Best Places to Visit in Kosovo for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, Kosovo, with its unique blend of cultures and traditions, offers a variety of destinations for expats and digital nomads to get into the holiday spirit. From vibrant city centers adorned with festive lights to quaint towns hosting charming Christmas markets, there's a place for everyone to enjoy the warmth of the holiday season. Here are some of the best places to visit in December for a memorable holiday experience in Kosovo.

Pristina

The capital city of Kosovo, Pristina, comes alive during the holiday season with its festive decorations and lights illuminating the city. The main square hosts the annual Christmas market, where you can find a variety of local crafts, ornaments, and traditional Kosovar treats. The market is usually bustling with activity, offering a perfect opportunity to shop for unique gifts while soaking in the holiday atmosphere. In addition to the market, Pristina often organizes concerts and cultural events to celebrate the season, typically taking place throughout December.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local sweet, 'baklava,' which is a favorite during the festive season. The flaky pastry layered with nuts and syrup is a delightful treat that perfectly complements the crisp winter air.

Peja

Nestled in the Rugova Valley, Peja is known for its stunning natural beauty and its festive spirit during the holidays. The town center is beautifully decorated, and the local Christmas market offers a range of handcrafted items and delicious local foods. Peja's market is particularly known for its warm and cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the holidays with friends and family. The town also hosts various events, including live music and performances, which typically occur in mid-December.

We Recommend: Be sure to savor the taste of 'salep,' a traditional hot drink made from orchid tubers and milk, often spiced with cinnamon and enjoyed during the cold winter months.

Gjakova

Gjakova's historical charm is amplified during the holiday season with its festive decorations and the scent of holiday treats filling the air. The Christmas market in Gjakova is a highlight, featuring stalls with artisanal products, festive decorations, and plenty of local cuisine. The town's old bazaar area, with its Ottoman-era architecture, provides a picturesque backdrop for holiday shopping and festivities. Gjakova's holiday events usually include a mix of traditional and modern celebrations, with activities spread throughout December.

We Recommend: Try the 'lokum,' also known as Turkish delight, which is a popular confectionary in Gjakova, especially during the festive season. These sweet, chewy treats come in a variety of flavors and are often dusted with powdered sugar.

Prizren

Prizren, with its rich history and cultural heritage, offers a magical holiday experience. The city's Christmas market is set against the backdrop of the old stone bridge and the Sinan Pasha Mosque, creating a unique blend of cultures. Visitors can browse through a selection of handcrafted gifts, winter clothing, and traditional Kosovar food. Prizren also hosts a range of cultural events, including film screenings and music performances, which bring the community together during the holiday season, typically in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

We Recommend: Indulge in 'flija,' a layered pancake-like dish often served with sour cream. It's a traditional Kosovar specialty that is especially popular during festive gatherings.

Mitrovica

The city of Mitrovica, divided by the Ibar River, unites in celebration during the holiday season. The Christmas market here is a place where you can find an array of festive goods, from hand-knitted winter accessories to traditional sweets. Mitrovica's holiday spirit is contagious, with the city's streets and bridges lit up with festive lights. The market and other holiday events, such as carol singing and cultural performances, usually take place throughout the month of December.

We Recommend: Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate at one of the cozy cafes around the market. It's the perfect way to warm up and relax after exploring the festive stalls.

Ferizaj

Ferizaj is known for its youthful energy and vibrant holiday celebrations. The city's Christmas market is a hub of activity, offering everything from festive decorations to traditional Kosovar cuisine. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and find unique gifts for loved ones. Ferizaj also hosts various holiday-themed events, including concerts and workshops, which are usually scheduled for the weekends in December.

We Recommend: Sample some of the local wines available at the market. Kosovo's wine industry is growing, and the holiday season is the perfect time to discover new flavors.

Gjilan

In Gjilan, the holiday season is marked by a warm community spirit and festive cheer. The city's Christmas market features a variety of stalls selling handcrafted items, seasonal decorations, and delicious local foods. Gjilan's town square, where the market is typically set up, becomes a focal point for residents and visitors to gather and celebrate. The city also organizes entertainment for all ages, with events often taking place in the lead-up to Christmas.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying 'sujuk,' a sweet, dense sausage made of walnuts and grape must. It's a traditional treat that's particularly enjoyed during the holiday festivities.