Kosovo is a country located in Southeastern Europe, covering an area of about 11,000 km2 with a population of less than 2 million.

Kosovo is bordered by Albania to the southwest, Macedonia to the southeast, Montenegro to the west and Serbia to the north and east. The capital city of Kosovo is Pristina. 

The interesting thing about this country is the fact that it’s a partially recognized state.  What this means is that this country, although recognized by the United States as well as the major countries in the European Union, it’s still not recognized by Serbia which is a close ally to Russia.

However, putting politics aside, this country is one of the hidden gems of the Balkan, and although many people might not know the answer to the question where is Kosovo it’s about time to go and check it out.

So, now that we’ve answered the where is Kosovo question, let’s talk about why this country should be next on your travel list.

Hike some of the best mountains of Kosovo

Although Kosovo is the smallest country in the Balkan, it’s one that has some of the most beautiful mountains and mountain tops. Mountains surround the entire country from all sides.

We can see the Sharr Mountains in the south and southeast, the Kopaonik Mountains in the north, and the country’s highest peak which is located southwest and is called Gjeravica.
 
This country is a must if you are a hiker or just enjoy the outdoors. Although Kosovo has many mountains and mountain peaks, there is one that all hiking enthusiasts visit, and that one is, of course, the highest one.

The highest peak or Gjeravica is 2,656 meters high, and glacial lakes surround it. The hike to the top takes about 8 hours if you want to take it slow and passes by the Ereniku River and the two glacial lakes. Feeling adventurous? You can go for a swim since both lakes are suitable for swimming.

Read more: Places You Must Visit in Kosovo

Another mountain that is definitely worth the hike is known as Hajla Mountain with its highest peak of the same name.  Hajla is located between the city of Peja, Kosovo and the town of Rozaje, Montenegro.

Therefore, the view from the top includes both countries. When hiking, you’ll get the chance to try some delicious blueberries and enjoy some of the most stunning views from the top.

These are only a few of the mountain tops that you can explore while there. Other peaks worth visiting are Guri and Kuq, Bistra, Cfrla, Rusola and many more. So, if you love nature and being outdoors, Kosovo is the place to be.

Discover the history of Kosovo

Don’t think just because Kosovo is the smallest country on the Balkan that it doesn’t have a rich history. In fact, just like all the other Balkan countries, it has some of the richest histories, which can be concluded by the many historical sites and monuments all through the country.

One of the most famous historical and religious buildings in all of Kosovo is the Sinan Pasha Mosque. This mosque which was built by Sofi Sinan Pasha in 1615 is believed to have been built with the stones from the Saint Archangels Monastery.

It’s an important historical monument, and there were several attempts to turn this monastery into a library and a museum, which would show some of the Ottoman manuscripts which you can find inside. 

If religious buildings are not your cup of tea, then maybe you should head on to see the Prizren Fortress. This 12th-century fortress which dates back to Byzantine times is just the place to visit if you want to experience the history of Kosovo as well as enjoy some of the most fantastic views of the city of Prizren.

If you want a real historical experience of Kosovo, then head on to the Emin Gjiku Ethnographic Museum where you’ll get the chance to learn more about the customs and traditions of the people in Kosovo, as well as see the displays of some artifacts from a time long past.

Although not the most historic place, one of the most exciting places in all of Kosovo is the Bear Sanctuary in the village of Mramor where you’ll get the chance to see some beautiful brown bears which were taken in by the charity organization Four Paws after keeping of bears was outlawed in Kosovo. 

Next time, when you ask where is Kosovo, you will know that it's the place where the rich history took place.

Meet the people of Kosovo

The ethnic groups which live in Kosovo are mostly Albanians comprising about 92% of the population followed by 4% Serbs, 2% Bosnian people as well as some Turkish and Romani people. 

Read more: Kosovar People

Two languages are spoken in Kosovo, Albanian and Serbian, although in recent years the Albanian language has become the more prominent one.

When it comes to the people in Kosovo, they are said to be friendly and hospitable. They are the kind of people that will great an unknown person in the street and ask them how they are. 

Everyone who has ever been in Kosovo, apart from the mountains and history, always tends to go back there for the people. You’ll definitely make some friends there if you stay more than a week.

So, where is Kosovo? Well, Kosovo is a country where you can either climb some of the most magnificent mountains and tops, or visit some of the most unique buildings and places out there. It’s a place that offers something for everyone. Therefore, instead of asking the question where is Kosovo why not go and explore it yourself.