Kosovo Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Pristina.

Geography:

Landlocked Kosovo shares borders with Serbia, Macedonia, Montenegro and Albania. It is ringed by mountains: the Sharr (Šar in Serbian) Mountains are located in the south and southeast, bordering Macedonia. The Kopaonik Mountains rise in the north. The southwest borders with Montenegro and Albania are also mountainous, and are home to the nation's highest mountain, Gjeravica (Đeravica in Serbian), 2,656m (8,714ft) high. The central region is mainly hilly, but two large plains spread over Kosovo's west and east.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

Kosova Airlines (www.kosovaairlines.com) is the national airline. Air Prishtina (www.airprishtina.com) and Germania (www.flygermania.com) operate direct flights to Kosovo from the UK.

Departure Tax

Included in the air fare.

Flight Times

From London - 3 hours; New York - 12 hours 30 minutes (including stopover).

Getting There By Road

Be prepared for delays at border crossings. Buses connect Kosovo with Albania, Macedonia. Montenegro.

Note: Leaving Kosovo, you can only enter Serbia if you came from there, since the Serbian authorities don't recognise Kosovar border stamps.

Getting Around

Breakdown Services

Dial 112 to reach the emergency services.

Car Hire

Both major international and local firms offer car hire at airports and larger towns. Note that many Serbian car hire firms do not allow their vehicles to be driven in Kosovo.

Coach

Buses connect Kosovo's towns and cities and are reasonably frequent, if slow.

Documentation

A valid national driving licence is required. The Green Card is not valid in Kosovo and vehicle registration/ownership documents and locally valid insurance policy are necessary. You can buy third-party insurance at the border.

Getting Around By Rail

Trainkos (tel: +381 38 534 821; www.trainkos.com) runs Kosovo's limited rail network. There's a service between Pristina and Peja, as well as an international connection to Skopje, Macedonia.

Regulations

Speed limits are 110-130kpm (68-81mph) on motorways, 80-100kph (50-62mph) on other roads and 50kph (31mph) in built-up areas. Road signs may be poorly marked and new signs are likely to be in Cyrillic script in some areas of the country. Seatbelts must be worn at all times. Children under 12 are not allowed to sit in the front passenger seat.

Road Quality

Road quality is poor, especially in rural areas and during bad weather. For this reason, driving at night is not advisable on minor roads in the countryside.

There are tollbooths along the motorways. Foreign-registered vehicles are charged at a higher toll than local vehicles.

Side Of Road

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Taxi

Main cities have metered taxis. It is possible to negotiate a fare when the meters are not in use. In this case, agree a fare before setting off. Only use officially marked taxis.

Travel Advice

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Zvečan, Zupin Potok and Leposavic, and areas of Mitrovica north of the river Ibar

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the municipalities of Zvečan, Zubin Potok and Leposavic, and areas of Mitrovica north of the river Ibar.

This is due to violent incidents and heightened tensions in these areas.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Kosovo set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kosovan Embassy in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Kosovo, your passport must be undamaged and valid for the duration of your stay. You do not need an additional period of validity beyond this.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Kosovo-Serbia border

The authorities in Serbia do not consider the designated crossing points with Kosovo to be official international border crossing points.

However, it is possible to travel from Serbia to Kosovo, and back again.

You cannot travel from Kosovo to Serbia without a Serbian entry stamp from Belgrade, Niš or Kraljevo airports, or one of Serbia's other border crossings with:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Hungary
• Montenegro
• North Macedonia
• Romania

You are likely to be refused entry without a valid Serbian entry stamp. You should take a route through a third country.

Border guards have denied foreign nationals entry to Serbia if they have Republic of Kosovo stamps in their passports. We are also aware of isolated incidents where Serbian authorities have cancelled Kosovo stamps in passports of foreign nationals.

Tensions between Serbia and Kosovo can cause difficulties at border crossings with Kosovo.

Visa requirements  

You can visit Kosovo without a visa for up to 90 days, for business or tourism.

Officials may ask you to provide documentary evidence giving a reason for your stay or showing you have sufficient finances. They will issue a 90-day entry stamp, which is renewable for longer stays.

