome that you’re dispelling any fears that people might have about traveling to such a beautiful area. Loved the Hillary Clinton stores.

August 27, 2017 at 7:53 pm

This is just wonderful! Really informative and helpful. Thank you so much.

August 27, 2017 at 8:49 pm

Ugh, I’m so jealous! My husband and I had this whole trip to the Balkans mapped out, and then we couldn’t go. Looks like a fabulous destination to see some fall foliage 🙂

August 27, 2017 at 8:51 pm

Very detailed post and beautiful writing. As an ethnic Serbian I have mixed feeling about this type of post due to the fact that the land was forcefully taken and our national landmarks going back to the 14th century were destroyed in the process. Nevertheless I hope that piece and mutual understanding from each side will come to flourish in the future.

August 27, 2017 at 9:48 pm

Hi Matea, Thank you for reading and I know that it’s a difficult topic. (I really respect that you’ve left a comment and I will be keeping it.)

I also am truly sad that these historic landmarks have been destroyed. I only hope that we can continue to preserve the ones that exist now and I am hopeful as I saw careful painting restorations to faded paintings going on when I visited Gračanica.

I only wish the best for the region with the end of tensions in the future and of course, it will take time for the wounds from both sides to heal. 🙂

Best, Karen

August 27, 2017 at 9:28 pm

argh your post is making me want to spend more time on my upcoming trip than I had planned. I am even more excited now. I can’t wait to see that Hillary shop! Too funny! Peja sounds really cool and I love all the Ottoman influence everywhere. You wrote this guide just in time for me…thanks!! LOL

August 28, 2017 at 1:16 pm

I really knew nothing about Kovoso before reading, but know I’m armed with knowledge! Seems to be definitely worth a visit some of the old towns look beautiful

August 28, 2017 at 7:32 pm

Comprehensive to say the least. I love the mixture of things to do. The elaborate gowns and macaroon hunting in the cities, nature for the explorers, monastery for the history buffs, Kosovo has it all. Great Guide for future travelers.

August 28, 2017 at 10:17 pm

Wow this was so in-depth and informative, I learned a ton! Hearing about how welcoming the people are made me really want to visit! Thanks for opening my eyes to the beauty and history of this country!

August 29, 2017 at 3:35 am

What an interesting read. I had no idea what a beautiful and accessible place Kosovo was. Thanks to your post it’s certainly on my radar now.

September 3, 2017 at 11:25 pm

You did not explore Gjilan region. It has a lot of things to see and explore. Its not just 4 cities mentioned in your blog. Read about Gjilan and Novobrdo.

September 7, 2017 at 11:40 am

Hi Kastriot, I didn’t, however I’m happy to update the post with more information about this region. Feel free to shoot me an email as I don’t know much about the region.

October 12, 2017 at 10:55 pm

I am just back from Kosovo and this country marked me like hardly any other. Unfortunately we didn’t have the time to visit Gdakova or do a hike in the Rukova canyon. 3 days are just not enough to explore Kosovo. We had lunch in the ArtDesgin restaurant too, such a quaint place 🙂 I also wanted to thank you for putting me in touch with Lavdi. She is such a smart girl and I am looking forward where the travel road will lead her. The generosity and kindness of Kosovo people will accompany me for a long time. Thank you for sharing so much in-depth information.

October 17, 2017 at 3:55 pm

Dear Karen and Jacob,

I’m must thank you for promoting Kosovo as touristic destination and sharing your impression with other people, how good is to visit Kosovo, very nice people to meet, nice attractive and historic places to visit, food is perfect …just perfect place … i would like to inform you that You can not visit Kosovo in short period of time, cause there are much more to see in Kosovo.

November 13, 2017 at 1:51 am

Hi! Thank you so much for this truly informative blog. I had been searching for information on Kosovo as we intend to go there as a family this Dec. We have yet to book our flight as prices continue to rocket because we want to keep our options open. I had my doubts on whether it is a country worth spending more than a week there. However, this blog post did it! I read it and sent the url to my hubby to read it too. We’ll search for the best-priced flights and with God’s will, we’ll be there next month. Can’t wait to plan out our itinerary there! Thanks again.

November 13, 2017 at 12:45 pm

There are a lot of places to visit especially during winter season. A week is enough to go through beautiful ski center and different cities as well as restaurants.

Fly to Austria or Turkey and then to Kosovo its much cheaper.

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June 24, 2018 at 12:14 am

Hello, Interesting and good reads. Does anyone have any experience or advice on car camping in Kosovo and the region? Thanks!

places to visit in kosovo in winter

June 25, 2018 at 2:10 pm

I’d check on travels of a bookpacker. They went overland.

June 26, 2018 at 10:25 pm

Hello, I will do that, thanks for the advice!

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November 14, 2020 at 6:16 am

Hi Joe, There’s Camping ground in Prevalla only in summer time not sure if you can camp in your car ,but if you have tent or RV definitely can and you’ll love it there it’s very popular place where most Kosovars spent their weekend up there. Day trips many cottages and tents are up there and it’s super safe lots of fun. Locals cook a traditional dish called Flia by fire and a special tool they hike up the surrounding trails you can pick fresh wild blueberries and wild edible mushrooms delicious also you can find wild strawberries around. Also Brezovica is not just a ski resort not too far from Prevalla there’s restaurants a store up they and lots of cottages usually privately owned. Many trails and beautiful place. If you drive down through a village called Firaje where you can hike the longest mountain in Balkan . Mountain Luboten and they have the purest air in the country. There’s also Gjoli a water sitting in the middle of mountains it’s intriguing. Locals very helpful and welcoming some would offer to hike with us and show us around. There’s few restaurants along the river and offer delicious fresh trout and other comfort food or traditional dishes. It’s worth visiting my visit last year was 4 weeks and my 14 year old wants to go back again we all loved all places we’ve seen including Budva, Montenegro, Croatia all along the Adriatic Sea including Albania and Greece.

[…] This is Kosovo. Vacation days are what I live for, so I only take off days that are tied around weekends and/or public holidays to maximize my time off.  By “sewing together ” public holidays with weekends to take off the day bridging it with the weekend PLUS +/- 1 day before and after, I get a five/six day vacations with only two vacation days used.   (This is how I snuck over to Kosovo!) […]

[…] of the most unexpected places to find beautiful fall foliage is Kosovo in the Balkans! Just an easy trip from the picturesque city of Prizren, you’ll find the Sharr […]

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Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Kosovo Visitor Guide and Photo Gallery

Kosovo is a small country but it also has a lot of riches that were granted to us by God. Ibrahim Rugova

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

As part of our guest writers series, we welcome Ryan and Megi and their Kosovo visitors guide. They had the fantastic opportunity to present at an international cybersecurity conference in Kosovo. Officially known as the Republic of Kosovo, it is a partially recognized state in Southeast Europe in the center of the Balkans. Its border neighbors are Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, and Serbia. It unilaterally declared its independence in 2008, making it one of the world’s youngest countries.

Ryan and Megi stayed for a few days extra to visit the area. Since we had never known anyone to visit this Balkan area, we asked if they would be willing to write a blog post about their visit. We were thrilled when they said yes. Without giving away too much, they loved their time in Kosovo and found the country remarkable and its people warm and welcoming. But let’s hear it from them…..

An exciting opportunity at a crazy time

Map of kosovo.

  • Kosovo's turbulent history

The Kosovars

A young industrialized nation, facts about kosovo, what we visited in kosovo, some other fun suggestions, the cafe culture of kosovo, our favorite experiences, an inexpensive place to eat and play, how to get to and around kosovo, kosovo cuisine at its best, nightlife in kosovo, where to stay in kosovo, what is the weather like in kosovo, safety concerns, final thoughts, about our guest authors, megi and ryan.

All photos, unless otherwise stated, were taken by Megi and Ryan.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

As a part of our Arizona State University engineering program, all seniors must participate in a year-long group project called Capstone. Throughout the year, our group of four students created a project focused on our interest in cybersecurity. We were selected to present our project at a local security conference in Arizona. While at the conference, we were approached by a cybersecurity professional from Kosovo. He was organizing a conference in his home country and invited us to present our project.

Being invited to present at an international conference was a huge honor, but the timing could not have been worse. The Kosovo conference was during finals week of our senior year. What made it impossible to resist was the conference invitation covering the cost of our flights and hotels. That sealed the deal; there was no way we were missing out on this fantastic opportunity.

While Ryan wasn’t as familiar with the area, Megi is from Albania and knew about Kosovo as it is one of Albania’s neighbors. As well, one of the official languages of Kosovo is Albanian. The conference was held in Prishtina (Pristina/Pristine, the spelling differs based on region and language), the capital of Kosovo. 

Kosovo’s turbulent history

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

The area in and around Kosovo has been inhabited for nearly 10,000 years, dating back to the Neolithic age. Bronze and Iron Age tombs have been found in the area. Its ideal geostrategic position, as well as an abundance of natural resources, were ideal in prehistoric periods. Hundreds of archaeological sites have been discovered and identified throughout Kosovo. 

After serving as the center of a medieval Serbian empire, Kosovo was then ruled by the Ottoman Empire from the mid-15th to the early 20th century. During this period, Islam grew in importance, and the population of Albanian speakers in the region increased.

Conflicts and wars in recent centuries

In the 1800s, Kosovo was part of Yugoslavia, encompassing some of Albania, Serbia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. In the 1900s, a territorial war broke out, which resulted in years of battles between the people of Kosovo, who wanted to establish their independent nation, and Serbia, who wished for the land for themselves. However, the area was sacred to the Serbs; the president of Serbia refused to recognize the rights of the majority. He instead wanted to replace the Albanian culture and language with Serbian institutions.

Kosovo has suffered greatly at the hands of the Serbians, who refuse to recognize its existence. The Kosovo War happened in 1998 and 1999, resulting in the tragic death of some 10,000 people. In 1999, NATO conducted a 78-day war against Serbia to prevent genocide in Kosovo against ethnic Albanians. Kosovo, formerly a province of Serbia and later part of Yugoslavia, had a majority of Muslim Albanians.

Kosovo refuses to relinquish its independence and is in the process of attaining NATO membership to preserve regional security.

An independent state

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

While visiting, we met many Kosovo citizens (Kosovars) eager to talk about their rich history. As a young nation with recent conflicts, many locals you will meet have personally experienced the battles this country has endured to achieve its independence.

After years of an ugly and brutal war, Kosovo finally gained independence in February 2008. As Serbia is on Kosovo’s north border, that region of Kosovo is still contested, with Serbia refusing to acknowledge Kosovo and continuing to lay claim to the country. This often leads to Serbia-Kosovo border skirmishes, resulting in warnings to avoid north Kosovo if possible.

As of 2020, Kosovo is only partially recognized as an independent state by 97 out of the 193 United Nations member states. The border neighbors of Albania, North Macedonia, and Montenegro have no issues with an independent Kosovo. In total, 112 UN member states have recognized Kosovo at some point, of which 15 later withdrew their recognition. Some countries unwilling to accept their sovereignty include their border neighbors, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Serbia, and the larger nations of India and Russia.

This northern border tension tends to draw negative attention to the country’s safety, with the U.S. issuing a Level 2 travel advisory due to the threat of terrorism in Kosovo at the time of this post. That may sound scary, but it is best to keep it in perspective; it is the same level as France. However, rest assured that this was not our experience, and we always felt safe. Though we saw no threats, we were recommended to avoid discussing the Serbian-Kosovo conflict as many Kosovars hold strong feelings on the topic.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

We found the people of Kosovo were incredibly kind and friendly. They are hospitable and very talkative. Don’t be surprised if a stranger approaches you and starts chatting. In many places in Europe, this would never occur. But here in Kosovo, they engage you out of curiosity. They want to learn about your origins and are genuinely interested in what brought you here.

Many Kosovars can speak and understand basic English, so communication was not an issue at restaurants, stores, or hotels. The people of Kosovo are strongly motivated to find their place in the world. They are expanding tourism and preparing their country to become global citizens.

Culturally this is a country that holds a strong muslin faith. Islam in Kosovo dates back to the Ottoman conquest of the Balkans. Today, 95.6% of Kosovo’s population are Muslims, mostly ethnic Albanians. There were also Slavic-speaking Muslims who allied themselves with Bosniaks and Gorani, and Turks. Kosovo, while a dominantly Muslim country, is very secular. Many local women dress in Western attire, but some women dress modestly and wear hijab.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Despite Kosovo’s very recent statehood, the country is very industrialized. There is easy access to electricity, water (though it is recommended to buy bottled water for drinking), transportation, food, and more. New buildings are being constructed in the city to support the influx of people and businesses.

Walking along the streets, you will find plenty of people out and about, often dressed formally, even if only for an afternoon stroll. We did not see any homeless people during our time, although the occasional beggar may come by restaurants to ask for money. A decent number of stray dogs were walking the streets but showed no aggression toward the public. The government is currently funding programs to vaccinate, tag, spay, and neuter them (although it is still advised not to attempt to engage with them). 

  • Kosovo is about the size of Jamaica (~6875 sq miles) and is slightly larger than the state of Delaware. It has a population of just under 2 million people.
  • The currency is the Euro.
  • While Albanian is the primary language spoken, Kosovo’s official languages are Albania, Serbian, and English, with many schools even requiring English to be taught. 
  • Most of the country’s population is Albanian, and the majority of the population lives under the poverty line.
  • Due to its geographical location, Kosovo is an essential link between central and southern Europe, the Black Sea, and the Adriatic Sea.
  • Unlike most counties, Kosovo only has one annual federal tax based on your income. Coupled with the low cost of living, many citizens do not want to leave the country for jobs, leading companies to instead come to Kosovo.
  • According to locals, over 30% of Prishtina’s industry is technology related, which is constantly on the rise. This leads to considerable industry draw to the area (as well as technology-related events such as the one we were invited to).
  • More than 70% of the country’s population is under the age of 35, which makes it the youngest country in all of Europe.
  • The name “Kosovo” derives from a place in Serbia, meaning “field of blackbirds.”
  • Limestone caves are abundant and are found in several parts of the country. The Marble Cave, a karst limestone cave in Kosovo, is a famous tourist destination in the country. A villager found the cave in 1966.
  • About 40% of the country is covered by forest. The majority of the trees in the forests are oak, and pines are located in southwestern Kosovo.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

The Capital City of Prishtina is a city full of lively young people where modern shiny luxury hotels and contemporary art are alongside crumbling Soviet-style buildings. Stroll in the old part of Prishtina, where a handful of old-style houses with older men sitting out front will take you back in time.

Stop by the Newborn Monument in the center of the city – a tall typographic sculpture representing the birth of the new nation of Kosovo. The monument was unveiled on 17 February 2008, when Kosovo formally declared its independence from Serbia. It is freshly painted each year with a new theme on the anniversary of Kosovo’s independence. One year it was painted with the flags of the nations that have recognized Kosovo. After visiting the monument, head over to Bill Clinton Boulevard , where you will find the statue of Bill Clinton waving. This American president is adored here as he came to the aid of Kosovo during the 1999 war with Serbia despite not being part of NATO.

Nature in the city

Explore Prishtina’s Germia Park , a popular regional park and the biggest in Prishtina. It is located northeast of Prishtina and covers an area of about 39 sq miles (62 sq. km). This mountain massif is a part of the Rhodope Mountains. We were surprised to see a big park just 20 minutes from our hotel (the center).

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Germia Park is a great escape from the city with much to offer. The Germia massif is known for its biodiversity and is designated as a protected landscape. The park has a rich fauna with 63 species of animals and a variety of about 600 species of flora. Walking/running trails, playgrounds, sports courts, an amphitheater, and breathtaking views exist. You will also find cafes and restaurants.

We took a short route and discovered some buildings that were half destroyed among the beautiful tall trees. Our host said those were unfinished or destroyed Serbian buildings from the war. According to him, many Serbian missiles were directed at this park. Mines were planted in the park by the Serbians to control the area. Until 2008 it was hazardous to walk around the park as you could risk stepping on them. However, they were cleaned up after the war, and now it is entirely safe to visit.  

Partaking in everyday life

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Enjoy café life. Kosovo is known for its young, dynamic city life (don’t forget that 75% of the population is under 35 years old). The coffee shop scene in Prishtina is gaining momentum with its excellent coffee but also for its superb coffee its bohemian ambiance. Kosovars often sit over a single espresso or cappuccino for an hour, chatting with friends. Check out the Santea neighborhood, where an older district is being transformed into a place to be. (Learn more about Cafe Life in Kosovo further down the page)

Talk with the locals. The locals are amiable and love to talk with visitors, especially Americans. Most Kosovars are familiar with Peace Corps volunteers and people from the U.N. or N.G.O.s living or working in their country. They are also slightly intrigued by Kosovo tourism since it’s a relatively recent phenomenon.

Shopping in Prishtina Just walking around, you will see plenty of stores and shops to stop by. There is also a big mall a few miles away.

Our experiences outside of the capital city

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Wander the city of Prizren. The conference organizer planned a day trip to beautiful Prizren for us. This was a city about 2 hours away from Prishtina. He rented a private bus for all of us, which made this experience unforgettable since we got to know the other speakers on the bus. On the way to Prizren, we sang Albanian songs, which was so much fun.

Immediately after stepping outside the bus, we noticed a different vibe from Prishtina. Prizren’s main attraction is the river canal that splits the city into two parts. On each side of this canal, you will find beautiful pedestrian cobblestone streets that lead to many stores, restaurants, and coffee shops on the other side of the city. Prizren is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Kosovo due to its gorgeous Ottoman-influenced architecture.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

There is even a Castle

Visit the Castle Fortress in Prizren. Finding our way to the castle required a little hiking since the castle was on top of a mountain with an altitude of 1722 feet (525 m). On our way there we saw nice houses on the hill and enjoyed a lovely view of the city. What stood out were the many mosque towers (part of the architecture of a mosque where the prayers are announced for the whole city to hear). A resident confirmed that there are more than 40 mosques just in the city of Prizren. Kosovo’s primary religion is Muslim (96.6% of the population).  

The Castle of Prizren was built in the 6th century and was used to protect the city from foreign attacks. Although the Serbians destroyed the castle during the war, it has been reconstructed. The Prizren castle is known for the number of underground tunnels (called “bunkers”), which were a part of the defensive military fortification to protect people and weapons during the infamous war with Serbia. Entry to the castle was free, and we got to see the observation points of the castle and enjoyed a 360-degree view of the city of Prizren. 

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Diplomatic home

Take in the Lidhja e Prizrenit Museum (The League of Prizren Museum). This is the building where an intellectual group, The League of Prizren, would meet to defend Albanian rights and plan for a United Albanian territory. The League of Prizren was founded in 1878, and this building served as a home to many diplomatic meetings and the united Albanian dream. It was destroyed during the war. However, the Lidhja e Prizrenit building was reconstructed and is now a historical museum with items that were retained from the war. Tickets were 2 euros per person, giving us access to two buildings. Traditional Albanian clothing and drawings of men fighting in the war were on display, among other items.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Hiking anyone?

Hike the Mali I Sharrit Mountains (Sar Mountains). After spending most of the day in Prizren, there was one last stop that was just 30 minutes away from Prizren. Sar Mountains have a peak of 8697 feet (2651 m). We visited in late April and could still see snow on the mountains. The bus driver gave us a ride to the furthest point a car could go, with a restaurant and locals selling honey.

The temperature was in the 50s, but the snow depth was about 20 inches during our short hike. While enjoying the beautiful lush green views of the Sar Mountains, we also met many beautiful dogs wandering around in the big grassy fields. We stopped by to buy authentic homemade honey on our way down from our hike and were given various samples to see what we preferred. We found the taste was different from the typical pre-packaged honey in the U.S.; it leaves a yummy and non-sweet aftertaste. A jar of honey costs 10 Euros, which is a reasonable price for the quality. 

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Skiing anyone?

Ski the slopes in Bjeshkët e Sharrit Mountains (Sar Mountains). The ski resorts in Bjeshkët e Sharrit Mountains, also known as Sar Mountains, offer Alpine-style accommodations and new slopes to explore for less than half of the price you would pay in other European nations. The ski resort of Brezovica has skiing for all levels. The highest point of the resort is 7,200 feet (2,400 m).

Though we didn’t get to do these during our limited time, here are other great suggestions when visiting Kosovo.

Visit the Anthropology Museum in Prishtina. This museum has free entry and includes a personal guided tour, sometimes by the curator himself. It’s a great insight into Albanian Kosovar’s traditional way of life. You get to see what traditional homes look like, wedding dresses, traditional jewelry, and many other fascinating historical items!

Seek out a traditional bazaar. It is a sight for the eyes and senses—a place to truly see what life is like for the Kosovars.

Mosques  are just some of Kosovo’s undiscovered gems. Kosovo has many lovely mosques that are very welcoming to visitors.

Explore the Wine Country . As a result of the abundance of sunshine, the growing environment for grape vines is ideal. The leading wine-producing area is the Rahovec Valley, also known as Orahovac, where you can tour four wineries, the most famous being Stone Castle Winery.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Serbian Orthodox Churches The Serbian Orthodox churches in Kosovo are beautiful and historic though they represent a painful period for the Kosovars. The Peć Patriarchate in Peja is especially spectacular. These churches were built during the Serbian occupation when the rulers forced, at times violently, all Kosovars to convert to Christianity. Some churches have been vandalized as they represent the cruelty brought upon the people of Kosovo, but others see them as holy places that should be protected.

Enjoying the natural beauty

Walk in the Prokletije Mountains. Also known as the Accursed Mountains, this countrywide network of ancient shepherds’ trails rarely has tourists. The mountain village of Bogë is a perfect place for chalet-style hotels surrounded by snow-covered peaks. If you hike to the Mirusha Waterfalls, you will be rewarded with a sweet swimming spot popular with locals.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Go Caving in, Peja . Peja will become the adventure hotspot of Kosovo one day. The nearby Rugova Canyon is gorgeous and has plenty of outdoor activities. Discover the crystals, stalactites, and stalagmites while searching for underwater waterfalls and lakes in this cave. Day trips with tour companies are very affordable because of Kosovo’s low cost of living.

Wander to the rural countryside The modern city of Prishtina turns into rural rolling hills rapidly. Farmers herding goats, sheep, and cows hanging out on abandoned fortresses, such as Novo Brdo. It has a charm and simplicity that is quite captivating.

Hike the many Kosovos Mountains; Kosovo’s terrain is mountainous and lovely, with tons of potential for hiking. It is best to take an organized tour to get the most out of your visit.

Visit Rugova Canyon. With its length of over 15 miles and depth of 3,300 feet, Rugova is one of the most impressive canyons in all of Europe. The waters of the Peć Bistrica River have cut their way through the mountains making the setting breathtaking. The town of Peja is a good starting point for a hike along the canyon and the surrounding mountains.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Coffee in Kosovo is by far the most desired drink, but it is not just about the drink but the culture and traditions surrounding it. Going on “coffee dates” is one of the most popular activities for locals. There is even a saying that Kosovars commonly use, “Let’s go for a coffee.” In Kosovo, coffee shops are core to the community. It is a place to gather with friends, have a business meeting, or read a book.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

There are, on average, three-four coffee shops per block in Kosovo, making it convenient to stop by on a busy day of sightseeing. Megi being from Albania, was not surprised to see the number of people spending time at coffee shops. However, after living in the U.S. for a while, she noted a big cultural difference. In Kosovo, people start their day by going to a coffee shop to meet a couple of friends or their significant others and will spend 1-2 hours there. It’s not just about getting caffeinated; it is about the routine of “enjoying” coffee, Dressing up nice, sharing a story or two, and, well, you are in Europe, smoking a cigarette too. 

An interesting side fact. The government is working hard to reduce smoking. Recently, some legislation was passed that banned indoor smoking, especially in restaurants and cafés, to reduce smoking habits and make locations family/children friendly. Many people are extremely unhappy with this and are boycotting locations that enforce these rules. As a result, many establishments build outdoor patios or “enclosed” sections to allow for smoking while still keeping the indoor area smoke-free to appease more customers.

