Cities in Kosovo: Which are the Best to Visit in 2023?
Are you looking for the best cities in Kosovo to visit?
This beautiful landlocked country in southeast Europe has a lot to offer for you with some great cities in Kosovo to visit!
This fascinating country has a long history that includes many different cultures and civilizations, a lively culture that is influenced by both Eastern and Western traditions, and beautiful landscapes that range from rolling hills to rough mountains.
All of these things make it a great place to visit. In this blog post, I’ll go into more detail about the best towns in Kosovo to visit in 2023.
I’ll also answer some of the most common questions about traveling to this hidden gem of a country.
Best Cities in Kosovo to Visit
So, let’s take a deeper look into the best cities to visit in Kosovo:
1. Pristina
This is the capital and largest city of Kosovo. It is known for its lively nightlife, cosmopolitan feel, and busy atmosphere.
The city has a lot to see and do. It has both new buildings like the National Library, which has a unique style, and old buildings like the Imperial Mosque.
You can also check out the city’s busy markets, eat at its many different restaurants, and take part in its many cultural events and fairs. If you want to know more about Pristina, check out my post about the capital of Kosovo!
📍Click here to book your Pristina full day tour!
📍Best accommodation in Pristina: MANAMI Hotel
2. Prizren
This is a beautiful city with a long past that goes back to Roman times. It is often called the cultural capital of Kosovo.
Its charming cobblestone streets are lined with well-preserved buildings with Byzantine, Ottoman, and Yugoslav styles that show the city’s rich history.
In addition to viewing the Prizren Fortress and the beautiful Sinan Pasha Mosque, you can also enjoy the city’s annual Dokufest, an international documentary and short film festival.
📍Click here to book your sightseeing tour in Prizren!
📍Best accommodation in Prizren: Prior Hotel
3. Gjakova
This is a city with a long history. The arshia e Madhe, the oldest market in Kosovo, has been around since the 17th century. The bazaar is a great place to buy traditional crafts and gifts and try food from the area.
Here, you can also visit the Hadum Mosque, look at the traditional houses lining the streets, and relax with a cup of coffee in one of the many cosy cafes.
The city is also known for its lively music scene, especially jazz. The Gjakova Jazz Festival, which happens every year, brings in artists from all over the world.
📍Click here to book your Gjakova sightseeing tour!
📍Best accommodation in Gjakova: Hotel Çarshia e Jupave
4. Peja
Situated at the foot of the Rugova Mountains, Peja is a great place to stay for people who love the outdoors and want to try new things. The Rugova Gorge is a beautiful canyon that is great for hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding.
The city is also close to the thrilling Via Ferrata climbing path and the beautiful Mirusha Waterfalls, which form a series of natural pools that are great for swimming.
The city itself is also worth seeing, with its rich Ottoman past, beautiful Serbian Orthodox Monastery (Patriarchate of Pe), and busy market where you can buy local food and crafts.
📍Click here to book your Peja and Rugova tour!
📍Best accommodation in Peja: Seraphine Plaza
How many cities does Kosovo have?
Kosovo has seven administrative districts, which are made up of 38 towns each. There are about 20 cities and many more small towns and villages that are part of these municipalities.
Kosovo is a fun place to visit because each city has its own unique charms and draws. Ferizaj is known for its rich cultural history and lively festivals.
Mitrovica, which is split in half by the Ibar River and has an interesting history and a beautiful bridge connecting the two sides, is also worth a visit.
What is the nicest city in Kosovo?
It’s hard to say which city in Kosovo is the best because each one has its own special charm.
Prizren, on the other hand, is the most beautiful city to me because of its well-kept buildings, beautiful views of the nearby mountains, and lively atmosphere.
Its riverside location adds to its charm and makes it a great place for if you love history, culture, or just want to relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
What is the oldest city in Kosovo?
The oldest city in Kosovo is thought to be Ulpiana, an old Roman city just southeast of Pristina. Ulpiana’s ruins are from the 2nd century AD.
These ruins include a beautiful basilica, city walls, and detailed mosaics. Archeologists have also found signs of a big amphitheater, bathhouses, and early Christian churches during recent digs.
Ulpiana is a must-see for history-loving tourists because it gives an interesting look into the region’s long-ago past.
Visiting Kosovo: FAQs
If you’re thinking of visiting Kosovo, the information below might help you prepare yourself for this unforgettable trip!
What is Kosovo famous for?
Kosovo is known for its long and interesting past, which goes back hundreds of years and includes the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Yugoslavs.
This mix of different cultures has led to a rich and varied art scene. In many parts of the country, traditional crafts like filigree, pottery, and woodcarving are still done.
Besides its rich history, Kosovo is known for its beautiful natural features, such as the Rugova Mountains and the Sharr Mountains, as well as its beautiful forests, lakes, and rivers.
There are also many beautiful temples and churches in the country. Many of them are on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also, the people of Kosovo are known for being friendly and willing to share their culture and practises with tourists.
Are people in Kosovo friendly?
Yes, people from Kosovo are known for being friendly and helpful. I can confirm this due to my own experience while traveling through the country.
