Okay, so Kosovo might not be the first destination you think about for vacation due to its past and the location at the middle of inland Balkan. However, you shouldn’t be so quick to dismiss Kosovo as a travel destination because it has a lot to offer its visitors!
That’s something I learned and experienced when visiting Kosovo for the first time. Nature is beautiful, people are friendly, prices are cheap and the fact that it’s quite unexplored makes it a lot more exciting to explore!
Hopefully, you too will discover Kosovo’s beauty as well, and here are 14 reasons why you should visit Kosovo!
WONDERFUL AND FRIENDLY PEOPLE
The people of Kosovo are hospitable, friendly and very talkative. Don’t be surprised if a stranger comes up to you and talk. In many countries, this would be quite sketchy, but here in Kosovo, it will be out of curiosity about where you’re coming from and why you’re visiting Kosovo (in a good way).
Most of the younger generation speak English very well, and you won’t have a hard time to speak with them. Some of the older generation might not speak more than a few words of English, but if you happen to know Italian or German they might know that besides Albanian.
BEAUTIFUL NATURE
The countryside is another special thing about Kosovo. You see cows and goats walking freely around the landscapes and they look really happy. Another thing that will strike you upon arrival is the natural beauty you can find all over the country, ranging from mountains to lakes and waterfalls.
Hiking is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Kosovo, and you can do it yourself or together with one of the many tour guides available.
While prices are rising in Europe in general, especially at more crowded tourist destinations, it’s safe to say that Kosovo is one of the most inexpensive countries in Europe, and you can have a full meal for less than 3 USD.
That’s about 1/3 of the equivalent price in Sweden, hence you get a lot of value for the money as a tourist.
A YOUNG COUNTRY ON THE UPRISE
While the past definitely has some dark spots of war and other problems, things are turning for the better I think. There’s an optimistic feel whenever you speak with the locals, and the overall feeling is that Kosovo is looking toward a brighter future!
And probably a lot more tourists as well as soon as they discover what a lovely place this is.
HISTORY AND CULTURE
The area of Kosovo has been inhabited for thousands of years. Several empires and peoples have roamed these lands, and you can see parts from different eras while traveling around the country.
They have a strong culture and identity and you can tell that the Kosovars are proud of their heritage. When others talk about history and Kosovo the first thought is often the horrible Kosovo war, but there is so much more history to discover!
DELICIOUS FOOD
Like other Balkan countries they eat a lot of meat, so you’ll find all the Balkan classics. But if there is one Kosovar dish you should try then it would have to be Flija. Here’s a video to see more how you make this unique dish!
SOME OF THE INTERESTING PLACES TO VISIT IN KOSOVO
Where to go? Here are some of the places I think everyone should visit! I’m sure there are more, but this will be a good start.
PRIZREN
One of the most beautiful and interesting cities in Balkan I think. Quite similar to Mostar, even though Prizren definitely has its own charm and character. It’s easily accessible from Albania or Skopje in Macedonia.
We went on a bus from Tirana and we arrived a couple of hours later. It’s a lively city filled with cafés, restaurants and beautiful mosques. Don’t miss to climb the fortress and enjoy the impressive views over Prizren!
RUGOVA
If you like spending time in nature, then you should put Rugova on your bucket list! Lakes, mountains, trails, canyons, and gorges are plenty. Just look at the photo below and you will see why you should go.
PRISTINA
The capital is also the biggest city with a population of about 210 000 people. Here you will find a great range of bars and restaurants, and several cool buildings and landmarks.
Another classic as a tourist is to do an air five with the big statue of Bill Clinton, which is a tribute to the former president.
GJAKOVA
Situated between the cities of Peja and Prizren, Gjakova makes an interesting stop. The city was quite damaged during the Kosovo war, but it has been rebuilt and once again serves as one of the cultural and educational centers.
Some points of interests include the Old Bazaar, Hadium Mosque, Saint Paul and Clock Tower.
PEJA
Another old city in Kosovo with plenty of beautiful buildings and culture as well as surrounding nature. Due to the diversity of activities, there is also a growing tourism industry in Peja.
SHARR MOUNTAINS
Another stunning mountain range in Kosovo. This one is located east of Prizren at the border to Macedonia. Here await lakes, shepherds, and breathtaking scenery. The Sharr Mountains is a must place to go when you visit Kosovo if you like hiking and nature!
WHITE DRIN WATERFALL
A stunning waterfall that rises 25 meters high. Located in the Zhljeb mountain in the Prokletije in the village of Radavc, 11 km away from the town of Peja.
GERMIA PARK
In the northeastern part of Pristina, you will find the natural gem called Germia Park. I would advise going on the weekdays though, as it tends to get crowded during the weekends!