The macchiato

Kosovar’s favorite coffee is a macchiato, an espresso shot mixed with boiled foamy milk. The coffee size is much smaller than what we traditionally see in the U.S. In Kosovo, coffee is served in small espresso cups, similar to much of Europe. Megi has lived in Albania for 19 years, traveled throughout Europe (including Italy), and has been a coffee drinker for over eight years. She can confidentially say that Kosovo’s coffee is one of the best coffees she has ever had. Their macchiato is creamy, the coffee tastes strong, and the aroma is of freshly roasted coffee beans. The fantastic coffee taste and the bean strength make up for the small cup size. Due to this, one shot will be plenty to provide the energy needed to get going for the whole day.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Our preferred coffee shop

Our favorite coffee shop in Kosovo was Mon Cheri in Prishtina. The contemporary French design, cozy ambiance, and bookshelf in the back made it unique from the other numerous coffee shops. We bought a bag of cookies and enjoyed a large Macchiato for a few hours. What adds to the pleasure of drinking coffee at Mon Cheri and all the other coffee shops in Kosovo is that they use real mugs. To-go paper coffee cups are not popular here since most people like to savor their time and relax when enjoying their coffee. 

There are two popular times to get coffee, the morning (from 6 am to 11 am) and the afternoon (from 5 pm to 8 pm). Just like in most Western Europe countries, it is customary that coffee is consumed with a cookie or croissant, especially in the morning. However, some Kosovars think that the excellence of the coffee with anything else will “ruin” the taste. 

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Kosovo is beautiful and has much to offer, whether you’re looking for a city vibe or steep hiking mountains. Some of our favorites and we feel are must-do activities were:

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

  • Prishtina: The NEWBORN sign downtown, signifying the independence of Kosovo. Around the tall NEWBORN display, you will find many historical monuments and parks worth visiting once.
  • Prishtina: All the traditional local restaurants we ate at thoroughly enjoyed. We loved the “fli,” “suxhuk,” and our daily macchiato.
  • Prizren: The Castle of Prizren, “Lidhja e Prizrenit” and take a stroll by the canal. The path will take you around beautiful shops and restaurants. We wish we had gone to a mosque for a visit but couldn’t make time for it. However, seeing the architecture from the outside was very enjoyable. 
  • Near Prizren: Mali I Sharrit “Sar Mountain” park; though it was only a short hike, we loved the stunning scenery and adored trying out the local honey.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

What was a pleasant surprise was the low cost of living. Therefore, food, shopping, hotels, and more were affordable compared to some U.S. counterpart stores/restaurants. This allowed us as college students to experience their culturally diverse food options, tourist locations, and shops with more freedom.

If you click on the Expedia link farther down the page, you will be shocked at how low the accommodation prices are per night. Since we had our trip covered, we were unaware of how reasonable the cost was until we wrote this blog post.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Transport from other countries was relatively easy with several options and airlines. The Kosovo airport is smaller, so there is a good chance you will have to land in a different country before flying to Kosovo. We transited through Turkey to get to Kosovo.

The Kosovo airport is very modern; all signs are Albanian and English. Plenty of taxis and even drivers are waiting right out of the gate.

In terms of getting to Kosovo, make sure you check your home country’s policies. As Kosovo is still a relatively new county, not all countries recognize it as an independent state, and if they don’t, you will likely need to take extra steps to get a Kosovo Visa. Travelers with a United States passport at the time of this post will not need a visa or take any additional steps to visit.

Driving in kosovo.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Driving in Kosovo is not something a foreigner should attempt in the city. The streets are very narrow and congested, with confusing traffic signs. Due to many accidents, there has been a recent push to enforce stricter speeding laws. We found that there are plenty of erratic drivers.

In the case of Prishtina, there are very few parking spaces to be had in the city. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see dozens of cars parked halfway up sidewalks.

There is no Uber or similar service; however, taxis are everywhere and available by phone call. Most hotels can call one for you, or you can find one by walking around. They are very cheap compared to most taxis in the States. They will charge more for popular places, especially the airport.

Private tour companies can drive you or your group to various cities for longer excursions across the country. There are also public buses within major cities, but we did not use them, so we can’t speak to personal experience.

Food in Kosovo is a mixture of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine, with specialties primarily meat and bread items. Like the rest of the Balkans, Kosovars love their meat, and they love it grilled.

Our first meal in Kosovo was breakfast, included with our hotel stay. It contained sourdough bread, eggs, chicken sausage (pork sausage is not an option in most restaurants for religious reasons), cheese, butter, jam, and espresso. We enjoyed our breakfasts here; however, it was not typical breakfast food except for the espresso. Make sure to branch out from the hotel breakfast and experience more traditional breakfast experiences n Kosovo.

Kosovo

In the photos above, you will see several meals we had during our visit and some settings we were in.

Our first lunch in Kosovo at the conference began our exposure to some local food. They served traditional local food as well as some standard conference fare. Some traditional food they served were fli, pite (pie, usually stuffed with cheese or cheese and spinach), feta cheese, giant pretzels, and baklava (dessert). It was a delicious and plentiful launch into our hunt for more local food experiences.

What is not to love about fli?

All you need is one bite of fli (also called flija or flia) to fall in love with this dish. Kosovo’s most popular and authentic dish, fli, is made of crepe-like layers separated by cream. Alternating layers of batter and cream are filled into a pan and baked one layer at a time over 5 to 6 hours. The locals describe this process as time-consuming but worth the time. Each layer is soft and moist. It is served with sour cream and butter. 

Our favorite restaurant

Kosovo

One of our favorite meals and restaurants in Prishtina was at Shpija e Vjeter which translates to “The Old House.” Our conference host recommended this restaurant which was only a 6-minute walk from our hotel and surrounded by countless other restaurants and shops. It was our first time at a restaurant, so we were eager to try a little bit of everything, and because the prices were reasonable, it made it possible.

First, we got some appetizers that included: pogacha bread (this is like the chips and salsa of Mexican food, most people eat bread on each meal in Kosovo), yellow pepper sauce (their most popular pepper and heavy cream sauce and a salad with feta cheese. We loved dipping the bread in the ajvar sauce (made with sweet red peppers and eggplant); however, Megi, a feta cheese freak, enjoyed the combo of pogacha bread and cheese the most.

For our main dishes, we got beefsteak with potatoes and vegetables (11.50 Euros) and beef pot roast with potatoes and vegetables (7.00 Euros). The meat was delicious; the main difference was the meat texture; we liked the beefsteak better as it was more tender, and the sauce tasted better. In addition to the fantastic meal, we enjoyed the ambiance at Shpija e Vjeter , as there was an outdoor area with many living plants. The restaurant was furnished with old items from the 80s, which made the place feel cozy and, as the name says, like an old house. The total cost of our lunch was about 34 Euros (for two people), including our appetizers, main meals, and drinks. Tips are not required in Kosovo, but they are appreciated; we tipped 5 Euros.

Other dining experiences

Another thing we tried during our trip was the Kosovar beef sausage (suxhuk), which is well known not only in Kosovo but in all of Western Europe. Their sausage (suxhuk), Megi’s favorite, has the right amount of spices and a thick texture. It is typically served with sour cream mixed with salt and garlic, so yummy. 

For dinner, we got fli again, and this time they served it with dhallte (salted yogurt and water drink), while for Megi, this tasted delicious, but we wouldn’t recommend it to those who dislike milk or yogurt. Ryan was less of a fan. Overall food was excellent, and fli and Kosovo sausage were our favorites. 

Local libation

Those interested in what might be a traditional local libation should seek out Rakia. Rakia (or rakija) is a way of life in the Balkans and an unavoidable part of Kosovo travel. Some hardcore Kosovar people even have it in the morning, claiming it kills the bacteria in your stomach. It is a powerful spirit and not entirely pleasant straight-u unless you enjoy it in cocktails like a Pear Rakia.

In Kosovo, the nightlife is trendy, especially on weekends. A typical weekend night out includes dancing and drinking a beer or two. We didn’t go out a lot on our trip since we had finals and a conference presentation to prepare for. However, one evening we could not resist. Along with other conference speakers, we visited a bar and tasted the nightlife in Kosovo.

The bar we went to in Prishtina was called Rockuzinë, a rock music club that translates to Rock Cuisine. They had live music and were primarily attended by young people (ages 18-30). The bar was small so it could get crowded at times. They offered typical bar drinks, and we got giggles from the server when we ordered coffee and apple juice; they didn’t have either. Rockkuzine was among the most popular bars, according to the conference host who invited us. The location was not very convenient as it was not close to other bars/restaurants; it was off the freeway, about 10 10-minute walk from the other restaurants and coffee shops. Overall we liked the ambiance of this bar and would recommend it if you enjoy rock music.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

While we can’t speak much about the overall quality of hotels in the city (as we had everything organized for us), we can speak about the hotel we stayed at, Hotel City. Hotel City is located near the heart of Prishtina and offers modern rooms. A restaurant/café on the bottom floor provides complimentary breakfast. Next door is a small grocery store that contains food, snacks, drinks, and toiletries. There is also a service to travel back to the airport, and the front desk will call a taxi to visit the city.

The links below provide accommodations and vacation rentals in the capital city of Prishtina. If you want to look at other towns, enter the city name into the search engine. Compare Expedia and Booking.com, as not all options are available at both locations. Booking.com is European-based, and they often have accommodations that Expedia does not offer. Always look closely at recent reviews before booking.

Booking.com

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Kosovo’s geographical location is influenced by continental air masses resulting in relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall and hot, dry summers and falls. Kosovo has 270 days of sunshine a year. Be warned; the summers are scorching hot. Staying hydrated is very important. It is the Mediterranean and alpine influences that create regional variation. The highest rainfall is between October and December.

The ideal time to visit is late Spring and early fall. There is no peak tourist season because the country has not yet made it on the tourism map. That said, it is one of the last European secrets, and on top of being unspoiled and unexplored, it offers many things for visitors to do throughout the year. Spring and summer are the best seasons for festivals and outdoor activities, and fall and winter are perfect for skiing and visiting museums. 

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Though the warnings about traveling to Kosovo seemed scary, we never had any concerns there. We felt welcomed and safe everywhere.

Those interested in the U.S. State Department warning can get complete information by clicking here .

When traveling out of the U.S., we strongly recommend registering with the State Department through a program called Smart Traveler Enrollment Program better known as STEP. It logs in a report (for free) of where and for how long you will be there in the case a major emergency occurs. You may also register who you are with. This way, the U.S. Government will know that you are in the country and have a way to contact and find you in case of an emergency, either back home or where you are located. It offers other protections as well. We registered and found it user-friendly. Learn more about this quick and free program from the blog post- Smart Travelers Enrollment Program .

Importance of Travel Insurance

As with any travel having good travel insurance is essential. If health problems occur, it would be ideal to have a policy of evacuating to a more modern health system in neighboring countries. To become an educated consumer and learn where to buy the best coverage at a low cost, check out the blog post; Travel Insurance: Protecting You and Yours .

In Ryan’s case, he bought a membership with MedJet Horizon. It provided peace of mind with the political unrest happening in the world. The membership covered medical evacuation back to any hospital you chose in the U.S., as is standard with MedJet Assist. It also covers worldwide travel security, crisis response, and evacuation services in cases of terrorism, natural disasters, violent crime, and other safety concerns. The cost was $184, covering up to $60,000 of medical expenses that could occur before being medically transported out of the country and back to a U.S. hospital. To learn more about MedJet, check out the blog post, Global Medical Evacuation Coverage for Travelers: A frank discussion.

Cell service was excellent.

You must contact your cell provider to set up an international roaming plan or use Wi-Fi. We had no problems with our roaming plans (Version and T-Mobile); most shops/restaurants have free Wi-Fi.

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

Overall, Kosovo is a fantastic destination, boasting a thriving city and beautiful picturesque nature just an hour outside its capital Prishtina. Its rich and recent history adds to the country’s unique charm and creates a culture of unity and pride in its citizens.

Kosovo welcomes visitors with a growing tourism industry and plenty of opportunities to explore this fascinating young country. There is something for everyone, no matter your age or interests. Our experience, although brief and filled with schoolwork, still managed to leave an impact and a desire to return. As Kosovo adapts to the technology age, the industry is drawn to it, bringing employment, innovation, and attention, ensuring its spot as a global player.

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Megi is from Albania and came to Arizona in 2018 to attend Arizona State University. Leaving her homeland to attend college in a foreign country speaks to her sense of adventure. She graduated in 2022 with a B.S.E. in Computer Systems Engineering with an emphasis in cybersecurity. She has decided to stay in the U.S. to start her career in cybersecurity. Before starting her new job, she spent some of the summer months visiting family and friends in Albania. She is excited to begin this next chapter of her life.

Ryan was born in Arizona and attended college at Arizona State University. He graduated in 2022 with a B.S.E. in Computer Systems Engineering with an emphasis in cybersecurity, along with two minors in French and Engineering Management. After graduating, Ryan spent time in Ireland on a family trip, followed by some downtime at home before starting his new career. Ryan will start his new job in cybersecurity in the fall.

Megi and Ryan met and became friends when they both had summer internships at the same company in Arizona. They must have made quite the impression as they both were offered and accepted full-time jobs there after graduation.

During their last year of college, they landed on the same team for their senior project. They never imagined that their senior project would result in invitations to present internationally and at conferences in the U.S. They aced the presentation and had an adventure they will never forget. For anyone interested, their senior project presentation in Kosovo can be viewed at this link .

Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

We sincerely appreciate Megi and Ryan for sharing their unique experiences in Kosovo. Hopefully, we can visit ourselves in the next few years. It would be fun to explore all it has to offer, take incredible photos, meet the people of Kosovo, experience the culture, and tell its story.

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Kosovo, Best things to do and see in Kosovo

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Our top recommended travel products and resources, squaremouth.com.

Our favorite travel insurance site !

If you book a trip, don’t forget to get travel insurance within 14 days of your first booking. We could not be stronger advocates of being well-insured. Not just for the little stuff but the big things like medical emergencies. We never leave home without it. Over the years, we have used many sites but have now found our go-to place. Squaremouth.com does a fantastic job; it has a user-friendly interface, uses top-rated and reputable insurance carriers, and most policies cover COVID-19 medical issues and cancellations. They also mediate on your behalf if you have problems with your policy.

To empower you as a consumer, we suggest you read our blog post on the importance of travel insurance and how to get the best coverage from top-rated companies for an affordable price.

MedjetAssist

Medical transport back home from anywhere in the world

They are the premier global air medical transport. One caveat to travel insurance is that medical evacuation usually gets you to the closest facility to care for you. Medjet gets you back to the U.S. to the hospital of your choice once you are stable enough to fly. They cover COVID-related transport as well.

Medjet carries its own policies. These policies are only for transport and do not cover other aspects of travel insurance. They have individual trip policies starting at $99 and annual policies for around $300. Most of their policies limit the age to 74 and younger. Prices are not based on age below that.

To learn more about how Medical Evacuation membership with Medjet Assist works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.  

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Hotels, home rentals, BNBs, flights, and other transportation & tours 

Expedia is a US-based company whose mission is to power global travel for everyone and everywhere. Whether planning a family vacation, booking for business, or organizing the trip of a lifetime, they are a fantastic resource. Wanderers Compass focuses on independent travel, and using sites like Expedia makes that possible. Every aspect of travel you need, from airfare, accommodations, rental car, and cruises to activities to do at your destination, can be booked on Expedia .  

Hotels, Home rentals, BNBs, Flights, and other Transportation & Tours 

Booking.com connects millions of travelers to memorable experiences, various transportation options, and incredible places to stay – from homes to hotels and much more. It is one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces for established brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes.

We always check Expedia and Booking.com to verify prices. At times, one is sold out of rooms while another at the same place has rooms. We also often find some European hotels, especially smaller ones, on Booking.com but not on Expedia. It could be they are a Europe-based company. Try both before booking accommodations.

Vacation Rental By Owner (VRBO)

Are you traveling with a family or having an extended stay at your destination?

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, VRBO connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The VRBO community offers families or groups various rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, etc.

VRBO is now under the Expedia group’s ownership, which many were worried about, but it hasn’t panned out to be a concern. It is a massive network with access to all lodging forms should issues arise. Joelle has used VRBO for many years with her family and has had no problems with it.

As the leading marketplace for travel experiences, Viator believes that making memories is what travel is all about. And with 300,000+ experiences to explore—everything from simple tours to extreme adventures (and all the niche, interesting stuff in between)—making memories that will last a lifetime has never been easier.

With industry-leading flexibility and last-minute availability, it’s never too late to make any day extraordinary. This one site has it all and has experiences throughout the world. We use them often during our travels, especially for food tours. We especially take the time to read the reviews provided.

An excellent source for travel essentials and guides

We now have our own Amazon Storefront with all our favorite travel accessories and gear in one place. Check out our travel store at the link below.

Amazon is one of the most comprehensive online shopping sources in the world. Teams worldwide provide lower prices, better selection, and rapid delivery on behalf of customers. They offer a vast inventory, and their 1.7 million small and medium businesses worldwide selling on Amazon.com offer extensive options to customers.

We buy most of our travel books, accessories, and luggage from Amazon. We have ordered up to two days before travel and get what we need.

This is not your ordinary drinkware company. The  HYDAWAY  difference is what their products do when you’re not using them. Practical and portable, HYDAWAY doesn’t take up unnecessary space in your already-packed life or pile up in landfills. We all know that trying to pack light while being environmentally conscious can be difficult. Having the right items can make a world of difference.  HYDAWAY  provides that.

We have used their collapsible water bottle, carrying case for the water bottle, and collapsible insulated drink tumbler. They are all lightweight and durable. A conservation-focused product you can be proud to buy.

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Welcome Pick-ups (Airport and sightseeing service)

A global leader in ground transportation for travelers. They help hundreds of companies worldwide enhance their services and boost their revenue with our 5-star ride experiences and hassle-free automation.

Founded in 2015 in Athens, Greece, Welcome Pick-ups goes above and beyond the standard transfer service as the first company to deliver a holistic, in-destination travel experience. From the moment a traveler arrives at a new destination until they return home, Welcome accommodates all their travel needs (transfers, travel products, things to do, information) as the easiest, friendliest, and most personalized solution.

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30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

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Last Updated on July 27, 2021

The lively city of Pristina is not a popular one to visit for travellers as most people haven’t even heard of the country of Kosovo. So many people are missing out by not spending time in Pristina as this is one of the best Balkan cities, and one of the best in Europe to visit.

Prishtina has come leaps and bounds from the city it used to be. Now it can be described as a young, vibrant and happening city with loads of great restaurant options, unique bars and cafes and a rich culture.

How to get to Prishtina

Pristina is easy to get to from other Balkan cities. Pristina also has some of the cheapest flights so if you are elsewhere in Europe it’s very inexpensive and easy.

The most popular way to travel to the Balkans is by bus. If you are coming from Sofia, Tirana, Belgrade or Skopje there are direct buses to and from Pristina

Is Pristina safe?

Yes, Prishtina is safe! It’s one of Europe’s youngest cities and it’s also one of the most progressive in my opinion. I felt safer in pristine than most other European capitals.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

30 things to do in Prishtina

1. visit the statue of mother teresa.

Outside of the euro information centre is a statue in memory of the great Mother Teresa. She was born in today’s North Macedonia, but she was of Albanian descent. As a major majority of people from Kosovo are Albanian she is very important to the locals here.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

2. See the cathedral of Mother Teresa

More important than the statue is the cathedral of Mother Teresa. It’s located just off the main boulevard in Pristina. The cathedral was inaugurated in 2010.

3. Climb the clock tower

To get the best view of Prishtina you must take the elevator up to the top of the clock tower. It is located next to the cathedral of Mother Teresa and costs just €1 to enter. From the top, you gain a magnificent view of the city as well as far in the distance. You can visit the tower daily in the morning or early afternoon.

4. Check out the mosques of Prishtina

Kosovo is home to over 500 mosques so there is plenty to check out when you visit Prishtina. Two of the best are the Imperial mosque (built in 1461) and Jashar Pasha Mosque which was given by the Turkish government to Kosovo in 2015.

5. Ethnological museum

Within the old part of Prishtina, you can find a treasure of history at the ethnological museum. Make your way to the Emin Gjiku Complex which was owned by one of the wealthiest families in the country. The residence is set exactly like it would have originally. If you want a visual look into an old wealthy home, then this is a great spot to visit. The keeper of the museum is happy to show you around! The museum is open from Tuesday-Sunday.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

6. Newborn monument

The newborn monument celebrates Kosovo’s independence. Kosovo is Europe’s newest country, finally gaining independence in 2008. Unfortunately, many countries like Serbia, France and China still don’t recognize Kosovo as a country. In fact, you cannot enter Serbia after visiting Kosovo as from Serbia’s eyes you have entered Serbia illegally and you will be denied entry. Serbia and Kosovo’s relationship is very complex so I will not get into it on this website. If you would like to learn more about the history of these two countries, it’s best to learn from the local’s perspective of both sides.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

7. See the ‘ugliest library in the world’

I don’t personally agree with the term ugly, to me the library of Pristina is unique and unlike any other building, I have seen in the world. From the outside, it might look like an alien jail building but from the inside, it’s quite beautiful. Make sure you don’t judge his book by its cover!

8. Wander around old Prishtina

The old town of Pristina is full of beautiful gems but sadly in the 1960’s most of it was destroyed. There are a few buildings that remain from the 15th century. Although the old bazaar was destroyed and replaced with ‘newer’ buildings, you can still find some great local markets which sell local artisan products and fresh produce.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

9. Eat at liburnia

This was my favourite restaurant when visiting Prishtina. This beautiful restaurant has the most amazing local food. Kosovo is known for having fantastic meat (sorry vegetarians!) and this is a great thing to have at liburnia. One of the best things to get here is the meat plate so you can try all the delicious types. If you’re looking for a traditional meal to start off your adventures within Kosovo, then having a meal at liburnia is a great start!

10. Visit the Skanderbeg statue

On the end of the boulevard is the prominent statue of Skanderbeg, an Albanian hero who fought against the Ottoman rule and ultimately led to Albania gaining independence. After the conflict in 1999 with Serbia, Kosovo Albanians erected the statue of Skanderbeg as a symbol of independence from Serbia.

11. Stay at Prishtina Centre hostel

My favourite place to stay when I’m in Prishtina is Prishtina Hostel and Apartments. This hostel has such a friendly vibe and the owner Bimi is a character you won’t forget! The hostel is intimate and has 3 big bedrooms. They also have private rooms upstairs if you prefer some peace and quiet rather than the hostel life. The breakfast is amazing too, fresh bread with Ajvar and cheese! The location is the best in the city as the hostel and private rooms sit looking over the boulevard making it a great base to explore the city!

Balkan Countries: A Guide to Travelling the Balkans

12. Eat at pishat

Another fantastic thing to do in the city is to eat at Pishat. I had the sujuk which is a spicy sausage, with grilled vegetables. You can get all the typical food from Kosovo at very affordable prices.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

13. Visit the bear sanctuary

This was one of my favourite things to do whilst in Prishtina. The bear sanctuary is only a short drive away from the centre. Up until 2010 it was totally legal for homeowners or restaurants to keep wild bears. Unfortunately, restaurant owners would keep them in small cages for the entirety of their life as ‘entertainment’. They were very malnourished and badly looked after. If restaurants closed the bears were just left to die.

That’s why the bear sanctuary opened in 2013 to house the bears in a natural environment just outside of the city. Here they are safe, fed well and not used for any sort of entertainment. Currently the bear sanctuary is home to 20 bears which have all been rescued from horrible conditions. You can go to support this amazing cause by visiting the sanctuary and donating, and if you’re lucky you might spot a bear or two! I visited in the winter and got to see 2 bears, as most of them were in hibernation.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

14. Relax at Germia Park

Germia is an extensive park located on the outskirts of the city. In the summertime the park is buzzing with people enjoying the sunshine and enjoying a dip in the Germia public pool. When I visited in winter, it was still very beautiful, and I spotted many families with snow sleds! The park is around 62 kilometre square and has a big range of flora and fauna.

