[Travel](https://tripguroo.com/en/travel/) › [Guides](https://tripguroo.com/en/travel/) › [Kosovo](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/) # Guide to Kosovo To visit Kosovo, check entry requirements, connectivity and this guide’s local references. Kosovo brings together urban cafés, monasteries and villages amid Balkan mountains. Pristina and Prizren show different forms of everyday life. [Places in Kosovo · 2 catalog places →](https://tripguroo.com/en/places/kosovo/) ## Visa for your trip Your passport countrySelect countryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAndorraAngolaAntigua & BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBhutanBoliviaBosnia & HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo - BrazzavilleCongo - KinshasaCosta RicaCôte d’IvoireCroatiaCubaCyprusCzechiaDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFijiFinlandFranceGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGrenadaGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong Kong SAR ChinaHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacao SAR ChinaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmar (Burma)NamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorth KoreaNorth MacedoniaNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestinian TerritoriesPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSamoaSan MarinoSão Tomé & PríncipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth KoreaSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSt. Kitts & NevisSt. LuciaSt. Vincent & GrenadinesSudanSurinameSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTimor-LesteTogoTongaTrinidad & TobagoTunisiaTürkiyeTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamYemenZambiaZimbabweChoose the passport you travel with. The lookup adapts automatically. Conditions and other situationsShort tourist stays with an ordinary passport. Residence, other visas, stay length and transit can change the requirement. Check with the authority before booking or travelling. [Destination source](https://www.mfa.gov.rs/en/citizens/travel-serbia/visa-regime) · [Check itinerary with IATA](https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/passport-visa-health-travel-document-requirements.htm) Enable JavaScript to adapt this lookup to your passport. You can also check the destination source. ## eSIM and connectivity Compare Saily and Airalo plans. Check destination coverage and phone compatibility on the provider’s website. [Saily ↗](https://tripguroo.com/api/affiliate/go/esim?source=guide&lang=en)[Airalo ↗](https://tripguroo.com/api/affiliate/go/esim-airalo?source=guide&lang=en) Affiliate links: we may earn a commission on purchases. ## Currency and payments Serbian Dinar (RSD) ## Embassy Missions are filtered by your passport country. Confirm services, opening hours and appointments with the mission. View 73 missions and contacts ### [Embassy of the United Arab Emirates, Belgrade](https://www.mofaic.gov.ae/missions/UAE-Missions-Abroad/UAE-Missions-Abroad-Details?countryId=52079906-41e7-4c96-ab42-66302ddf35e6) Belgrade Belgrade, Užička Street no 60.[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q80328425) ### [Embassy of Albania, Belgrade](https://ambasadat.gov.al/serbia/) Belgrade Bulevar kneza Aleksandra Karađorđevića 25A[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q67193149) ### [Embassy of Angola, Belgrade](https://www.angolaembassy.org.rs/) Belgrade Krupanjska 21, Dedinje[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q106029254) ### [embassy of Argentina in Serbia](https://eserb.cancilleria.gob.ar/) Belgrade Knez Mihailova 24/I[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108098654) ### [embassy of Austria, Belgrade](https://www.bmeia.gv.at/oeb-belgrad/) Belgrade Sime Markovica 2[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q104744268) ### [embassy of Australia in Serbia](https://serbia.embassy.gov.au/) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q106546799) ### [Embassy of Azerbaijan, Belgrade](http://belgrade.mfa.gov.az/) Rakovica City Municipality Пере Велимировића 25[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16416671) ### [Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108001470) Belgrade 37 Генерала Анрија[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108001470) ### [Embassy of Belgium, Belgrade](http://serbia.diplomatie.belgium.be/) Belgrade Krunska 18[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q104586769) ### [embassy of Bulgaria, Belgrade](https://www.mfa.bg/embassies/serbia) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12291120) ### [embassy of Brazil in Serbia](http://belgrado.itamaraty.gov.br/) Belgrade Krunska 14[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q105871909) ### [embassy of Belarus in Serbia](https://serbia.mfa.gov.by/) Belgrade Деліградска, 13[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108098704) ### [embassy of Canada in Serbia](https://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/serbia-serbie/index.aspx) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q104388206) ### [embassy of Democratic Republic of the Congo in Serbia](http://drcongo-embassy.rs/) Belgrade Moravska 5[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108119268) ### [embassy of Switzerland in Serbia](https://www.eda.admin.ch/belgrade) Belgrade Bulevar Oslobodjenja 4[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q101444825) ### [Embassy of the People's Republic of China, Belgrade](http://rs.chineseembassy.org/) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q58924752) ### [embassy of Cuba in Serbia](http://misiones.minrex.gob.cu/es/serbia) Belgrade Domentijanova 4[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108106666) ### [embassy of Cyprus in Serbia](http://www.mfa.gov.cy/mfa/embassies/Embassy_Belgrade.nsf) Belgrade Generala Save Grujića 18[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108107391) ### [embassy of