VISIT Kosovo

Kosovo is a small country with a big heart. Still off the beaten path, it offers a rich blend of cultures, striking mountain landscapes, Ottoman-era architecture, and warm hospitality. From the charming old town of Prizren to vibrant Pristina and the scenic Rugova Valley, Kosovo surprises travelers with its authenticity, affordability, and unspoiled beauty.

❄️ December – February: Winter in Kosovo is cold and snowy, especially in mountainous areas like Brezovica, which is a popular ski destination. In Pristina, temperatures typically range from -4°C (25°F) to 5°C (41°F).

🌱 March – May: Spring brings pleasant temperatures and blossoming landscapes. It’s a great time for outdoor activities like hiking in the Shar Mountains or exploring historical sites without the summer heat.

☀️ June – August: Summer is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F). It’s a lively season for festivals, outdoor cafés, and exploring the countryside. Expect some crowds in popular spots like Prizren.

🍂 September – November: Autumn offers mild weather and colorful scenery. It’s a peaceful time to visit, with fewer tourists and perfect conditions for walking, cultural visits, and local markets.

Kosovo is small and relatively easy to navigate, although public transport can be basic:

🚌 Buses: The most common way to get around. Frequent and affordable buses link cities like Pristina, Prizren, Peja, and Gjakova. Minibuses (furgons) also serve smaller towns and villages.

🚂 Trains: Train travel exists but is very limited. A few routes operate between major towns, such as Pristina and Peja, but services are slow and infrequent.

🚗 Car Rental: Renting a car gives you flexibility to explore remote areas, especially national parks and mountain villages. Roads are improving, but some rural roads may be in poor condition. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

Cash is still the most common form of payment, especially outside the capital. Bank cards (mostly Visa and Mastercard) are accepted in larger shops, hotels, and restaurants, particularly in Pristina. It’s best to carry euros, as Kosovo uses the euro as its official currency.

Kosovo uses plug types C and F, both with two round pins. The standard voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz.

If needed, you can order an universal travel plug adapter here.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, cafés, and taxis, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common for good service.

In most cities in Kosovo, tap water is treated and safe to drink, but many locals still prefer bottled water. In rural areas, it’s best to ask or stick to bottled water.

In Kosovo, some stores are closed on Sundays. There are 7 national public holidays in Kosovo:

• New Year’s Day (January 01)
• Independence Day (February 17)
• Constitution Day (April 09)
• Christmas Day (December 25)
• Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (dates vary each year)

On these days, most businesses and offices will be closed, and many attractions may be shut or have limited opening hours.

In Kosovo, traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road. The main speed limits are as follows:

• 50 kph / 30 mph in urban areas
• 00 kph / 56 mph on rural roads
• 100 kph / 62 mph on main roads
• 130 kph / 81 mph on motorways

During adverse weather (rain, fog, etc.), the speed limits are lowered.

(Albanian is the main language spoken in Kosovo)

• Hello (informal) = Tung
• Good day = Mirëdita
• Goodbye = Mirupafshim
• Yes = Po
• No = Jo
• Thank you = Faleminderit
• Please = Ju lutem
• You’re welcome = S’ka përse
• Excuse me = Më falni
• Day = Ditë
• Night = Natë
• Good evening = Mirëmbrëma
• Goodnight = Natën e mirë
• Mister = Zotëri
• Ma’am = Zonja
• Street/Road = Rrugë

💡 Tip: With the GoogleTranslate app, you can download the Albanian language to use it even offline!

Kosovo is generally very safe for travelers. Crime levels are low, and people are known for their hospitality. Still, standard precautions are advised:

• Secure Your Belongings: Petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so be cautious.

• Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for police, fire, or medical emergencies anywhere in Kosovo.