15. Visit the national theatre

Whilst in prishtina why not check out one of the shows at the National Theatre? There are 3 theatres in Pristina, but the national theatre is the oldest and largest in Kosovo. Don’t expect to pay exorbitant prices to see your favourite shows either! You can see a play for as little as €3 and on Thursdays they have ballet night which is for free.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

16. See the Bill Clinton statue

It’s no surprise that Bill Clinton is idolised in Kosovo as he was a huge help for ending the war against Kosovo and helping the country gain independence. This 11-foot statue stands prominent, but it doesn’t stop there. In fact, you will notice Bill Clinton’s name all over the place as well as Hillary’s!

17. See lake of Batllava

Lake Batllava is one of the largest lakes within Kosovo. It serves as one of the main sources of water for Prishtina. This beautiful lake is a great daytrip nature spot and is about a 45-minute drive from Prishtina.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

18. See lake Badovc

If you’re visiting the bear sanctuary, then you will see lake badovc on the way. During spring and summer, this is a popular hangout for locals and tourists.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

19. Have a coffee at lulus

Lulus is one of my favourite little cafes within Prishtina. You will notice Kosovo has a huge cafe culture. Everyone is always out having a coffee and catch up with friends. In Kosovo and Albania, a coffee date can be hours. Coffee is an excuse to catch up with friends rather than the actual act of needing coffee.

20. Visit Gracanica Monastery

About a 5km drive from Prishtina is the Serbian cathedral of Gracanica. In the 6th century it was a Christian basilica, then in the 13th century from the ruins of the church, it turned into a church of Theotokos. Gracanica monastery was then built on the ruins of that! This monastery has a fascinating past. Today it’s an important spiritual centre for the Serbian minority living in the region but also it serves as a national and political centre for them.

Balkan Countries: A Guide to Travelling the Balkans

21. Enjoy a xhiro

Kosovo Albanians love a good xhiro! A xhrio is a walk which usually happens at sunset/night-time. This is the most popular time for locals to catch up whilst walking the streets.

22. Taste some Rakia and a meat place at te shoki

Te Shoki is a small bar located on a street filled with other small bars and restaurants. Whilst in Prishtina you must try some raki which is a distilled alcohol made from grapes, peaches or any other fruit. It’s a very strong alcohol which can spiral up to 80 proof if homemade. Why not try a meat plate to help you digest the raki, or the other way around!

23. Brunch at dit’ e nat

Dit’ e nat is one of the most popular brunch and breakfast places as well as a favourite cafe for many! You can have brunch and check out one of the many books as this is a bookstore cafe restaurant.

24. Take a free walking tour

A great way to get your bearings around the city of Prishtina is by taking a walking tour with a local. Every day they meet at the national theatre at 11am for the free walking tour. The tour takes approximately 2.5 hours. If you visit in the winter be sure to check if there is a tour on by going to their Facebook page.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

25. Visit the abandoned Christ the Saviour Cathedral

Just past the ‘ugly’ library, you will see the abandoned Christ the saviour cathedral. Construction was halted during the Kosovo war and has left this cathedral unfinished and abandoned.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

26. Check out the street art on Rruga b

If you want to check out the street art scene you must visit rruga B (street b) on the outskirts of the city centre. This project was started by Q’art which is a local non-profit organisation promoting art within Prishtina. International and national artists come every year to paint beautiful murals on the wall.

27. Eat at Baba Ganoush

If you are looking for a little bit of the Middle East in Kosovo, then Baba Ganoush restaurant is a great choice! If you’re looking for great vegan and vegetarian food, then make sure you eat here. Kosovo’s food can be very meat-heavy, so this is a nice change from the traditional restaurants that are in Prishtina.

28. Enjoy a drink at Soma Book station

Prishtina loves cafes and they also love bookstore cafes. Soma is a popular hangout for food and drinks. It’s a beautiful place, so make sure you check it out when you visit Pristina!

29. National Gallery

If you’re looking from a look into Kosovo’s art scene then make sure you check out the national gallery. Exhibitions change regularly and is from a contemporary perspective. The gallery is open from Monday to Friday 10am-6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10pm-5pm.

30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

30. Try a macchiato half at half cafe

Half and half cafe is another great hangout spot in the city. But whilst you are in the city you should absolutely try a macchiato. Many say that the locals of Kosovo can make better macchiatos than the Italians, but shh don’t tell them!

There’s your full guide on the best things to do in Prishtina! I can’t wait to visit again in the future and find many other hidden gems that this city holds.

Other articles you will love:

  • The Best Places to visit in Albania
  • 26 Incredible Things to do in Tirana, Albania
  • 18 Things to do in Saranda, Albania

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30 Best things to do in Prishtina, Kosovo

Author: Anita Hendrieka

Anita Hendrieka is the blogger behind this website and another popular website called 'Anita Hendrieka'. She has been named the top travel blogger in New Zealand and has been to over 50 countries in the world. Now, based in the Balkans she gives you the best advice on the region through this website.

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What to see in Kosovo – my favorite places

Kosovo (alongside with Moldova ) is probably the least known and visited country in Europe.

While the Balkans is blooming with popularity, getting thousands of visitors each month, Kosovo tourism is just starting to take off.

The youngest country in Europe ( Kosovo declared its independence in February 2008 ) is still unknown to many.

It has only one major tourist attraction that is among Balkan highlights – Prizren – and when you ask travelers what to see in Kosovo there will most likely not even know about this one.

I’ve been twice to Kosovo so far and I can assure you the country has lots to offer, especially to more curious and adventurous visitors.

Here is my mini cheat-sheet of Kosovo tourism, your answer to what to see in Kosovo!

Kosovo essentials

Planning a trip to Kosovo? Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

  • Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
  • Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I either use Viator
  • Get insured for your trip to Kosovo with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Is it worth to visit Kosovo?

First things first.

If you keep wondering is it worth to visit Kosovo, while the countries nearby are so interesting and beautiful (I’m looking at you Albania , Montenegro , Croatia and Bosnia ) my answer is simple – YES.

Kosovo tourism is still unspoiled, the country is visited only by a handful of people who are not afraid of the unknown land.

And that what makes it even a more attractive destination to visit as everything around feels just real, not made for tourists! Another bonus – even if the local currency is Euro, Kosovo is really cheap!

kosovo tourism

Is Kosovo safe?

Again – YES.

I felt completely safe for all the time.

True, there was a violent civil war not so long ago and there are still tensions in the country but for a tourists visiting Kosovo there is nothing to worry about.

I was traveling solo there and didn’t have a single awkward or nervous situation, I also don’t know of any other travelers who had any sort of issues in Kosovo.

Everyone around was super friendly, trying to help me even when I didn’t need it. I was out in Prizren and Pristina in the evening (mostly in the center but still) and no one bothered me at all.

Also due to the specific situation of Kosovo there are numerous foreign forces looking after the country.

You might see soldiers walking up and down the main boulevard of Pristina but there is no need to worry – they simply want to show off, behaving like on a runway and looking like a million bucks.

Just like in every other place, use your common sense, don’t do things you wouldn’t do at home and you will be more than fine! Kosovo is really safe!

I wrote the whole post about Kosovo safety where I share my and other travelers’ opinions – click here to read “Is Kosovo safe?” post!

people of Kosovo

What to see in Kosovo

Kosovo isn’t the most spectacular country in the Balkans but it has its moments.

The cities might be not the most beautiful you will ever see but chances you will fall for its cafes, vibe, landscape and people are very high. Kosovo really has a lot to offer to travelers!

Below are my top places to visit in Kosovo:

Second biggest city in Kosovo and a picture perfect gem of the country (at least in the Old Town). If there is one place you need to visit in Kosovo it has to be Prizren.

Have you seen the picture of the old stone bridge, the mosque and the lush mountains in the background? That’s Prizren! And in reality it’s even more beautiful!

The Old Town is bustling with numerous cafes and restaurants, too many to count, cobbled streets are filled with tables ready for you to relax over an exceptional cup of coffee.

Shadervan – the main square – seems to be always full of people, just hanging out, doing their businesses.

But the highlight of Prizren is Kaljaja – the fortress with the most spectacular view you will see in Kosovo.

It’s an easy hike up there from the Old Town and you are easily entitled to spend most of your day up there. Kaljaja, alongside with Shadervan, is the place to be in Prizren.

Rumours say it’s the most beautiful during sunset – I wish I could confirm this but when I was about to hike up there the thunderstorm rolled over Prizren…

what to see in Kosovo - Prizren

I’m really hoping to return to Prizren, maybe in August for Dokufest – a world famous International Documentary and Short Film Festival.

But I’m also hoping to explore more of the city, to dwell into its rough backstreets with abandoned houses . Prizren is so much more than postcards show!

what to see in Kosovo - Prizren

One of the least beautiful capitals in Europe yet among the most interesting (and my favorite) ones!

Pristina is vibrant, cool, chic, cosmopolitan in a way.

The monuments you find there are rather boring (unless we talk about the National Library of Kosovo – probably the most amazing brutalist building I’ve seen, the one that started my love for this architecture style – yet Pristina makes you feel ecstatic.

There is just something about this city that holds you tight and doesn’t want to let you go!

what to see in Kosovo - Pristina

My story with Pristina was very similar to the my affair with Yerevan, Armenia . After the first visit I was more or less indifferent – it was fine but the city didn’t blow me away.

However, shortly after I started thinking about Pristina more and more often, dreaming of return to get to know it better. And so I did!

I’ve spent 4 days in Pristina, the city that can be “done” in 2 hours, and I’d return there in a heartbeat!

My days were filled with some of the best cafes I’ve ever visited, great brutalist architecture, warm evenings, delicious food, good street art (including Mr.Chat I know from Sarajevo ) and amazing people.

If you’re into slow travel Pristina is a place for you!

what to see in Kosovo - Pristina

Kosovska Mitrovica

The most challenging place to visit in Kosovo, the one that has been on my mind for a long time.

The city is divided into the Southern (Albanian) and Northern (Serbian) part, with the ongoing tension between these two.

I must admit I was slightly afraid to visit Mitrovica but, as always, it turned out there was nothing to worry about and it was only my mind playing tricks.

I’m kind of fascinated with divided city and Mitrovica was such an interesting place to explore.

As soon as you cross the (blocked and protected by international forces, like Italian Carabinieri) bridge everything changes: alphabet, currency, license plates (on the Serbian side most of the cars don’t have any) or the places of worship. Even people look different.

I can’t decided which side I liked more as Northern has one of spomeniks yet Southern had a great cafe with umbrellas.

Politics aside, Mitrovica makes a perfect day trip from Pristina and for me it’s a must when you visit Kosovo!

what to see in Kosovo - Mitrovica

A getaway to Rugova Canyon and Prokletije Mountains and home to Patriarchate of Peć – UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But for me it was just a laid-back city with the fanciest coffee I had in Kosovo (for just 2€!), good street art and a decent bazaar. I didn’t even go to Patriarchate of Peć because coffee.

It was a good place to spend a relaxing afternoon at but of all the places I’ve visited in Kosovo it’s the last one on my personal list.

However, if mountains are your thing don’t miss Peja!

what to see in Kosovo - Peja

My biggest surprise in Kosovo! Gjakova was badly damaged during the war but after the recent renovation it’s blooming again!

You can spend at least few hours in the Grand Bazaar only, an unique place with numerous craft workshops and cafes, the oldest and largest bazaar in Kosovo.

The main lane, lined with cafes is decorated with artistic installations by local artist Mimoza Rraci and it looks just amazing. I dare to say it’s the most beautiful cafes area I’ve ever seen!

But Gjakova is more than that, the whole town with the surrounding mountains is a lovely place to visit and another perfect day trip from Pristina or Prizren.

what to see in Kosovo - Gjakova

Kosovo tourism – practical information

How to get to kosovo.

Recently there are more and more low cost flights to the Balkans – you can fly directly to Pristina from Germany, France, Hungary, Switzerland or England (I paid 60€/return from Berlin to Pristina in May 2016) or you can get to Skopje, Macedonia and take the bus to Kosovo – it’s super easy!

From Skopje buses to Pristina depart more or less every hour, the journey takes a little bit over 2 hours. In November 2014 and May 2016 I paid 5€ for one way ticket.

Public transport in Kosovo

To my great surprise the public transport in Kosovo was excellent.

There are frequent and cheap buses between cities, there might not be the most comfortable ones but decent enough to survive the 2-3 hours journey.

At the bus stations you will have no problems with finding the right bus as each destination has a dedicated platform – if it’s not written anywhere people will point you to the right place before you even ask them for help!

Just keep in mind that sometimes the last bus leaves rather early, around 6pm.

Here are the prices of tickets in May 2016: Prizren – Gjakova 2,50€; Gjakova – Peja 2,50€; Peja – Prizren 4€; Prizren-Pristina 3€, Pristina – Mitrovica 2€.

Where to stay in Kosovo

I stayed in Prizren for 2 nights (from there I did a day trip to Gjakova and Peja) and then in Pristina for 3 nights (with a day trip to Mitrovica).

You can also stay in Pristina for your whole stay and do day trips from there – the country is really small and it’s 2 hours journey to each of the interesting place.

I stayed at the hostel in Pristina that I don’t really recommend but here you can find some better options!

If you decide to stay in Prizren here you can book your hotel (for some reason the one I stayed at is no longer available).

Travel insurance

I never travel without the insurance as you never know what might happen on the road and better safe than sorry ( I’ve learnt my lesson ).

I can recommend SafetyWing that offer the insurance dedicated to travelers just like you and me.

Click here to get the insurance policy for Kosovo here.

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34 Comments

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You went to Kosovo and you didn’t go to Visoki Decani ???

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I was hoping to but I simply didn’t have time, it’s not so easy when you depend on public transport only.

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Jay (from Vancouver, Canada)

Hi Kami!! Great travel blog – I just love your passion and enthusiasm in the places you visit. It’s so nice seeing the pictures of the places you describe – it makes me want to buy a plane ticket and travel right now! I know you are quite busy – but if you get a chance, could you recommend any good places to visit or places to eat in Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) and Singapore (That’s if you’ve traveled there). I’m heading there in about a month’s time :-)

Thanks again for sharing your wonderful trips!

Thank you Jay! Unfortunately I haven’t been to both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur yet (although I’m going to the second one later this year) so I can’t help you with any recommendations. But for places to eat I always find foursquare application the best! Have a great trip!

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Ellan Orlanes

Hey kami, I’m planning my trip to kosovo next year after my contract, I would like to ask if I can go also to Skopje just by bus from kosovo without needing any important documents? If you have time please kindly reply. Thanks for sharing your trips and godbless.

Yes, there are regular buses between Kosovo and Macedonia (especially Pristina and Skopje) and there’s just a regular border control on the border. Maybe check with your embassy if you need any extra documents when entering any of those countries but other than that all is fine there!

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stacjabalkany

Ja zamierzam się wybrać w maju na 3 dni w Góry Przeklęte i na dwa dni z Berane do Pei:)

doskonały plan! Najlepiej porozmawiaj z Kingą z Floating My Boat , ona sie zna na górach na Bałkanach!

Trochę się boję bo będę sam ale może się odważę, zauważyłem że jest nawet połączenie z Berane w Czarnogórze do Pei:)

Kinga też była sama i dała radę :) nie ma czego się bać!

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Well, now I MUST go to Kosovo! :-) Thanks!

well, now you must! ;)

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Victoria @The British Berliner

‘Love this post Kami!

I’m aware that Kosovo is not as popoular as some of the other Balkan states, but I feel enormously inspired to visit, as I’m freaky like that lol! Well done. ‘Love the photographs and the information breakdown!

Thank you! You definitely should go, Kosovo is really fascinating! I bet you’d enjoy it too!

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Stefania - the Italian Backpacker

It’s funny how sometimes while you visit a city you think that you don’t like it so much after all, but after you’ve returned you start to think about it often. For me it happened with Athens: not the most beautiful city in Europe maybe but I keep thinking about it and I returned there already once! Thank you for this post: I didn’t know much about what to see in Kosovo before reading it.

I had a similar yet different story with Athens – I didn’t really feel like going as I thought it’s not the city I’d like. And then I loved it! I’d really love to return there!

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Great post, Kosovo is another place I really want to visit. I met a couple from there on a bus from Skopje to Greece last year and they were so friendly and interesting, really made me curious about Kosovo. Good to see you went to Mitrovica, it seems like an interesting city (not just because of the divide) but I suspect not many tourists go there. Love the cafe with the umbrellas!

Thank you! Kosovo is really interesting, and so underrated, I’d definitely recommend going there! And yes, I haven’t seen any other tourists besides me and my friend in Mitrovica so I asusme it’s not the most popular city ever :)

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Nice article. But, you did not visit Gracanica (monastery, Ulpiana, other Serbian monuments)? Not to mention Visoki Decani, Pecka Patrijarsija. You did not visit Kosovo.

Thank you. I don’t want to mix politics here but since my country recognize Kosovo as the independent country I do visited Kosovo. And the fact that I didn’t go to all the monasteries doesn’t change it.

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It doesn’t jump out as a place to go on holiday, but it looks gorgeous and with it being cheap and safe too you’ve convinced me! I love to head places that aren’t too obvious. I might be visiting a friend in Serbia this year so perhaps I can combine the two in one trip…

Definitely try to go to Kosovo too! It’s a wonderful place, still unspoiled by the mass tourism! And the coffee really is to die for!

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The only reason I know anything about Kosovo is because I knew someone from there. Ever since then I thought it would be a really cool place to visit!

It really is! Such an underrated place!

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Douglas Rezende

super plan! Zajrzyj do Kingi (link w tekście), na pewno Ci się jej post przyda!

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Thanks for the honest description of Kosovo and the free publicity! :) Kosovo is a safe and a beautiful place to visit, especially the West Side (Prizren, Gjakova and Peja) with some very beautiful nature. I saw recently that Peja added a little Zip Line as well :). I plan to visit Rugova Mountain (near Prizren) in August! I have heard/seen pics of it and looks amazing!

Anyway, thanks for visiting Kosovo and writing about it! We need more blogs like this that are not about politics and war stories. Blogs like yours will bring more tourists to Kosovo and connect people.

Enjoy your travels! Sounds like a great way to live your life!

Thank you! I really enjoyed my time in Kosovo and I’m glad I can promote the country! The zip line sounds so great, I would love to return to try it out! Thanks for telling me about it!

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Hi! This was great. I’m going there in a couple weeks and now I’m really excited! I will be there for 4 days, what would be the 1-2 day trips I MUST take while there in your opinion?

Where will you be based? If in Pristina then I definitely suggest Prizren and Gjakova or Mitrovica. Kosovo is really interesting, I’m sure you will like it there!

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ARIJIT MOOKERJEE

I found your site very useful! I am heading to Kosovo on Monday. It will be my Country #109 (per UN) or #1`17 (per the App Been, that considers, for example, England, Scotland, Wales, Puerto Rico etc. as “countries”.

I will base myself in Pristina and have 3 nights/ 2 days on hand. Based on your blog, I will do Pritzen one day and either of the other options on the other day. Then move to Bosnia.

By the way, do you know how can I get to Sarajevo from Pristina? Another question – is there a border checkpoint between Serbia and Kosovo where they may need a Covid PCR negative as I will not have one from Serbia since I will go in there on Sunday from England with one.

Thanks again for your lovely post!

I’m so very sorry for this terribly late answer! I really hope your trip to the Balkans was great and you enjoyed Kosovo and all the other places you’ve visited. All the best!

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Bryan John Smith

Thanks for this blog. I want to make a stop in Prizren and Pristina. I’m trying to work out how to get there from Dubrovnik. The bus timetables seem odd. Any suggestions on the best way to do this in a day?

I don’t think it’s possible to go to Prizren and/or Pristina on a day trip from Dubrovnik, it’s too far away. I’m not even sure there are direct connections from Croatia to Kosovo.

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10 Amazing Places to Visit in Kosovo in 2023 – Explore Its Timeless Charm

Having always been an avid traveler, my journey to Kosovo was nothing short of a revelation. I remember the excitement as the plane descended, offering a bird’s eye view of the patchwork landscapes below.

The stories I’d heard and the images I’d seen couldn’t prepare me for the firsthand experience of this mesmerizing country. Kosovo, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, beckoned, and I was eager to explore every nook and cranny.

After seeing many fascinating places, I prepared a travel guide with 10 wonderful places I believe you must visit if you’re planning to travel to this beautiful country.

1. The Capital City of Pristina

Pristina, the vibrant capital of Kosovo, is a blend of modernity and tradition. The city boasts a rich history, evident in its architectural marvels and cultural landmarks.

Explore the rich cultural diversity and historical heritage of Kosovo by visiting its 11 major cities , making it a captivating destination in the Balkans.

The National Library of Kosovo

An architectural wonder, the National Library of Kosovo stands out with its unique design. While some may find its exterior peculiar, the library houses an impressive collection of over 100,000 books, spanning an area of approximately 16,500 square meters.

The Newborn Monument

Symbolizing Kosovo’s recent independence in 2008, the Newborn Monument is a testament to the country’s resilience. Every year, on the anniversary of the country’s independence, the monument is repainted, reflecting the nation’s evolving identity.

2. Kosovo Museum

Kosovo Museum

Situated in Pristina, the Kosovo Museum is a treasure trove of the nation’s history and culture. The museum’s intricate architecture is a sight to behold, but the exhibits within are the real stars.

Discover the captivating story of Kosovo’s rich cultural heritage and enduring beauty as you explore the country’s top destinations in 2023.

Museum Exhibits

The museum is divided into three sections: the main museum, the Museum of Independence, and Emin Gjiku’s Housing Complex. These sections offer insights into the country’s natural science, archaeology, and ethnography, painting a vivid picture of its past and present.

Prizren

Often hailed as the “prettiest city in Kosovo,” Prizren is a picturesque town nestled along the Lumbardhi River and the slopes of the Sharr mountains. Its relaxed ambiance, coupled with its rich history, makes it a must-visit.

Prizren’s Attractions

From the historic Prizren Fortress to the charming Old Stone Bridge, Prizren is a city of wonders. The Sinan Pasha Mosque stands as a testament to the city’s religious diversity.

For the adventurous, the Sharr Mountains National Park offers exhilarating hiking opportunities.

4. Rugova Canyon

Rugova Canyon

Rugova Canyon , also known as Rugova Gorge, is a breathtaking river canyon located near Peja in Western Kosovo. Nestled in the Albanian Alps and close to the Montenegro border, this canyon is a testament to nature’s grandeur.

Geological Marvel of Rugova

Stretching over a length of 25 km and plunging to depths of up to 1,000 meters, Rugova is among Europe’s longest and deepest canyons. The canyon’s formation is attributed to water erosion and the retreat of the Peja glacier.

The Lumbardhi i Pejës river gracefully carves its way through this magnificent canyon, offering a visual treat for visitors.

Natural Attractions and Activities

Rugova Canyon is not just a sight to behold but also a hub for adventure enthusiasts. The canyon is home to numerous waterfalls, springs like Uji i Zi (Black Water), and caves such as Gryka e Madhe and Shpella e Karamakazit.

For those seeking a unique experience, the “Via Ferrata” or “Iron Trail” offers an opportunity to climb the canyon’s rocks. Moreover, the Patriarchate of Peja, a significant site for the Serbian Orthodox Church, is situated at the canyon’s entrance.

5. Bear Sanctuary

Bear Sanctuary

Kosovo’s commitment to wildlife conservation is evident in the Bear Sanctuary located near Mramor. This sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of brown bears that have suffered in captivity.

Mission of the Sanctuary

The Bear Sanctuary primarily focuses on providing a safe haven for bears that were previously held in inadequate conditions, often as restaurant mascots or private pets. Here, they are given a chance to live in a natural environment, free from the chains of their past.

Engaging with the Majestic Beasts

Visitors to the sanctuary can witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, playing, foraging, and resting. The sanctuary also offers educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and the ethical treatment of animals.