If you plan to stay in Kosovo for longer than 90 days, you will need to register with the Ministry of Internal Affairs for a residence permit.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Kosovo guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kosovo. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Kosovo.

Terrorism 

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.     

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Kosovo

Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, and at large public gatherings and cultural events. Terrorists may target religious sites, including churches.

Political situation

The political situation is generally stable, but there is a risk of protests in the northern municipalities of Zvečan, Zubin Potok and Leposavic, and areas of Mitrovica north of the river Ibar. Protests in these areas have at times turned violent.

Find out more about the regions where FCDO advises against all but essential travel.

There are also occasional protests in Pristina. These are usually peaceful, but can lead to some disruption, including to traffic and public transport. Keep up to date with local developments and avoid any large crowds or demonstrations.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Pickpockets operate in airports and on public transport. Criminals target people they think may be carrying large amounts of cash. Take precautions to protect yourself from street crime by:

• only travelling in pre-booked taxis
• not wearing expensive-looking jewellery or watches
• avoiding isolated areas especially at night or when walking alone

Bank card fraud

Fraudsters can steal your card details without you noticing. Use ATMs inside banks if possible, and check ATMs on the street for signs of tampering. Keep cards in sight when paying in shops and restaurants. Read more about how to avoid bank card fraud.

Organised crime

Isolated incidents of armed violence and vehicle explosions in major cities are usually linked to organised crime and do not target visitors. However there could be violent incidents in areas visited by foreign nationals.

Vehicle crime

Criminals may target 4-wheel-drive and luxury vehicles – they may rob the passengers or try to take the vehicle. Get advice from your accommodation or car hire company about more secure routes.    

Unexploded landmines and bombs

There is a risk you could encounter landmines or other unexploded weapons when travelling in some remoter parts of Kosovo. See Regional risks.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Carry your passport with you for identification and keep a copy separately in a safe place.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession or trafficking of drugs usually carries a long prison sentence.

Using cameras in secure areas

Taking photographs of military or police installations, personnel or vehicles may lead to difficulties with the authorities.

LGBT+ travellers

There are no laws against same-sex relations in Kosovo. However, Kosovo is still a conservative society and the LGBT+ scene is more tolerated than accepted.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Kosovo, see information on driving abroad and read the rules of the road in the RAC's Kosovo guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Kosovo. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get a 1969 international driving permit (IDP) as well.

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. You must carry vehicle registration and ownership documents.

Insurance requirements

You will need a locally valid insurance policy. European green card vehicle insurance is not valid. You should buy local third-party insurance at the border or from the nearest town at the earliest opportunity. Make sure you have enough cash in euros to pay for insurance.

Driving conditions

Road standards vary from fair to poor. Roads are particularly bad in rural areas and after bad weather. There is a risk of landslides and flooding. Avoid travelling at night if possible. The quality of fuel varies.

Border crossings

There are sometimes delays at the border crossings between Kosovo and North Macedonia, Kosovo and Albania, and Kosovo and Serbia. These are common around festive periods and during the summer months. Ensure you have food and water in case of delays.

Car hire

Many Serbian car hire firms will not allow you to drive their vehicles in Kosovo, and vice-versa, due to concerns about the security situation.

There have been some incidents where Serbian-registered hire cars have been targeted in more isolated areas of Kosovo.

Taxis

The condition of taxis and standard of driving vary. Taxis are readily available in Pristina. Registered taxi firms are the safest option and fares are regulated. These usually need to be ordered by phone, although some are introducing local apps. Operators usually speak a reasonable level of English. International ride-hailing apps are not available.

Taxis that approach you for a fare are often unofficial and can overcharge. Look for established taxi companies instead of a personally owned vehicle converted to a taxi.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Wildfires

Wildfires are possible in Kosovo, particularly during dry hot periods from April to October. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. To avoid starting wildfires:

• take care when visiting or driving through countryside
• make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished
• do not light fires or barbecues except in designated and marked areas
• do not leave any rubbish

If you see a wildfire, call the emergency services on 112. Follow any advice from the police or local authorities.

Earthquakes

Kosovo lies in a seismically active zone, and earth tremors are common. The last significant earthquake, of magnitude 4.5, happened in 2010 around 90km north of Pristina.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Flooding and landslides

Flooding and poor road conditions can be a problem after wet weather. There is a risk of landslides, particularly in hilly and mountainous regions.