the Czech republic in Serbia](https://www.mzv.cz/belgrade) Belgrade Bulevar kralja Aleksandra 22[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q107094493) ### [Embassy of Germany, Belgrade](https://belgrad.diplo.de/) Savski Venac City Municipality [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q60149042) ### [embassy of Denmark in Serbia](https://serbien.um.dk/) Belgrade Neznanog junaka 9a[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q105947905) ### [Embassy of Algeria, Belgrade](https://www.ambalgserbia.rs/) Belgrade Maglajska 26B[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q100268089) ### [embassy of Egypt in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108119435) Belgrade Andre Nikolića 12[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108119435) ### [Embassy of Spain in Serbia](http://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/BELGRADO) Belgrade 45 Проте Матеје[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q65173973) ### [embassy of Finland in Serbia](https://finlandabroad.fi/web/srb) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q106306645) ### [embassy of France, Belgrade](https://rs.ambafrance.org/) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q17490951) ### [British Embassy Belgrade](https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-belgrade) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q59290306) ### [embassy of Guinea in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q106875940) Belgrade Ohridska 4[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q106875940) ### [embassy of Greece in Serbia](https://www.mfa.gr/serbia) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108120884) ### [embassy of Croatia in Serbia](http://rs.mvep.hr/) Belgrade Kneza Miloša 62[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q107383520) ### [embassy of Indonesia, Beograd](https://kemlu.go.id/belgrade) Belgrade Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia to Serbia, Bulevar Kneza Aleksandra Karadjordjevica No. 18, Beograd, Serbia 11040, P.O. Box 559[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q107552754) ### [embassy of Israel in Serbia](https://embassies.gov.il/beograd/) Belgrade Bulevar Kneza Aleksandra Karadjordjevica 47[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108121231) ### [embassy of India in Serbia](https://www.eoibelgrade.gov.in/) Belgrade Djordja Radojlovica 7a[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108121006) ### [embassy of Iraq in Serbia](https://www.mofa.gov.iq/belgrade) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108063907) ### [embassy of Iran in Serbia](https://serbia.mfa.gov.ir/) Belgrade Mihaila Mike Jankovića 3[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108121135) ### [embassy of Italy in Serbia](https://ambbelgrado.esteri.it/) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q105061867) ### [embassy of Japan in Serbia](https://www.yu.emb-japan.go.jp/) Belgrade Trešnjinog cveta 13[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108128977) ### [embassy of Cambodia in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108106553) Belgrade Molerova 11/10[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108106553) ### [embassy of South Korea in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108275284) Belgrade Miloša Savčića 4[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108275284) ### [embassy of Kuwait in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108159527) Belgrade Tolstojeva 42b[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108159527) ### [embassy of Kazakhstan in Serbia](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-belgrad) Belgrade Temišvarska 10[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108129213) ### [embassy of Lebanon in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108159649) Belgrade Diplomatska kolonija 5[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108159649) ### [embassy of Libya in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108159721) Belgrade Sime Lozanića 8[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108159721) ### [embassy of Morocco in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108188956) Belgrade Sanje Živanovića 4[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108188956) ### [embassy of Montenegro in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108160054) Belgrade Кнеза Михаила 10[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108160054) ### [embassy of North Macedonia in Serbia](https://belgrade.mfa.gov.mk/) Belgrade Gospodar Jevremova 34[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q106962891) ### [embassy of Myanmar in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108189043) Belgrade Kneza Miloša 72[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108189043) ### [Embassy of Malaysia, Belgrade](https://www.kln.gov.my/web/srb_belgrade/) Belgrade Krajiška 2[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108159911) ### [Embassy of the Netherlands in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q102397667) Belgrade Milentija Popovica 5b[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q102397667) ### [Embassy of Norway, Belgrade](https://www.norway.no/serbia/) Belgrade Milentija Popovica 5a[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q19383553) ### [embassy of Pakistan in Serbia](http://mofa.gov.pk/serbia) Belgrade Bulevar Kneza Aleksandra Karadjordjevica 62[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108261021) ### [Polish Institute in Belgrade](https://instytutpolski.pl/belgrade/) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q122833128) ### [Embassy of Poland, Belgrade](http://www.belgrad.msz.gov.pl/) Belgrade [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16485706) ### [embassy of Palestine in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108107473) Belgrade Aleksandra Stambolijskog 