6. Gadime Cave

Gadime Cave

Also known as the Marble Cave, Gadime Cave is a mesmerizing underground world located in the village of Gadime. Discovered in the 1960s, this cave is a labyrinth of stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique rock formations.

A Journey Underground

The cave spans over 1,500 meters, with around 500 meters open to the public. As visitors traverse the cave, they are greeted by a symphony of colors, from pure white to rose and even black, reflecting the mineral composition of the rocks.

The Legend of Gadime

Local legends add a layer of mystique to the cave. It is believed that the cave was discovered by accident when a villager was working in his garden.

Today, the cave stands as one of Kosovo’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing both local and international visitors.

7. Gazivoda Lake

Gazivoda Lake

Gazivoda Lake, the largest and arguably the most picturesque lake in Kosovo, stretches its beauty across the border into Serbia. This man-made marvel was constructed in 1977 to cater to the drinking water and irrigation needs of north and central Kosovo.

A Deep Dive into Gazivoda

With an average depth surpassing 100 meters, Gazivoda Lake is teeming with aquatic life. For those who enjoy a refreshing dip, the lake offers spots for wild swimming, though one might find the water’s temperature a tad chilly.

The surrounding terrains present ample hiking opportunities, granting panoramic views of the lake below. Additionally, there are designated areas for mountain biking and serene beaches along the lakeside, perfect for a relaxing picnic.

The Surrounding Beauty

The lake’s vast expanse is complemented by the scenic beauty that surrounds it. From lush green landscapes to the distant mountains, Gazivoda Lake is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Whether you’re kayaking on its calm waters or simply soaking in the view, the lake promises a rejuvenating experience.

8. National Park Bjeshkët E Nemuna

Located in Western Kosovo, National Park Bjeshkët E Nemuna is a testament to nature’s splendor. Spanning over 63,000 hectares, the park showcases a diverse range of landscapes, from towering mountains to serene lakes and dense forests.

The Peaks and Valleys

The park is home to Gjeravica, the highest peak in Kosovo, standing tall at 2656m above sea level. For those with a penchant for adventure, the mountain offers a challenging yet rewarding climb.

The park’s vast expanse is also home to a rich biodiversity, housing mammals like wildcats, roe deer, grey wolves, lynx, and even the elusive brown bear.

Embracing Nature’s Bounty

Apart from its natural beauty, the park offers a plethora of activities for visitors. Whether it’s fishing in the pristine lakes, hiking through the dense forests, or simply soaking in the panoramic views, National Park Bjeshkët E Nemuna is a haven for nature enthusiasts.

9. Gračanica Monastery

Gračanica Monastery

Gračanica Monastery , a Serbian Orthodox Monastery, stands as a beacon of history and spirituality. Built in 1321 by the Serbian King Stefan Milutin, the monastery is a testament to the region’s rich religious heritage.

A Glimpse into the Past

Constructed on the ruins of an older 13th-century church dedicated to the Holy Virgin Mary, the monastery has witnessed tumultuous times. From damages during Ottoman rule to bombings in 1999 by NATO airplanes , Gračanica has endured and stood resilient.

While many of its original paintings and treasures have been lost over the centuries, the monastery’s architectural beauty remains intact.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2006, Gračanica Monastery was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing tourists from across the globe. Its serene ambiance, coupled with its historical significance, makes it a must-visit for those exploring Kosovo.

10. Mirusha Waterfalls

Mirusha Waterfalls

Mirusha Waterfalls , located in the heart of Kosovo, is a captivating natural wonder that promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. This series of cascading waterfalls is nestled within Mirusha Park, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

A Mesmerizing Natural Phenomenon

Mirusha Waterfalls is not just a single waterfall but a series of cascades that have carved their way through the landscape over millennia. The highest of these falls plunges from a height of 22 meters, creating a spectacular sight.

The surrounding area is dotted with pools and lakes, each formed by the cascading waters of the previous waterfall. These pools are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially during the summer months when they offer a refreshing dip.

A Blend of Adventure and Tranquility

Apart from its natural beauty, Mirusha Waterfalls offers a plethora of activities for visitors. The adventurous can embark on hiking trails that weave through the park, leading them to various vantage points to witness the waterfalls in all their glory.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park’s serene ambiance provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely picnic. The waterfalls have also been described as a “natural wonder that should not be missed,” with visitors often left in awe of the sheer beauty and power of nature on display.

11. Ulpiana Archaeological Site

Ulpiana Archaeological Site

Ulpiana, an ancient Roman city located near modern-day Gracanica, stands as a testament to Kosovo’s rich historical tapestry. This archaeological site offers a glimpse into the region’s past, showcasing remnants of a civilization that once thrived here.

Exploring the History

Ulpiana, believed to have been founded in the 2nd century AD, was an important urban center during the Roman and Byzantine periods. The ruins that remain today include remnants of city walls, basilicas, streets, and various other structures.

Exploring Ulpiana is akin to stepping back in time, as visitors can walk the same paths that ancient inhabitants once did.

A Cultural Treasure

The significance of Ulpiana extends beyond its historical value. The site is a symbol of Kosovo’s rich cultural heritage, reflecting the various civilizations that have left their mark on the region.

Efforts are ongoing to preserve and restore the site, ensuring that future generations can also experience the magic of Ulpiana.

12. Germia Park

Germia Park

Located near Pristina, Germia Park is a sprawling green oasis that offers a respite from city life. With its dense forests, hiking trails, and recreational facilities, the park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Nature’s Playground

Germia Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park’s vast expanse is crisscrossed with hiking and biking trails, each offering a unique perspective of the park’s diverse landscapes.

From dense forests to open meadows, Germia Park showcases the best of Kosovo’s natural beauty.

Recreational Delights

Beyond its natural attractions, Germia Park is equipped with a range of recreational facilities. The park boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool, which is a popular spot during the summer months.

Additionally, there are playgrounds for children, picnic areas, and even a ski slope for winter sports enthusiasts.

FAQs about Kosovo

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Kosovo for Sightseeing?

While the country offers distinct experiences throughout the year, the best time for sightseeing is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.

Are There Guided Tours Available for These Destinations?

Yes, many of the mentioned destinations, such as the Mirusha Waterfalls and the Ulpiana Archaeological Site, offer guided tours. These tours provide deeper insights into the history, culture, and significance of the sites.

Is Kosovo Safe for Solo Travelers?

Kosovo is generally considered safe for solo travelers. However, as with any destination, it’s essential to exercise caution, stay informed about local customs, and avoid isolated areas, especially after dark.

Are There Any Local Cuisines or Dishes that Travelers Should Try when Visiting Kosovo?

Absolutely! Kosovo’s cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors. Some must-try dishes include “Flija” (layered pancake), “Tavë Prizreni” (a baked dish with meat and yogurt), and “Sogan-dolma” (stuffed peppers and onions).

How Well-Connected Are These Destinations by Public Transport?

Major cities like Pristina have a good public transport system, and buses connect most towns. However, some remote attractions might be more accessible by car or through organized tours.

The Bottom Line

As I boarded the plane to head back home, I carried with me a suitcase full of memories, souvenirs, and a heart full of gratitude. Kosovo had offered me more than just scenic landscapes and historical sites; it had gifted me experiences, friendships, and stories that I’d cherish for a lifetime.

Explore the rich tapestry of religious diversity in Kosovo, where ancient traditions and contemporary faiths intertwine seamlessly.

To anyone considering a trip to this hidden gem in Europe, I’d say, pack your bags and let this country surprise you, just as it did for me.

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Best Places You Should Visit while in Kosovo

10 places that are a must while exploring the europe’s youngest country.

More than ever, Kosovo is ready to welcome the visitors.

If you give it a chance, it won’t just provide an immensely astounding synergy of unaltered nature and otherworldly architecture, sensations and encounters; it will also astonish you with its exceptional service, making you feel as though you’re walking the red carpet from the from the very beginning of your journey to its end.

We are bringing you the best of Kosovo and top 10 places you should definitely put on your bucket list

1. Pristina

The largest city in Kosovo, Pristina, which has a population of 200.000, is the country’s capital and is rapidly growing. In other words, there is a lot of construction taking place throughout the city, and if you decide to go back there later, you’ll be astonished at how much has transformed in such a short time.

Pristina’s first impression will presumably be one that depicts a frenetic synergy driven on by traffic congestion, pedestrians who don’t seem to care about the few traffic laws that exist, and loud construction noises that blend in with the echoes of old monastery bells and the muezzin’s call from the mosque.

Even though the overwhelming chaos may be your first impression, Pristina will win your heart if you offer it a second chance and immerse yourself in its turbulent history, incredibly diverse culture, brave people, hospitable heritage, exquisite food, and every other aspect that distinguishes this “newborn” city.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

❐ Pristina. You should be aware that Pristina is not for everyone and that, after the initial shock wears off, you will either adore or loathe this city. It’s a place you’ll remember for the wild range of exquisite feelings you experienced, not for any particular building.

While you are in Pristina, make sure to walk the George W. Bush boulevard, take a photo of Bill Clinton statue, visit the amazing Kosovo Museum, learn the legend of Pjetr Bogdani at Sultan Mehmet Fatih Mosque, climb the bell tower of Cathedral of Mother Theresa, have a coffee at Skender Bey Square, enjoy the symbolism behind the Newborn Monument, and pay a respect to war victims at Heroinat monument which consists of 20 000 pins each depicting one woman raped during the Kosovo war.

In the end, stay hypnotized in front of the massive National Library which, again, you will either love or hate. 

You will need two full days at least to soak up the city’s atmosphere and, no matter what you do, always remember to interact with people and that you chose this city to embrace some new knowledge. Allow yourself to completely savor this experience. 

places to visit in kosovo in winter

Full Day Tour of Pristina, Gracanica Monastery and Ulpiana Ancient City with Local Lunch included

Nestled on the slopes of the Sharr mountain and banks of the Prizren Bistrica, this amazing city is the cultural and political capital of the Kosovar Albanians and, without any doubt, deserves to be explored above and beyond the tourist trails.

Soak up every atom of its vibrant atmosphere bustling in preserved narrow streets, souvenir shops and religious objects.

While in Prizren, make sure to visit Town Museum, explore the striking Sinan Pasha Mosque built in 1615, cross the Old Stone bridge highly resembling the Emperor’s bridge in Sarajevo, see the amazing Hamam Of Gazi Mehmet Pasha and, of course, meet the local vendors to get some excellent handmade clothing, shoes, or trinkets for dirt cheap.

Kosovo War Tour

❐ Prizren. Finding your favorite position in this old stone labyrinth and taking a playful stroll around its many rooms, underground hallways, and amazing net of walls that once served as a city defense may be the highlight of your Prizren discoveries.

The magnificent Kalaja Fortress (Kaljaja), which towers over the city and the surrounding valleys, and the ruins of the Orthodox Church “Our Lady of Ljevis,” are a must-see while in Prizren. The church, which King Stefan Milutin built in 1306, has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage in Danger and as a Monument of Cultural Exceptional Importance.

The majestic Kalaja Fortress, which serves as Prizren’s emblem, is a short stroll from the ruins. Grab your cameras because you are going to face the spectacular views and chambers of Prizren Fortress dating back to the 11th century.

The fort offers the city’s best view stretching over not only the entire Prizren but also the surrounding Mountain of Prokletije and Peja.

Peja is thought to have been constructed on the ruins of Siparantum, a former Roman settlement. It is one of the rare towns that proudly maintains both Serbian medieval and Ottoman architecture. Peja is renowned for other things including its thriving market and art of craft preservation.

Peja’s chapel and nunnery complex, which is tucked away on the outskirts of the town, is another noteworthy feature. The beautiful frescoes that cover the walls and ceilings of the Orthodox monastery complex known as the Patriarchy of Peja date back to the late 12th century. 

Although you should announce your visit, exploring the Patriarchy of Peja’s beautiful premises and gardens will be well worth the “hassle.” Experience emotional detachment and mental clarity while exploring the complex and discovering the religious diversity that this city is so proud of.

Hiking Tour Hajla Mountain

❐ Rugova Valley. It consists of 13 villages predominantly inhabitated by Albanian Kosovars. The houses of villages, including the shepherd´s settlements known as katuns, reach the height above the forest line and are in pasture areas covered with vast fields and meadows

Exploring the enthralling Rugova Canyon, which has a length of 25 kilometers and a depth of up to 1,000 meters, is another absolute must while in Peja.

This canyon is considered to be one of Europe’s longest and deepest canyons. Due to its geological, hydrological, speleological, and botanic significance, it is listed as a protected monument of natural heritage.

As the Rugova gorge road narrows, you will be able to admire numerous springs, including a 25-meter-high waterfall. This area is known for its abundance of water, charming villages, and hundreds of caves that are yet to be found and explored. If you are into zip lines, this is the best place to try yourself and enjoy a 750-meter adrenaline rush and spectacular views stretching over the gorge.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

Kosovo Grand Bazaars: Full Day Tour of Peja, Gjakova & Prizren from Pristina

This tiny, historic hamlet is overflowing with cuteness. According to locals, and many foreign visitors, Gjakova is the most charming town in Kosovo.

Although being somewhat slow-paced today, during the Ottoman Empite, Gjakova used to be a major trading hub on the  sought route between Shkodra and Constantinople. 

As you stroll through this beautiful place, it will be difficult to accept that the most recent 1990s war left about 85% of town in ruins.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

❐ Gjakova. Narrow streets of Gjakova, one of the most charming places in Kosovo which was established as a trading town and home to the largest bazaar in the Balkans, named Çarshia e Madhe (the Grand Bazaar ). The Grand Bazaar was heavily damaged during the recent war and over 75% of local stores and shops had to be rebuilt.

One of the largest and oldest in the Balkans, the intriguing Gjakova Grand Bazaar is a must-see. It spans for more than a kilometer and is a great spot to interact with locals, discover life in Kosovo, and enjoy charming stores while admiring the skills of local artisans creating beautiful woodwork or selling exquisite wedding costumes.

In its woodworking studios and bazaar stores, Gjakova continues a long legacy of workmanship.

Besides the bazaar,  allow yourself to experience the out-of-this-world 16th century Hadum Mosque, the Catholic Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, and a captivating Ethnographic Museum.

4. Mitrovica

Even the fact that you will struggle with the name of the city (Mitrovica or Kosovska Mitrovica) will offer you a hint as to the Gordian knots you will be working through with each and every question and response you receive.

Mitrovica will give you a genuine time-traveling experience, taking you from prehistoric civilizations, the Roman and Byzantine Empires, and Serbian kings all the way to the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, with its prides and prejudices, as well as the knowledge that this city was formerly known as “Titova Mitrovica.”

Due to its strategic location, Mitrovica was formerly a prehistoric hub and an Illirian necropolis. The city’s area, along with the entirety of Kosovo, was governed by the Bulgarian realm of Tsar Simeon (897-927), but the Byzantines regained control of it once this kingdom fell.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

❐ Mitrovica. Shrine to the Revolution or Monument to Fallen Miner at the Partisan Hill. This massive concrete monument is dedicated to those who lost their lives in the World War II battles.

The city was split into the municipalities of North and South Mitrovica at the 2013 local elections as a result of the prior conflicts. Today, Mitrovica is one city under two roofs, two institutions, two systems, and two states divided by one single bridge. The level of everyday life in the city will surprise you if you take your thoughts off the fact that the bridge is a station of the Kosovo police forces and is guarded by KFOR personnel.

The fact that Mitrovica is frequently depicted in the media as a location of riots and conflicts even after the most recent Kosovo war would appear fairly unexpected, even if this shouldn’t come as a surprise anywhere else in the globe. Without any concerns walk the notorious Mitrovica bridge, explore the both sides of the city and give this city a chance.

After hearing all the legends surrounding Mitrovica, you will be astounded and taken aback by this city, which, aside from the KFOR-guarded bridge, appears to be an utterly tranquil setting where one could envision residing.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

Kosovo War Tour: Burden of Independency (2Day 1Night)

6. unesco site gracanica monastery.

Barely beyond the city of Pristina, Gracanica Monastery is the second most important Orthodox site in the territory, just after the Patriarchate of Peje. Gracanica is one of four sites in Kosovo that are under UNESCO protection.

Over the centuries, it went through a tumultuous past but was spared by the last war. Protected by Kosovar police, Gracanica Monastery is today home to about twenty nuns who, in addition to their monastic duties, are also engaged in embroidery, agriculture, and icon painting.

There is no checkpoint at the monastery, and you are not required to announce your visit here, so feel free to walk through its premises and learn more about the amazing Byzantine techniques this monastery is renowned for.

Kosovo Trip

❐ Gracanica Monastery. Founded by a Milutin, king of the Nemanjic dynasty in 1321, this monastery has been listed as one of the four sites in the country that is listed and protected by UNESCO.

7. UNESCO site Visoki Decani Monastery

UNESCO protected Orthodox Monastery Decani is located only 20 kms south of Pejë. It is is situated in the Metohija region, along the Decan’s Lumbardh river canyon, at foothills of the Accursed Mountains and about 2 kilometers separate from Decan town.

The Monastery dates back from the 14th century and is a perfect synthesis of Byzantine and Western medieval styles. Known as a home to over 1000 frescoes, Decani Monastery is the best-preserved Serbian monastery.

Nowadays, due to the fact it is on a list of endangered monuments, Decani Monastery is guarded by KFOR forces while The Serbian Orthodox Eparchy of Raska and Prizren oversees the monastery.

You will need to pass the checkpoint but shouldn’t have any issues with entering. Take a walk in and around the monastery, meet with the local priests and learn about the imposing history and everyday life woven from daily prayers to producing the souvenirs, wines, rakijas and other local products.

Kosovo War Tour

❐ Visoki Decani. UNESCO protected monastery Visoki Decani is one of the most important symbols of the rich Orthodox heritage in Kosovo

Kosovo Trip

Kosovo Unveiled: An 8-Day Authentic Cultural Journey through Time, Terrain, and Tradition

9. white drin and radavac cave.

White Drin, along with its amazing Radavac waterfall, is not to be missed while in Kosovo. The entire 122-kilometer-long Kosovo segment of the White Drin flows through the country’s semi-karst region. 

The White Drin is an underground river that rises beneath Mount Ljeb (2,382 meters above sea level) and emerges right here, at the stunning 25-meter-high waterfall, with a flow rate that can reach 65 meters per second at the end of winter. Radavac waterfall, surrounded by thousands of shades of greenery, has been a bucolic spot and a protected area since 1983.

The area is also known for the captivating magic of the subterranean world—Radavac Cave. Also known as the “Sleeping Beauty,” this cave is known for its vast network of tunnels, corridors, and galleries sculpted by a natural water force over the centuries.

Kosovo

❐ White Drin. The river source is known for its amazing waterfall and beautiful trails where you can do some nice and easy hikes as well as explore the complex Radavac cave.

10. Balkan Peaks

Discover the Accursed Mountains and some of the best hiking trails in the world. Erected from formerly inaccessible trails forbidden during the Cold War, The Peaks of the Balkans is a project created to represent a reconciliation and future development between Montenegro, Kosovo and Albania.

Unless you are in a full hike which will include the three countries and, roughly, 14 – 15 days, we would definitely suggest trying yourself out in one of the stunning trails of Mt. Gjeravica (Kosovo’s highest peak) or enjoy a bit easier but still embraced by captivating alpine sceneries and intriguing legends of the Accursed Mountains high up to the grandiose Mountain Hajla.

What to see in Kosovo

❐ Gjeravica. Known for its numerous large and small lakes, Gjeravica is the the second-highest mountain peak in the Accursed Mountains the Dinaric Alps chain.

kosovo hiking

The Balkan Peaks: Hajla Summit (2403m) Hiking Tour at Rugova Valley and Accursed Mountains

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Top 15 BEST Places to Visit in Kosovo

The still-disputed Republic of Kosovo is known for its historical change of rulers from the Byzantine kings to the Ottoman Sultans. The country is small in area but rich in art and history, there are plenty of places to visit in Kosovo .

There are many Kosovo points of interest. The mosques built during the Ottoman rule and the castles and the monasteries constructed during the Byzantine Empire still exist beautifully in this landlocked country . Some of the ancient establishments of this Republic even come from the 13th century.

The country has a lot of areas to develop for sure, but the elegant natural beauty of this country is unbound to any limitations.

The state is full of young spirits as more than 50% of Kosovo’s people are below the age of 25. Pristina is the capital of the Republic of Kosovo, whereas Pec and Prizren are other famous towns. The cities are full of adventure as they seem to reflect a high culture interested in serving their tourists.

The best natural places to visit in Kosovo are the National Park, the Gazivoda Lake, Rugova Mountain Ranges, Germia Park, and the Mirusha waterfalls .

So what are you waiting for? Book a trip to Kosovo for the next vacation and come across this new country seeing some very ancient monuments and the best of nature and also, it’s in Europe !

The hilly mountainous forest ranges include skiing opportunities in winter, hiking opportunities in summer , and beautiful sceneries throughout the year. Remember, this is a developing country, so don’t go expecting any skyscrapers or insanely bright nights like Vegas. But it packs up a grand tour with traditional pubs and some cozy places.

❗️ Be insured before your trip and get a SafetyWing FREE insurance quote 📚 Read our post about why you should always have insurance ✈️ Find out how to find cheap flights using Skyscanner or find deals now 🛌🏻 Book your accommodation through Booking.com , Expedia , or Agoda 🎭 Find awesome and hassle-free tours through GetYourGuide or Tourradar 🚘 Explore the surrounding areas on an epic road trip, here’s our tip ! 📱 Read destination reviews and other traveler tips on TripAdvisor

Table of Contents

What are the top places to visit in Kosovo?

National park bjeshkët e nemuna.

A national park situated in the west of Kosovo occupies a considerable area of 624.88 square kilometers. It was established in 2013 with a view of creating a new tourism site in the country. The name Bjeshkët E Nemuna means the cursed mountains.

The environment is ever-green with a variety of flora and fauna residing here. The park has a lot to offer, including a lovely river, some beautiful streams, and magnificent hilly mountains with green plants and trees.

Activities include sightseeing, fish catching, hiking, and mountain climbing . This national park is at the very top amongst the list of places to visit in Kosovo. The highest peak of Kosovo, Gjeravica, with a height of 2656 meters from the Adriatic Sea level, is also placed here.

Read also:   Top 20 Cheap European Holiday Destinations and Countries to Visit

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo national park bjeshket e nemuna gjeravica

The capital and the largest city of Kosovo have mostly Albanian residing here. With near about 20 monuments, a few mosques and a church from the Ottoman and Byzantine ages, the town is rich in history, as well as the center of the country’s commerce, entertainment, and healthcare.

There is the UNESCO’s world heritage site listed Gracanica Monastery from the fourteenth century, the elegant Kosovo Museum, the Ottoman Bath, a clock tower, and a public fountain.

The local people love enjoying festivals throughout the whole year-round in the city. Visit the local coffee shops, the swimming pools, and the shopping malls if you’re looking for activities in Kosovo’s capital. Also, taste the local Peja beer while in the pubs of Pristina as the city also has a vibrant nightlife.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Pristina

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo pristina

Gazivoda Lake

It is the largest lake in Kosovo. The lake is formed due to the dams of the river Ibar. The lake is shared by both Kosovo and Serbia . Its area is near 12 square kilometers of which, Kosovo has more than 9 square kilometers, and Serbia has about 3 square kilometers.

With an average depth of more than 100 meters, this lake is the abode to many aquatic faunas and a variety of fishes. A magnificent scenery can be seen from the hilly areas outside the vast lake. Tourists all across the world visit this lake when they reach Kosovo for a tour.

Read also:   Top 17 Most Beautiful and Best Lakes in Europe to Visit

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo gazivoda lake

Placed Northwest from the city of Peja or, locally, Pec, Rugova is a natural ecstasy with mostly forest ranges in mountain surfaces. The best time to visit Rugova Mountains is in the snows of winter as this is also the 4th best Skiing and snowboarding destination in the world, according to the International Ski Federation.

