Unknown Land: Kosovo & North Macedonia
In the heart of the unknown Balkans, where ancestral traditions and preserved landscapes reveal their best-kept secrets.
Duration
15 days
From
€1,190/pers.
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
Discovering Kosovo and North Macedonia
Located in the heart of the Balkan peninsula, these landlocked countries are among the hidden gems of the region. Yet visitors will find a multitude of treasures to explore.
Between rolling hills, lush forests, old towns with architectural charm and preserved local traditions, the beauty of Kosovo and North Macedonia will not fail to amaze you.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Paris, France - Pristina, Kosovo
Aéroport de Pristina → Pristina
Meet our guide at the airport and head to the city center for lunch.
Then start the tour of Pristina, Capital of Kosovo, Europe's youngest country.
Explore the political and economic capital of Kosovo where you will discover an unprecedented architectural contrast in Europe and a vibrant city in constant evolution.
Discovery of Peja and the Natural Wonders of Rugova
After your breakfast, head to Peja, the largest city in western Kosovo, nestled at the foot of the mountains and the Rugova Gorges.
Then head to the White Drin waterfall and enjoy a walk to the top, where you will discover the Sleeping Beauty caves. Explore the inside of these galleries, shaped over the centuries by the force of water.
Visoki Decani Monastery, craftsmanship in Gjakova and discovery of Rahovec vineyards
After breakfast, head towards the Visoki Dečani Monastery, a 14th-century monument listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire its remarkable frescoes, considered a pinnacle of Serbian art, powerfully influenced by Byzantine art, notably by the Church of Holy Saviour in Constantinople.
Continue your journey towards Gjakova, an authentic city in Kosovo, renowned for its old town center and its artisan shops.
Subject to availability, meet with local artisans, who perpetuate crafts that have today disappeared in Western Europe. Discover the expertise of Plis makers (traditional Albanian hat), diep manufacturers (wooden cradles) and Albanian seamstresses.
Continue towards Prizren, with the possibility of stopping at Rahovec, a city famous for its vineyards. Immerse yourself in the world of Kosovar wine by visiting a family business, and enjoy a tasting of local wines.
Reach Prizren for an overnight stay.
Discovery of Prizren, cultural and historical capital of Kosovo
After breakfast, head to discover Prizren, the cultural and historical capital of Kosovo, surrounded by mountainous landscapes. Explore its old Ottoman centre, crossed by the Lumbardhi river.
Stroll through its cobbled streets and enjoy the tea lounges of the old bazaar which give the city a unique Ottoman charm. Discover three religious buildings nearby:
The Sinan Pacha Mosque
The Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George
The Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour
Visit the Albanian League of Prizren, the first league for the defence of Albanian rights, founded in the late 19th century.
Have lunch in a traditional restaurant in Prizren.
Make the most of your free time to visit the Prizren Fortress (Kalaja e Prizrenit), offering breathtaking views over the city.
➡️ Possibility to visit a cheese factory before your arrival in Prizren
Discovery of the capital of North Macedonia
After breakfast, head towards North Macedonia, crossing the Sharr Mountains (Šar Planina), to reach Skopje, the country's capital.
Drop off your luggage at the hotel, then begin your city tour.
Skopje, a city between tradition and modernity
Devastated by an earthquake in 1963, Skopje managed to rebuild itself completely, offering a unique experience today.
You will discover a city marked by the coexistence of two cultures and two distinct lifestyles between Macedonian Albanians and Macedonians.
Stroll through the new city center and admire:
The Tvrdina Kale fortress
The Kameni Most stone bridge, which divides the city in two
The old Ottoman bazaar Čaršija, a witness to Skopje's rich historical past
Exploration of Canyon Matka and Mavrovo National Park
After breakfast, set out to discover the Matka Canyon, an essential site in North Macedonia. Embark on a boat excursion to explore the Vrelo Caves, ranked among the deepest underwater caves in the world.
Continue your journey to Mavrovo National Park and be amazed by its stunning landscapes, between Lake Mavrovo and Radika Canyon.
Make a stop at Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery, perched on the heights of the canyon, considered one of the most beautiful monasteries in North Macedonia.
Then head to the village of Janche, where a local resident has undertaken to rebuild houses using traditional building materials from that era.
End the day with an overnight stay at a traditional hotel in Janche, offering an authentic and warm atmosphere.
Discovery of the village of Vevtchani and immersion in Ohrid
After breakfast, join the village of Vevtchani, nestled at the foot of the Jablanica mountain. This village is renowned for its costume festival, celebrating the new year according to the ancient Orthodox calendar. This event, one of the oldest in the Balkans, dates back more than 1,400 years.
Stroll through this picturesque village and walk along a wooden pontoon to admire the Vevtchani water source, a soothing natural site.
Continue your journey towards Ohrid, considered the cradle of Orthodoxy in North Macedonia. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this emblematic city, located on the shores of the Lake Ohrid, is often perceived as the culmination of the Macedonian experience.
Exploration of Lake Ohrid and Discovery of Historical Heritage
After breakfast, set off to discover the wonders of the Lake of Ohrid, an emblematic site of North Macedonia.
Make a short photo stop at the "Bay of Bones" (The Bay of Bones), an authentic reconstruction of a prehistoric settlement dating from 1200 to 700 BC.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Saint Naum Monastery, a religious building dating from the 10th century, nestled in the heart of lush greenery. Located on the border between Albania and Macedonia, this haven of tranquility offers a peaceful atmosphere and an exceptional setting.
Free day at Lake Ohrid and optional activities
After breakfast, enjoy a free day to relax on the beaches of Lake Ohrid or explore its surroundings.