Check local news reports as flooding or landslides may cause road blockages.

This section has safety advice for regions of Kosovo. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.  

You should also read FCDO's overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Northern Kosovo

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the municipalities of Zvečan, Zubin Potok and Leposavic, and areas of Mitrovica north of the river Ibar due to violent incidents and heightened tensions in these areas.

Since December 2022 there have been violent clashes and incidents involving grenades and vehicle explosions. Be cautious and avoid public gatherings, particularly around the Austerlitz Bridge area which separates Mitrovica north and south.

Protests have the potential to turn violent. You should:

• avoid public gatherings, political rallies and protests
• check local media
• consult hotel receptions for advice
• sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated

Avoid travelling between Kosovo and Serbia via Gate 1 (Jarinjë, Leposavic) or Gate 31 (Zubin Potok) since these are located in areas of Kosovo where FCDO advises against all but essential travel. You should find alternative routes for travel between Kosovo and Serbia.

Old landmines and unexploded bombs

Residual landmines and other unexploded bombs and weapons remain in Kosovo from the 1999 conflict. Roads and tracks have been cleared.

The main areas of risk are:

• along the border with Albania
• the Dulje Pass area in central Kosovo
• the mountainous region between Kosovo, Albania and Montenegro

Keep to the main roads when travelling in these areas. Most of the remaining dangerous areas are in high mountainous regions covered with dense vegetation. If you see something made of metal or anything suspicious, do not touch it, and report it immediately to the police or the nearest Kosovo Force (KFOR) patrol.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 94 from a landline or 194 from a mobile and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Kosovo
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Kosovo including biting insects and ticks.

Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever is endemic in Kosovo. Most cases occur in the region around Malisheva (central Kosovo), but during the summer months other rural areas of Kosovo can be affected.

Mosquito-borne diseases are present, including West Nile virus.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Kosovo. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Air quality

High levels of air pollution can occur in Kosovo, particularly in Pristina. You can find further information and advice on air quality on the World Health Organization (WHO) website and check air quality levels on the World Air Quality Index Website.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Kosovo

The public health system in Kosovo is poorly funded. Hospitals lack specialist equipment and there is a widespread shortage of medicines and other essentials. Many doctors and nurses lack training in modern techniques and practices.

Treatment is also available at private medical clinics, which are of better quality than the public health system and are relatively affordable. A small payment in cash is required for treatment in the public health system.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical facilities in Kosovo where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Kosovo

All emergencies: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Police: 192 from a mobile (92 from a landline)

Fire: 193 from a mobile (93 from a landline)

Ambulance: 194 from a mobile (94 from a landline)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Kosovo
• dealing with a death in Kosovo
• being arrested in Kosovo
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook

Vaccinations

Overview:

Doctors are well trained but medical facilities are limited. Some medicines may not be as freely available as at home. Medical treatment is free to UK residents but prescribed medicines must be paid for. Health insurance with emergency repatriation is recommended. Pharmacies are open Mon-Fri 0800-2000 and Sat 0800-1500.

Food Drink:

Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Other Risks:

Tick-borne encephalitis is present in some rural areas. Precautions such as using repellent and wearing long trousers should be taken. Pre-exposure vaccination is not always available. Any ticks found should be carefully removed and medical attention sought. Hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for trips longer than one month.

Currency Information:

Euro (€) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of €2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.

In Serbian enclaves, particularly in the north, the predominant currency is Serbian Dinar (RSD) = 100 paras. Notes are in denominations of RSD5,000, 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of RSD20, 10, 5, 2 and 1.

Credit Cards:

International credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are sometimes accepted, but this cannot be relied upon even in cities. Diners Club and American Express are not generally accepted.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. However, amounts exceeding €10,000 or equivalent must be declared.

Currency Exchange:

As elsewhere in the ex-Yugoslav republics, the most frequently exchanged currencies are the Euro and US Dollar (Pound Sterling is rarely used). Money should be changed through official exchange offices only. ATMs are not hard to find in Pristina, but more difficult (or impossible) in smaller towns and villages.