27a[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108107473) ### [embassy of Portugal in Serbia](https://belgrado.embaixadaportugal.mne.gov.pt/) Belgrade Vladimira Gacinovica 4[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q105490451) ### [embassy of Qatar in Serbia](https://belgrade.embassy.qa/) Belgrade Užička 32[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108275099) ### [Embassy of Romania, Belgrade](https://belgrad.mae.ro/) Belgrade 12 Mihaila Avramovica Street, Dedinje[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q89188329) ### [Romanian Consulate General, Vršac](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7362540) Vršac [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7362540) ### [Embassy of Russia, Belgrade](https://serbia.mid.ru/) Belgrade Deligradska 32[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q21644366) ### [Embassy of Sweden, Belgrade](http://www.swedenabroad.com/Belgrade) Belgrade Ledi Pedžet 2, 11040 Belgrad[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18449201) ### [embassy of Slovenia in Serbia](http://www.belgrade.embassy.si/) Belgrade Dositejeva ulica 41[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q19937570) ### [embassy of Slovakia in Serbia](https://www.mzv.sk/web/belehrad) Belgrade Bulevar umetnosti 18[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q107024907) ### [embassy of Syria in Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108097983) Belgrade Aleksandra Stamboliskog 13[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108097983) ### [Embassy of Tunisia, Belgrade](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q68170967) Belgrade 19 Rue Vase Pelagica[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q68170967) ### [Embassy of Turkey, Belgrade](https://belgrad-be.mfa.gov.tr/) Belgrade Krunska 1, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1727314) ### [Consulate of Turkey, Niš](https://nis-kb.mfa.gov.tr/) Niš [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q131574230) ### [Consulate General of Turkey, Novi Pazar](https://yenipazar-bk.mfa.gov.tr/) Novi Pazar [Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q131574185) ### [Embassy of Ukraine, Belgrade](http://serbia.mfa.gov.ua/) Belgrade 4, Paje Adamova St. Belgrade[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12142726) ### [Embassy of the United States, Belgrade](https://rs.usembassy.gov/) Belgrade 92 Bulevar kneza Aleksandra Karadjordjevica[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q84836904) ### [Apostolic Nunciature to Serbia](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q19932632) Belgrade 24 Светог Саве[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q19932632) ### [embassy of Venezuela in Serbia](http://serbia.embajada.gob.ve/) Belgrade Sime Lukina Lazića 10[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108275465) ### [Liaison Office of Kosovo, Belgrade](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q117039158) Belgrade Vladimira Popovica 40A[Source](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q117039158) ### [Embajada de México en Serbia](https://embamex.sre.gob.mx/serbia) Belgrade [Source](https://portales.sre.gob.mx/directorio/embajadas-de-mexico-en-el-exterior) ## Highlights ### [Medieval Monuments in Kosovo](https://tripguroo.com/en/places/unesco-724/) UNESCO cultural World Heritage, inscribed in 2004. ### [Pristina](https://tripguroo.com/en/places/ciudad-pristina/) The main city or settlement in Kosovo, with its own entry to explore and mark as visited. ## Complete guide · chapter reading [Introduction](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-0) · [Regions](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-1) · [Cities](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-2) · [Other destinations](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-3) · [Understand](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-4) · [Get in](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-5) · [Get around](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-6) · [Talk](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-7) · [See](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-8) · [Do](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-9) · [Buy](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-10) · [Eat](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-11) · [Drink](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-12) · [Sleep](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-13) · [Stay safe](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-14) · [Stay healthy](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-15) · [Connect](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-16) · [Go next](https://tripguroo.com/en/guides/kosovo/#full-chapter-17) ## Introduction Kosovo (: Kosova (definite form) or Kosovë (indefinite form) is a largely mountainous country in the region of . Its attractions for travelers include its archaeological and religious heritage, natural beauty, hiking and skiing. Kosovo has Ottoman, Christian Orthodox and modernist heritage to share with the world. Being still new to tourists, Kosovars are welcoming to foreign visitors and happy to help. Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia in 2008, which still opposes the act. While the independence of Kosovo is disputed by some states, from a visitor's perspective it exercises control over its land, with its own entry requirements. For this reason, Wikivoyage treats Kosovo as a country. This is not an endorsement or refutation of either side of the dispute. ## Regions Central KosovoContains the capital , which has a lively centre with bustling cafes and bars, galleries and museums, the "Newborn" independence monument and the Germia National Park right on the edge of the city. Cultural events are hosted here year-round and it has regular transport links to towns and cities throughout Kosovo. Outside of the city, lies the town of with its 14th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery and nearby Ulpiana archaeological site. The region also includes two monuments to the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, a tower at Gazimestan and the Tomb of Sultan Murad I. Western KosovoThe west is Kosovo's most scenic region and has a rich cultural heritage. Its two biggest cities are , with its scenic location and 13th-century UNESCO-protected Patriarchate, and with its Ottoman old town restored in the 21st century. Behind Peja lies the dramatic , a national park and playground for outdoor activities, while east of Gjakova is wine-making country, with vineyards surrounding the town of Rahovec. Serbian heritage can be explored in the medieval village of Velika Hoca, where rakija (brandy) is still made in the traditional way, and the Visoki Decani monastery with its 14th-century original frescoes. Two sets of waterfalls in the west can offer a refreshing getaway, including Mirusha on the road from Prishtina to Gjakova and Radavc, between Peja and Montenegro, where the source of the White Drin River can be found. Southern KosovoThe city of lies at the heart of southern Kosovo, with its historic old town, hilltop castle, and impressive array of mosques and churches. South of Prizren is the remote mountainous area of Dragash, home to one of the Balkans' most picturesque villages, . The Sharri mountains stretch across Kosovo's southern border, and offer ample opportunities for hiking and skiing, on the slopes of Brezovica. Northern KosovoAt the centre of the northern region is the city of , with its mixed Albanian and Serb population divided by the River Ibar. Nearby is the town of Vushtrri, the oldest settlement in Kosovo that has a centuries old castle and stone bridge. At Prekaz, close to Skanderaj, visitors can get a glimpse into Kosovo's more recent history, at a monument to the Jashari family, whose massacre in 1998 is often seen as the trigger to the escalation of violence at the end of the 20th century. Opportunities for hiking are provided by rural regions in the north, including in Shala e Bajgores east of Mitrovica and around the lake outside of Zubin Potok. South-eastern KosovoThe rolling hills of Kosovo's southeast are home to the bustling city of , a medieval fortress at and the church where Mother Theresa received her calling at Letnica. On the road from Prishtina to Skopje lie the cities of and , with their murals and post-industrial heritage, and a chance to explore the Gadime caves. ## Cities Central Kosovo — the capital of Kosovo. Western Kosovo — its Old Bazaar has a mosque that was built in the 15th century. It is one of the rarest of its kind — visitors come to see the Mirusha Waterfalls — host to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and surrounded by stunning nature Southern Kosovo — the historical and cultural capital of Kosovo. Charming city bustling with various festivals and architecture of different periods. — known for its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality Northern Kosovo South-eastern Kosovo ## Other destinations — a largely rural region known for vineyards and wine-making — a ski centre ## Understand Kosovo was the last territory to separate following the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. It declared independence in February 2008, although Serbia does not recognise it as a sovereign state. As of late 2025, 110 out of 193 UN member states recognise Kosovo. The vast majority of the population (91.8%) is ethnic Albanian. Small minorities include Serbs, Bosniaks, Turks and Ashkali. While most Albanians, Bosniaks and Turks are Muslim, the Republic of Kosovo is a secular state, and all religious groups are free to observe their key feasts and celebration dates. Kosovo has a young demographic, with approximately 70% of its population under the age of 35 as of 2026. History History in Kosovo has been highly politicized and is wrapped up with the histories of its Balkan neighbors. Control of Kosovo changed hands many times in the medieval period, passing variously from being part of the Bulgarian Empire, Byzantine Empire and the Serbian Empire. From the 15th century Kosovo was part of the Ottoman Empire for almost 500 years, before the empire collapsed at the beginning of the 20th century. Wars and border disputes continued as Kosovo was annexed into the Kingdom of Serbia, which expanded into the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes at the end of World War I, and changed its name to the Kingdom of Yugoslavia in 1929. At the end of World War II, and the defeat of the invading Axis powers by socialist partisans, Kosovo became an Autonomous Province in the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, led by Josip Broz Tito. After Tito's death in 1980, and the rise of nationalism throughout Yugoslavia, Kosovo was stripped of its autonomous status at the end of the '80s by the regime of autocratic leader Slobodan Milosevic. With Yugoslavia breaking apart, Kosovo's Albanians were stripped of many of their rights during a decade of repression during the 1990s, which ended in the war of 1998-99, as Kosovar Albanians stood up against the Serbian regime to fight for their liberation. A NATO bombing campaign against Serbian military and industrial targets brought the war to an end in June 1999, and led to a period in which Kosovo was administered by the United Nations. On 17 February 2008, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia, and was quickly recognized by the Western-aligned world powers, including the United States and most member states of the European Union. However Serbia continues to refute Kosovo's independent status. It is also not a member of the United Nations as its independence is not recognized by and , both of whom have used their veto power on the Security Council to block any UN recognition of Kosovo. Domestically, while ethnic Albanians support Kosovo's independence, most ethnic