🛑 Optional activities:
Paragliding
Jump from 1,400 or 1,600 meters altitude for an unforgettable experience. Head to the departure site, get equipped with your professional instructor, then experience an intense moment flying over Lake Ohrid.
Diving
Meet your diving instructor and explore Lake Ohrid, Europe's oldest and deepest lake, home to approximately 200 different species. Discover its underwater fauna and flora, as well as remains dating back to the Bronze Age, making the site an international reference in underwater archaeology.
Kayaking
Set out for a day of kayaking accompanied by a professional guide. Navigate through the stunning landscapes of Lake Ohrid and admire its preserved natural beauty.
Quad biking
Experience an adventure on quad bike up to 1,200 meters altitude, connecting the villages of Velestovo, Sipokno and Konjsko. Cross various natural environments, take scenic roads and enjoy an impressive view of Ohrid and its lake. The route of approximately 20 km with no backtracking offers you total immersion in traditional Macedonian countryside.
Hiking
Set out for a half-day hike in Galitchitsa National Park (English-speaking guide at additional cost). Reach the starting point and begin the ascent to Magaro peak, which rises to 2,255 meters altitude. A picnic is planned along the way.
Make the most of this day at Lake Ohrid, between relaxation and adventures in the great outdoors.
Discovery of Marko's Towers and rural immersion in Omorani
After breakfast, head towards Prilep to discover the Towers of Marko (Markovi Kuli), remnants of a vast fortress from the 14th century.
Then join the tiny village of Omorani, nestled in the heart of Macedonian countryside, for an authentic rural experience.
Stay in an 80-year-old stone house, where you will be welcomed by warm hosts. Enjoy the peaceful setting and the swimming pool for a moment of relaxation.
Free day and relaxation in your guest house
After breakfast, enjoy a free day at your superb guest house, ideal for a moment of relaxation and serenity.
🛑 Optional activities :
Romantic dinner in an intimate setting
Trip to Babuna waterfall, for an immersion in nature
Natural cosmetics workshop, to discover the secrets of artisanal craftsmanship
A perfect day to recharge and enjoy the authentic setting.
Discovery of Stobi and Nature Immersion in Crvulevo
After breakfast, set off to discover Stobi, the largest archaeological site in Macedonia. Explore the ruins of an ancient city, founded in the 4th century BC, and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Romans in ancient Macedonia.
Option: Visit to Stobi vineyard
Along the way, you have the possibility to stop at the Stobi vineyard, to discover the local winemaking tradition and taste wines typical of the region.
Then head to the small village of Crvulevo, where you will stay in a charming accommodation, in the heart of nature, for a peaceful and rejuvenating evening.
Free morning and discovery of Kratovo
After breakfast, enjoy a free morning before departing for Kratovo, a hidden gem of North Macedonia.
Immerse yourself in its medieval charm by exploring its cobblestone streets, lined with stone houses. Admire the emblematic clock tower and visit its centuries-old Orthodox churches.
Stroll along the banks of the Kratovska River for a complete immersion in the history and unique atmosphere of the city.
Resume your journey towards Kosovo, arriving at the Serbian village of Gračanica.
Visit to the Bear Sanctuary and Discovery of Historical Heritage
After breakfast, head to the "Bear Sanctuary", also calledPristina Bear Sanctuary. This park enabled the release of many bears that were once captive in private restaurants in Kosovo and Albania. Enjoy lunch at the sanctuary, surrounded by nature.
Continue your exploration with a visit to Novo Brdo Fortress, perched on a plateau offering exceptional panoramic views of the region.
Then head to the Gračanica Monastery, a 14th-century building listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy a free afternoon to relax and unwind at your hotel.
End of stay and transfer to the airport
Gračanica → Aéroport de Pristina
After breakfast, head to Pristina airport for your return flight.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- All additional fees not mentioned in the program.
- Full board (lunches and dinners).
- Activities not mentioned in the included price and entrance fees to monuments.
- Tips.
- Insurance.
- Round-trip flights.
Included
- Nights in 3* - 4* hotels, guesthouses or chalets in double/twin rooms with breakfasts (local standards subject to availability).
- The digital travel notebook with all useful information (itinerary, addresses, advice...).
- 24/7 assistance.
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Kosovo for tourism purposes. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Kosovo, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and must have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in Kosovo.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period from the date of entry into the territory.
Authorities may also request:
a return travel document (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
a hotel booking or a residential address during your stay.
Entry formalities
Upon arrival in Kosovo, travelers must present themselves to immigration services and may be required to provide:
information relating to their passport
details of their flight or means of transport
the address of their first accommodation in Kosovo
An entry stamp will be affixed to your passport by Kosovo immigration services. It is recommended to keep this stamp, as it may be requested when leaving the territory.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should contact the embassy or consulate of Kosovo in their country of residence, or the competent Kosovo authorities.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and foreign medical expenses.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific contract developed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy document detailing all coverage and claims procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claims notification procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy document with them for the entire duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
No, French nationals can stay up to 90 days within 180 days in Kosovo without a visa. A valid passport required for at least 3 months after entry. Please note: some Kosovo stamps may cause issues in Serbia (do not enter Serbia from Kosovo without taking precautions).
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 100 and 170 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (250-500 euros return) are additional. Kosovo is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each trip to match your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate stories and anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST guarantee (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Pristina Region
Custodian of Secret Balkans, based in Pristina
Kosovo often surprises travelers. Those who come out of curiosity usually leave deeply moved by the warmth of the locals and the country's energy.
— Alan