Currencies

Exchange Rates

Language

Albanian, Serbian, Bosniak and Turkish.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

List Of Public Holidays

Note:

Holidays falling on Sunday are observed the following Monday. Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given below are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Some disruption may continue into Eid al-Fitr itself. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha may last up to several days, depending on the region.

Overview:

The following list of items may be imported into Kosovo by travellers aged 17 and over without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
• 1L of spirits over 22% volume or 2L of liqueurs, fortified or sparkling wine under 22% volume.
• 2L of wine.
• 50ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette.
• Other goods to the value of €175.

Banned Imports:

Firearms and ammunition.

Mobile Telephone:

Coverage is patchy.

Internet:

Internet use is limited, but cafes can be found in the main urban centres.

Post

Postal services are reasonably good.

Media:

The Kosovan media is split along ethnic lines, with most publications and broadcasts in Albanian. The UN established a journalistic code of conduct in Kosovo to help prevent incitement to hatred in the media.

Strap on the skis for Brezovica

The Serb-run resort of Brezovica in Sharr (Šar) Mountains, on the border with Macedonia, attracts mostly Albanian clientele, serving as a rare example of peaceful co-existence between two communities. History aside, the resort offers exceptional skiing and is the training base for a number of the national winter sports teams.

Seek out the statue on Mother Teresa Boulevard

The main pedestrian drag in Pristina is lined with cafés and restaurants, frequented by Kosovar politicians, foreign officials and peacekeepers. Walk along the tree-lined street to find the statue erected to celebrate the famous missionary, who despite being born in Macedonia, was of Kosovar Albanian ancestry.

Hike to the heart of the mountains

At 2,656m (8,714ft), Kosovo's highest mountain Gjeravica (Đeravica) is a fairly easy climb. It is located in southwest Kosovo, alongside Montenegro and Albania, and offers jaw-dropping panoramas over the Albanian Alps. As you're near the Albanian border, look for the heart-shaped Zemra Lake.

Eat meat on a (very) empty stomach

Kosovo, especially Serbian enclaves, is a paradise for carnivores. There is a cult of grilled meat, which is always fresh, competently cooked and served in huge portions. Ottoman heritage is evident with the likes of Tavë prizreni, a bake of lamb and aubergine, and the local markets should not be missed for those wishing to try Kosovo's traditional cheeses.

Find a cafe near the frontline crossing

The bridge across the Vardar River in the ethnically divided town of Mitrovica is possibly the most well known symbol of the conflict. Drop in the Dolce Vita café on the Serbian side, where peacekeepers and journalists mingle with local politicians and ex-paramilitaries, but avoid the area during periods of unrest.

Make for the pink marbled monastery of Dečani

Another Medieval monument that has helped Kosovo on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list is the perfectly preserved Orthodox monastery, Visoki Dečani. Built in 1335, the pink and white marble church is located in a small town in the west of the country and features a three-wall iconostasis.

Peer out of Prizren from the Kalaja Fortress

This Ottoman city, at the foot of the Sharr Mountains, sports several beautiful mosques and 16th-century Turkish baths. The Kalaja Fortress, whose cannons face out over Prizren, sits above the city and offers superb morning views. Nearby, the Church of Our Lady of Ljeviš is on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites.

Find the frescoes of Gračanica

The Serbian enclave close to Pristina is famous for its Orthodox monastery, founded in 1321. Visit the UNESCO-listed building and be sure to see its finest features – the vibrant coloured frescoes. Nearby are the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Ulpiana, one of the country's most fascinating archaeological sites.

Discover Peja’s (Peć) historic charm

This historical town is nestled close to imposing mountains, a picturesque gorge and straddling the Bistrica River. Ancestral home of the Mediaeval Serbian Orthodox Church, it was heavily damaged by recent conflicts. A bustling central bazaar and lively market still beat resolutely and retain their Old World charms.

Feel cultured in cosmopolitan Pristina

Kosovo's capital holds the usual delights: the national museum, theatre and art gallery. There are also several historical mosques, such as Mbretit and Pirinaz, and the Serbian Church of St Nicholas with its rich iconostasis. The boldest statement though, is the modern architecture of Kosovo National Library; discuss its merits in one of the centre's many stylish cafes.

