Home › Destinations › Gjilan
Gjilan, Kosova / Kosovo - Things to Do in Gjilan

Things to Do in Gjilan

Gjilan, Kosova / Kosovo - Complete Travel Guide

Gjilan, Kosovo's third-largest city, is a vibrant cultural hub nestled in the eastern part of the country near the border with North Macedonia. Known for its rich Ottoman heritage, bustling bazaars, and warm hospitality, Gjilan offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Kosovo's diverse history and contemporary culture. The city serves as an important agricultural and commercial center, with its weekly markets showcasing the region's abundant produce and traditional crafts. The city's charming old quarter features well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, including historic mosques, traditional houses, and cobblestone streets that tell stories of centuries past. Gjilan's strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring eastern Kosovo's natural beauty, including nearby mountains and rural villages where traditional ways of life continue to thrive. Despite being less touristy than Pristina, Gjilan provides visitors with genuine cultural experiences, excellent local cuisine, and friendly locals eager to share their city's hidden treasures.

Top Things to Do in Gjilan

Explore the Historic Old Bazaar

Wander through Gjilan's atmospheric old bazaar, where traditional craftsmen still practice their trades in centuries-old workshops. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with shops selling handmade jewelry, traditional Albanian clothing, and local handicrafts. This area represents one of the best-preserved Ottoman commercial districts in Kosovo.

Booking Tip: No booking required for exploring; visit during morning hours (9-11 AM) for the most authentic experience when craftsmen are most active. Bring cash for purchases as most vendors don't accept cards.

Visit the Gjilan City Mosque

Discover this beautiful 16th-century Ottoman mosque, one of Gjilan's most important religious and architectural landmarks. The mosque features intricate Islamic calligraphy, traditional geometric patterns, and a peaceful courtyard perfect for quiet reflection. It serves as an excellent example of classical Ottoman mosque architecture in the Balkans.

Booking Tip: Free to visit; dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. Best visited outside prayer times (avoid Friday afternoons). Local guides available for €5-10 for historical context.

Experience the Weekly Farmers Market

Immerse yourself in local life at Gjilan's vibrant weekly market, held every Wednesday and Saturday. Local farmers bring fresh produce, traditional cheeses, homemade preserves, and seasonal specialties from surrounding villages. The market offers an authentic taste of Kosovo's agricultural abundance and rural traditions.

Booking Tip: No booking needed; arrive early (7-9 AM) for the best selection and freshest produce. Bring small bills for easier transactions and a reusable bag for purchases.

Take a Day Trip to Binačka Morava Valley

Venture into the scenic Binačka Morava Valley, located just outside Gjilan, known for its pristine nature, hiking trails, and traditional rural villages. The area offers excellent opportunities for nature photography, bird watching, and experiencing traditional Kosovo village life. Several villages in the valley maintain centuries-old customs and architecture.

Booking Tip: Arrange transport through local guesthouses (€20-30 for day trip) or rent a car. Best visited April-October; inform locals of your hiking plans for safety. Pack water and snacks as facilities are limited.

Discover Traditional Handicraft Workshops

Visit local artisans who continue traditional crafts like filigree jewelry making, wood carving, and textile weaving passed down through generations. Many workshops welcome visitors to observe the intricate processes and purchase authentic handmade items. These crafts represent important aspects of Kosovo's cultural heritage.

Booking Tip: Contact Gjilan Cultural Center for workshop schedules; visits typically cost €5-15 per person. Best to arrange 1-2 days in advance. Consider purchasing items directly to support local artisans.

Getting There

Gjilan is easily accessible by bus from Pristina (Kosovo's capital) with regular services taking approximately 45 minutes and costing around €2-3. International visitors typically fly into Pristina International Airport and take a bus or taxi to Gjilan (about 1 hour, €40-50 by taxi). The city is also reachable by bus from Skopje, North Macedonia (2 hours, €8-12) making it a convenient stop for those exploring the Balkans. Car rental is available in Pristina for those preferring to drive, with the journey offering scenic views of Kosovo's countryside.

Getting Around

Gjilan is a compact city best explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of the city center. Local buses connect different neighborhoods and cost around €0.50 per ride, though services can be infrequent. Taxis are readily available and affordable (€2-5 for most city trips), and drivers often speak basic English. For exploring surrounding areas, local guesthouses and hotels can arrange transportation, or visitors can rent bicycles from some accommodations to enjoy the relatively flat terrain around the city center.

Where to Stay

City Center
Old Town Quarter
Bazaar District
University Area
Residential Dardania
Outer Suburban Areas

Food & Dining

Gjilan's dining scene centers around traditional Kosovo cuisine with influences from Turkish, Albanian, and Balkan cooking. The city is famous for its exceptional burek (flaky pastry with various fillings), grilled meats, and fresh dairy products from local farms. Traditional restaurants (called 'lokanta') serve hearty portions at very reasonable prices (€5-12 per meal), while newer establishments blend traditional recipes with modern presentation. Don't miss trying local specialties like flija (layered pancake dish), tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), and the region's excellent white cheese. The bazaar area offers the most authentic dining experiences, while the city center has more contemporary cafes and restaurants.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Kosovo

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Jana Napoletana Pizza 🇮🇹

4.9 /5
(1062 reviews)

Pizzeria Mario Napoletano

5.0 /5
(692 reviews)

Lotta Napoletana 🇮🇹

5.0 /5
(677 reviews)

Bella Agroturizëm

5.0 /5
(352 reviews)

Napoletana Nostra

4.7 /5
(299 reviews)

Basilico

4.5 /5
(256 reviews)
all dining options →

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Gjilan is during late spring through early autumn (May to September) when weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city on foot and visiting outdoor markets. Summer temperatures are comfortable (20-28°C) and ideal for day trips to surrounding natural areas. Spring (April-May) offers beautiful weather and fewer crowds, while autumn (September-October) provides mild temperatures and harvest season at local markets. Winter can be cold with occasional snow, but the city takes on a cozy charm, and it's an excellent time to experience traditional indoor crafts workshops and warm, hearty local cuisine.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Albanian phrases - locals greatly appreciate the effort and it enhances your cultural experience significantly
Visit during weekdays to experience authentic daily life, as weekends can be busier with visitors from neighboring cities and countries
Always carry cash in euros as many local businesses, especially in the old bazaar and markets, don't accept credit cards

Explore Activities in Gjilan