Serbs do not and still consider Kosovo to be a part of Serbia. Climate The climate is continental, with very warm summers and cold and snowy winters. Religion Kosovo is a multi-ethnic, secular state whose population practises a diverse selection of religions. The majority Albanian population is mainly Muslim, though with a significant Catholic minority. That said, most ethnic Albanian Muslims do not practice the religion, and view it more as a cultural identity. Kosovo's Bosniak, Gorani and Turkish communities are also predominantly Muslim, while Kosovar Serbs tend to practice Serbian Orthodox Christianity. ## Get in Serbia claims Kosovo as its territory. If you enter Kosovo first and then try to travel directly to Serbia they will view you as being illegally in Serbia because you do not have a Serbian entry stamp, and so you will be refused entry. You must exit Kosovo and enter Serbia from a different (non-Kosovo) border crossing to enter Serbia. However, if you are an EU, Bosnian, Kosovan, Macedonian, Montenegrin, Serbian or Swiss national, use a national ID card at border crossings—no stamps involved, and you will be allowed to enter Serbia. In general, you will not be given a Serbian exit stamp if you enter Kosovo from Serbia. 2011-03-27 Citizens of countries such as , , , the , , , , and do not need a visa, but if you are planning to stay in Kosovo for more than 90 days you should register at the Police Department for the Registration of Foreigners. This is next to the central police station in Pristina. Citizens of other countries that have significantly contributed to the rebuilding of Kosovo probably also do not need visas either, although Kosovo is starting to implement a stricter visa regime. The 90-day rule for the registration of foreigners applies to everybody. You can enter Kosovo through the northern border with Serbia through or near . There are bus connections from and to Pristina and and from all the major towns in to the northern parts. The most used transport route is through and Pristina Airport. is only one and a half hour from the capital city of Kosovo, Pristina. Travelling from Pristina to any other city of Kosovo does not take longer than an hour and a half. For instance, from Pristina to Prizren by car takes 45 minutes, or to Prizren, Gjakova or Peja by bus takes an hour and a half. By plane Several European airlines offer direct flights from their hubs to the Pristina International Airport, including easyJet, WizzAir, Eurowings, TUIfly Belgium, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Swiss, Edelweiss Air and Austrian Airlines. During the summer, several additional charter flights are available for travellers. Listing reviewed2023-12-13 Local namePRN Other nearby airports are in Skopje and Tirana. By bus Since most buses will go into Pristina, see for more details: From , you can enter through Rozaje to Peja/Pec (ca. 2 hr). From (Skopje), you can take a bus to (less than 1½ hr). There is a border crossing in the Presevo Valley in . There are a couple of companies offering buses from , via . From , you can enter through Prizren on the highway. One way trips from Tirana to Pristina and Prizren cost €15 (as of 2022/23) and take 3-4 hr, with two stops. By car International Motor Insurance Cards are not accepted. At the border you will need to pay for separate insurance, which will cover you throughout Kosovo for up to two weeks. Costs depend on the vehicle but two weeks' cover is usually under €20. Ensure also that you have your vehicle registration and a power of attorney from the car's owner if it is not yours. From Serbia during the summer holidays in Germany and Switzerland expect long queues at the border crossing in Merdare (up to 3 hours). You also can enter to the country at Dheu i Bardhe near Bujanoc and at Jarinje near Nis. From Montenegro, the only legal border crossing is at Rozhaja. From North Macedonia you can enter near Hani i Elezit in Bllaca or at Bellanice (Stanqiq). From Albania you can cross at Morine or at Qafa e Prushit near Gjakova. ## Get around By bus The best way to travel intercity in Kosovo is by bus. The buses are relatively cheap and comfortable (for example from Pristina to Peja is €4), with discounts available for students. Payment is usually made on the bus to a representative of the bus company coming around once the journey has started - you may or may not receive a physical ticket, depending on the company. However, tickets for crossing the border can be bought in the bus station in Pristina and with travel agency in Prishtina or Prizren. The latter sometimes gives you the opportunity for a slight discount, in case you know the actual fare (see Gjirafa). Between some cities you may also have the option of minivans, running from nearby the main bus station. These leave when full and are usually a similar price to the regular buses. For major regional (but also country crossing) bus connections see [Gjirafa](https://gjirafa.com/Autobus/) for times and prices. It won't cover minibuses though, which also run but mostly between or to and from smaller towns. By train The only connections as of May 2026 are two daily trains from Pristina to Peja which are a comfortable way to make this journey (€3). The timetable is available at the [Kosovo Railways](http://www.trainkos.com/sherbimet/transporti-i-udhetareve/orari-i-trenave/) website. By car Major highway construction throughout the 2010s has significantly reduced car travel times between major cities, and further road building and improvements are underway. Driving in Kosovo, particularly in cities, can be somewhat stressful initially, and it is best to adopt an attitude of expecting the unexpected. Pedestrians crossing in front of you without warning, cyclists approaching on the wrong side of the road, and potholes appearing out of nowhere are all familiar sights. Just-in-time overtaking manoeuvres and swerving lane-changes are also common, while roundabouts involve their own unique