Locals are often eager to share their culture, stories, and even their homes with travelers. This makes travelers feel very welcome. Tourists are often asked to someone’s home for coffee or a meal.
This is a great example of how friendly the Kosovar people really are. This friendliness shows up in many parts of daily life, and you may make friends quickly, even if you are only there for a short time.
Is Kosovo good for tourists?
Absolutely! Kosovo is a great place for tourists who want to go somewhere off the beaten path. The country has a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that appeals to people with many different interests.
Kosovo has something for everyone, whether you want to explore old ruins, walk through beautiful landscapes, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere of its towns.
In the past few years, the country has also worked to improve its tourism infrastructure. As a result, there are now more hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites.
How do you get around in Kosovo?
The transport system in Kosovo is well-built, which makes it easy for people to get around. You can choose from a number of choices, such as:
- Buses are the most popular and cheap way to get around Kosovo. They connect all of the major cities and towns. They are usually safe and warm, and many of them have free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
Keep in mind that bus routes can change, especially in rural areas, so it’s a good idea to check the times of departure ahead of time.
- Taxis: Taxis are easy to find in cities and towns, and they can be useful for short trips. Before you start your trip, make sure you agree on a price, since metres aren’t usually used.
Use a taxi app like Gjirafa50 or Bolt instead, which have set prices and can help you avoid being overcharged.
- Car rentals: If you rent a car, you can move around Kosovo at your own pace and have more freedom. Know that some roads may be in bad shape and that drivers should be careful, especially in rural places.
Before you start your trip, it’s important to learn about the local rules of the road and traditions. Most countries accept international driver’s licenses, but you should always double-check the individual rules for your home country.
✅ Check Prices and Book Your Desired Car Here!
- Trains: Even though Kosovo’s rail network isn’t very big, there are trains that run between Pristina, Peja, and Prizren.
Even though they may not be the fastest or most convenient way to travel, train rides can be beautiful and offer a unique way to see the country. On the Kosovo Railways page, you can find times and other information.
How long can a tourist stay in Kosovo?
Most tourists can go to Kosovo for up to 90 days in a 180-day time without a visa. But before you plan your trip, you should find out what your country’s entry standards are, because some countries may need a visa or other paperwork.
Due to the current political tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, crossing the border may not be easy if you plan to go to Kosovo after visiting Serbia or vice versa.
Before making travel plans, it’s a good idea to look up the latest travel tips and rules(!)
What is the best time of year to visit Kosovo?
When is the best time to go to Kosovo? That depends on what you want to see and do there. The country has four different seasons, and each one brings its own experiences:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to go because the weather is warm and everything is green and lush. It’s a great time to go sightseeing and do other things outside.
Spring is also when a lot of local fairs and events happen, which will make your trip even more fun. Spring is also when a lot of local fairs and events happen, which will make your trip even more fun.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the most popular time for tourists to visit Kosovo because it is warm and sunny.
The best time to go hiking, swimming, and to area festivals is now. Remember that some famous places may be busy during this time.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a great time to visit towns and enjoy the outdoors because the weather is cooler and the leaves are beautiful.
This is also the time of year when grapes are picked and wine events are held. This is a great time for people who like wine.
- Winter (December to February). In the mountains, it can be cold and snowy in the winter. This is the best time for people who like winter sports to hit the slopes or do other things that involve snow.
Plan ahead because some sites may be closed or have limited hours during this time.
Do people speak English in Kosovo?
Even though Albanian and Serbian are the official languages of Kosovo, a lot of people, especially younger people and those who live in cities, also speak English as a second language.
You should be able to get by with English in most cases, but it’s always nice to know a few simple phrases in the local language.
This can help you get along better with the people and improve your trip as a whole in some of the best cities in Kosovo.
What is the crime rate in Kosovo?
It’s generally considered that Kosovo is safe for you as a tourist because there isn’t much crime there that will affect you directly. But, like everywhere else in the world, you should be careful and aware of your surroundings.
Small thefts and pickpocketing can happen in busy places, so it’s important to keep your things safe and stay alert.
For your own safety, don’t walk alone late at night in places you don’t know, and always go with your gut.
Car Rental in Pristina
In case you’re in need of a rental car in Pristina, the capital city of Kosovo, I can wholeheartedly recommend renting from Discover Cars. You can click on the link below to book your rental car:
The Wrap-Up: Best cities in Kosovo to Visit
If you’re up for an adventure, you’ll find that Kosovo is a hidden gem. With many different cities in Kosovo, long history, and beautiful landscapes make it a one-of-a-kind place to visit.
This interesting country has something for everyone, whether you want to walk around the busy streets of Pristina, learn about the past in Prizren, or enjoy the great outdoors in Peja.
Kosovo is a place that should be on your list of places to visit in 2023. With so many different things to do and see, it’s a place that will surprise you and make you want to go back. At least, that’s how I feel!
So pack your bags, learn a few phrases in the local language, and get ready to explore the best cities in Kosovo and learn about the interesting stories that can be found in this less-known but amazing part of Europe.
Click here for some fun facts about Kosovo!
Your restless voyager,
Dustin