The mountainous Rugova consists of 13 traditional villages in the hilly regions. The entire Peja can be seen from a place in Rugova called Qafa-e-Qyqas (the Cuchoo’s Neck). With a lot of streams, lakes, glaciers, cliffs, and caves, the site is best for experiencing the fun of activities like mountain climbing, hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

A visit to the mountains of Rugova is an integral part of Kosovo tourism.

Read also:   Top 6 Mountains to Go Hiking in Europe (For Outdoors Enthusiasts)

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo rugova mountain

Gračanica Monastery

Established in 1321 AD, the Serbian King Milutin dedicated the monastery to the Holy Virgin Mary. It is set 5 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Pristina at the Gracanica village.

The monastery is built following a multiple-tombs shape and a Serbian structure. The inner side is designed magnificently and decorated beautifully with an antique Byzantine culture.

The original paintings and treasures were lost in a fire after a jubilee of the establishment. The monastery was listed on the heritage sites list in 2006, due to its architectural beauty and marvelous paintings. The site seems to be attracting tourists on a much grander scale ever since.

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo gracanica monastery

Also called Peja in the local tongue, the city of Pec has an area of 602 square meters and 95 villages. The main attractions in Pec of Kosovo are the Patriarchal Monastery of Pec, the Ethnological Museum, the Zenel Beg Tower, the City Center, and of course, the Rugova canyon and mountains.

The Patriarchate Monastery is also included in UNESCO’s world heritage list. The beautiful Bistrica River flows beside the town. You should check out the Peja Bazar as you go sightseeing in the city. Some more establishments back from the 14th century can be seen there.

Visit the local shops to buy souvenirs to take back, and the restaurants to eat and taste the famous Pec Cheese. Activities in Pec include rock climbing, skiing, hiking, and paragliding with the local experts from the Aeroclub of Pec.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Peć

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo pec

Kosovo Museum

The museum, created in 1949, is the most significant museum of Kosovo inside Pristina. It was working on three particular subjects of ethnography, archaeology, and natural science; the museum started collecting paintings and relics for the exhibition.

Later it also started gathering artifacts that represent the struggle of the Kosovans in their liberation war. There is an ethnological museum and an archaeological park that also belongs to this museum.

The monuments and artifacts express mostly ancient archaeology, alongside some examples of ethnography. The structure of the building is also very refined. Your Kosovo travel guide should include this place only if you are in Pristina and a few days in hand, as the museum is often closed for renovation.

Read also:   Top 12 Museums in Europe (For Arts, History, and Culture)

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo museum pristina

Being the second most populated city of Kosovo, Prizren is also situated at the bank of Bistrica and the base of the Sharr Mountains. The town is famous mostly for the traditionally designed houses and the historically old mosques.

The Kalaja Fortress is amongst the entire Kosovo attractions. There are also some cathedrals and museums in this pleasant city. The Church of Our Lady of Ljevis, listed in UNESCO’s heritage sites list, is another center of Prizren tourism. The Sinan Pasha Mosque, Mustafa Pasha Mosque, and the Bajrakli Mosque are prominent amongst the whole nation.

The Dokufest film festival held in the enchanting Old Town of Prizren is another reason to visit the city for tourists coming from foreign countries. The town also offers tasty Serbian-Kosovan cuisine and some reputable shops. Outdoor activities like hiking and skiing are easily perforable as the town is literally at the foot of a vast mountain .

Where to stay: Best hotels in Prizren

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo prizren

Ethnological Museum

The ethnological museum is located in the town of Peć. The entry fee is only a euro, but it provides so much in their exhibitions. The materials on the show are the ancient weapons used in the Kosovo war, the royal dresses of the past kings and their home utensils, relics from the typical lifestyle of the ancient civilizations in Pec, and some old folk musical instruments that are entirely vintage stuff.

There are also some elements that come from even the Ottoman period and of the old Serbian civilization. The site is indeed one of the Kosovo country points of interest.

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo ethnological museum pec

Germia Park

The most prominent natural park in Pristina, Germia, is situated in the northeastern part of the capital of Kosovo, with a vast area of 62 square kilometers. Here resides more than 60 species of faunas and more than 600 species of floral species.

The beautiful pathway or the hiking trail of Germia Park is surrounded by pine trees. You can also rent a bicycle for a couple of euros to stay there for two hours and roam around the park.

It offers a rock-climbing wall, a basketball ground, and a playground along the trail. The swimming pool of the park is enormous, and the inner restaurants also provide great food with luxury cuisine.

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo germia park pristina

National Library

When you are on the premises of the library, you will be more likely amazed as well as stupefied. The whole architecture or the construction is just shocking to everyone because it is more like small floating rectangles, like a square-shaped tomb.

From being established in 1944, after 70 years, the library has managed to gather more than a hundred thousand books . A Croatian architect designed the building but, there are debates about if it is, only the best or just the worst.

There are two reading chambers with 400 chairs. The total area inside is somewhere around 16,500 square meters. The library , being renowned as an exciting place, is amongst the core places to see in Kosovo if you go to Pristina.

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo national library pristina

Patriarchate of Peć

This place is mainly an ancient monastery from the 13th century in the order of Serbian Orthodox churches inside the city of Pec in Kosovo, near the Rugova Mountains and Bistrica River.

The main monastery is divided into four different monasteries, and the Patriarchate of Peć controls all of them. There is an extensive collection of religious monuments inside the monastery.

The tall tower and the 750 years old tree inside the monastery area are peculiar matters and of great interest among the tourists. A great Kosovo tourism includes this UNESCO’s world heritage listed site if you visit Pec while in Kosovo.

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo patriarchate of pec

Mirusha Waterfalls

Mirusha waterfalls are a sequence of moderate waterfalls that form the nearby 13 lakes in Mirusha Park. The waterfalls are magnificent to watch and pleasant to hear. There are some generally unseen birds in the park.

The park also consists of a variety of canyons and caves. The place is very enchanting for nature lovers . The walls of these waterfalls are white and made of stone in some relatively high cliffs. The highest waterfall inside the entire park is about 72 feet in altitude.

The whole park is in a mountainous range, providing the opportunity for a superb view of the lakes.

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo mirusha waterfalls

Sinan Pasha Mosque

It is a very lovely mosque found in the city of Prizren and demonstrates traditional design from the 17th century Ottoman or Turkish rule in Kosovo. The Ottoman rulers built this mosque with the aim of spreading the religion of Islam.

There are some great paintings of Arabic Verses from their holy book of the Al-Quran. The walls inside the mosque are also designed very beautifully with Arabic letters and sentences.

The inner chamber of the mosque was being damaged due to rain, and the mosque was plastered with lead plates later on. This holy religious place is built upon an area of 196 square meters and is rectangular.

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo sinan pasha mosque prizren

Prizren Fortress

Also known as the Kalaja fortress, it was built somewhere around the 11th century. It is a magnificent antique fort made by the Byzantines, in the city Prizren too. To reach this splendid fort, you will need a 10-15 minutes hike in the bursting heat if you go in the tour season. But everyone coming back from the place always has a smile of satisfaction, which indicates the hike was worth it.

The place is almost like a small city as it was developed by the Byzantines while they used it as a center of governance. After Byzantine rule, it went into the hands of the Ottoman and later became a ruin of Kosovo’s independent war.

Now it is a great tourism site and undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Kosovo. Travel to Prizren fortress while in Prizren as it is a great site to explore and open to public display.

points of interest where to go and places to visit in kosovo prizren fortress

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

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10 Amazing Places to Visit in Kosovo in 2024

Kosovo is a secret gem as it is one of the lesser-known destinations in Europe. Whether you are a nature lover or culture buff, this country offers so much to tourists. There are so many incredible places to visit in Kosovo including Prizren and the beautiful Gazivoda Lake.

The Republic of Kosovo lies at the centre of the Balkans and is a self-declared independent country. Although many countries recognise Kosovo’s declaration of independence from Serbia, several countries do not, making this country’s political history a little complicated.

This article is going to tell you everything you need to know including the most popular Kosovo attractions and the most authentic dishes to try.

Table of Contents 1. Pristina 2. Kosovo Museum 3. Prizren 4. Rugova Canyon 5. The Bear Sanctuary 6. Gazivoda Lake 7. Bjeshket E Nemuna National Park 8. Gracanica Monastery 9. Mirusha Waterfalls 10. Peja 11. Transport 12. Food and Drink 13. Weather 14. Safety 15. Accommodation

Things to do in Tirana

The Best Places to Visit in Kosovo

1. the capital city of pristina.

Pristina is the beautiful capital city of Kosovo and is one of the most popular places to visit in the country. Aside from the beautiful architecture, coffee shops and nightlife; the city has a lot to offer.

The National Library of Kosovo is found within the city and is known for its interesting and ‘very ugly’ design. Although the exterior of the building leaves a lot to be desired, the library itself is home to over 100,000 books and has a total area of around 16,500 square meters.

The Newborn Monument is also found within Pristina. As Kosovo only gained its independence in 2008, that makes it the youngest country in Europe. The monument was created to honour this, and every year on Kosovo’s anniversary the building is repainted a different colour.

Some of the other sights to see within Pristina include the Clock Tower, the statue of Bill Clint on and the Ottoman Bath. The city of Pristina is definitely one of the best places to visit in Kosovo as it offers an array of authentic experiences and cultures.

Pristina

2. Kosovo Museum

The Kosovo Museum is located within the city of Pristina and is the National Museum of Kosovo. It is the largest museum in the country and was founded in 1949. The building itself has some of the most intricate architecture within the country, but the Museum exhibits are also a must-see.

The museum consists of three different parts in total; these are the museum itself, the Museum of Independence and Emin Gjiku’s Housing Complex. The main museum has departments of natural science, archaeology and ethnography and offers a brilliant insight into the country’s culture and history.

3. Prizren (One of the Best Places to Visit in Kosovo)

If you are looking for a hidden gem, then visiting Prizren is a must. Often known as the ‘prettiest city in Kosovo’, Prizren is located along the banks of the Lumbardhi River and on the slopes of the Sar aka Sharr mountains.

Although it is the second most populated city in Kosovo, Prizren offers a relaxed and atmospheric vibe. Colourful festivals are frequent in this city and most of the popular sights are located close together, making the city easy to explore.

Some of the most popular things to do in Prizren include visiting the Prizren Fortress, walking along the Old Stone Bridge and marvelling at Sinan Pash Mosque . If you love adventure, then hiking in the Sharr Mountains National Park should also be on your list!

Our partners at Get Your Guide offer tours of Prizren.

Prizren

4. Rugova Canyon

Rugova Canyon is considered to be one of Europe’s deepest and longest canyons. With an impressive depth of up to 1,000m and a length of 25km (16 miles), you can see why this spot has made it onto our ‘places to visit in Kosovo’ list.

Rugova Canyon was created by water erosion and the retreat of the Peja glacier. Today, the Peja Bistrica river runs through the canyon. In 1985 it was declared a protected monument of natural heritage due to its incredible landscape and geological values.

If you are an adventure seeker, then the canyon offers amazing opportunities to rock climb, explore caves and hike. Visiting the Rugova Canyon is by far one of the best things to do in Kosovo and shouldn’t be missed.

5. The Bear Sanctuary

In the Balkans bears used to be kept in cages for entertainment purposes at restaurants and other public venues. Luckily today this practice is illegal, and now this sanctuary is providing homes to many rescued bears.

There are currently around 20 bears at the sanctuary and they have 16 hectares of land to roam. The sanctuary has been open since 2013 and has become a popular tourist attraction in Kosovo.

If you love animals, then this is a must-see whilst visiting the country. However, be prepared to get a little closer than you’d expect. The bears sometimes like to take walks around the perimeter, so sometimes you can get a pretty close view of them!

6. Gazivoda Lake

Gazivoda Lake is the largest and most beautiful lake in Kosovo. The lake is so large that it even extends over the border into Serbia. It is a man-made lake that was built in 1977 to supply drinking water and irrigation to north and central Kosovo.

With an average depth of over 100m, the lake is home to plenty of aquatic life. It is also the perfect spot to do a bit of wild swimming if you don’t mind the temperature of the water!

The surrounding area offers plenty of hiking opportunities, where you can get amazing views of Gazivoda Lake below. There are also lots of areas to head out on mountain bikes, and even a couple of beaches located along the lakeside where you can relax and take a picnic.

7. National Park Bjeshkët E Nemuna

National Park Bjeshkët E Nemuna is located in Western Kosovo and is a popular tourist attraction. The National Park is huge and covers an area of over 63,000 hectares, offering beautiful scenery ranging from mountainous terrain, glistening lakes and dense forests. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kosovo, so make sure you add it to your itinerary.

Some of the most popular activities to do here include fishing, sightseeing, hiking and even mountain climbing. The highest peak in the country is located here and makes for an intense climb. The mountain is called Gjeravica and sits at an impressive height of 2656m above sea level.

If you are a nature lover, there is also an abundance of flora and fauna located here. The area is incredibly biodiverse and is home to a number of large mammals, reptiles, birds and fish. If you are lucky you might get to spot wildcats, roe deer, grey wolves, lynx or even brown bears.

National Park, Kosovo

8. Gračanica Monastery

Gračanica Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox Monastery that was built in 1321 by the Serbian King Stefan Milutin. The monastery was dedicated to the Holy Virgin Mary and was even constructed on the ruins of an older 13th-century church of the Holy Virgin.

The monastery has had a traumatic past and has undergone many restorations. It suffered damages during the Ottoman rule, the battle of Kosovo, the Great Turkish War, the second siege of Vienna and it was even bombed twice in 1999 by NATO airplanes. Unfortunately, the majority of original paintings and treasures from the monastery have been lost either in the various fires or damages the monastery has suffered throughout the centuries.

The monastery was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006 and has been attracting tourists from all across the world ever since. So even though we can’t see the Gračanica Monastery’s original historic art pieces, we can still marvel at its architectural beauty.

Monastery

9. Mirusha Waterfalls

The Mirusha Falls are a series of waterfalls that are found within Mirusha Park. These waterfalls and the 13 lakes that are located here are popular spots for tourists and a great place to swim. The waterfalls are located between each lake, with the highest waterfall being 22m (72 ft) high.

Within the park, there are various caves and canyons to explore that have been carved out by the waterfalls over time. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities that will give you superb views over the lakes and waterfalls if you get high enough.

These waterfalls are located about halfway between Pristina and Peja so are the perfect stop-off whilst visiting these destinations. The walk starts from the village of Gremnik and is about a half-hour walk through the countryside.

Mirusha Waterfall

Peja is the fourth largest city in Kosovo and is also known by its Albanian name Pejë or its Serbian name ‘Peć’ which translates to ‘cave’. That is presumably due to the popular caves and Rugova Canyon located nearby.

Peja is often a popular spot for hikers as it’s the gateway to the Accursed Mountains (which are also known as the Albanian Alps).

Aside from going hiking, there are plenty of other things to do in Peja. Some of the most popular places to visit include the old Bazaar, the main square and simply eating lots of authentic dishes in the cities restaurants. The Patriarchate Of Peć is also located just outside of Peja.

Getting to Kosovo

If you are flying into Kosovo, then you will be arriving at Pristina International Airport. The airport is located about 20km outside of the capital city, but there are plenty of transport options. There is a bus that runs from the airport into the city centre which is by far the cheapest option, or you can choose to get a taxi.

Generally travelling overland from neighbouring countries into Kosovo is quite difficult. Some border crossings are for locals only, and others you need to transit via a third country. Another thing to be mindful of when travelling overland is the border between Serbia and Kosovo. Political tensions are still relatively high between these countries, and border crossings can be complicated.

The border town of Mitrovica can see sporadic outbreaks of violence as the town is mixed Serb and Kosovo Albanian separated by a river. Pay attention to local news when travelling in the region.

Important Note:

If you enter Kosovo from Albania, Montenegro or North Macedonia, you may not be able to enter Serbia afterward as Serbia deems Kosovo Serbian territory and you will have no entry stamp. Even travelling to and from Serbia may cause issues if they see a Kosovo stamp in your passport.

When I travelled from Serbia to Kosovo in 2010 I was held up at the border when returning to Serbia, taken off the bus and searched (no one else was). They didn’t spot the Kosovo stamp as it was well hidden on a page with many others so I was allowed back in. Check up to date travel new or with your embassy before going.

Getting Around Kosovo

There are various ways to travel around Kosovo including hiring a car and getting public transport.

Renting a hire car is probably the most popular choice as there are plenty of great places to visit in Kosovo. Even though the country is relatively small in comparison to other European countries, the popular sights are located a fair distance away from each other.

Buses connect most of the major towns in Kosovo so are a great way to get around. Tickets are very cheap, and the timetables are often the most convenient. You can travel by train throughout the country but journeys are often slow, so are best avoided unless travelling a long distance.

Whether you choose to get a hire car or public transport, be prepared for a bumpy journey. The road quality in Kosovo is poor, and you are very likely to come across large potholes and uneven surfaces.

The best food dishes to try in Kosovo

Here are some of the tasty dishes in Kosovo that you need to try!

Sarma – Sarma consists of a filling that is surrounded by leafy vegetables. There are many different versions of this dish so the fillings can vary. However, typically the filling consists of minced meat, rice, herbs, seasonings, red pepper and often a tomato sauce. The wrapping usually consists of cabbage, collard greens or sauerkraut leaves.

Flija – Flija is typically described as a stack of layered pancakes, and contains two different mixtures. The first mixture is used for the batter and consists of flour, water, salt and eggs. The second mixture is used as a filling and consists of oil, butter and yoghurt.

Šarski sir – Šarski sir is a salty cheese that is made with sheep’s and cow’s milk. It is produced in two varieties; hard (which is more traditional) and soft. It is often paired with bread, salads or pie.

The weather in Kosovo

The summers in Kosovo are generally warm and very clear, whilst the winters are known to be freezing with plenty of snow. The warmest month to visit Kosovo is in August, where temperatures reach an average high of 28°C. The coldest month to visit is in January with an average low temperature of -4°C. The summer season in Kosovo lasts from June to September, with the cold season lasting from November to March.

The best time to visit Kosovo

The best time to visit Kosovo is generally between April to September. This means you will miss out on the freezing temperatures and snow. The weather between this period will generally be mild to warm, with less precipitation. However temperatures in July and August can get extremely hot, so if you are hiking you need to bear this in mind.

Kosovo

Is Kosovo Safe to Visit?

Although Kosovo has had its problems, it’s considered to be a fairly safe country to visit. However, there are a few things to be mindful of. Although crime does occur in the cities, the majority is petty crime including pickpocketing, theft and card fraud.

The other major thing to be wary of when exploring Kosovo is where you are walking. Due to the years of conflict, landmines and unexploded bombs once littered Kosovo. A lot of them were cleared in a de-mining project, but some could still remain in rural and unexplored areas. Always stick to well-worn paths!

People have also been known to steal manhole covers for scrap metal throughout the country so keep your eyes down when walking.

It goes without saying to avoid talking politics with people you meet. It’s also a good idea not to have any Serbian items on you when travelling in Kosovo.

Accommodation in Kosovo

When it comes to staying in Kosovo, there are plenty of accommodation choices. Here are accommodation choices for some of the destinations we have covered in this article.

Pristina Hotels

Budget accommodation: Prishtina Center Hostel (A double room with balcony) Mid-budget accommodation: Downtown Apartments (A superior studio) Luxury accommodation: Swiss Diamond Hotel Prishtina (A business double room with breakfast included)

Prizren Hotels

Budget accommodation: Deni House (A large twin room) Mid-budget accommodation: HANI I VJETER Boutique Hotel (A double room with terrace) Luxury accommodation: Hotel Kacinari (A king suite with breakfast included)

So is Kosovo worth visiting? If you love culture, nature and authentic experiences then yes! There are so many incredible places to visit in Kosovo, that there is something for everyone no matter their travel style. You can visit the beautiful cities of Pristina and Prizren, hike through the beautiful national parks or learn about the countries history at Kosovo Museum. There are so many incredible things to do, so make sure you add this country to your (ever-growing) bucket list!

Bay of Bones Museum Ohrid

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

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Home > 31 Things To Do In Pristina + Restaurants & Hotels

31 Things To Do In Pristina + Restaurants & Hotels

Post author Drita

Written by our local expert Drita

Drita is a shy Albanian girl. Her Mom is from Kosovo, her Dad from Serbia. She loves to travel & share travel trips to help first-time travelers exploring Albania & the Balkans.

Pristina, Kosovo is a diverse city to discover! Here are the top things to do when visiting, along with ideas on where to eat and where to stay.

Kosovo Travel Blog_Best Things To Do In Pristina Kosovo

Pristina, also known as Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo, holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its captivating blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure but also because of my family roots deeply embedded in this beautiful city.

As I explore Pristina’s diverse range of experiences, I can’t help but feel a strong connection to this great place. Located in the Northeastern part of Kosovo, close to the enchanting Goljak mountains in the District of Pristina, this city has always felt like a second home to me.

Now, I’m thrilled to share my love for Pristina with you as we embark on a journey to discover the best things to do in this remarkable city, ensuring your visit is filled with memorable moments and delightful discoveries.

  • 7 Days In Kosovo – Pristina, Prizren & Beyond

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Historical And Cultural Landmarks In Pristina

1. visit the emin gjiku ethnographic museum.

One of the best places to visit in Pristina is the Emin Gjiku Ethnographic Museum. It’s located in an old 18th-century house in the Bazaar area and shows what Kosovar life was like from the 15th to the 20th century. The tour guides explain how all the furniture, tools, pottery, traditional clothing, jewelry, musical instruments, and weapons were used and give you some insight into Pristina traditions.

2. See Pristina’s Oldest Mosque

Sultan Bayezid I lost his father, Sultan Murad I, in the battle of Amselfeld, which they won against the Christian defenders.

To commemorate the victory and remember his father, Sultan Bayezid, I built the Carshi Mosque in 1393.  Also known as the Bazaar Mosque, Stone Mosque, or Sultan Murad Mosque, it is one of the famous places in Pristina and the city’s oldest mosque.

Standing in the bazaar area near the start of the old town, it’s an essential addition to the list of things to see in Pristina.

3. Visit The Sultan Mehmet Fatih Mosque

Things To Do In Prizren Kosovo - Fatih Mosque

The Sultan Mehmet Fatih Mosque, also known as the Imperial Mosque and locally referred to as the Fatih Mosque, stands as one of Pristina’s top attractions.

Constructed in 1461 by Sultan Mehmet II Fatih, this historical edifice has witnessed various historical phases, including its temporary transformation into a Catholic Church during the 17th-century Ottoman-Habsburg wars.

Adorned with exquisite paintings and murals, the mosque’s interiors captivate visitors with their artistic and historical richness. As the most significant mosque in Pristina, it’s a compelling destination for anyone interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural and religious tapestry.

4. See The Museum Of Kosovo

Among Pristina’s top 10 tourist attractions is the Museum of Kosovo, which opened in 1949.

The Kosovo Museum is a great spot to learn more about the history of Kosovo. It’s also an excellent way to get out of the rain for a few hours. You’ll learn about Kosovo all the way back to the prehistoric era, with a large segment of the museum dedicated to the war and independence.

The museum is located in a building built in 1889 to house the military high command. Recently renovated, the Museum of Kosovo is no doubt one of the top things  to see.

The museum is free to enter, but you can donate if you choose.

5. Christ the Savior Orthodox Cathedral

Things to do in Kosovo - Orthodox Church

This church is abandoned, but the architecture is still magnificent. However, it’s the history that people want to learn about.

During the war, Serbia forced Kosovans to build churches, which was difficult considering that the majority of the population was Muslim. When the war ended, this church was left half-built, and it remains that way now.

6. National University Library

Now, at first glance, you might decide that this building is, in fact, quite ugly to look at, but it still deserves some of your time. Some people think it’s modernist and beautiful; others think it’s horrible – what do you think?

It’s designed in a Brutalist architectural style, which might not be the prettiest way to create a building, but it certainly stands out!