local customs. You will likely become accustomed to this quickly, however, and as long as you remain alert and look out for sudden changes in road surfaces, you should be fine. Parking can be a challenge, particularly in Prishtina and other major cities, but there are plenty of informal car parks charging €1 to €2 for the day where your vehicle should be safe. Many locals choose to park at the side of the road, on pavements or wherever there is a small amount of space, although the police have begun to remove illegally parked vehicles in some areas. Road signs and place names usually appear in Albanian and Serbian, although it is not uncommon for the minority language to be scratched out. By taxi It is best to use registered taxis as they have fixed prices and are metered. Registered taxis are clearly marked with a company name and phone number printed on the vehicle. Unregistered taxis are usually cars with a yellow taxi sign affixed to the roof, they are safe, but the price is entirely at the driver's discretion. For more information on taxi companies see the pages for individual cities. By ride sharing [Udhë](https://udhe.info/) is trying to establish something like BlaBlaCar for Kosovo. The offers are sparse, mostly covering Pristina-Prizren. By thumb Hitchhiking is not as easy as it is in Albania—locals rarely do it and since COVID sentiments have been impacted negatively. But considering most Kosovars are a young bunch of folk with many speaking English or even German, their curiosity should do the trick. As always, consider the regular advices for and watch out for any . ## Talk Most people in Kosovo speak , while in Serb-majority areas, such as the north, is spoken - both are official languages and appear on road signs, etc. Young people, particularly in the major cities such as Pristina and Prizren, are likely to understand English, whereas the older generation are more likely to understand . can be useful, and the Turkish minority which is concentrated mainly in Prizren speaks both Turkish and Albanian. ## See Mirusha Waterfalls, between Prishtina and Gjakova, on the way to ., is a sequence of cascading waterfalls surrounded by towering rock formations, featuring a spacious natural swimming pool. The Waterfall of the Drini River north of is fantastic during the summer. The road to the river is an amazing: a narrow road with wires on one side and the river on the other. The Pec Patriarchy, 2 km to the northwest of the city center, was the seat of the Patriarchy of the Serbian Orthodox Church for about 200 years of its history and for many Serbs is considered to be of extreme national importance. It is a beautiful monastery with many spectacular paintings. Rugova, to the northwest of , has extremely steep walls reaching possibly up to 300 m. The Grand Bazaar in , is a very beautiful old "shopping centre" from 17th century. The Mitrovica Bridge is an interesting symbol of the division of the population in Kosovo. This bridge is the dividing line between Serbs and Albanians in . It will almost always be safe to approach the bridge and look at it. has the remains of a huge medieval fortress built on the top of an extinct volcano cone, the remains of which can be visited today. Ulpiana, near , is one of the oldest cities in the Balkan peninsula. It was re-constructed by Emperor Justinian I. White Drin Canyon is a small canyon near . Relatively short, only being about 900 m long and 45 m deep. At its start is Fshajt Bridge, an old Ottoman bridge which attracts divers from all around the region. Medieval monuments A ing consisting of four religious edifices: Gračanica Monastery near Prishtina – One of the most beautiful examples of Serbian medieval (14th-century) ecclesiastical architecture. This monastery was built by the Serbian king Milutin in the Serbo-Byzantine style, reportedly its shape being inspired by a cloud. It is noted for its frescoes, and being the only medieval Serbian monastery found in an urban setting complete with an old school and archives. Decani Monastery in western Kosovo – One of the most important monasteries of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Kosovo. It is famous for its elegant and peculiar architecture. As an orthodox monastery from the 13th century, it successfully mixes western and eastern church building elements to form a particular hybrid style only known on the territory of old Serbia. This monastery is particularly noted for some of the world's finest medieval frescoes adorning its walls. Monastery of the Patriarchate of Peć in , northwestern Kosovo. Our Lady of Ljeviš (Kisha e Shën Premtës or Bogorodica Ljeviška) – in , southern Kosovo. ## Do Although Kosovo is not yet widely known for tourism, this is changing quickly as the country offers something for every visitor. Surrounded by mountains and still developing its statehood, Kosovo is accessible and remains one of the cheapest destinations in Europe. With cross-border hiking trails like the [Via Dinarica](https://www.viadinarica.com/) and [Peaks of the Balkans](http://peaksofthebalkans.info/) bringing new interest to the area, now is a good time to visit this region. Exploring rural Kosovo reveals scenery, cultural heritage and hospitality. Visitors can hike the Sharri, Pashtrik and Accursed Mountains, ski the slopes in Brezovica, admire the Ottoman architecture of Prizren, sample raki or wine around Rahovec, visit a traditional stone Kulla in Junik or Drenoc, or experience the coffee culture in Prishtina. It is also possible to explore both Islamic and Orthodox sites, which are often found side by side. With its busy cafés, outdoor adventure scene, welcoming locals and low prices, Kosovo is a suitable destination for those looking to avoid common tourist traps. GuideKSumbrella organization of tourist guides in Kosovo. They will put you in touch with a local guide suitable for your activity. Addressguidesinkosovo@gmail.com Phone+383 49372639 Emailguidesinkosovo@gmail.com Listing reviewed2022-05-21 Local nameKosovo Tourist Guides Association [Official website](https://guideks.org/) Football: the men's national team play at Fadil Vokrri Stadium in Pristina, home ground of FC Pristina. 