People don’t know much about Kosovo, let alone visit Kosovo – in fact, one of the most commonly Googled things about it is “where is Kosovo?” (hint: it’s in Europe). Those that do know about Kosovo probably have no idea about all the great things there are to do in Kosovo. Maybe they remember how NATO came to its aid in the 1998-99 civil war, or maybe they remember faintly hearing about the continued conflict between Serbia and Kosovo.
Today, the dust has settled, and while resentments can still run high, Kosovo is not dangerous. But it’s much more than that. Kosovo is a gem of a country so just check out best place to visit and enjoy.
Pristina
Pristina is a city full of lively young people where crumbling Soviet-style buildings co-exist with modern shiny luxury hotels and contemporary art. Experience the coffee culture of the city during the day and the rakia culture in the evening (rakia is the local strong spirit). Both involve slow drinking accompanied by conversations and time shared with friends and strangers. Stroll in the old part of Pristina where a handful of old-style houses and elderly men sitting in front of them will transfer you back in time. On your way back, stop by the Newborn Monument in the center of the city – a tall inscription whose letters are decorated in different symbolic style every year. Then head to Bill Clinton Boulevard where, tucked between blocks of flats, you will find the statue of Bill Clinton waving. This American president did a lot to help Kosovo during the 1999 war with Serbia and this is why he is much respected in the country.
Bjeshkët e Sharrit Mountains (Šar Mountains)
The ski resorts in Bjeshkët e Sharrit Mountains, also known as Šar Mountains, offer Alpine-style accommodation and new slopes to explore for less than half of the price you would pay in Austria or Italy. The ski resort of Brezovica has slopes for all levels – beginners, advanced, extreme, and features one untreated slope with powder. The highest point of the resort is 2,200m (7,200 feet).
Visoki Dečani Monastery
One of Kosovo’s absolute highlights, this ancient monastery is in an incredibly beautiful spot beneath the mountains and surrounded by a forest of pine and chestnut trees. It’s on the outskirts of Dečani, 15km south of Peja (Peć). It was built in early 14th century by Serbian king Stefan Dečanski. Visitors are very welcome to see the incredible icons in the church, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more peaceful place anywhere else in the country.
Bear Sanctuary
In a remote spot beyond the village on Mramor, you can visit brown bears that were rescued from captivity by the charity Four Paws. All the bears here were once kept in tiny cages as restaurant mascots, but when the keeping of bears was outlawed in Kosovo in 2010, Four Paws stepped in to care for these wonderful animals. Sadly some of them still suffer from trauma and don’t socialize well, but the excellent living conditions here are heartening indeed.