Of course, you can forget what it looks like and go inside to explore the millions of books and artifacts.

7. Saviors Cathedral

Although it’s still under construction, the Saviors Cathedral in Pristina is worth a visit.

The building itself tells a story of the city’s evolving religious landscape. It’s a fascinating glimpse into contemporary Pristina and its communities.

8. Visit Saint Teresa Cathedral

Cities in Kosovo - The Cathedral of Blessed Mother Teresa Kosovo

Built in 2007, the Cathedral of Blessed Mother Teresa is dedicated to the Albanian nun, Saint Teresa of Calcutta. It was inaugurated in 2010 by President Ibrahim Rugova of Kosovo on the 100th anniversary of Mother Teresa’s birthday.

It is one of the tallest buildings in Pristina, and it is possible to go up the bell tower at certain hours. The Cathedral is one of the popular destinations in Pristina for followers of Saint Teresa.

9. Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Perpetual Succour

This cathedral is more than just an ideal place of worship; it’s home to the Skanderbeg fresco by Gjergj Panarati.

Painted in 1883, this piece is a must-see for art lovers and anyone interested in religious history.

10. Visoki Decani Monastery

A short trip to the Visoki Decani Monastery is well worth your time. Built by Serbian King Stefan Decanski, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its medieval frescoes. I

t’s a peaceful spot that offers a mix of history, art, and spirituality.

11. Take A Day Trip To The Gracanica Monastery

Gracanica is a Serbian Orthodox monastery located in Kosovo

To get to this top tourist site in Pristina, you will need to travel. Grancanica Monastery is located 10 km away from the city, so it’s not too far.

Built by King Stefan Milutin in 1321 on a 6th-century church’s ruins, the monastery is famous for its double inscribed cross ceiling and dome structure. One of the best sites in Pristina reflecting Serbo-Byzantine architecture, the monastery is now the Bishop of Raska’s official seat and UNESCO  World Heritage site .

What language do they speak in Pristina? Most of the population speaks Albanian and Serbian, but English, German, Bosnian, and Turkish are also widely spoken.

Did you know? After Tirana , Pristina ranks as the second-largest city in the world in terms of an Albanian-speaking population.

12. Partisan Martyrs Cemetery

For a more somber experience, head to the Partisan Martyrs Cemetery. It’s a tribute to those who fought in World War II.

The cemetery offers a quiet space for contemplation and a stark reminder of the region’s turbulent history.

Art And Architecture In Pristina

13. visit the weird national library of kosovo.

Things To Do In Prizren Kosovo - National Library

This kind of weird-looking structure is one of the top places of interest in Pristina and is listed as one of the ugliest buildings in the world.

The National Library of Kosovo must be seen while in Pristina! Supposedly a melting of Byzantine and Islamic architecture, the 99 white domes provide natural lighting to the library and resemble the Albanian national hat “plisi.”

This Pristina attraction is like a prison outside and a regular library from the inside.

14. The Newborn Monument

The Newborn Monument is one of Pristina’s latest additions, and it’s got a real meaning behind it. This is designed to show that Kosovo is one of Europe’s newest countries , hence the newborn analogy. The monument was initially built to mark Kosovo’s independence from Serbia back in 2008.

15. Spot Street Art

Pristina is full of iconic street art, and walking around and spotting it is a great way to spend your time. Plus, it’s free! Just wear some comfortable shoes and take your camera.

A lot of the murals are located in the center of Pristina itself, including a mural of the famous singer Dua Lipa! However, make sure you venture outside of the city center as you’ll also find some fantastic pieces of art dotted around the suburbs.

16. Visit The National Gallery

Balkan Flags_Kosovo 1

Right next to the University Library, you’ll find the National Gallery, which is free to enter. It’s a great way to learn more about local art, and there is a large exhibition dedicated to it.

17. The Mother Teresa Statue

You’ll see statues and nods to Mother Teresa all around the city, but this is the main one. Located in the city center, this statue is made of bronze and shows Mother Teresa standing with a child.

The design is said to show how some people in the world are less fortunate than others and that we should show the same level of kindness to everyone.

18. Milos Obilic Statue

In Pristina, you’ll find the statue of Milos Obilic, a significant figure from the 14th century.

Known for his role in the Battle of Kosovo, notably his assassination of the Ottoman Sultan, this statue is more than just a landmark. It’s a piece of history right in the heart of the city, perfect for those who love to dive into the historical tales of the places they visit.

19. Pristina Spomenik

Check out the Pristina Spomenik, a standout piece of Yugoslav architecture from the 1960s. It’s a symbol of unity and brotherhood. While you’re there, think about what this monument might have meant during its time.

It’s an excellent spot for a photo and a bit of reflection on the city’s past.

20. The Përmendorja Statue

The Përmendorja statue is located in the center of the city, and it’s designed to commemorate the soldiers who died during the Liberation Struggle in World War II.

Initially, the statue was created in grey, as most statues are, but now it’s been painted in a vibrant purple color, which certainly makes it stand out, even if it does seem a bit odd.

Brands We Use And Trust

Public squares and outdoor attractions, 21. visit the monument at skanderbeg square.

Next on the list of places to see in Pristina is Skanderbeg Square. After the Kosovo conflict in 1999 ended, the Albanians in Kosovo erected this monument to Gjergj Kastrioti, who’s famously known as Skanderbeg.

He was a nobleman from the 15th century who fought against the Ottoman rulers. This Pristina top 10 contender, locally known as Sheshi Skënderbeu, resembles statues in Tirana, Albania, and Skopje , Macedonia.

22. Bill Clinton Boulevard

Yes, there is a boulevard dedicated to the former US president. This area was named in Clinton’s honor as a way of marking the help the US gave to Kosovo during the war.

It’s an excellent place to visit to say you’ve been, and it’s another area that’s great for people-watching and enjoying a coffee.

23. People-Watching On MT Boulevard

Things To Do In Sarajevo - Bosnian Coffee

A great way to spend an hour or so is to grab a tea or coffee and sit and watch the world go by on MT Boulevard.

You’ll find lots of cafes and the most beautiful places to eat around here, and it’s always a bustling, sociable place. People watching here is fantastic; from locals to tourists, you’ll see it all.

Be sure to head here during the evening and enjoy a delicious traditional meal, too.

24. Old Clock Tower

Don’t miss the Old Clock Tower. It’s not just a pretty structure; it’s a slice of Pristina’s history. Great for a photo opportunity and a quick lesson in the city’s past.

25. Batlava Lake

Need a break from the city? Drive out to Batlava Lake. It’s a peaceful spot, great for relaxing and enjoying some natural scenery. Plus, it’s an important water source for the area, which is pretty interesting.

Unique Experiences

26. wander through the bazaar of pristina.

Pristina Bazaar, the Bazaar of Pristina or Carshia e Prishtines, was the main bazaar in the Old City of Pristina since the 15th century. Much of it was destroyed during the 1950s and 1960s, and government buildings were put up in their place.

But you can still see the old Bazaar Hammam and Bazaar Mosque and Pristina tourist attractions. The remnants of the bazaar area are filled with vendors selling vegetables, appliances, and many flea market items.

A must-see in Pristina!

27. Visit The Mesozoic Era Gadime Caves

Found in 1966 by Ahmet Asllani’s villager while working in his garden, the Marble Cave, or Gadime Cave in theime e Ulët, Lipljan is a Mesozoic era karst limestone cave.

FulThe ves can be visited on a guided tour . It is full of remarkable stalactite and stalagmite formations, although you’ll have to drive for half an hour to get here; it’s one of the most amazing places to visit around Pristina.

28. Climb The Bell Tower

National library of Kosovo and unfinished serbian orthodox church of Christ the Saviour in Prishtina, Kosovo

While you’re visiting Mother Teresa Cathedral, make sure you venture up the bell tower and check out the fantastic views.

This is the highest point in the city that you can go to, so you’re going to see panoramas that take your breath away. Don’t worry; you don’t need to walk as there is an elevator that will take you right to the top for just a couple of Euros.

29. The Heroinat Memorial

The Heroinat Memorial is definitely worth visiting as it’s designed to commemorate the women who suffered and gave up so much during the war.

It is located across from the Newborn Monument, and it shows 20,000 pins. Each pin represents one woman who suffered horrendous sexual violence from Serbian soldiers during the war.

It’s a harrowing thing to think about, but it’s something everyone should see and give a few moments of quiet contemplation to.

30. National Theatre of Kosovo

Looking for something to do in Pristina at night? Catch a play at the National Theatre of Kosovo. It’s a great way to soak up some local culture and see what the contemporary art scene in Kosovo is all about.

31. Drink Rakia

Croatian plum brandy - Rakija

Rakia in Albania is a traditional alcoholic beverage widely consumed. It is a type of fruit brandy commonly made from grapes, but it can also be produced using other fruits like plums, apricots, apples, pears, or cherries.

Rakia is known for its strong flavor and high alcohol content, often homemade in rural areas, and plays a significant role in Albanian social and cultural events. It’s a popular drink for toasting and celebrations, reflecting an important aspect of Albanian hospitality and culinary tradition – so be sure to try it.

Best Places To Visit In Pristina To Taste Local Food

Food is something you can never do without on your travels! And if you know me, you would know that I love a local restaurant on my travels. Pristina has so much delicious local fare to try. Getting stuffed with steaks and ajvar or drinking local craft beers is a good thing to do in Pristina!

Here are the best restaurants (and my favorite) places to visit in Pristina to satisfy the foodie in you:

Te Syla or Alhambra

Located in Sejdi Begu in Shadervan, the Te Syla is a riverside restaurant started by a street food vendor named Sylejman Dapko in 1967. The simple décor and superb location complement the exquisite dishes served here.

If you visit, try the fantastic Balkan Grill, kebabs, grilled pastries, and other dishes. The official name of the restaurant, though, is Alhambra.

Besimi Beska

Kosovo Travel Blog_Things To Do In Pristina_Besimi Beska

The colorful plates at Besimi Beska are so pretty; they’ll leave you not wanting to touch your food. The portions are generous, and the food is delicious.

Try the mixed grill, the goulash , steaks, and local bread with cheese. The bread, naans, and pizzas are made in traditional brick ovens.

The restaurant is located in Shadervanit 56 in Old Town and has a small pond and trees.

Princessa Gresa Restaurant

Located on Fehmi Agani Street, the Princessa Gresa Restaurant is famous for its unique Fish Plate and Ramstek viqi Veal Steak. It’s one of Pristina’s top tourist destinations that keeps guests returning for more!

Soma Book Station

Kosovo Travel Blog_Things To Do In Pristina_Soma Book Station

A local favorite, Soma Book Station, looks like an extensive library that serves food and drink . Local beers and seasonal wines accompany the tasty food served here.

Guests can spend hours here renting books for just 1 Euro or playing old vinyl records.

If you love John Cage, Chet Baker, and Sonny Rollins, you’ll love grabbing a drink or meal at Soma Book Station. It’s a must on your Pristina to-do list!

Pishat is one of Pristina’s downtown restaurants that has been serving local Albanian food for over 35 years. It’s easy to find, priced slightly on the higher side, but serves excellent Lavazza coffee and a range of Albanian dishes.

Restaurant Liburnia

Kosovo Travel Blog_Things To Do In Pristina_Restaurant Liburnia

Enter Restaurant Liburnia, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a fairytale or a novel. The restaurant close to the town hall is filled with lamps, vines and creepers and has a traditional ambiance.

It’s on the list of top Pristina places to visit to try local freshly baked bread and meat dishes.

Renaissance

This restaurant is easy to miss because the wooden doors look like they belong to someone’s home. No outside sign indicates you’ve reached one of the famous Pristina attractions.

There’s no menu here, either! You go in, get seated, and the server serves you various local food and drinks until you’re full. It’s like a buffet on your own.

Sometimes you must wait long for a table, but it’s worth it! A favorite with the locals, the Renaissance is at the top of the list of things to do in Pristina for food lovers.

Kosovo Travel Blog_Best Things To Do In Pristina_Tiffany

One of the cool things to do in Pristina when on holiday is to sit out on a sunny terrace and enjoy a glass of wine. You can do that here at the Tiffany while tasting delicious organic food and freshly baked bread.

The restaurant also sells jars of its famous Ajvar sauce that you can take home as a memento of your Pristina travel.

  • Foods To Try In Kosovo

Where To Stay When You Visit Pristina

You’ll find plenty of accommodation close to the things to do in Prishtina; here are some of our top picks:

Swiss Diamond Hotel Prishtina

Kosovo Travel Blog_Where to Stay in Kosovo_5-Star Hotel - Swiss Diamond Hotel Prishtina

Just 100 meters from the Center of Prishtina and right next to the landmarks in Pristina, such as the Parliament Hall and National Theater, the Swiss Diamond Hotel Prishtina offers 5-star facilities and Kosovo’s most prestigious spa.

Hotel Sirius

Kosovo Travel Blog_Where to Stay in Pristina_Hotel Sirius

The luxurious Hotel Sirius has a fantastic rooftop restaurant with views of the best Pristina sights, a stone’s throw from the best things to see in Pristina.

Golden Hotel

Kosovo Travel Blog_Where to Stay in Pristina_Hotel Garden

If you’re wondering where to go in Pristina, that’s simplistic but rich; the Golden Hotel has beautiful rooms and suites where all the beds have lovely golden borders. It’s within 1 km walking distance from the Mother Teresa Cathedral.

Hotel Nartel

Kosovo Travel Blog_Where to Stay in Pristina_Hotel Nartel

Centrally located in Pristina, the Hotel Nartel offers comfortable and straightforward 4-star rooms within a 5500-meter walk from all the restaurants and stuff to do in Pristina.

Hotel Pejton

Kosovo Travel Blog_Where To Stay In Pristina_Hotel Pejton

Close to the City Centre and Pristina attractions, the Hotel Pejton offers clean and comfortable rooms within walking distance of all the top places to see in Pristina.

Hotel Adria

Kosovo Travel Blog_Where To Stay In Pristina_Hotel Adria

With economical and decorated elegant rooms, the Hotel Adria is in the heart of town and within walking distance of the top tourist attractions in Pristina.

  • Best Hotels In Kosovo
  • Where To Stay In Pristina

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FAQs About Pristina

What are the main attractions in pristina.

Pristina has a variety of main attractions, including the Newborn Monument, the National University Library, the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa, the Bill Clinton Statue, the Ethnological Museum, and the Unfinished Serbian Orthodox Church.

What is the best time to visit Pristina?

The best time to visit Pristina is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant. The city can get quite hot in the summer and cold in the winter.

How can I get to Pristina?

The easiest way to reach Pristina is by flying into Pristina International Airport. Alternatively, you can take buses from neighboring countries to reach the city.

What are the options for accommodation in Pristina?

Pristina offers a range of accommodation options, including hostels, budget/mid-range hotels, and luxury hotels. Some popular choices include the Grand Hotel, Dit e Nat, and the House of Jashar Pasha.

Is there public transport available in Pristina?

Yes, Pristina has a public transport system consisting of buses that can take you around the city. Taxis are also readily available.

What are some recommended restaurants in Pristina?

Pristina has numerous excellent restaurants. Some popular choices include Prince Coffee House, Restaurant Bears, and the Metal Fishing Net. The city is known for its delicious local cuisine.

What are some historical sites to visit in Pristina?

Pristina has a rich history, and there are several historical sites to explore. Some notable attractions include the Emin Gjiku Complex, the Ottoman period Old House, the Statue of Mother Teresa, and the Prizren Fortress.

What is the significance of Pristina in Kosovo’s history?

Pristina is the capital city of Kosovo and holds great importance in the country’s history. It has witnessed significant events during the Kosovo War and the ethnic tensions in the region. It serves as a symbol of Kosovo’s struggle for independence.

Is English widely spoken in Pristina?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Pristina, making it easier for visitors to communicate with locals and navigate the city.

What is the best way to explore downtown Pristina?

Downtown Pristina is best explored on foot. The main street, Mother Teresa Boulevard, is a favorite place of mine to start showing off this city on a walk, as it offers a great ambiance with shops, cafes, and beautiful mosques.

What is the unique feature of Pristina?

Pristina stands out as Europe’s newest country and exhibits a mix of Ottoman, Balkan, and contemporary influences. It has a vibrant art scene, a strong coffee culture, and a youthful atmosphere.

Are there any natural attractions near Pristina?

Yes, Germia Park is a beautiful park located near Pristina. It offers walking trails, picnic spots, and a chance to spot the native brown bears in the Bear Sanctuary.

Is Pristina a safe city to visit?

Pristina is generally a safe city to visit, and tourists are welcomed warmly. As with any travel destination, it is always advisable to take common safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

What are some local markets to explore in Pristina?

Pristina has several local markets where you can experience the local atmosphere and find unique goods. Some popular markets include Bulevardi NëNë Tereza Market and the Albanian Flags Market.

Is there a free walking tour available in Pristina?

Yes, Pristina offers a free walking tour, which is a great way to explore the city, learn about its history, and uncover hidden gems. Check with local tour agencies or tourist information centers for the most up-to-date schedules and meeting points.

What is the Kosovo War, and how does it relate to Pristina?

The Kosovo War was a conflict that took place in the late 1990s between the Serbian forces and the Kosovo Liberation Army. Pristina served as a significant battleground during the war, and remnants of the conflict can still be seen in the city.

  • Cities You’ve Got To See In Kosovo
  • What To Eat And Drink In Kosovo
  • Where To Stay In Kosovo
  • Rent A Car In Kosovo
  • A Guide To Tipping In Kosovo
  • Travel Between Pristina And Skopje, Macedonia
  • National Parks In Kosovo
  • 7 Day Kosovo Itinerary

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Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Kosovo

Discovering kosovo’s hidden gems: 5 must-visit places.

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Welcome to Kosovo, a land of cultural riches and breathtaking landscapes that will leave you in awe. This often-overlooked European destination is brimming with history, vibrant cities, and natural beauty. Join us as we explore the top 5 must-visit places in Kosovo, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

Map of Kosovo and Bordering Countries:

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Map Showing Kosovo Location:

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Countries Bordering Kosovo:

Kosovo is a self-declared independent country in the Balkans region of  Europe . Kosovo is landlocked and bordered by  Serbia to the north and east, North Macedonia to the south, Albania to the west, and Montenegro to the northwest . Kosovo, about the same size as Jamaica or Lebanon, is the smallest country in the Balkans.

  • North Macedonia

Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Kosovo:

1. pristina: a fusion of tradition and modernity.

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Kick off your journey in the capital city, Pristina. This bustling urban hub is a melting pot of cultures, where ancient history meets contemporary art.

Explore the Newborn Monument, a symbol of Kosovo’s independence, and immerse yourself in the vibrant café culture that lines Mother Teresa Square.

Don’t miss the stunning National Library and the Grand Hamam, remnants of the Ottoman era.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

2. Prizren: A Historical Gem

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Journey to Prizren, a charming town that embodies the soul of Kosovo. Cobblestone streets wind through its old town, revealing Ottoman architecture and centuries of history.

The Sinan Pasha Mosque, the League of Prizren Complex, and the iconic Old Stone Bridge are just a few of the architectural treasures waiting to be explored.

Indulge in local cuisine along the Bistrica River and visit the fortress for panoramic views of the town.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

3. Rugova Valley: Nature’s Paradise

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Escape to the Rugova Valley, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its towering peaks, serene lakes, and pristine forests, this region offers endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and enjoying the great outdoors.

In the winter, the valley transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

4. Visoki Dečani Monastery: A Spiritual Retreat

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Venture to the Visoki Dečani Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning architecture and centuries-old frescoes.

This Serbian Orthodox monastery stands as a testament to Kosovo’s rich spiritual heritage and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

5. Peja: A Cultural Oasis

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Conclude your journey in Peja, a town known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty.

Explore the Peja Patriarchate, a serene Serbian Orthodox complex with striking architecture and religious history. Discover the vibrant bazaar, where traditional handicrafts and local treats await.

Don’t miss the nearby natural wonders, including the Rugova Gorge and the stunning Waterfall of White Drin.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

Did we mention the food? EAT!

Places To Visit In Kosovo

Culinary Revelations in Kosovo: A Gastronomic Odyssey

Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey through the flavors of Kosovo, where traditions are savored with every bite. Kosovo’s cuisine is a fusion of influences from the Mediterranean, Balkans, and Ottoman Empire, resulting in a delightful array of dishes that tell the story of the region’s history.

Indulge in the warmth of “Flija,” a layered pastry cooked over an open fire, symbolizing the community spirit of sharing. Savor the rich flavors of “Pite,” a savory pie filled with meats, cheeses, or vegetables, embodying the heartiness of Kosovar fare.

Delight in “Kosovska Sogan-dolma,” a delicacy of stuffed onions that reflects the Ottoman influence. And no culinary adventure in Kosovo is complete without relishing a cup of strong “Turkish-style” coffee, sipped leisurely in a traditional café. As you partake in these culinary delights, you’re not just tasting the food – you’re immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Kosovo’s culture, history, and warm hospitality.

places to visit in kosovo in winter

Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to Kosovo:

Traveling to Kosovo, a captivating destination in the heart of the Balkans, requires careful preparation and awareness of the local customs, culture, and practicalities. Here are essential things to know before your journey:

1. Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to Kosovo. Depending on your passport, you might be able to enter Kosovo without a visa for short stays. Confirm the latest visa regulations before your trip.

2. Safety and Security: Kosovo is generally safe for travelers, but it’s advisable to stay informed about the current security situation. Follow travel advisories from your government and respect local laws and customs.

3. Language: The official languages are Albanian and Serbian. English is commonly spoken in urban areas and tourist destinations, making communication relatively easy for travelers.

4. Currency: The official currency in Kosovo is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, but it’s recommended to carry some cash for smaller establishments or rural areas.

5. Health Precautions: Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic for recommended vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Kosovo. Carry any necessary medications, a basic first aid kit, and health insurance details.

6. Local Customs and Etiquette: Respect local customs and cultural norms. Kosovo is a diverse society, and it’s important to dress modestly in religious sites and show consideration for local traditions.

7. Transportation: Kosovo has a reliable transportation network, including buses and taxis. Public transportation might be limited in rural areas, so plan your routes in advance, especially if you’re visiting less touristy places.

8. Accommodations: Accommodation options range from budget hostels to upscale hotels. Booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is recommended.

9. Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected incidents.

10. Local Cuisine: Kosovo offers a diverse culinary scene influenced by Mediterranean, Balkan, and Ottoman cuisines. Sample local dishes like “Flija,” “Pite,” and “Kosovska Sogan-dolma” to savor the authentic flavors of the region.

11. Local Transportation: Taxis and public buses are common modes of transportation within cities. Negotiate taxi fares before getting in, and check bus schedules in advance.

12. Electricity: Kosovo uses the European standard plug with a voltage of 230V. Make sure to have the appropriate adapter for your devices.

13. Internet and Communication: Internet access is widespread in urban areas, with many hotels and cafes offering Wi-Fi. Consider getting a local SIM card for your phone to stay connected.

14. Cultural Sensitivity: Learn about the historical and political background of Kosovo to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s dynamics and sensitivities.

15. Emergency Contacts: Know the local emergency numbers for police, medical assistance, and other emergency situations.

By familiarizing yourself with these essential aspects, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy your journey to Kosovo, respecting local customs, embracing the culture, and creating lasting memories.

How to Get to Kosovo:

Getting to Kosovo involves a mix of transportation options, including flights, buses, and driving. Here’s a general overview of how to get to Kosovo:

1. By Air: The most common way to reach Kosovo from abroad is by flying. The main international airport is Pristina International Airport “Adem Jashari” (PRN), which is well-connected to major European cities. You can find direct flights or flights with layovers to Pristina from various airports.

2. Connecting Flights: If there are no direct flights to Pristina from your departure location, you might need to take connecting flights through major European hubs such as Vienna, Zurich, Istanbul, or Frankfurt.

3. Land Travel: If you’re traveling overland, you can take buses or drive into Kosovo from neighboring countries. Buses run from cities in neighboring countries like Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia to various destinations in Kosovo. Keep in mind that border crossings might involve immigration and customs procedures.