10 clubs play in Superleague and 18 in First League. : Brezovica Ski Centre has old infrastructure but great slopes. Music Music is an important part of Kosovo’s culture. From traditional folk songs to modern rock and electronic music, the country offers a rich and diverse musical experience. Traditional music Traditional music in Kosovo is often performed with instruments like the çifteli, lahuta, and sharkia. These songs usually talk about love, history, and everyday life. You can hear this kind of music at festivals, weddings, or village gatherings. If you want to learn more about Kosovo’s culture, listening to old folk music is a great place to start. It shows the emotions, values, and stories of the people. Electronic music There are some decent clubs and raves happening in , see for more details. Rock and modern music Kosovo also has a strong rock and alternative music scene. In the 1980s, several important bands started in Pristina. They created music that mixed Western rock with local ideas and language. These bands are still remembered today and are a key part of Kosovo’s music history. ## Buy Money EURO Credit/debit cards are widely accepted. but keep cash just in case Money exchange is available in most cities and larger towns. In Serbian-majority municipalities The Serbian dinar is used in the Serbian-majority municipalities in Kosovo. Exchange offices are found almost everywhere. Note that in these locations while euro are accepted generally, all prices are listed in dinars. Shopping Souvenirs There are many options: From fine handcrafted Filigree silver to traditional Albanian wool hats (a plis) and musical instruments (the stringed ciftelia). Local food and drink specialties to take home could include honey, raki, a high strength alcohol distilled from fruit, ajvar, a pepper based spread or feferona, spicy local peppers. Tipping In Kosovo generally is not expected from locals, but as it is done by foreigners, it is welcome. In more upmarket venues it might be more likely for tipping to be expected. In taxis you can tip to the nearest euro or half euro. ## Eat Best restaurants to eat at are those that are located in the villages near by big cities; they tend to have the best meat dishes and the best sea food. Trout, seabass and salmon fish are very common and popular and are kept fresh in their pools and are nearly always fried when you order. Prices are pretty average and, for some countries' nationals, cheap. Lots of great burek (baked pastry stuffed with cheese, meat or spinach). Try the drinkable yogurt (Ayran) — it's superb. Lots of kebabs and other Ottoman Turkish style food. As far as you are in an Albanian territory, you could try Albanian food as well. Fli, a very good pastry, can be found in different traditional restaurants. At the bakery, you can buy a fantastic loaf of bread for under €1. The grocery stores have a plentiful supply of Western food. For a taste of authentic local cuisine, consider dining at one of the region's agrotourism restaurants, where fresh, farm-to-table ingredients and traditional recipes come together to offer a truly memorable culinary experience. ## Drink Alcoholic: Beer brewed in Peja and named after the city of its origin can be found across Kosovo. Peja Premium is a slightly stronger beer from the same brewery but less widely available. Other local beers include Grembeer and Prishtina. Kosovo was known for wine production with vineyards in its southwest in the Rahovec-Suhareka region, with Stonecastle one of the larger wine producers. Even though the Albanians are predominantly of Muslim heritage, attitudes to drinking are quite liberal. Raki is another alcoholic beverage popular in Kosovo. It is made from local fruits (most commonly from grape, plum, pear and quince). Non-alcoholic: Yogurt/ayran is a common local drink and is often consumed with pastries. Boza is a malt drink from fermented maize (corn) and wheat and often drank with cakes and pastries. ## Sleep Accommodation in Kosovo can be expensive in hotels, but in Pristina, Prizren, Peja and Gjakova in particular, cheap accommodation (hostels or apartments) are very easy to find. Accommodation options: Apartments Hostels Small hotels (motels) Two- and three-star hotels (more common) Three five-star hotels in Pristina. Guesthouses are also dotted around throughout Kosovo, offering inexpensive alternatives. ## Stay safe There is tension between the ethnic Serbs in northern Kosovo and the Kosovo Government. There have been violent demonstrations and the situation is unstable in northern Kosovo. Some governments recommend against non-essential travel. Travel between Serbia and Kosovo could also be disrupted. 2026-07-20 People in general are friendly and hospitable to tourists and you generally do not need to worry about crime. Since the end of the war, more than 200,000 international workers from over the world have worked in Kosovo and local people are used to foreigners. Don't let the politics stop you from visiting; tensions have risen now and then since the turn of century, but nearly all have been in the divided city of Mitrovica in the north of Kosovo. There is an international 5,000-person NATO peacekeeping force (a reinforcement was sent in June 2023). Like in much of the Balkans, land mines were heavily used during the Yugoslav wars. Mines were a major problem in Kosovo in the first four years after the war with major cleanup efforts following that. There have been years since any incident has been reported. Most of the mined areas are places where conflict took place (rural Central Kosovo and the Kosovo–Albania border region). Most hiking and camping takes place in areas where the war did not occur, like the Sharr mountains, where there is a ski and camping resort. As with the region