Overview

Prizren, Peja and Gjakova are some of the best places to find handicrafts. Metalwork includes filigree, silver, copper and brass crafts. Kosovar wood engravings and musical instruments are also popular souvenirs. Other purchases include embroidery, lace, leatherwork, knitwear and Turkish coffee sets.

Opening Hours

Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1500-2000, Sat 0800-1500 (many shops are open all day Sat). Supermarkets and grocery stores keep longer hours.

Overview

Kosovar food is hearty and home-style, borrowing elements from Serbia, Albania, Turkey and Greece among other neighbouring nations. Simple grilled meats, usually beef, chicken or lamb, are commonly served with potatoes or rice, as are freshwater fish such as carp. Pies and other pastry-based dishes are also a staple, and yogurts and cheeses are plentiful.

Vegetables, such as cucumbers, green tomatoes and peppers are abundant during the summer and make for delicious, fresh salads. During winter, they arrive on the plate pickled and preserved.

Accompanying most meals are wine; Kosovo has an excellent wine-growing tradition, though the native pours have yet to catch the attention of the wider world.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

10% is expected.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

Kosovo does not have any international-standard 4- or 5-star accommodation (despite some claims to the contrary). Pristina offers a reasonable selection of hotels, but there may be little choice beyond mid-price and budget in smaller towns.

Grading: Classification is from 1 to 5 stars.

History

During medieval times, Kosovo was the centre of the Serbian Empire. That is, until the 14th-century Battle of Kosovo, when the Ottomans defeated the Serbs and their allies, paving the path for the Turks to establish a rule over the region, which would last from the mid-15th century to the early 20th century.

Prior to Turkish rule, the Kosovo population was predominantly Serb, but with the arrival of the Ottomans, Islam became more widespread and the number of Muslim ethnic Albanians rose.

In 1912, Serbia regained control over Kosovo during the First Balkan War only to lose it again during WWI, when Kosovo became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (later renamed Yugoslavia). During WWII, Kosovo was united with Albania under Italian control and was later liberated and granted the status of an autonomous region within Yugoslavia.

In 1989, Slobodan Milosevic set out his ultranationalist agenda in a speech at the rally on the Battle of Kosovo field, promising to restrict Kosovo autonomy. His policies led to three major wars and the eventual disintegration of Yugoslavia; the Kosovo conflict became the last act in the Balkan drama.

Brutal actions of the Serbian army and paramilitaries led to the exodus of almost the entire Albanian population and prompted NATO bombardment of Serbian cities in 1999. When the Albanians returned, it was the time for Serbian civilians to flee persecution by the Kosovo Liberation Army fighters.

Following years of unsuccessful talks in which neither party wanted to yield ground, Kosovo unilaterally proclaimed independence in February 2008, supported by major Western powers. It adopted a constitution, which gives broad autonomy to Serbian enclaves. However, Kosovo Serbs rejected this change and continue to see themselves as residents of the Serbian Autonomous Region of Kosovo and Metohija.

In 2009, Kosovo held its first democratic elections since declaring independence from Serbia. Despite periods of unrest, high unemployment and problems with corruption, Kosovo has continued to make significant progress towards stability. In 2013 and 2015, Kosovo and Serbia signed landmark agreements in an effort to normalise relations between the two countries – a process both countries hope will advance their European Union accession agenda.

Did you know?
• Kosovo has the youngest population in Europe, with an estimated 70% of its citizens under 35.
• Not only is Pristina’s main boulevard named after Bill Clinton, but the former American president is also honoured with a 3m-high (10ft) golden statue in the Kosovar capital.
• Kosovo is rich in lignite coal and remains one of the most polluted regions in Europe.

Religion

Sunni Islamic majority, Orthodox Christian and Roman Catholic minorities.

Social Conventions

Avoid taking pictures of military installations and looted houses of Serbs in the Albanian-populated parts, and of Albanians in the Serbian-populated parts; it may cause bad feeling.

Best Time To Visit:

Kosovo has a mild continental climate with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. May and September are the best months to visit.

Required Clothing

In winter, mediumweight clothing and heavy overcoat; in summer, lightweight clothing and raincoat required.

Dialing Code:

Area(sq km):

Population:

Population Density(per sq km):

Population Year:

EU Member:

Main emergency number