Why visit Kosovo?
This country is one of Europe’s hidden gems! Located in the heart of the Balkans, Kosovo is rich in history, unspoiled nature and genuine hospitality. If you’re looking for a holiday off the beaten path, Kosovo is the perfect destination.
From UNESCO-listed medieval monasteries to remote mountain villages and the vibrant cultural scene in Pristina, a trip to Kosovo will surprise and fascinate you, without breaking the bank!
Best time to visit Kosovo
Kosovo has a continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers. The best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is milder.
Spring and autumn are perfect for exploring nature parks and historical sites, while summer is ideal for enjoying local festivals and discovering the mountainous areas.
If you love winter sports, don’t miss the mountains around Brezovica, which come alive in winter with plenty of outdoor activities.
10 unmissable places in Kosovo and the best things to do
Here are the 10 most fascinating places to visit in Kosovo and the must-do activities to enjoy your trip to the fullest:
Pristina
The capital is Kosovo’s vibrant heart, a young and dynamic city where past and present blend beautifully.
Visit the National Library, an iconic and controversial building—and the NEWBORN monument, a true symbol of independence.
Stroll through local markets, sip coffee in the many student-filled cafés, and enjoy the city’s buzzing nightlife.
Don’t miss a walk to the Cathedral of Mother Teresa, which offers a stunning panoramic view over the city.
Prizren
Arguably the most beautiful and picturesque city in Kosovo, it has a magical historic atmosphere and showcases authentic Ottoman architecture.
Walk along the Bistrica river, visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque and climb up to the Prizren Fortress for an unforgettable view!
In summer, don’t miss Dokufest, one of Europe’s top documentary film festivals. If you’re into films, it’s a must!
Peja (Pec)
Located in the west, Peja is the perfect starting point to explore the Rugova mountains, ideal for trekking, canyoning and climbing.
The city is also home to the Patriarchate of Pec, one of the most important Orthodox monasteries.
For unique, local souvenirs, visit the restored Ottoman bazaar and browse the traditional craft stalls.
Gjakova
This town is famous for its old bazaar (Çarshia e Madhe), one of the largest and most charming in the Balkans.
Rebuilt after the war, it’s now filled with cozy cafés, craft shops and traditional restaurants.
Visit the Clock Tower and wander the narrow alleys steeped in centuries of history.
Visoki Dečani Monastery
A 14th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery and arguably one of the most spiritual and awe-inspiring places in Kosovo.
Its beautifully preserved frescoes and mystical atmosphere are just some of the reasons for its fame.
Access is controlled by KFOR for security reasons, but it’s absolutely worth the visit.
Brezovica
Kosovo’s most popular ski resort, located in the south of the country. With slopes ranging from 900 to 2500 metres, it’s ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
But don’t worry, Brezovica is also a great summer destination, with scenic alpine trails perfect for hiking.
Mitrovica
A symbol of post-war division, this town is known for its bridge that separates the Albanian and Serbian communities.
Despite its complex past, Mitrovica is worth visiting if you want to better understand modern Kosovo.
Head to the Trepça Mining Tower to learn more about the region’s industrial history.
Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park
If you love nature and hiking, this vast national park on the border with Montenegro and Albania is paradise.
Its trails offer stunning views over valleys, alpine lakes and snowy peaks.
We recommend the hike to Lake Leqinat, it’s arguably one of the most beautiful in the area!
Ulpiana
For archaeology lovers, Ulpiana is a must. Located near Gračanica, this ancient Roman town offers well-preserved ruins and a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.
Make sure to also visit the Gračanica Monastery for the full experience.
Rahovec
Welcome to the wine capital of Kosovo! Visit local wineries, taste native grapes like Vranac and explore the country’s growing wine culture.
Relax among the hills and vineyards with a glass of wine and traditional food, it’s the kind of break you won’t forget.
How to stay connected in Kosovo
Having internet in Kosovo is essential for getting around, booking activities… and sharing your journey in real time with friends!
Here are the main options to stay connected while travelling in Kosovo:
- Free Wi-Fi in hotels, bars and restaurants, but it can be slow or insecure
- Local SIM cards, available at the airport or phone shops, you might not get the best deal right away
- eSIMs, digital SIM cards you can purchase and install before your trip (you’ll need a compatible smartphone, check the list here)
eSIMs are the smartest choice for travellers: you only pay for the data you really need, without hidden costs or roaming charges.
Buy your eSIM at www.esim.sm to access flexible plans from 1GB to 50GB, quick top-ups from your personal dashboard (you can even set up auto-recharge so you never run out of data), and 24/7 customer support.
Choose the best plan for your needs on eSIM.sm, scan the QR code you’ll receive right after purchase, and install the eSIM on your phone. All that’s left is to activate it when you land, and you’re ready to surf!
And if you want to save even more data, check out our guide to saving mobile data.
What to watch out for when travelling in Kosovo
Kosovo is generally safe for tourists, but a few precautions are always good:
- Avoid political debates, especially in sensitive areas like Mitrovica
- Make sure your travel and health insurance is valid, in case of emergencies
- Infrastructure outside major cities can be basic, bring what you need in case of delays or detours
- Internet in Kosovo may be limited in remote mountain areas, download offline maps if you’re planning to hike. (Check our guide to using Google Maps offline and saving data)
