Frequently Asked Questions About Kosovo

General FAQs for Kosovo

What is the capital city of Kosovo?

The capital of Kosovo is Pristina. It is located in the northeastern part of the country, on the banks of the Sitnica River. The city is known for its Ottoman-era architecture and cobblestone streets, as well as its many parks and monuments. It is home to a number of important government institutions, including the Parliament of Kosovo, the Presidency of Kosovo and the Supreme Court. Pristina is also an important economic hub, with many businesses and organizations based in the city. It serves as a cultural center for its citizens, with numerous festivals and other activities taking place throughout the year. The population of Pristina is estimated to be around 200,000 people.

What currency is used in Kosovo?

The official currency of Kosovo is the Euro (EUR). The euro replaced the former Deutsche Mark as the legal tender in 2002. It is divided into 100 cents, and notes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros. Coins are available in denominations of 1 and 2 euros, as well as 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents. In addition to the Euro, the Serbian dinar is also accepted in certain areas of Kosovo. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country. ATMs are available in major cities and towns. It is recommended to carry cash when travelling outside of larger cities.

What is the official language of Kosovo?

Kosovo has two official languages: Albanian and Serbian. Albanian is the most widely spoken language, with approximately 95 percent of the population speaking it as their first language. Serbian is the second most common language, with around 4 percent of the population speaking it as their native tongue. In addition to these two official languages, English and German are also widely spoken. Other languages like Turkish, Bosnian and Croatian are also spoken by smaller minority groups in the country. Sign language is also recognised as an official language in Kosovo. Additionally, many people also speak regional dialects or local variations of these languages depending on their region.

Which time of the year is best to visit Kosovo?

The best time to visit Kosovo is during the months of May, June and September. During this period, the weather is generally warm with temperatures ranging from 15°C (60°F) to 25°C (77°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, these months are less busy than July and August and offer more affordable accommodation options. Winter months from December to February can be quite cold, with temperatures reaching below -10°C (14°F). Summers are hot but often accompanied by thunderstorms. Spring and autumn are generally milder, making them the most pleasant times for a visit.

How many days do you need in Kosovo?

The amount of days needed for a trip to Kosovo will depend on the traveler’s interests and preferences. If you are looking to explore some of the main attractions, such as visiting Pristina, Prishtina Castle or Gračanica Monastery, then 3-4 days would be enough. However if you wish to cover a larger area, such as exploring the nearby cities and towns or taking part in activities like hiking and zip-lining, then a longer stay of 5-7 days is recommended.

Which are the emergency numbers in Kosovo?

The emergency numbers in Kosovo are 112 for police, 113 for firefighters and 114 for medical services. Emergency calls can be made free of charge from any landline or mobile phone. It is important to note that these services may not operate outside of the main cities. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, it is best to ask a local for assistance. Additionally, the public hospital in Pristina is available 24 hours a day and offers a range of medical services to tourists.

Places FAQs For Kosovo

What are the best places to visit in Kosovo?

• Pristina – the vibrant capital city of Kosovo and home to a range of attractions such as Gračanica Monastery, Prishtina Castle and Ethnographic Museum.


• Peja – known for its stunning landscapes and numerous nature parks, including Visoki Dečani Monastery, Rugova Gorge and Badovac Lake.


• Prizren – a picturesque city with historic sites such as the Sinan Pasha Mosque and Our Lady of Ljeviš Monastery.


• Novo Brdo Castle – located in an isolated area, this medieval fortress offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.


• Gjakova – a small city in western Kosovo that is home to the beautiful Gjakova Mosque and Clock Tower.


• Mitrovica – this divided city is known for its old Turkish bridges, mineral baths and unique Ottoman architecture.


• Brezovica Ski Resort – located at an altitude of 1,600m (5,200ft), it is the perfect place to enjoy activities such as skiing and snowboarding.


• Lake Ujmani – located in central Kosovo, this scenic lake is surrounded by mountains and contains a number of islands.


• Decan Monastery – an important cultural site and home to some of Kosovo’s most impressive Byzantine frescoes.


• Gjeravica – the highest peak in Kosovo and part of the Prokletije mountain range, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.


• Buna River – a popular spot for activities such as fishing, canoeing and rafting, located close to the town of Peja.

What is the best mode to travel in Kosovo?

The best way to get around in Kosovo is by car. Car rental companies offer a variety of vehicles, ranging from budget cars to luxury models. A valid driver’s license is required and it is recommended to have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). Additionally, Kosovo has an extensive network of buses which connect the major cities and towns. However, it is important to note that bus services may not operate outside of the main cities. Taxis are also available for short-distance journeys and can be booked in advance or hailed on the street. It is recommended to agree on a price before getting into the taxi.

Budget FAQs For Kosovo

How much will the trip to Kosovo cost?

The cost of a trip to Kosovo will depend on various factors such as the duration of your stay, transportation and accommodation. Generally speaking, budget travellers could expect to spend around €50-€80 per day for basic accommodation and meals. Those travelling in mid-range accommodation can expect to pay around €100-€150 per day. If you choose to stay in luxurious apartments and eat out at fancy restaurants, you can expect to spend around €200 or more per day. Other expenses such as transportation, sightseeing and souvenirs should also be taken into consideration when budgeting for your trip.

How much is the cost of eating out in Kosovo?

