Visit Kosovo – Beyond Pristina & Volunteering Experience
Last Updated on June 29, 2024 by Wandering Beyond
When we planned to visit Kosovo, we never imagined it would be this beautiful! Everywhere we looked, breathtaking views greeted us โ from the countryside to the mountains, incredible scenery surrounded us throughout the trip.ย
We wanted to explore Kosovo as much as possible, so we decided to go on a road trip, and we’re glad we did! This road trip led us to incredible, off-the-beaten-path spots that are hard to reach without a car. Along the way, we met wonderful people who shared so much about their country’s history, making our trip more enjoyable. Their warmth made our experience unforgettable, and we can’t wait to visit again!
This blog post covers everything you need to know to visit Kosovo, from getting around and finding the best places to stay to must-see attractions. Discover exciting activities like ziplining, trekking or visiting a bear sanctuary to make your trip unforgettable. You’ll also find volunteering opportunities and much more, making your next trip to this incredible destination easy.
Getting Around Kosovo
Getting around Kosovo is very easy, with different transport options available.
In Pristina, you can easily travel by bus or on foot, as most attractions are conveniently within walking distance. Local bus fares are very affordable, costing around โฌ0.50.
If you prefer using taxis, stand on the side of the road and wave your arm to order one. The average starting fare for a taxi is โฌ1.50.
Explore Off the Beaten Path by Car
Going on a road trip is the best way to get around Kosovo. There are many off-the-beaten-path spots that are worth visiting. For example, the Bear Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport.
We highly recommend renting a car from Rentalcars.com, as they are very reliable and helpful. We rented from them for 11 days, and it cost us โฌ22 per day, which is quite reasonable.
Where to Stay in Kosovo
Kosovo offers a wide variety of accommodations. We loved every place we stayed, as we met incredible people who made our experiences feel more authentic.
You can choose from hostels, apartments, guesthouses, or hotels. Whatever your preference, you can easily find suitable accommodation. Simply select your dates and locations, and choose your preferred option below.
Must See in Pristina
Newborn Monument
The Newborn Monument is a famous landmark in Pristina, opposite the Palace of Youth and Sports. It was built in 2008, the same day Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia.
Mother Teresa Square
Mother Teresa Square is a lively corner where locals and tourists meet to enjoy the atmosphere and nearby attractions. The square is a popular spot for relaxation, surrounded by coffee shops and cultural landmarks.
Christ the Saviour – Serbian Orthodox Cathedral
The Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, dedicated to Christ the Saviour, started construction in 1992. Still, work stopped in 1999 due to the Kosovo War. After the conflict ended, locals vandalised the church, considering it as a symbol of the Miloลกeviฤ regime.
National Libraryย
The National Library of Kosovo is considered one of the world’s ugliest buildings. Its design features white glass domes to increase natural light. At the same time, a metal grid covers the building to deflect sunlight and protect the books inside.
The Pรซrmendorja Monument
The Pรซrmendorja Monument celebrates the fallen Partisan soldiers from the region who died during the People’s Liberation Struggle in World War II. During our visit to Pristina in August 2022, the monument was covered in bright pink foil for the Manifesta Biennial.
Bear Sanctuary Experience
The Bear Sanctuary in Pristina offers a unique experience. It’s exceptional to see rescued and once-traumatised brown bears roaming freely in a vast forest habitat. Unlike a zoo, you’ll see these massive creatures growing and happy in their natural environment.
Entry Tickets:
- Adults: โฌ2.50
- Children and people over 65: โฌ1.50
Opening Hours:
- April 1st – October 31st: Everyday 10:00 – 19:00
- November 1st – March 31st: Everyday 10:00 – 16:00
Dogs are welcome at the sanctuary but must be kept on a leash for obvious reasons.
Every visit ticket supports the bears’ well-being. For a great experience, make it a point to visit the bear sanctuary when you visit Kosovo.
Volunteering at SOS Fshatrat e Fรซmijรซve Kosovรซ
During our trips, we always try to positively impact someone’s life. Helping others without expecting anything in return is the best feeling in the world, especially when we see a person’s smile. For us, the little things in life matter most, and seeing others happy brings us the greatest satisfaction.
While in Kosovo, we volunteered with children at SOS Children’s Villages. This non-governmental organisation supports abandoned children in need, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or nationality. It provides essential care and a loving environment for children without parental support.
During our time there, we immediately saw the dedication of the staff. They devoted all their time to making these kids feel at home, and we felt like we had entered a large, loving family. Though we went to give a helping hand, we left with a deep sense of satisfaction and great happiness.
Support the Children of SOS Village Kosovo
SOS Fshatrat e Fรซmijรซve Kosovรซ survives on the generosity of donors. A small contribution can make a world of difference for these children!
If you want to help us support the children of SOS Village Kosovo, click the button of our GoGetFunding campaign below to donate and help us provide the care and love they need. Your support can change their lives!
