Planning a trip to Kosovo and wondering about the best places to visit? Kosovo, a partially recognized state in the Balkans, shares its borders with Serbia, Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. Although it’s one of the least visited destinations in the Balkans, Kosovo is definitely worth exploring for its stunning landscapes, historic cities, national parks, and UNESCO heritage sites.
Starting with the capital, Pristina, you’ll experience a mix of old and new architecture. Though not the most visually appealing capital in Europe, Pristina has its charm with a combination of Ottoman and Byzantine styles alongside modern brutalist buildings. Don’t miss the National Library of Kosovo, known for its unusual design, and the colorful NEWBORN monument, commemorating Kosovo’s independence from Serbia. Pristina also features several historical landmarks worth visiting.
Next on the list is Prizren, the second-largest city in Kosovo and often considered the cultural capital. The city is famous for its lovely old town, a 16th-century stone bridge, and an ancient Ottoman mosque. Surrounded by lush mountains, Prizren is arguably the most beautiful city in Kosovo with its cobbled streets, historical sites, cafes, and restaurants. Key attractions include the Shadervan main square, the UNESCO-listed Our Lady of Ljeviš Church, and Prizren Fortress, which offers stunning city views, especially at sunset. The city also serves as a gateway to the Shar Mountain National Park.
Shar Mountains National Park, located near Prizren, is a haven for nature lovers with alpine and glacial lakes such as Šutmansko Lake and Big and Small Jažinačko Lakes. The park boasts some of Kosovo’s best hiking and walking trails.
Peć, or Peja, is another significant city in Kosovo, known for the medieval Serbian Orthodox Patriarchate of Peć monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s historical Old Town is filled with quaint shops, beautiful buildings, and traditional restaurants offering local cuisine. Rugova Canyon, located just 14 km from the city center, is one of Europe’s longest and deepest canyons and a must-visit spot.
The Prokletije Mountains, also known as the Accursed Mountains, are famous for their rugged cliffs and steep terrain. Gjeravica, the highest peak in Kosovo at 2656 meters, offers a challenging 10-hour hike with breathtaking views, glacial lakes, and the Ereniku River.
Lastly, the Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park, located about 50 km from Peć, features diverse landscapes, including beautiful lakes, dense forests, and alpine areas. Popular activities here are walking, hiking, and biking on the numerous trails. The park is rich in biodiversity and home to rare and endemic species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Gjakova, situated in southwestern Kosovo between Peja and Prizren, is notable for the Old Bazaar, the longest and oldest in the Balkans, stretching approximately one kilometer. Other important landmarks in Gjakova include the Hadum Mosque and St. Paul Church.
Make sure to consider these destinations when planning your trip to Kosovo for an unforgettable experience.