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

Things to Do in Prizren

Prizren, Kosova / Kosovo - Complete Travel Guide

Prizren is often called the cultural capital of Kosovo, a stunning medieval city nestled in the foothills of the Sharr Mountains along the banks of the Bistrica River. This UNESCO World Heritage candidate city boasts one of the Balkans' best-preserved Ottoman-era old towns, with cobblestone streets winding past centuries-old mosques, Orthodox churches, and traditional stone houses topped with red tile roofs. The city's skyline is dominated by the imposing Prizren Fortress, offering panoramic views over this enchanting settlement that has been a crossroads of civilizations for over a millennium. Today's Prizren seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with vibrant contemporary culture, hosting the renowned DokuFest international documentary and short film festival each August. The city's diverse religious and cultural legacy is evident everywhere - from the 14th-century Church of Our Lady of Ljeviš to the beautiful Sinan Pasha Mosque, creating an atmosphere of tolerance and multiculturalism that defines modern Kosovo. With its romantic riverside setting, excellent traditional restaurants, and welcoming locals, Prizren offers visitors an authentic Balkan experience away from the crowds of more touristy destinations.

Top Things to Do in Prizren

Explore Prizren Fortress and Old Town

Climb to the medieval Prizren Fortress (Kalaja) for breathtaking panoramic views over the city and surrounding mountains, then wander through the atmospheric cobblestone streets of the Ottoman old town. The fortress dates back to the 6th century and offers insight into the city's strategic importance throughout history, while the old town below features traditional architecture, artisan workshops, and charming cafes.

Booking Tip: The fortress is free to visit and accessible year-round, though the climb takes about 20-30 minutes. Visit during golden hour for the best photography opportunities, and wear comfortable walking shoes as the cobblestones can be slippery when wet.

Visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque Complex

Discover one of Kosovo's most beautiful Ottoman monuments, the 17th-century Sinan Pasha Mosque with its elegant minaret and serene courtyard. The complex includes a library, hammam, and cemetery, showcasing the sophisticated Islamic architecture that flourished during the Ottoman period in the Balkans.

Booking Tip: Entry is free, but dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. The mosque is open to visitors outside prayer times, typically best visited in the morning or late afternoon. Consider hiring a local guide for €10-15 to learn about the historical significance and architectural details.

Discover the Church of Our Lady of Ljeviš

Explore this remarkable 14th-century Serbian Orthodox church, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exceptional Byzantine frescoes and architectural significance. Despite suffering damage over the centuries, the church remains one of the finest examples of medieval Serbian ecclesiastical art and provides insight into the region's complex religious heritage.

Booking Tip: Visits must be arranged in advance through local tourist information or religious authorities, typically costing €5-10 for a guided tour. The church has limited opening hours, so confirm availability before planning your visit, especially during religious holidays.

Stroll Along the Bistrica River Promenade

Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Bistrica River that flows through the heart of Prizren, lined with traditional restaurants, cafes, and historic stone bridges. The riverside promenade offers perfect views of the old town's reflection in the water and is particularly magical during sunset when the historic buildings are illuminated.

Booking Tip: This is a free activity perfect for any time of day, though evening strolls offer the most romantic atmosphere. Many riverside restaurants offer outdoor seating with river views - expect to pay €15-25 for a traditional dinner with local wine.

Experience Traditional Crafts at the Old Bazaar

Browse the historic bazaar area where local artisans continue centuries-old traditions of metalworking, woodcarving, and textile production. You can watch craftsmen at work, purchase authentic handmade souvenirs, and learn about the traditional trades that have sustained Prizren's economy for generations.

Booking Tip: The bazaar operates daily except Sundays, with the best selection available in the morning hours. Prices for handcrafted items range from €10-50, and gentle bargaining is acceptable. Look for authentic filigree jewelry and traditional Albanian crafts as unique souvenirs.

Getting There

Prizren is easily accessible by bus from major Balkan cities, with regular services from Pristina (1.5 hours, €3-5), Skopje, North Macedonia (2 hours, €8-12), and Tirana, Albania (4 hours, €15-20). The nearest airport is Pristina International Airport, about 85km away, from where you can take a bus or taxi (€40-60) to reach Prizren. If driving, the city is well-connected via good roads from all neighboring countries, though ensure you have proper documentation for border crossings. International buses also connect Prizren to cities like Belgrade, Ljubljana, and Vienna for those traveling from further afield.

Getting Around

Prizren's compact old town is best explored on foot, with most major attractions within a 15-minute walk of each other along pedestrian-friendly cobblestone streets. Local buses connect different neighborhoods and cost around €0.50 per ride, while taxis are readily available and inexpensive (€2-5 for trips within the city). For longer excursions to nearby attractions like the Sharr Mountains, consider renting a car or booking a local tour guide. The city center is very walkable, but comfortable shoes are essential due to the historic cobblestone surfaces and hilly terrain leading up to the fortress.

Where to Stay

Old Town Historic Center
Bistrica Riverside Area
Marash Neighborhood
Adem Jashari Boulevard
Theranda Area
City Center Commercial District

Food & Dining

Prizren's culinary scene celebrates both Albanian and broader Balkan traditions, with numerous family-run restaurants serving authentic dishes like flija (layered pancake), tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), and fresh trout from local rivers. The riverside area offers the most atmospheric dining, with restaurants like Marashi and Te Syla providing traditional cuisine with beautiful views. Don't miss trying local specialties such as Prizren's famous cheese, honey from the Sharr Mountains, and regional wines. Meals typically cost €8-15 per person at traditional restaurants, while casual eateries and cafes offer lighter fare for €3-8. The city also has several excellent bakeries serving fresh burek and other Balkan pastries perfect for breakfast or quick snacks.

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 Prizren is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant (18-25°C) and perfect for walking tours and outdoor dining. Summer can be quite warm but is enlivened by the DokuFest film festival in August, transforming the city into a vibrant cultural hub. Winter offers a different charm with fewer crowds and the possibility of snow-capped mountain views, though some attractions may have limited hours. Spring brings blooming flowers and comfortable weather for hiking in the nearby Sharr Mountains, while autumn provides beautiful foliage and harvest season specialties in local restaurants.

Insider Tips

Visit during DokuFest in August for a unique cultural experience, but book accommodation well in advance as the city fills up with international visitors
Try the local specialty 'tavë prizreni' (Prizren-style baked dish) at family restaurants rather than tourist-oriented establishments for the most authentic taste
Climb to the fortress just before sunset for the most spectacular photography opportunities and bring a flashlight for the descent as lighting can be limited

Explore Activities in Prizren