4. Car Rental: Renting a car can be an option for travelers who prefer the flexibility of driving. Check the regulations and requirements for driving across borders and ensure you have all necessary documents.

5. Train Travel: Train connections to Kosovo are limited, and the train network might not be as developed as in some other European countries. Train travel could be an option for certain routes, but it might be more time-consuming and less convenient compared to other modes of transport.

6. Entry Requirements: Check visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to Kosovo. Some nationalities might require visas, while others can enter visa-free for a specific period. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.

7. Accommodation and Transportation Booking: Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re arriving during peak tourist seasons. If you’re planning to take buses, consider checking bus schedules and availability in advance.

8. Travel Advisories: Stay updated on travel advisories and entry requirements for Kosovo. Check with your government’s official travel website for the latest information.

9. Transportation within Kosovo: Once you arrive in Kosovo, you can use buses, taxis, or even rent a car to get around. Public transportation options are available in major cities.

10. Currency: The currency used in Kosovo is the Euro (EUR). Make sure to have sufficient local currency for your immediate needs upon arrival.

11. Health Precautions: Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic for recommended vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Kosovo.

12. Language: The official languages are Albanian and Serbian. English is commonly spoken in urban areas and tourist destinations.

Remember that travel conditions can change, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and transportation options before embarking on your journey to Kosovo.

How to Get Around Kosovo:

Getting around Kosovo is relatively straightforward, with various transportation options available to help you explore the country’s diverse regions. Here’s how to navigate within Kosovo:

1. Buses and Minibuses: Buses and minibuses are the most common mode of public transportation within Kosovo. They connect major cities, towns, and even smaller villages. Pristina, the capital, serves as a central hub for many routes. Bus services are generally affordable and offer a convenient way to travel between destinations.

2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in urban areas and can be hailed on the street or booked through phone apps. Taxis are a flexible option for short trips within cities or for traveling to places not well-covered by public transportation.

3. Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Kosovo at your own pace, especially if you plan to visit more remote or off-the-beaten-path areas. Roads are generally well-maintained, and driving is on the right-hand side. Be sure to have a valid driver’s license, necessary insurance, and proper documentation for crossing borders if you plan to visit neighboring countries.

4. Private Drivers and Tours: Hiring a private driver or joining guided tours can provide a comfortable and hassle-free way to explore Kosovo. Local drivers are familiar with the roads, routes, and attractions, making your journey more enjoyable and informative.

5. Shared Vans: Shared vans, often referred to as “marshrutkas” or “shared taxis,” are a common mode of transportation in Kosovo. They operate on specific routes and pick up passengers along the way. They can be a cost-effective way to travel, but be prepared for potentially cramped conditions.

6. Trains: Kosovo’s train network is limited, and train services might not cover all the areas you want to visit. If you’re considering using trains, check the schedules and routes in advance to see if they align with your travel plans.

7. Walking and Cycling: In urban areas, walking and cycling can be enjoyable ways to explore. Many cities have pedestrian-friendly areas, and some have designated bike lanes. Keep in mind that some areas might have hilly terrain, so be prepared for varying levels of difficulty.

8. Navigation Apps: Using navigation apps like Google Maps can be helpful for finding routes, directions, and estimated travel times within Kosovo. However, it’s a good idea to have a physical map as well, especially if you’re traveling to more rural areas.

9. Language Consideration: While Albanian and Serbian are the official languages, English is commonly spoken in urban areas, particularly among the younger population. Having a translation app or a few basic phrases in Albanian or Serbian can be beneficial for communication.

10. Safety Precautions: Stay updated on local road rules and regulations, and drive cautiously. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and the legal blood alcohol limit is zero.

Whether you choose to rely on public transportation, rent a car, or opt for guided tours, getting around Kosovo offers you the chance to discover its vibrant cities, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

FAQ – Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Kosovo and Traveling to Kosovo in General

Frequently asked questions (faq) about traveling to kosovo.

1. Do I need a visa to visit Kosovo? Kosovo allows visa-free entry for citizens of many countries for short stays. However, it’s important to check visa requirements based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Check with the Kosovo Embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

2. Is Kosovo safe for travelers? Kosovo is generally considered safe for travelers. Like any destination, it’s advisable to stay informed about the current security situation, follow local laws, and exercise common-sense safety precautions.

3. What languages are spoken in Kosovo? The official languages are Albanian and Serbian. English is commonly spoken in urban areas and tourist hubs, making communication relatively easy for travelers.

4. What currency is used in Kosovo? The Euro (EUR) is the official currency used in Kosovo. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, but it’s recommended to carry some cash for smaller establishments or rural areas.

5. What is the best time to visit Kosovo? The best time to visit Kosovo is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot, while winters bring cold temperatures and snow, making them suitable for winter sports enthusiasts.

6. How do I get to Kosovo? You can fly into Pristina International Airport “Adem Jashari” (PRN) from various international airports, or you can enter by land through neighboring countries. Buses, taxis, and car rentals are common transportation options.

7. What transportation options are available within Kosovo? Buses, minibuses, taxis, and car rentals are the main modes of transportation within Kosovo. Public transportation is well-established between cities, and taxis are readily available in urban areas.

8. Are there any cultural considerations I should be aware of? Respect local customs, especially in religious sites. Kosovo is a diverse society with both Albanian and Serbian communities, so it’s important to be sensitive to cultural sensitivities and political considerations.

9. What are the must-visit places in Kosovo? Pristina, Prizren, Decani Monastery, Peja, and the Rugova Valley are some of the must-visit destinations in Kosovo, each offering unique cultural and natural experiences.

10. Can I use my mobile phone in Kosovo? Mobile phone coverage is generally good in urban areas. Check with your service provider about international roaming or consider getting a local SIM card for better rates.

11. Is tap water safe to drink in Kosovo? While tap water is considered safe to drink in some urban areas, it’s recommended to drink bottled or filtered water to avoid any potential health issues.

12. How should I dress in Kosovo? Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs. Casual clothing is acceptable in most other situations.

13. What’s the tipping etiquette in Kosovo? Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a 10% tip is common. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also customary.

14. Is there any specific entry requirement due to COVID-19? Entry requirements related to COVID-19 can change rapidly. Stay updated on the latest information from official sources and check with airlines and authorities before traveling.

15. What are some traditional foods I should try in Kosovo? Don’t miss trying dishes like “Flija,” “Pite,” and “Kosovska Sogan-dolma” to savor the authentic flavors of Kosovo’s cuisine.

Before traveling to Kosovo, make sure to research and plan your trip thoroughly, staying informed about the latest travel advisories and entry requirements. Respect local customs, engage with the warm-hearted locals, and enjoy the unique experiences that this Balkan gem has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Places to Visit in Kosovo

1. What are the must-visit places in Kosovo? Kosovo offers a diverse range of attractions. Must-visit places include Pristina, the capital city; historic Prizren; Decani Monastery; Peja and the Rugova Valley; Gjakova; and the vibrant city of Mitrovica.

2. What can I explore in Pristina? Pristina, the capital, offers a blend of history and modernity. Don’t miss the Newborn Monument, Mother Teresa Square, Imperial Mosque, and the vibrant local cafés and markets.

3. Why visit Prizren? Prizren is known for its historic charm, Ottoman-era architecture, and the Old Stone Bridge. The Sinan Pasha Mosque, Shadervan Square, and the Prizren Fortress are also popular attractions.

4. What’s special about Decani Monastery? Decani Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts stunning frescoes and centuries of history. It’s a significant religious and cultural landmark in the region.

5. What can I experience in Peja and the Rugova Valley? Peja offers the Patriarchate of Peja and the picturesque Rugova Valley, known for its natural beauty. It’s a gateway to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and exploring Rugova Gorge.

6. Why visit Gjakova? Gjakova boasts Ottoman architecture, a bustling bazaar, and cultural events. The Hadum Mosque and Old Bazaar are popular stops, showcasing the town’s historical character.

7. What’s unique about Mitrovica? Mitrovica is known for its division along the Ibar River, representing cultural and political dynamics. It’s an opportunity to understand the complexities of the region.

8. Are there opportunities for outdoor activities? Yes, Kosovo offers outdoor enthusiasts options like hiking in the Rugova Mountains, skiing in winter, and exploring the beauty of the countryside.

9. Can I explore historical and cultural sites? Absolutely. From Ottoman architecture to religious sites like monasteries and mosques, Kosovo’s rich history is reflected in its cultural landmarks.

10. Are there any off-the-beaten-path places to explore? Yes, consider visiting places like Pristina’s Gračanica neighborhood, which boasts the Gračanica Monastery, or exploring Lipjan with its archaeological site of Ulpiana.

11. What’s the best way to get around to these places? Buses, taxis, and even renting a car are common transportation methods within Kosovo. Buses connect major cities, while taxis offer flexibility for shorter trips.

12. Can I visit neighboring countries easily? Yes, Kosovo shares borders with Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia. However, border crossings might involve immigration procedures, so plan accordingly.

13. What’s the ideal time to visit Kosovo? Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal for pleasant weather. Summers can be hot, and winters are suitable for skiing and winter sports.

14. Are English and other languages spoken in Kosovo? English is commonly spoken in urban areas, and signs are often in multiple languages. Albanian and Serbian are the official languages.

15. What should I be aware of when visiting religious sites? Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting religious sites. Some sites might have specific rules, so it’s good to be mindful of local customs.

Kosovo offers a mosaic of experiences, from historical landmarks to natural wonders, providing travelers with a unique and enriching journey through this Balkan nation. Plan your itinerary, be respectful of local customs, and get ready to uncover the layers of history, culture, and natural beauty that Kosovo has to offer.

You want more on Places to Visit in Kosovo? ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️

Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Kosovo – Final Thoughts:

Kosovo’s charm lies in its ability to captivate visitors with its cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes.

As you traverse this captivating destination, remember to respect local customs, embrace the warm hospitality, and create memories that will forever connect you to the heart of the Balkans.

Places To Visit In Kosovo

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Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Kosovo – By David John

5 Best Places To Visit In Kosovo: Cover Image – Courtesy: wtg

Best Places To Visit In Kosovo: flickr images licensed under  CC BY 2.0

Additional images:  adobe   ·   colourbox   ·   istock   ·   pexels   ·   shutterstock   ·   unsplash   unless otherwise stated .

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15 of The Best Places To Visit In Kosovo

Most popular tourist attractions in kosovo.

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Most Beautiful Places to Explore in Kosovo

Table of Contents

W hat was once a highly disputed territory between the Byzantine and Ottoman empire has now become a story waiting to be told. While Kosovo is not a completely modernized country, it has a rich history, which is told through classical architecture, some of which were recognized as UNESCO World heritage sites.

Sunset view of old stone bridge and old Ottoman Sinan Pasha Mosque photo via Depositphotos

As territories begin to modernize, the beauty of nature becomes a rare asset, which is why Kosovo is a sight to behold. Thus, here are the places you can visit for your Kosovo adventure:

Mother Teresa street in Pristina via Depositphotos

As the country’s capital, Pristina is the most vibrant city, the center of entertainment, healthcare, and commerce. It also has a rich culture through its historical sites, such as mosques and monuments.

This city also has a lively environment, with plenty of shopping malls, coffee shops, and pubs. Pristina is an excellent place to stay if you want a good blend of traditional and modern culture.

Gracanica Monastery

Gracanica Monastery photo via Depositphotos

As you roam around Pristina, the Gracanica Monastery is a UNESCO heritage site that you cannot miss. Externally, this site, inspired by Serbian architecture, is complemented by tomb-shaped structures.

Internally, original paintings, treasures, and Byzantine decorations are used. Tragically, the original paintings and treasures were destroyed by a fire but were soon compensated with similar versions.

Kosovo Museum

Kosovo Museum located in the city of Pristina photo via Depositphotos

The Kosovo Museum is inspired by Austro-Hungarian architecture, which focuses on archaeology, ethnography, and natural science.

The gallery features paintings and relics from the Dardanian, Romanian, and Illyrian eras. Later on, the museum displayed artifacts from the Kosovan liberation war.

Newborn Monument

Newborn Monument by Karrota via Wikipedia CC

If one symbol can synthesize what Kosovo went through, then the Newborn Monument is the perfect representation. Unveiled in 2008, this monument reminds Kosovo’s independence from Serbia.

This 10-foot tall, 79-foot long monument is spelled out as “NEWBORN” to signify the country’s rebirth. In fact, the monument is repainted annually to celebrate years of freedom.

Germia Park

Germia's Swimming Pool by Bdx via Wikipedia CC

Germia Park is a nice getaway from the crowds of Pristina. This park is filled with forests that contain multiple pine trees, faunas, and other floral species.

The scenery makes a great place for hiking, biking, rock climbing, and playing on the basketball court or playground. You can also go skiing, provided it is winter and you have equipment.

Bear Sanctuary

In the Bear Sanctuary, you finally have a chance to witness these creatures other than seeing them on TV. This 16-hectare area serves as a lifetime habitat for bears previously kept as pets and restaurant bears.

In fact, Kosovo banned the private ownership of bears since they were trapped in poor traps and used as restaurant attractions. As of now, there are 20 bears and counting in this sanctuary.

Prizren is one of the best places to visit in Kosovo

If you’re looking for a more traditional Kosovo lifestyle, then Prizren is definitely the right spot. Known as the second-largest city, Prizren is filled with traditional homes and landmarks such as the Pasha Mosque and The Church of Our Lady of Ljevis, a UNESCO heritage site.

There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing. Other traditional aspects of Prizren are the Serbian-Kosovan dishes and the Dokufest film festival.

Rugova Canyon by Arba Hatashi via Wikipedia CC

Rugova is a haven for snow and mountain lovers. This breathtaking valley is filled with mountain villages, peaks, and canyons.

In regular seasons, hiking and mountain climbing are some of your best activities. Rugova is a great place to go snowboarding and skiing during the snowy season.

Memorial of Adrian Krasniqi in Peja, Kosovo via Depositphotos

After exhausting outdoor activities in Rugova, the city of Peja is right around the corner. Peja has its fair share of tourist sites like other cities, such as the Zenel Beg Tower, the City Center, and the Patriarchate Monastery, another UNESCO heritage site.

Souvenir shops and local restaurants also feature the city’s signature Peja cheese.

Ethnological Museum

Ethnological Museum, Pristina by Ardianlumi via Wikipedia CC

Another vital part of Peja is the Ethnological Museum. This museum features artifacts from Kosovo’s historical events, such as the Kosovo War, Serbian Civilization, and the Ottoman Empire.

Some relics you can find are weapons, royal dresses, utensils, and folk musical instruments.

Sinan Pasha Mosque

Sinan Pasha mosque in Prizren, Kosovo photo via Depositphotos

Constructed with chiseled stones, the Sinan Pasha Mosque was built by the Ottoman Empire to spread Islam. This structure has a rectangular design layout with a stone-carved staircase.

Meanwhile, the mosque contains paintings of Arabic verses from the Al-Quran, the holy book of Islam.

Bjeshket E Nemuna National Park

Bjeshket E Nemuna National Park by Gashi Bujar via Wikipedia CC

This park definitely hits the mark if you’re looking for a natural and refreshing atmosphere. The location’s geological structure, geographical location, and hydrological components create a natural experience unlike any other.

Some of the things you can admire here are the flora, fauna, mountains, streams, and a river. Given that the park has a lot to offer, you can go climbing, hiking, and even fish catching.

Gazivoda Lake

Gazivoda Lake by Bobik via Wikipedia CC

Gazivoda Lake is a unique body of water shared by Kosovo and Serbia. It was actually formed by the dams of the Ibar river.

This lake is filled with plenty of fish and fauna. The scenery is complemented by hills near the lake.

Mirusha Waterfalls

Mirusha Waterfalls in Kosovo by Flutur Gerbeshi via Wikipedia CC

Mirusha Waterfalls is a sight to behold for nature lovers. It is filled with 13 river lakes and 12 waterfalls, surrounded by a 10 km canyon.

In fact, the tallest waterfall in this area is 22 meters. You can also see caves and cliffs that complement the background of waterfalls.

Traditional Bazaars

Stalls on the Gjilan Bazar market photo via Depositphotos

Bazaars are common in the cities of Kosovo. The bazaars can cater to your needs if you need anything, even if you’re saving money.

Unlike in other countries, bazaars offer various products that aren’t limited to only certain items. Affordable products such as food, hairdryers, and even a deck of cards are accessible in bazaars.

Kosovo Travel and Tour Packages

To help you plan your visit to Kosovo, we listed the best places and other amazing tourist attractions in Kosovo. We also listed some of the best Kosovo travel and tour packages, excellent flight deals, and accommodation.

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of affordable Kosovo hotels and resorts via Agoda  and Booking , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about other beautiful tourist attractions in Kosovo? Follow #TeamOutofTown,  on  Facebook , Twitter ,  Instagram , and  Pinterest for more travel ideas.

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10 Captivating Things to Do in Prizren, Kosovo (City Guide & Travel Video)

My curated travel guide to Kosovo’s cultural capital shows you all the best things to do in Prizren .

As much as I loved Pristina , Kosovo’s hip capital, and Gjakova , the country’s most charming city, Prizren will always have a special place in my heart.

Planning a trip to Kosovo? Let my video guide be your inspiration! Here are the best things to do in Prizren, Kosovo's cultural capital.

Kosovo’s ‘cultural capital’ is small but boasts a wonderful selection of museums, galleries, shops and cultural attractions (and, of course, cafes). It’s a great introduction to the country and a wonderful place to start your Kosovo itinerary .

Here are my 10 favourite things to do in Prizren along with a video and map, restaurant recommendations and travel tips.

Aerial view of the city of Prizren, Kosovo.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Watch my Prizren travel video

One of the prettiest cities in the Balkans , Prizren has a special feel about it. It’s difficult to put into words, so I decided to make a video instead!

Once you’re done watching, keep reading for my recommendations and a handy map to help you plan your trip.

10 captivating things to do in Prizren

Here are my top recommendations for Prizren, including major attractions and hidden gems.

Cross the stone bridge & stroll the waterfront

Prizren Bistrica, with its iconic stone bridge and cafe-lined waterfront, is the heart of the city. Known locally as Shadervani, this is the main restaurant and cafe area where locals come to eat, drink and be merry.

We arrived on a holiday and couldn’t believe how many people were out and about walking the Bistrica River. The atmosphere on weekends is electric.

The mosque and Bistrica river in Prizren, Kosovo.

Stop by Shadervan Square & Fountain

Shadervan Square, with its marble fountain in the centre, is the perfect place for people-watching. This is the heart of Prizren’s Old Town and the most atmospheric spot in this beautiful city.

A quiet street in Prizren, Kosovo.

Go inside the Sinan Pasha Mosque

Prizren’s largest mosque is centrally located adjacent to the main square. Visitors are welcome inside as long as prayers aren’t in session. The white-washed interior is understated but beautiful.

Other prominent religious buildings to visit include the Emin Pasha Mosque.

The painted interior of the Sinan Pasha Mosque.

Climb to Prizren Fortress for sunset

Located on a hill overlooking the city, this majestic fortress complex dates back to the 6th century and was added to in the 11th century. A short walk from the city centre, it’s fun to explore on foot.

The views from the top are breathtaking. No wonder locals flock here for sunset.

View of the city of Prizren at sunset from the top of the fotress.

Visit the Albanian League of Prizren Museum

Established in the late 19th century, Prizren’s best-known museum is dedicated to the political party that has traditionally advocated for the rights of ethnic Albanians in Kosovo.

The traditional house and grounds are beautiful; inside there’s a small display of costumes and an art gallery.

White Ottoman-style houses at the Albanian League of Prizren Museum.

Peek at the UNESCO-listed Our Lady of Ljevis

One of four religious sites that make up the UNESCO-listed Medieval Monuments in Kosovo complex, this 14th century Orthodox church was all but ruined during riots in the city and is yet to be restored.

Visits are by appointment only – but you can still see the exterior of the church through the barbed wire. For the best views, climb the watchtower.

View of Our Lady of Ljevis, one of the UNESCO Medieval Monuments in Kosovo.

Buy a ticket for the Archaeological Museum & climb the watchtower

This should be on tourists’ radar but most people seem to bypass it (it’s not on Google Maps, which doesn’t help). Prizren’s Archaeological Museum is housed in a 15th-century hamam (bathhouse) and features an interesting display of pottery and metallic objects salvaged from the area.

View of Prizren's rooftops and minarets.

The real highlight in the adjoining watchtower (this is supposedly the only example of a hammam-watchtower architectural hybrid in the Balkans!). From the top, you get an excellent aerial view of Our Lady of Ljevis. Entry costs just 1 Euro.

View of Prizren's streets from the watchtower.

Browse the Tregu i Gjelber market

One of many green markets, we liked the laid-back atmosphere and friendly stallholders here.

A man in a red scarf sells leafy vegetables at a market in Kosovo.

Visit a filigree workshop

Kosovo has a long tradition of filigree silversmithing, and Prizren is the country’s official capital of filigree.

Filigran ShPK is a small workshop where about a dozen master craftspeople and apprentices make intricate jewellery according to traditional techniques first inherited from the Ottomans. The co-op leader, Faik Bamja, welcomes tourists to visit and watch the process, which involves using a blowtorch to melt the silver fragments.

It’s wonderful to watch – and if you’re lucky, one of the young apprentices will be there to explain things for you in English. Their products are sold all throughout Prizren and you can buy items directly from the workshop.

Traditional Kosovo filigree.

Browse the textile shops & wedding outfitters

There are a number of textile shops on Remzi Ademaj selling vintage fabrics and tablecloths as well as new outfits and traditional wedding attire.

The particular shop we visited (marked on the map below) has a sewing room out the back where you can watch the seamstresses at work.

A window display of antiques and old photos in Prizren Old Town.

Traditional Albanian wedding attire, all gold thread and velvet, is a sight to behold. There are dozens of shops along Rruga Adem Jashari that specialise in handmade costumes.

Where to eat & drink in Prizren

Prince coffee house.

The local branch of this wildly popular Kosovo coffee chain has outdoor seating and a beautifully decorated interior. Their Turkish coffee and macchiato (Kosovo’s coffee of choice) are both excellent; if it’s a hot day, opt for an iced coffee. An absolute icon – don’t leave Prizren without trying it!

‘Fortress’ Bar

It doesn’t have a Google Maps listing and we didn’t catch the name, but this bar near Prizren Fortress has fantastic city views from the outdoor terrace. It’s located right on the main path up from town – you can’t miss it.

Serving Albanian dishes and Kosovar specialties, this was probably our most memorable meal in Prizren. We really loved the flija (traditional layered pie served in slices) as a starter.

A man pulls small loaves of traditional bread from an oven in Prizren, Kosovo.

Alhambra (Te Syla)

A local favourite, this riverside restaurant serves the best Prizren-style qebapa (the Kosovar equivalent of cevapi) in town. We really loved the salads here as well.

Gjelltore Rexha

A no-frills local grill joint that serves up qebapa, pljeskavica (meat patty) and other Balkans favourites with a side salad and bread. Very reasonably priced.

A spread of traditional Kosovar food, including salads, meat and fresh bread.

Besimi-Beska

Located on the main square, this place is always full to the brim. Again, qebapa, chicken fillet and other grilled meats are the favourites. You can’t go wrong with a mixed grill and shopska salad.

Sarajevo Burek

Located opposite the fountain on the main square, this tiny joint serves up the most delicious burek in Prizren. Wash it down with a glass of ayran drinking yogurt Sarajevo-style .

Fellas Coffee & Kitchen

One of Prizren’s newer cafe/bars, this is a nice place for an afternoon beer or cocktail. The Western food menu is good for bar snacks and they also offer daily budget deals (we had the burrito and panna cotta combo).

Prizren map

All the sights, restaurants and hotels mentioned in this post mapped out for your convenience.

Click here to open the map and save a copy to your Google Drive.

