Visiting Kosovo isn’t the priority of many travelers who for various reasons skip my little country as if there is nothing to see or do here. However, despite Kosovo being only about eleven thousand square kilometers, there is plenty to see and experience. But, this post shall not focus on attractions but rather on practical questions that I’ve been personally asked by travelers through email and social media accounts in an attempt to help future travelers to come and explore this little hidden gem in the heart of the Balkans.
- What about going to Serbia after visiting Kosovo?
This is, no doubt, one of the main concerns and main questions I’ve gotten throughout the years of my blogging. Some believe that once you visit Kosovo you won’t be allowed to enter Serbia. Some believe that the only way to visit Kosovo is to go to Serbia and then enter Kosovo from there and go back. Both are not true. Visiting Kosovo and then Serbia after is absolutely possible – for some easier than others. For EU biometric ID holders going to Serbia directly from Kosovo is a piece of cake. No need to show your passport and the problem is solved. For others, you’d have to go from Kosovo through North Macedonia or Montenegro. This might change if the Ohrid Agreement reached by Kosovo and Serbia starts being implemented by Serbia. Though I’m not a lawyer, to my understanding recognizing Kosovo passports and other documents shall mean also recognizing entry/exit stamps foreigners get when visiting Kosovo.
- Is Kosovo safe to visit?
Yes, Kosovo is a safe country to visit. The crime rate is relatively low, and the people are friendly and hospitable. However, as with any country, it’s essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- How to get a visa for visiting Kosovo?
Most people do not need a visa for visiting Kosovo. Travelers who benefit from a visa waiver are holders of valid travel documents issued by EU Member and Schengen States, United States of America, Canada, Australia, and Japan based on the 1951 Convention on Refugee Status or the 1954 Convention on the Status of Stateless Persons, as well as holders of valid travel documents for foreigners for a maximum of 15 days stay. In addition, holders of a valid biometric residence permit issued by one of the Schengen member states or a valid multi-entry Schengen Visa can stay in Kosovo for a maximum of 15 days without getting a Kosovo visa. Moreover, a Kosovo visa isn’t needed for holders of a valid Laissez-Passer issued by United Nations Organizations, NATO, OSCE, Council of Europe, or the European Union. For others who do not fall into any of these categories, there are two main options to obtain a visa for visiting Kosovo: either Kosovo’s Embassy in Tirana, Albania, or Kosovo’s Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. A full list of Kosovo’s Embassies abroad can be found here.
- Are there trains running in Kosovo?
Yes, though they are not the best or fastest option and do not cover much of the country. There are only two lines: one going to Peja and the other to Skopje, North Macedonia. However, they only run once a day and are slower compared with the buses that are more frequent and faster.
- What’s the best time of year to visit Kosovo?
The best time to visit Kosovo is during the spring and summer months (April-September). The weather is mild and pleasant, and there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy. However, keep in mind that summers can be quite hot, so be sure to stay hydrated.
- What language do people speak in Kosovo?
The official languages of Kosovo are Albanian and Serbian. English is also widely spoken and/or understood, especially in tourist areas. German and Turkish are also spoken.
- What currency is used in Kosovo?
The official currency of Kosovo is the euro (EUR).
- What are some must-see attractions in Kosovo?
Some of the top attractions in Kosovo include the historic city of Prizren, the Ethnological Museum in Pristina, the Rugova Canyon, and the Graçanica Monastery. You can read more in my articles.
- What is the food like in Kosovo?
Kosovo’s cuisine is a mix of Balkan and Mediterranean influences. Some must-try dishes include burek (a savory pastry), flija (layered pastry with meat and dairy), and tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt).
- How do I get around Kosovo?
There are several transportation options available in Kosovo, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. Taxis are relatively cheap, and buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel between cities.
- What should I wear in Kosovo?
Anything you’d wear in any other country. Though Kosovo is predominantly Muslim by percentage, only a few actually practice religion. Thus, both men and women are free to dress up as per their taste unless visiting religious sites.
Do you have any other questions?
Hi! Thank you very much for all these informations on your blog. It is helping me before travelling to Kosovo. Is the train between Pristina-Skopje still running? As far as I researched train is not running anymore, is that correct?
Hello Mehmet,
To my knowledge it isn’t; however, I have reached out to the authority and will update you as soon as they get back to me. Nonetheless, buses are a faster way and also more frequent, so I’d recommend you take the bus instead.
Can Indian citizens with a valid multi-entry schengen visa enter Kosovo ? I plan to come in April from Skopje by bus and then take a bus to Tirana from where I fly back to India.
Is the skopje Pristina and Pristina Tirana route safe in terms of crime and also weather conditions around April 11-12.
Also will bus services be affected during RAmadan April 11-12 and will museums be closed?
Dear Sam,
Yes, Indian citizens can visit Kosovo on a valid multi-entry Schengen visa.
There hasn’t been any issue with crime or weather conditions in April in the routes you mention.
Ramadan ends on April 9, which is a holiday in Kosovo for our Constitution Day as well as April 10, a holiday for Eid. Museums shall be open on 11-12 April as they are working days.
I have a strong desire to visit Kosovo, despite being quite a small country it looks like a has a lot to offer. I remember watching England play Kosovo and I saw that the Kosovar fans were really welcoming to England fans. I’m most interested in visiting Prizren as it looks absolutely stunning.
Thanks, Hamish.
That is true. Kosovo is relatively small; however, there’s plenty to do and see. And yes, hospitality is something we take pride in.
You should absolutely visit 😊
I got back from Kosovo about a month ago, in late September. I read this article before I went! 🙂 I traveled to Pristina from Tirana, Albania, where I spent 4 days. While I was there, I also went to Prizren (such a lovely place!) My time in Kosovo was really safe, and I had a great time! I have been to 40+ countries solo as a female, and I felt in Pristina more safe than, for example, in Paris, Brussels, or Naples! Only the traffic was somewhat chaotic and seeing all the street dogs was painful, but all went well, and I really loved it there! 🙂 I wish I could visit Kosovo again and see more of nature instead of cities.
Hey Denisa,
Thanks for your comment. Glad you enjoyed your time in Kosovo, and I hope you can visit again and spend more time here. And yes, our nature is amazing!
Knowing that Kosovo is a safe destination is reassuring, and it’s wonderful to hear that the people are friendly and hospitable. Safety is a top concern for travelers, and your insights can help put their minds at ease.
The visa information is also crucial. Having clear guidelines on who needs a visa and where to obtain one is immensely helpful for those planning a trip to Kosovo.
Thanks for your comment, Gartenzaun. Glad I can be of assistance to travelers seeking to visit my country.