Traveling to Kosovo: Marion's authentic experience with Breathe in Travel and Nomadays
Kosovo remains an undiscovered destination in the heart of the Balkans, far from conventional tourist circuits. Yet this small country is brimming with treasures: mountainous landscapes,
Kosovo remains an undiscovered destination in the heart of the Balkans, far from conventional tourist circuits. Yet this small country is brimming with treasures: mountainous landscapes, quaint villages and UNESCO-listed monasteries. Not to mention its people, renowned for their exceptionally warm welcome and unparalleled hospitality.
With Nomadays and its local partner agency Breathe in Travel, Marion traveled through Kosovo meeting its inhabitants and traditions. She tells us why Kosovo is a destination apart, away from crowds, yet rich in emotion. Her testimony immerses us in a powerful human experience, where simplicity and warmth are the most beautiful memories.
Can you introduce yourself in a few words?
"A lover of travel, whether solo, with family, friends or as a couple. I enjoy discovering and venturing toward new territories in France and beyond our borders."
Why did you choose Kosovo as your travel destination?
"I chose Kosovo because I was born in Pristina, and for many years I'd been yearning to return. The post-covid period gave me the push I needed, and in August 2021, I made this dream a reality."
What appealed to you about discovering a still relatively untouristy country like Kosovo?
"Kosovo represents for me a return to my roots, to my origins. Reconnecting with the local population and taking time to discover this Europe's youngest nation, revealed my search for authenticity."
What was your itinerary in Kosovo? How many days?
"The trip to Kosovo lasted 7 days, departing from Pristina, with a self-drive itinerary proposed by Nomadays agency, stopping at the main cities and must-see sites:
Mitrovica,
Peja,
Visoki Decani Monastery,
Prizren,
the bear sanctuary in Pristina, and more.
This length of stay struck the right balance for a first complete discovery of the country."
Discover our self-drive circuits through Kosovo and explore this small Balkan country at your own pace:
8-day self-drive circuit discovering Kosovo's highlights
8-day self-drive circuit discovering Kosovo's natural jewels
What were your highlights in Kosovo: cities, landscapes, encounters, gastronomy…?
"Those 7 days spent in Kosovo were magical; the welcome and meetings with local people who are remarkably kind, an energy and atmosphere of peace and resilience emanates from this country and its inhabitants.
Staying with a local family was a highlight of the trip. We were welcomed into a family home where we could converse a bit in English with the family, who had prepared a delicious homemade meal with local products. This immersion also allowed us to meet other travelers staying at this family's place, creating pleasant and culturally rich exchanges. The family had prepared snacks for the planned hiking excursion."
Is there a region, activity or site you would absolutely recommend to future travelers?
"I recommend taking a circuit to truly discover Kosovo in all its forms. It's such a small country that over a week, it's really worthwhile to make the rounds: moving from historically-laden cities to the countryside, without forgetting its breathtakingly beautiful mountains and lakes. There's an aura of peace, and escape and disconnection are guaranteed."
Did you have any concerns before leaving? In your view, is Kosovo safe for travelers?
"Kosovo is still a country undergoing reconstruction, modernizing more and more; those who love simplicity and authenticity will be enchanted."
Why did you choose to travel with a local agency in Kosovo rather than on your own?
"It's more comfortable and easier to discover Kosovo through a local travel agency that knows the places well and is thus a precious source of information, and also has valuable contacts if needed on the ground."
Want to create your tailor-made trip to Kosovo?
Tell us about your project! Our local agency Breathe in Travel helps you imagine an authentic stay, adapted to your desires, at your pace and within your budget.
How did Breathe in Travel's support change your on-the-ground experience? What concrete advantages did you find?
"I opted for the self-drive circuit, an original format allowing you to discover the country day after day at your own pace while also meeting the local agency guide; Quentin Billon.
A fantastic guide, friendly, warm and welcoming, who made himself available throughout the stay, providing me with extensive historical knowledge about Kosovo, and also enabling me to meet Kosovar residents."
What did this trip to Kosovo change about how you travel or your perspective on the Balkans?
"This trip to Kosovo made me want to discover other Balkan countries, such as Albania. I believe that each country has something to teach us about itself and ourselves as well.
Taking an interest in the Balkans demonstrates open-mindedness; looking beyond appearances and seeking authenticity above all, and that's what I think traveling is: opening yourself to the unknown and welcoming the riches that a new territory has to offer to those willing to take the time to appreciate and discover it as it truly is."
Would you recommend Breathe in Travel and Kosovo to other travelers? Why?
"I recommend Kosovo to anyone craving adventure, a change of scenery and something new, accompanied by Breathe in Travel who will make this trip unforgettable!"
What are your next planned trips?
"Albania and Montenegro."
Final words?
"They didn't know it was impossible, so they did it" (Mark Twain).
Insights gathered from Marion after her trip to Kosovo with Nomadays in 2021. The photos belong to her and are not free of rights.
A trip to Kosovo that moves the heart as much as the eyes
Through Marion's perspective, we realize how much Kosovo embodies the unexpected. This small Balkan country, still preserved from mass tourism, reveals raw and untouched beauty. Here, mountainous landscapes, authentic villages, UNESCO-listed monasteries and the warmth of the Kosovar people compose a picture of unsuspected richness. You discover a different Europe, more human, more authentic.
At Nomadays, we believe the world is best discovered alongside those who live there. Kosovo is the perfect illustration: an undiscovered destination that opens up to those who take time to explore it differently, through the eyes and expertise of an engaged local agency, like Breathe in Travel. Through this approach, each leg of the journey becomes an encounter, each moment an immersion into the culture and daily life of the inhabitants.
Like Marion, dare to venture beyond the classics and give yourself an off-the-beaten-path trip through Europe. Give yourself a trip to Kosovo, guided by the passion of those who know the country from within. The adventure may begin where you least expect it: in the heart of a still confidential territory, yet infinitely welcoming…
Want to experience an authentic trip to Kosovo too?
Discover our circuits, the benefits of the Nomadays collective and explore our tips for preparing your stay well.
View the circuits Nomadays benefits Why travel to Kosovo?
Frequently asked questions
Kosovo is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. As Marion points out, it's a country undergoing reconstruction that is modernizing rapidly. Major cities like Pristina and Prizren are lively and welcoming. However, it is advisable to consult the recommendations of your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs before departure.
A 7-day stay is ideal for a first complete discovery of Kosovo. In one week, it's possible to visit the main cities (Pristina, Peja, Prizren, Mitrovica), UNESCO-listed monasteries such as Visoki Decani, as well as the country's mountainous natural landscapes.
French citizens do not need a visa to enter Kosovo for a tourist stay of less than 90 days. A valid passport is sufficient. However, check the entry conditions with the competent authorities before departure, as regulations may change.
Traveling with a local agency like Breathe in Travel in Kosovo allows you to benefit from in-depth knowledge of the terrain, valuable local contacts and personalized support. As Marion explains, the self-drive format offers the freedom of independence while having a guide available for historical and cultural information and to facilitate encounters with locals.
Kosovo is best visited from May to September, when temperatures are mild to warm and weather conditions are favorable for exploring mountainous landscapes and villages. Summer (July-August) is the peak season, but the country remains relatively uncrowded compared to other European destinations.