Things To Do
in Kosovo
Kosovo is a landlocked country in the Balkans bordered by Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia. It blends a rich layer of history with a modern, youthful energy, visible in its mosques, churches, and bustling streets. Pristina, Prizren, and Peja offer lively nightlife, historic cores, and welcoming locals.
Outside the cities, rugged mountains and ancient towns reveal a landscape of surprising variety and growing outdoor culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the bustling city of Pristina, where you'll check into your hotel and freshen up after your journey. Start your day with a traditional Kosovar breakfast at a local café, sampling pastries and yok (breakfast bread). Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll around the city center to get acquainted with its vibrant atmosphere.
Explore the historic National Museum of Kosovo to gain insight into the region's rich cultural heritage. Afterward, visit the iconic Newborn Monument, a symbol of Kosovo's independence, and enjoy the nearby cafes for a refreshing drink. Engage with local art at the Kosovo Art Gallery, showcasing contemporary works from local artists.
As the sun sets, dine at a popular traditional restaurant where you can savor local dishes like flija and tavë kosi. Spend some time at the lively nightlife district, filled with bars and music venues showcasing local talent. End your day by enjoying a nightcap while mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Take a short trip to Mitrovica, where you'll experience the town divided along ethnic lines. Begin your exploration at the Ibar River, capturing stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Visit the historic buildings and learn about the city's complex history.
After lunch, head to the north side of the river to witness the diverse cultural influences of the Serbian community. At the iconic Mitrovica Bridge, appreciate its significance and take in the views of both parts of the city. Visit local shops and markets for handmade souvenirs and regional delicacies.
Return to the south side as dusk settles, offering a beautiful backdrop for your evening activities. Dine at a riverside restaurant with traditional music, immersing yourself in local cuisine and culture. Wind down with a stroll along the river, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $50-90 |
| 🚌Local one-way ticket (public transport/taxi start) | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant cities with welcoming people
- Rich history and diverse landscapes
- Affordable costs and good value for money
- Excellent hiking and mountain scenery
- Compact size makes for easy weekend trips
- Developing tourist infrastructure in some areas
- Border tensions can affect certain border zones
- In rural areas English may be less widely spoken; Albanian is dominant
- "Përshëndetje" - Hello
- "Faleminderit" - Thank you
- "Ju lutem" - Please
- "Sa kushton?" - How much is this?
- "Ku është tualeti?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Çfarë rekomandoni?" - What do you recommend?
- "Më ndihmoni, ju lutem" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Kosovo
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic photo of Kosovo’s capital; dramatic in the soft morning light or at dusk.
Cobblestone streets, mosques, and the stone bridge over the Drin offer charming foregrounds and reflections.
UNESCO site with white stone architecture and tranquil courtyards—great for architectural shots and interior details.
Massive limestone cliffs, pines, and sweeping valley views—dramatic landscape photography.
A string of cascades set in a carved canyon; best in spring for lush colors and cascades.
Food in Kosovo
Kosovo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional multilayer pancake slowly cooked in a domed metal lid; best tasted in rural inns or traditional restaurants in towns like Prizren or Pejë.
Must-Try!
Small grilled minced meat served with flatbread, onions, and kajmak; widely found in grill houses across Kosovo.
A baked dish of peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, and sometimes meat or rice; a Prizren specialty often featured in local taverns.
Flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat; a staple at bakeries and casual eateries in Pristina and Prizren.
A rich, honeyed pastry dessert widely available in pastry shops and cafés across cities.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls with fresh produce, dairy, bread, pastries, and street foods such as qofte and burek.
Historic market area with crafts, snacks, and a chance to sample regional pastries and fried treats.
Portable stalls around central squares offering grilled meats, pastries, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; greet elders with a respectful tone. Modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Kosovo
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a service charge is not always included; tipping 5–10% is appreciated when service is good. Round up for taxis.
Cash (EUR or local currencies) is widely accepted in cities; credit/debit cards are common in urban establishments; ATMs are readily available; some rural places may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry in the lowlands (often 28–35°C); enjoy city strolls early morning or late evening, and head to canyons or lakes to cool off.
Mild days with crisp evenings; fall colors in valleys and canyons make for excellent photography and comfortable hiking.
Cold with snow in the mountains; some passes can be closed; Brezovica ski resort offers good options for winter sports.
Cool to warm with blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking, visiting monasteries, and enjoying outdoor markets.
Kosovo at Night
Hiking in Kosovo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large canyon near Peć with multiple trails, viewpoints, and opportunities for day hikes.
A prominent ridge near the Kosovo–Albania border suitable for moderate to challenging hikes.
A range offering extensive alpine hikes, glacial valleys, and high mountain scenery.
Airports
How to reach Kosovo by plane.
The main international gateway to Kosovo, located near Pristina; frequent flights to Europe and regional connections.
Closest major airport in North Macedonia; about a 2–3 hour drive to western Kosovo depending on border crossing.
Albania's main airport; about a 2.5–3.5 hour drive to Kosovo, depending on border checks.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Kosovo’s population is predominantly Albanian, with Serb, Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian minority communities in various areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and clubs are common in cities.
Widely followed and played at community and school levels.
Growing interest and regional competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kosovo offers many vegetarian options such as burek with cheese, ajvar, vegetable stews, and salads; ask for no meat and consider dishes with kajmak or dairy for protein.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kosovo.