Trekking the Sharr Mountains
The Sharr Mountains were at the top of our list when we planned to visit Kosovo. The drive from Prizren to the Sharr Mountains typically takes about an hour and a half. Still, it took us around two hours because we made over twenty stops to enjoy the stunning natural beauty along the way.
The Sharr Mountains National Park is located in the southwestern part of Kosovo and spans over 532.72 kmยฒ, extending into northeastern Albania and northwest of North Macedonia. It was declared a national park in 1986 and re-established in 2012 by the new Kosovan Government.
Trekking in the Sharr Mountains was an unforgettable experience, filled with diverse terrains, glacial lakes, and breathtaking alpine and amazing landscapes.
Not to Miss in Prizren
Sinan Pasha Mosque
The Sinan Pasha Mosque is a famous Ottoman-era mosque located in the city of Prizren. Constructed in 1615 by Sofi Sinan Pasha, the bey of Budim stands as a dominant feature in the town’s skyline. The mosque is an iconic landmark that overlooks Prizren’s main street and reflects the area’s rich historical and architectural heritage.
The Old Town
The Old Town of Prizren lies across the Bistrica River from the newer part of the city. It features many of the city’s most beautiful religious structures and Ottoman buildings. In the Old Town, you’ll hear many locals speaking Turkish. This is because many schools in Prizren still teach in Turkish, and it’s the only city where Turkish is an official language besides Serbian and Albanian.
The Stone Bridge
The Stone Bridge in Prizren is a cultural heritage monument found in the centre of the old town and has become a symbol of the city. The bridge connects Saraรงhane on the right side of the river with Shatervan Square on the left side.
Experience the Magic of Mirusha Waterfalls
The Mirusha Waterfalls, located in Mirusha Park in central Kosovo, are a renowned natural attraction. Over time, the waterfalls have created incredible canyons and caves that are famous throughout the country. The Mirusha River has carved a 10-kilometre canyon, forming thirteen lakes connected by waterfalls.
The drive to the Mirusha Waterfalls is breathtaking, with nature all around. Upon arrival, you can choose any trail and be stunned by the beautiful scenery. You can spend time enjoying the serene beauty near the waterfalls, surrounded by nature and the relaxing sound of flowing water.
Explore the Rugova Canyon
Rugova Canyon, also called Rugova Gorge, is near Peja in western Kosovo, within the Albanian Alps close to the Montenegro border. This 25-kilometre-long canyon reaches depths of up to 1,000 meters, ranking it among Europe’s longest and deepest canyons.
We had the opportunity to see this spectacular scenery from above, and can assure you that it looks even more stunning and unique from that vantage point!ย
Our Zip Lining Experience Over the Rugova Canyon
While exploring Rugova Canyon, we noticed people ziplining over the river. Given the incredible views from below, we could only imagine the breathtaking views from above.
It took us quite a long time to try ziplining because of Steff’s fear of heights, but we finally took the plunge! For a minute and a half, we glid at 75 km/h over 650 meters, experiencing an entirely new level of stunning views.
Ziplining over the canyon, surrounded by huge mountains, offered incredible views and amazing scenery. It was worth every moment and every second!
Things to Do in Peja
Stroll Through the Old Bazaar
The Old Bazaar of Peja is a fascinating place with a great atmosphere. It has small shops and narrow streets established during the Ottoman period. Located near the Peฤka Bistrica River, Peja’s Old Bazaar is a powerful urban and architectural heritage area. It also highlights Peja’s identity as a city known for its crafts and international trade.
Visit the Patriarchal Monastery of Peฤ
The Patriarchal Monastery of Peฤ is a medieval Serbian Orthodox monastery near Peja, constructed in the 13th century.
Over the centuries, this monastery has remained a significant site for Serbian Orthodoxy. However, in recent years, regional tensions, particularly the conflict in the late 1990s, have led to an uncertain future for the monastery, with almost all Serbs leaving the area.ย
Today, about two dozen Serbian nuns live in relative isolation at the Patriarchate of Peฤ Monastery.
Explore the Many Mosquesย
Today, Peja has 20 mosques to explore, though more than half were renovated due to the 1999 conflict. The main mosque is the Bajrakli Mosque, also known as the Bazaar Mosque, which is found in the centre of the Bazaar. This mosque was built in 1471 by Sultan Mehmed II and features an Ottoman-style single dome, the oldest and highest in the city.
Taste the Traditional Beer
You can’t visit Kosovo and Peja without trying their traditional beer, Birra Peja. It’s the most popular beer in the country, first produced in 1971 during the socialist Yugoslavia era. We tried Birra Peja while in Peja and loved it.
Our road trip to Kosovo was wonderful! We discovered hidden gems, met incredible people, enjoyed spectacular views, and had unforgettable encounters that touched our hearts.ย
Are you planning to visit Kosovo? If so, we’re sure you’ll love itโit will be an experience of a lifetime!
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