as a whole, homophobia is fairly widespread with tolerance varying whether it's urban or rural area, and public displays of affection being not as common as in the West. Kosovo is rebuilding, and some of the city roads now are new, but if you are driving, you still must be on the lookout for large potholes. Manhole covers are often missing due to theft, posing a serious safety risk. These uncovered manholes are frequently found along sidewalks and pedestrian paths, so always watch your step to avoid injury. ## Stay healthy Foreigners can receive medical treatment at the public hospital in Pristina, where staff from your accommodation may be useful as translators to help with communication during your visit. However, it is important to be aware that the hospital’s conditions are not ideal: basic hygiene items like soap are often missing in the restrooms, and medical equipment such as intravenous infusions may be supported by makeshift or improvised stands, reflecting limited resources and infrastructure. Kosovo does not have a public health insurance system, which means that all medical expenses must be paid in cash at the time of service. Typically, a consultation with a doctor along with a few prescribed medications from the pharmacy will cost around €20. Tap water in cities is safe and drinkable. ## Connect You can buy a local SIM card for €3, with the two major carriers being Vala and Ipko. You must provide an ID (passport) and register. Many mobile providers in the Balkans provide free roaming across Balkan countries. So, in case you are planning to cross the border, ask on how to use the local SIM card in other Balkan countries. For instance, a One.al SIM card from Albania works flawlessly in North Macedonia and Kosovo with a regular Albanian package. Most bars, cafes and restaurants have free Wi-Fi connection that customers can use. ## Go next Kosovo has easy access to destinations in neighboring countries such as in North Macedonia, and . There are direct bus links to major cities in Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Albania, Turkey, North Macedonia, Bosnia, Montenegro and Serbia. Text by Wikivoyage contributors. Article edition: 2026-08-10T02:00:19Z · [Source and revision](https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?oldid=5325963) · [Authors and history](https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=Kosovo&action=history) · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) ## Local food ### Speca me mazë Peppers with cream. ### Petulla Fried dough with sweet or savoury accompaniments. ### Leqenik Cornbread. ### Tavë Prizreni Prizren-style oven-cooked dish. ### Kebap Grilled seasoned minced meat. ## Local drinks ### Macchiato Espresso with milk, rooted in café culture. Alcohol-free ### Bozë Fermented grain drink with variable alcohol content. Contains alcohol ### Vino de Rahovec Wine from a local growing region. Contains alcohol Plan your itinerary ### Getting around Check regional connections and conditions at your planned border crossing. ### Plan well Alternate cities with Rugova landscapes and a guided outing. ### Connect with the place Allow time for cafés and ask before photographing religious spaces. Local reading and routesKosovo’s border procedures and international recognition vary by country and route. Consult relevant authorities and current advice. ### [Pristina](https://tripguroo.com/en/places/ciudad-pristina/) the capital of Kosovo. ### [Podujeva](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Podujeva) ### [Gjakova](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Gjakova) its Old Bazaar has a mosque that was built in the 15th century. It is one of the rarest of its kind ### [Junik](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Junik) ### [Klinë](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Klin%C3%AB) visitors come to see the Mirusha Waterfalls ### [Peja](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Peja) host to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and surrounded by stunning nature ### [Prizren](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Prizren) the historical and cultural capital of Kosovo. Charming city bustling with various festivals and architecture of different periods. ### [Suhareka](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Suhareka) known for its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality ### [Mitrovica](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Mitrovica) ### [Ferizaj](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Ferizaj) ### [Gjilani](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Gjilani) ### [Kacanik](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Kacanik) ### [Kamenica](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Kamenica) ### [Novo Brdo](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Novo_Brdo) ### [Viti](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Viti) ### [Rugova Gorge](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Rugova_Mountains) ### [Gračanica](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Gra%C4%8Danica_(Kosovo)) ### [Rahovec](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Rahovec) a largely rural region known for vineyards and wine-making ### [Brezovica](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Brezovica) a ski centre ### [Prevalla](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Prevalla) ### [Brod](https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Brod) ## Sources [Visit Kosovo — food](https://www.tourkosovo.online/inspiration/food?lang=en) · [Kosovo Travel — culture](https://kosovo.travel/About)Wikivoyage contributors; selection, abridgement, translation and regional planning by TRIPGUROO · CC BY-SA 4.0 [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) · [Wikivoyage · Kosovo](https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?oldid=5381088) [Guides by topic](https://tripguroo.com/en/travel/?view=topics)