Things To Do
in Kuçovë

Baked lamb or chicken with yogurt and rice — a regional comfort dish served in many local restaurants and family homes.

Must-Try!

Savory filled pastry (cheese, spinach, meat or mixed) sold at bakeries and market stalls – a great on-the-go snack.

A sautéed mix of peppers, tomatoes and cheese typical to central Albania, often found in local eateries and family kitchens.

Simple grilled lamb, pork or beef and meatballs served with bread and salads at local grill houses.

A weekday market where you can buy seasonal fruit and vegetables, fresh cheeses, eggs and homemade preserves; try byrek and pide from market bakers.

Larger market in nearby Berat with more variety — great for sampling local olives, honey and artisan cheeses.

Handshakes are common; address elders respectfully. A brief hello and a smile go a long way in small towns.

Accepting small offers of food or drink is polite; hosts are proud to share local specialties. It’s customary to show appreciation and engage in polite conversation.

Dress modestly when visiting churches or mosques; remove hats and be respectful during services.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially older residents; avoid photographing military installations or sensitive infrastructure without permission.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants leave about 5–10% for good service or simply round up; small change is fine for café and taxi drivers.

The local currency is the Albanian lek (ALL). Cash is king in Kuçovë — carry enough lek for small purchases. Credit/debit cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants, but many small businesses are cash-only. ATMs may be limited; plan accordingly.

Mild temperatures and blooming countryside make spring an excellent time for hiking and photography; expect occasional rain, green hills and lively markets with fresh produce.

Hot and dry inland with daytime highs often in the high 20s–30s °C (80s–90s °F). Town life is relaxed, many small places close in the hottest hours; bring sun protection and drink water. Nearby rivers and waterfalls are popular escape spots.

Pleasant temperatures and clear light ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities; harvest season brings fresh olives, grapes and local festivals in surrounding villages.

Cool to cold with rain and occasional snow in higher elevations; some rural roads can be slippery and services reduced, but town life is quiet and accommodation is cheaper.

Accessible hikes on the Tomorr massif offer panoramic views, religious shrines and seasonal alpine flora; some routes require a guide for safety and navigation.

Walks along parts of Osum Canyon and nearby paths provide dramatic cliff and river views; best visited in spring or autumn when water levels are higher.

A relatively short walk leads to a pleasant waterfall and swimming spots in warmer months — a popular local excursion.

Gentle hikes and walks on dirt roads through agricultural land and olive groves are suitable for casual walkers and cyclists.

The majority of residents are ethnic Albanians who share common cultural traditions and language.

A notable proportion of the population has roots in the oil and aviation industries, with many older residents who worked in these sectors.

The area reflects Albania’s religious diversity — primarily Muslim and Orthodox Christian communities coexist, and secular traditions from the communist period remain evident.

Like many regions of Albania, there are small Roma and other minority groups present in and around the town.

Vegetarians can eat well using byrek (spinach/cheese), salads, cheeses, eggs and vegetable dishes like fërgese. Tell cooks “Jam vegetarian” and specify no meat; many family restaurants will adapt simple dishes.

More challenging but possible: rely on fresh salads, roasted or sautéed vegetables, legumes and bread. Communicate clearly ("Nuk ha produkte shtazore") and ask about butter/cheese used in dishes.

Limited options at small eateries; fresh grilled meats, salads and vegetable dishes are usually safe, but most breads and pastries contain gluten—ask and be cautious.

Carry allergy cards in Albanian for nuts, dairy or shellfish if needed and check with cooks at small establishments; pharmacies in larger towns can provide assistance.