Where to stay in Prizren

Mid-range hotel: We spent our 4 nights in Prizren at Hotel Denis . It’s located close to the bus station (handy if you’re arriving late at night like we did), but still walking distance to the centre of town. It’s a brand new build, so everything is sparkling and fresh. Rooms are simple but tastefully decorated, and most come with a small balcony.

The thing that really sold Hotel Denis to us was the free breakfast included in the room rate. Served at the gorgeous cafe downstairs, we got to choose between an omelette and pancakes each morning. In our opinion, the baristas here make the best macchiato in Prizren (no small feat!). Staff are incredibly hospitable and helpful.

→ Check prices for Hotel Denis on Agoda .

Budget hotel: We had originally planned to stay at Driza’s House , but a booking clash meant that we couldn’t. This family run, hostel-style accommodation is set in a local home and receives high commendations from other travellers.

Luxury hotel: There are a few boutique and luxury hotels to choose from. Hotel Tiffany is located in the centre of town and also features an on-site restaurant.

How to get to Prizren

From Pristina: There are bus connections between Prizren and Pristina at least every hour. Travel time is between 1.5 and 2 hours. Check up-to-date times and fare information here .

If you’re heading to Prishtina next, check out my guide to Kosovo’s capital .

From elsewhere in Kosovo: Bus travel within Kosovo is cheap and straightforward. We travelled onward to Gjakova, which took just over an hour and cost 2.5 Euros each.

From Montenegro: Since it can be problematic to enter Kosovo directly from Serbia, most people choose to transit through a bordering country. After a lot of research, we decided to enter Kosovo via Montenegro and arrived in Prizren from the beach town of Ulcinj.

Ulcinj is a favourite holiday spot for Kosovars, so regular buses ply the route (in summer, at least). The route goes through northern Albania via a new highway, making the trip relatively fast and easy. Travel time is approximately 5 hours (including border crossings), and the fare was 17.5 Euros ($19) when we travelled.

Check up-to-date bus times and fare information for Ulcinj to Prizren here .

Prizren day tours

Prefer to visit with a guide on a day trip? This private tour departing Skopje, North Macedonia includes a visit to both Prizren and the nearby city of Pristina. Perfect for a whirlwind introduction to Kosovo’s two biggest cities.

If you plan to travel between North Macedonia and Albania and want to see Kosovo on the way, this private taxi transfer between Skopje and Tirana features a stopover in Prizren to break up the journey.

What to pack for Prizren

  • A good quality backpack. I recommend using an anti-theft backpack for your day pack.
  • A scarf (women). A lightweight cotton scarf is my number one travel essential. In Prizren, it will come in handy for covering your hair when visiting the mosque. This neutral travel scarf goes with anything and it even has a hidden pocket.
  • Good walking shoes. Like all Kosovo’s cities, Prizren is very pedestrian friendly. Comfy shoes are essential – I love these ones for women, while my partner lives in these waterproof shoes .
  • A reusable water bottle. I always travel with a S’Well water bottle .
  • Biodegradable wet wipes. Try this convenient travel pack .
  • Entertainment for bus journeys. I always carry my e-reader for passing the time on road journeys. If you have a travel buddy, pick up a headphone splitter – probably my favourite travel gadget of all time – so you can share a screen or a podcast.

What are your favourite things to see in Prizren? Leave your suggestions in the comments below.

Things to do in Prizren

Planning a trip to Kosovo? Let my video guide be your inspiration! Here are the best things to do in Prizren, Kosovo's cultural capital.

Hi Emily, thank you so much for this well-curated guide. Since it is so hot in Prizren at the moment, we’ve done the walk starting at Sinan Pasha Mosque (the nature trail) which mostly leads through forest. It’s lovely, we’ve seen turtles, dozens of butterflies and lizzards. Another suggestion for everybody who loves veggie/vegan food is noja.kuzhine. The place opened during the pandemics, the food is fresh and very tasty. It’s a bit difficult to find, but they are on insta/facebook!

Thank you so much Sina for these amazing suggestions! Have a wonderful time in Prizren!

I’ve pinned this for my upcoming trip to Kosovo! Thanks for the helpful information.

Hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

for the best food you must go to Mburger Im from Germany I went oce last year to Prizren im going this year to .

Wow thank you for such an extensive guide to Prizren! I’d love to see the waterfront area and all of the food places that you listed!

We only tried a fraction of the restaurants! So many options to choose from 🙂

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Visiting Peja: One of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kosovo

  • Post last modified: October 25, 2023
  • Post author: Danielle Zito
  • Post published: January 30, 2023
  • Post category: Guides

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Are you looking for one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kosovo ? Well, you've come to the right place.

While most visitors stop in the capital city of Pristina , or the charming city of Prizren , we found some of our favorite places to visit in Kosovo were those that were out in nature.

Peja is a place with gorgeous landscapes, delicious home cooked meals, and super friendly people. It's a place we really fell in love with, and was when we truly changed our expectations of Kosovo as a destination. 

In this guide we're going to share everything you need to know for visiting Peja, and why it should be added to your list. Let's jump right in!

*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you.  Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience.  Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!

Where is Peja?

Peja is located in the west of Kosovo , in the region of Rugova. Tucked away in the Accursed Mountains, this small town is actually the third biggest in the country, and is located right by the borders of Montenegro and Albania .

Kosovo is a land locked country, with borders of Montenegro to the north west, Albania to the West, Macedonia to the south, and Serbia to the North and East.

Where is Peja

Peja is located in the west of Kosovo.

How to Get to Peja in Kosovo

The closest airport to all of the top places to visit in Kosovo is the Pristina Airport. From there you can easily get a bus to Peja for just 5 euros, and it is less than an hour and a half away. Peja is also well connected with other places to visit in Kosovo such as Prizren , Gjakove, and Mitrovica.

If flights into Pristina are too expensive, two alternative choices to visit Peja can be by flying into either Podgorica (the capital of Montenegro) or Tirana (the capital of Albania). Both of these cities are 3 1/2 hours away, and you can then get to Peja by renting a car from one of those airports.

Flight Tip:  Using Skyscanner you can put from "your city" to "Everywhere". This way you can see which is the cheapest airport in the area to fly. Also, you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for your destination!

Search for a flight near Peja:

We had a rental car when we visited, which you can also easily find in the airport of Pristina , as well as inside the city center.

Rent a car in Pristina:

Visiting Peja by Tour

If you don't have a lot of time, but want to visit Peja and see the highlights, we highly suggest doing a tour from Pristina or Prizren . This will allow you to explore more in less time, and meet other people along the way.

Here are a few great tours to choose from:

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Entry Requirements for Kosovo

Now that you know where Peja is located and how to get there, it's important to know the specific requirements for entering the country of Kosovo.

Visa Entry Requirements

Kosovo allows visa-free access for up to 90 days for all nationalities throughout Europe  (including the  UK ), the  USA , Australia, and plenty of other nationalities. If you aren't sure whether or not you need a visa for Kosovo, make sure to check out the official website of foreign affairs in Kosovo , or to get in contact with your local embassy.

Note: Due to where  Kosovo  is located, and because of the war in  Kosovo  a few decades ago, visiting  Kosovo  from  Serbia can be pretty complicated. However, visiting via another surrounding country is pretty easy, and we had no problem crossing the land border via Macedonia .

Covid Entry Requirements

There are no longer any restrictions for entering the country of  Kosovo when it comes to Covid-19. Masks are also no longer necessary, and it's even pretty rare that you'll come across anyone who is wearing one.

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Local Adjustments for Peja, Kosovo

Whenever traveling to a new destination, there may be certain things differing from your home country. Some of these things could be language, currency, or even electrical outlets used. Here are a few of the "local adjustments" to keep in mind when traveling to Peja, Kosovo .

What Language Do They Speak in Peja?

The official language in Peja, as well as the other places to visit in Kosovo, is Albanian.  92% of people living in Kosovo are in fact of Albanian decent, which is why they speak Albanian, and not Serbian.

Currency Used in Peja

The currency used in Kosovo is the euro. While some of the other places to visit in Kosovo accept credit card more regularly, smaller places such as Peja are more cash based. We did find a restaurant or two that accepted credit card, as well as the bigger hotels. However, we do suggest keeping plenty of cash on you, as ATMs can be pretty limited in the area.

What Plug Types are Used in Kosovo?

The electrical outlets in Peja, Kosovo are for the same plug types as the rest of Europe , which are primarily for plug type F. The standard voltage in Peja is 230 V with a standard frequency of 50 Hz. If you are from the Americas, we definitely suggest purchasing a New%20Year%20Sale%20-%20Order%20Over%20$39+%20Save%2010%%20Off! " https:="" shareasale.com="" class="" style="outline: none;" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">travel adapter which converts the energy as well. This way you won't burn out your electronics.

Is the Water Safe to Drink in Peja?

The tap water in Peja is totally safe to drink, so you won't have any issues drinking from the tap. As many of the activities are outdoors, we do suggest having a refillable water bottle to keep hydrated.

Tipping Culture in Kosovo

The tipping culture in Kosovo can be a little tricky, as the majority of websites claim that tipping isn't common nor is it necessary, However, many locals from other areas of the country told us that it is very much appreciated.

It definitely seemed expected in the restaurants that we visited, and we felt better leaving a bit extra for our servers. We personally suggest leaving 10% as a tip (in cash) if you feel that you have received good service while out at a restaurant.

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Things to Do in Peja, One of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kosovo

Now that you know almost everything you need to know about adjusting to the places to visit in Kosovo , Let's check out the best things to do in Peja.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

Peja, best places to visit in Kosovo Pin

Browse the Bazaar of Peja

Ready to start exploring all that Peja has to offer? While Prizren has a much more ascetically pleasing downtown area, we do think it's still worth doing one thing in the center of Peja, and that's the Bazaar. Here is where you can really immerse yourself in the culture of Kosovo, and browse through the different shops that they have.

Drive Through Rugova Canyon

Peja is known for its landscapes, and Rugova Canyon is definitely one of the top ones. The highway actually goes right though the canyon, so you can admire the large rock walls with the river right next to you. We even found a restaurant on the side of the road to stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery around.

Rugova Canyon in Peja, top places to visit in Kosovo

Rugova Canyon has beautiful views while driving through.

Take a Look at "Hotel Relax"

Want to see one of the most random and unique places to visit in Kosovo ? Well, this was something we happened to pass on accident while driving through Rugova Canyon, and decided to stop and check it out.

Right off the side of the highway through Rugova Canyon lies a "hotel" like you've never seen. A local man decided to claim his own spot next to the river, and build an outdoor hotel from things he's accumulated. 

Hotel Relax in Peja, top places to visit in Kosovo

This hotel has been created from random items accumulated by a local man.

While one may initially think it's a homeless man, this guy actually lives in Peja, and comes here to escape and just relax, which is exactly why he decided to call it "Hotel Relax", a place in nature to simply hang out and enjoy what the Earth has provided. We definitely suggest you to stop by and walk over to chat with him. He was so sweet, and down to Earth, and even made some coffee for us while he told his story.

Hotel Relax in Peja, top places to visit in Kosovo

The owner of Hotel Relax even invited us for a cup of coffee.

Hike to Kucisko Jezero

One of our favorites things that we did in Peja was to hike to this beautiful lake. Head down the highway towards the border of Montenegro , and you can park at the restaurant Guri I Kuq, where you'll then be able to start your hike.

We had terrible luck and had to hike in the pouring rain. The hike was extremely steep and rocky, so we suggest trying to go on a dry and sunny day if you can. Needless to say though, the views when we arrived were pretty beautiful. The hike up took about 45 minutes, and the way back took a half hour.

lake in Peja, top places to visit in Kosovo

This beautiful lake can be reached by a steep hike.

Visit Resort Ujevara e Drinit

While we normally wouldn't think to put a resort on our list of things to do, we truly loved Resort Ujevara e Drinit. Just 10-15 minutes outside the center of Peja, this gorgeous hotel and restaurant is a slice of luxury in the mountains. Not only that, but right on the property are two very cool landscapes you won't want to miss out on.

Resort Ujevare e Drimit, top places to visit in Kosovo

Walk Down to the Waterfall

Right behind the restaurant of the hotel you can find a suspension bridge. Walk across and in just a few minutes you'll find a beautiful waterfall! It's free of charge to visit, and super easy to get to.

waterfall in Peja, top places to visit in Kosovo

Explore the Cave

Now walk a little further up and to the left. You'll find a trail that leads to a cave! We truly couldn't believe this was on the same land as the resort right in front of it. For just a couple of euros you can get a guided tour of the colorfully lit cave, and learn a bit of the history of Peja. The guides are super friendly, and had excellent English.

cave in Peja, top places to visit in Kosovo

This cave is located right behind the resort.

Stop at the Patriarchate of Pec Monastery

While the city of Peja doesn't have a ton of things to see, there is one that is worth mentioning. Right outside the city center of Peja you can find a beautiful red painted monastery. We actually couldn't find the entrance, so we suggest asking a local for directions and not attempting to follow Google like we did.

Check Out the Monastery Visoki Decani

On the road between Peja and Prizren there is a small town called Decani (this is also where we found tours going to the following trek we'll mention). While Decani doesn't have a ton to offer, it does have a beautiful monastery worth stopping by.

Note:  We suggest only going here if you are driving, and are planning on traveling to Peja from Prizren or Pristina.

Trek to Liqeni I Zemres

This was actually at the top of our list for things to do in Peja. Unfortunately, we found little info on the internet, and didn't know just how much of a journey it would be to get there.

This is a great day trip, if you can plan it right. Liqeni I Zemres is located about an hour outside of Peja, and can be reached via tour from The government office in Decanit, or by having a 4x4. DO NOT follow Google Maps, as we wasted hours of our day attempting to go down a road that didn't lead anywhere.

In order to reach this stunning lake you'll have to drive from the town of Decanit to Junik, and then take the long and windy dirt road for about an hour to Grand Gjeravica, where you can start your hike. Make sure to give yourself the day for this one, or you can sleep at Grand Gjeravica and do the hike in the morning.

Take a Trip to Mirusha Waterfalls

This was one of our favorite places to visit in Kosovo , and can be done as a day trip from Peja, Prizren , or Pristina (it's right in the middle of all three). 

Upon arrival to Mirusha Waterfalls, you're greeted with two restaurants facing a beautiful set of falls. But the best part of this place is what hides behind it all.

Mirusha falls, top places to visit in Kosovo

There are actually several waterfalls here, and each one can be reached by climbing via rocks and ropes. If you're looking for a hidden gem, then this is definitely it.

Mirusha falls, top places to visit in Kosovo

Mirusha Falls is definitely one of the top places to visit in Kosovo.

Food & Drink in Peja

We really loved the food in Peja, and found it to be very similar to the mountain areas in some of the other places we visited in the Balkans such as Zabljak in Montenegro , and Zlatibor in Serbia . Easy meats, fresh bread, and hearty soups and stews are some of the things you'll find on the menus in Peja.

Here are a few of the dishes we suggest trying:

  • Veal Soup - (our favorite!)
  • Somun - baked round bread similar to pita
  • Tarator - cold yogurt based soup
  • Burek - Flaky, oily pastry rolled and stuffed with meat
  • Flija - dough layered like a crepe with butter and sour cream
  • Stuffed Peppers - (with ground meat)
  • Speca me Maze - broiled peppers bathed in a cheesy sauce
  • Peja - this is the local beer made right in Peja
  • Rakia - homemade fruit brandy that is super strong

Food in Peja, Kosovo

Our Favorite Restaurant in Peja: Guri i Kuq

Tucked away in the mountains (right by the border of Montenegro ) is one of the best restaurants we visited in Kosovo . If you're going to eat at one place in Peja, please let it be this one.

We stopped in here quickly to have a bite before our hike. Although we weren't super hungry, we knew we'd be hiking for a few hours so just got a bowl of veal soup. It was so incredible that the only thing we could think of during our hike was having another bowl once we got back.

Food in Peja, Kosovo

We highly recommend the veal soup!

It was pouring rain and the servers couldn't have been kinder when we came in. We ordered local beer and had traditional food, while overlooking the gorgeous surrounding scenery. We loved the people working there, the food, and the atmosphere, and seriously couldn't recommend it enough.

Food in Peja, Kosovo

This restaurant has great views and amazing views.

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Getting Around Peja, One of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kosovo

While you can get to Peja with public transportation, there is little public transport to the different places in the area when it comes to nature. We highly suggest going with a car, and making sure that it is a 4x4. We didn't see any car rentals in the city, so just to be safe we suggest booking online from Pristina.

If you don't have a car though, you can easily walk around the town, as it isn't so big, and then get tours to explore the best things to do in Peja.

road to Zabljak Montenegro

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Where to Stay in Peja

There are quite a few different options for places to stay in Peja. You can either stay in the city of Peja itself, or you can stay in one of the cabins on the outskirts. If you're looking for a more relaxing getaway, we suggest choosing accommodation in the mountains. We personally recommend staying at Resort Ujevara e Drimit, as it is a beautiful property, has a restaurant, and is home to a waterfall and cave on site as well.

cabin in Peja, best places to visit in Kosovo

There are also a lot of great cabins in the mountains to stay in.

If you're looking to be centrally located, and to be close to plenty of restaurants ad shops, then you'll definitely want to stay in the center of Peja. This is also great for those that don't have a car, plan on exploring a lot, or want more convenience during their trip.

Book a place in the center of Peja:

Is Peja, Kosovo Safe?

Being tha t Kosovo  doesn't have a lot of tourism, and it still has turmoil wit h Serbia , I definitely didn't think that it would be the safest country to travel to. However, after visiting, we found Peja, (along with the other places to visit in Kosovo)  to be extremely safe. People are super friendly towards towards, and we never had any issues walking around alone or at night.

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Other Things to Know About Peja & Other Places to Visit in Kosovo

Now that you know almost everything there is to know about one of our favorite places to visit in Kosovo, there are a few last things to keep in mind.

Peja, best places to visit in Kosovo

Weather in Peja

The country of Kosovo experiences all four seasons, with hot summers, and cols winters. Peja is located in the mountains, so nights can get pretty chilly, even in the summer months, and winters get plenty of snow.

Peja, best places to visit in Kosovo

Peja is super green in the summertime.

The Best Time to Visit Peja

The best time to visit Peja is in the summer, so that you can experience all of the beautiful hikes, and have warm, sunny weather. We visited in June, and felt that it was the perfect time to go to experience Peja. We also have heard that winter is simply magical in Peja with all of the snow, so we would recommend going there are that time as well.

Peja, beautiful places to visit in Kosovo

Packing For a Trip to Peja

When packing for a trip to Peja we suggest being prepared to explore the outdoors. Here are a few of the things we suggest packing:

  • Reusable Water Bottle (we use this water bottle from Cafago because it holds the temperature)
  • Sneakers (for the hikes)
  • Zippered Bag or Backpack - take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
  • Power Bank (we use Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
  • Drone (We use the Mavic Mini Pro 3 because it's super light and doesn't sacrifice quality)
  • Action Camera (we use the Insta 360 X3 because it's small & waterproof)
  • Travel Adapter (we use Tessan travel adapters as they are affordable and reliable)

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So are you ready to visit Peja and some of the other best places to visit in Kosovo? We spent a couple of days enjoying the stunning nature, and find it to be perfect for a 3-4 day trip.

Want to explore other fun spots around Kosovo ? We have our Pristina travel guide , our Prizren travel guide , and a complete guide for Kosovo coming up next week! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know for all of the other articles we have twice a week.

Ready to start exploring? Well, with Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning you can now sit back and relax, while we do the hard work. Unlike traditional travel agencies, we don't search for expensive places to get higher commissions. We work on fair, flat rates, so that you can discover more, and spend less. Take a peak at our different travel planning packages that we offer, or simply shoot us an email for your free consultation.

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July 21, 2022

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IMAGES

  1. 5 wonderful hiking photos of Kosovo's snowy mountains

    places to visit in kosovo in winter

  2. Зима в с. Косово- автор Андрей Трифонов Winter in Kosovo Village

    places to visit in kosovo in winter

  3. Winter scenery in Rugova Mountains. • Winter in Kosovo gives you the

    places to visit in kosovo in winter

  4. Winter Bucket List: 7 days

    places to visit in kosovo in winter

  5. 5 wonderful hiking photos of Kosovo's snowy mountains

    places to visit in kosovo in winter

  6. Rugova Valley

    places to visit in kosovo in winter

VIDEO

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  3. Places in kosovo that don’t feel real #travel #nature #adventure #utah #placesthatdontfeelreal

  4. Places in kosovo that don’t feel real #travel #nature #adventure #utah #placesthatdontfeelreal

  5. Kosovo 2023

COMMENTS

  1. Winter Bucket List: 7 days

    For a perfect winter vacation in Kosovo, Breathe In Travel has put together for you a list of 7 activities to do. #1 Skiing in Brezovica. Very popular and full of charm, Brezovica is a unique ski resort located about 1.5 hour's drive from Pristina and only a few kilometers from the border of Macedonia.

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    If you visit in the winter be sure to check if there is a tour on by going to their Facebook page. 25. Visit the abandoned Christ the Saviour Cathedral. Just past the 'ugly' library, you will see the abandoned Christ the saviour cathedral. Construction was halted during the Kosovo war and has left this cathedral unfinished and abandoned. 26.

  10. 10 BEST Places to Visit in Kosovo

    By beatrizm115. Really beautiful area, worth visiting, highlight of any Kosovo trip. See ways to experience (2) 4. Ethnographic Museum (Muzeu Etnologjik) 263. History Museums. By Caminante200. Ilir was an excellent guide: very passionate about his work and about the museum.

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    Take a selfie at the Newborn Monument, a sculpture that evolves its appearance every year to keep pace with Kosovo's ongoing metamorphosis. Prizren, the cultural capital, is a perfect juxtaposition, with its stone bridge, elegant mosque and cobbled old town. There's Peja, the gateway to nature, and my favourite place in Kosovo, Gjakova ...

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    But the highlight of Prizren is Kaljaja - the fortress with the most spectacular view you will see in Kosovo. It's an easy hike up there from the Old Town and you are easily entitled to spend most of your day up there. Kaljaja, alongside with Shadervan, is the place to be in Prizren.

  14. 10 Amazing Places to Visit in Kosovo in 2023

    Kosovo, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, beckoned, and I was eager to explore every nook and cranny. After seeing many fascinating places, I prepared a travel guide with 10 wonderful places I believe you must visit if you're planning to travel to this beautiful country. 1. The Capital City of Pristina

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    Kosovo Grand Bazaars: Full Day Tour of Peja, Gjakova & Prizren from Pristina. Visit the three cultural and historical capitals of Kosovo, Peja, Gjakova and Prizren. Delve into exploring the colourful and vibrant bazaars. Taste the best of local food. From €90.

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    Rugova. Placed Northwest from the city of Peja or, locally, Pec, Rugova is a natural ecstasy with mostly forest ranges in mountain surfaces. The best time to visit Rugova Mountains is in the snows of winter as this is also the 4th best Skiing and snowboarding destination in the world, according to the International Ski Federation.. The mountainous Rugova consists of 13 traditional villages in ...

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    Gračanica Monastery. Forming another part of Kosovo's only UNESCO site (although the UNESCO site lists it as Serbia as it does not recognize Kosovo), Gračanica is a must-visit place in Kosovo for any history lover. Built in the 14th century atop the ruins of a 6th-century basilica, this is one of the best places to see the ornate mural work ...

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    Our Top 5 Best Places To Visit In Kosovo - By David John. 5 Best Places To Visit In Kosovo: Cover Image - Courtesy: wtg. Best Places To Visit In Kosovo: flickr images licensed under CC BY 2.0. Additional images: adobe · colourbox · istock · pexels · shutterstock · unsplash unless otherwise stated.

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    Kosovo's 'cultural capital' is small but boasts a wonderful selection of museums, galleries, shops and cultural attractions (and, of course, cafes). It's a great introduction to the country and a wonderful place to start your Kosovo itinerary.. Here are my 10 favourite things to do in Prizren along with a video and map, restaurant recommendations and travel tips.

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