The cost of a meal in Kosovo can vary depending on where you choose to eat. For budget meals, you can expect to pay around €5-€10 per person for traditional dishes such as ćevapi (or other grilled meats) or pljeskavica (a kind of burger). In mid-range restaurants, you can expect to pay between €10-€15 per person for a meal. For a more luxurious dining experience, you can expect to pay from €20 per person or more. It is also important to note that most restaurants in Kosovo offer complimentary tap water and bread with every meal.

How much is the cost of stay in Kosovo?

The cost of accommodation in Kosovo can vary depending on the type, location and quality. Budget travellers can expect to pay around €15-€30 per night for basic hostels or guesthouses. Mid-range hotels usually start from €40 per night, while luxurious apartments and five-star hotels can cost from €100 or more per night. Airbnb listings are also widely available, with prices ranging from €20-€100 per night. Additionally, camping is an option for those looking to explore the nature of Kosovo while staying on a budget. It is important to note that prices can vary depending on season and availability.

What is the cheapest time to travel Kosovo?

The cheapest time to visit Kosovo is usually during the winter months, from December to February. During this period, accommodation prices are typically lower and there are fewer tourists visiting the country. However, it is important to note that temperatures may be quite low during this period, so warm clothing and proper gear should be taken into consideration when travelling in winter. Additionally, some attractions may be closed during this time due to the weather.

Culture FAQs For Kosovo

How are the people in Kosovo generally?

The people of Kosovo are known for their hospitality and friendliness. They have a culture that is based on respect and inclusivity, so visitors to the country can expect to be treated with kindness and welcomed warmly by locals. 
Kosovo has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its music, cuisine, art and language. English is widely spoken in most cities, so visitors should have no problem communicating with locals.

• Ćevapi: a popular grilled dish of minced meat


• Lepinja: flatbread often served with kaymak, a creamy dairy product


• Burek: pastry filled with cheese or other ingredients such as beef or spinach


• Pleskavica: similar to ćevapi but typically larger and made with different meats


• Pita: traditional pie filled with vegetables, cheese or meat


• Tavče gravče: baked beans served with feta cheese and onion


• Musaka: potato bake usually made with minced meat


• Tarator: cold soup of yogurt, cucumber and garlic


• Tufahija: poached apples filled with walnuts and served in syrup


• Pekmez: thick syrup made from molasses or fruit juice. These are just some of the popular dishes in Kosovo, so visitors should not hesitate to try something new! Be sure to ask locals for their favorite dishes as well.

What are the favorite sports in Kosovo?

Kosovo is a nation with a strong sports tradition and culture. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the country, followed by basketball and tennis. Wrestling, judo, handball, volleyball and mountaineering are also popular activities in Kosovo. Additionally, there are many options for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking and mountain biking. 
The Kosovo team has competed in international events such as the Olympic Games, EuroBasket and World Championships. As a result, there is a strong sense of national pride in Kosovo when it comes to sports. 
Regardless of what sport you are interested in, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the local sports culture in Kosovo.Additionally, there are many sports clubs and organizations throughout the country that can help visitors get connected with the sport they are interested in.

What are the major religions in Kosovo?

The majority of people living in Kosovo are Muslim and most of them practice Sunni Islam. Additionally, there is also a sizeable population of Orthodox Christians and Catholics. The constitution of Kosovo recognizes the freedom to practice any religion or belief, so it is possible to find other religious communities such as Protestants, Baha’i, Jews and Buddhists. It is important to be respectful of other religions and their practices when visiting Kosovo. Additionally, visitors should dress modestly and refrain from public displays of affection when visiting religious sites or places that practice different beliefs than yours.

• Ilinden (St. Elijah’s Day): A festival celebrated on August 2nd to honor the Prophet Elijah and commemorate the Uprising of 1903


• Labëria: A traditional folkloric dance festival that takes place in Prizren every June


• Peja Beer Festival: An annual beer festival held in Peja that celebrates the region’s craft beer brewers


• Gjakova Festival: An annual festival held in Gjakova featuring traditional music, food and dance.


• Skena UP: A film festival taking place in Prishtina every August that focuses on new films from Kosovo and the region


• Kosovo International Jazz Festival: An annual music festival held in Prishtina featuring jazz performances from around the world.


• Skanderbeg Day: A celebration of the famous Albanian hero Gjergj Kastriot Skanderbeg held on November 28th.


• Dita e Verës: A celebration of the beginning of summer held on May 24th. Traditional food, music and dancing are also part of this festival.


• Kulla e Gjakovës: An annual cultural festival taking place in Kosovo featuring traditional folkloric music and dance from throughout the region.


• Drenica Folk Music Festival: An annual celebration of the traditional folk music of Kosovo, held in Skenderaj.


• Prishtina Jazz Festival: An annual festival taking place in Prishtina featuring jazz performances from around the world.


• Albanian New Year’s Eve: A celebration of the new year at midnight on December 31st, with fireworks displays, music and dancing.


• Albanian Flag Day: A celebration on November 28th commemorating the adoption of the flag of Albania in 1912.


• Wine Festival: An annual festival held in Prizren celebrating the region’s wines and winemakers.

What souvenirs to buy from Kosovo?

• Carpets: Handmade carpets are a popular souvenir and can be found in many shops around the country.


• Ceramics: Traditional ceramic pottery, including plates and mugs, is also a unique souvenir to take home.


• Woodcarvings: Wooden carvings depicting traditional Albanian motifs, such as eagles or lion heads, can be found in many shops.


• Honey: Local honey is a popular souvenir and can be found in many markets around the country.