Travelling the World on a Budget: A 24-Hour Trip to Pristina- Exploring the Best of Kosovo's Capital

 

Pristina, Kosovo—a city full of history, modern charm, and unique landmarks—is the perfect place for a quick getaway. I recently flew from London Luton to Pristina for a 24-hour trip, and even with limited time, I managed to experience the city's best attractions. From iconic monuments to local bazaars, here's a detailed travel guide to help you make the most of your short visit to Pristina, Kosovo.

How to Get to Pristina from London Luton

Flying from London Luton to Pristina is straightforward with several low-cost airlines offering direct flights. I flew on a Saturday evening and arrived around 9:15 PM. The flight time is approximately 3 hours, and once I arrived, I quickly took a taxi to my hotel in the city centre. The taxi ride cost around €15 (£13), a reasonable price for the 20-minute journey.

Where to Stay in Pristina

For my 1-night stay in Pristina, I chose a comfortable hotel located just outside the city centre, which cost £85 per night. The hotel was basic but well-located, with easy access to buses into the city, making it ideal for a quick trip. It was perfect for my 24-hour trip as it allowed me to rest and recharge after a long flight.

Things to Do in Pristina in 24 Hours

Morning: Start with Iconic Landmarks

My day started early with a visit to the Newborn Monument in the city centre. The monument, which celebrates Kosovo's independence, changes designs each year, offering a fresh experience every time. It’s one of the top tourist attractions in Pristina, and I highly recommend snapping a photo with the colourful letters.

Next, I headed to Mother Teresa Square, a vibrant pedestrian area surrounded by cafes and shops. I took a moment to grab a coffee and people-watch before heading to my next destination.

National Library of Kosovo: A Must-See for Architecture Lovers

After the square, I walked to the National Library of Kosovo. Known for its unconventional design, this library is a true architectural marvel. While its bold structure may be polarising, it’s certainly one of the most unique buildings in Pristina. If you enjoy modern architecture, this is a must-see.

Panoramic Views from the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa

A short walk from the library is the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa. I took the opportunity to climb the tower for a panoramic view of Pristina. For a small fee, the view from the top was spectacular—well worth the climb.

Afternoon: Explore the Old Bazaar and Germia Park

In the afternoon, I visited Pristina’s Old Bazaar. While not as large as other Balkan bazaars, it’s full of charm. I browsed local stalls, picking up unique souvenirs and admiring the handmade goods. The bazaar’s narrow streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

To escape the urban hustle, I made my way to Germia Park, a large green space just outside the city. Although I didn’t have enough time to fully explore the park, it was a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature, offering a nice break from sightseeing.

Evening: Head Back to the Airport

By early evening, it was time to head back to the airport for my return flight. In the short amount of time I spent in Pristina, I saw a lot of the city’s best attractions, but I left feeling like there’s so much more to explore. I’m already planning a return trip to Kosovo’s capital to experience more of what the city has to offer.

Cost Breakdown of My 24-Hour Trip to Pristina

• Flight (London Luton to Pristina, round trip): £80-£120 (depending on booking time)
• Taxi from Pristina Airport to City Centre: €15 (£13)
• Hotel (1 night): £85
• Meals and Coffee: €20-€30 (£18-£27)
• Entrance Fees (National Library, Cathedral Tower): €5-€10 (£4-£9)

Why Visit Pristina, Kosovo?

Despite being a small city, Pristina has a lot to offer in terms of history, culture, and modern attractions. From the stunning Newborn Monument to the unique architecture of the National Library, there’s plenty to see and do during a short visit. The city's mix of modern and traditional elements provides a fascinating glimpse into Kosovo's past and present.

Quick Travel Tip: If you’re planning a short trip to Pristina, Kosovo, I recommend spending at least one full day in the city to see the main landmarks and enjoy its welcoming atmosphere. For those with a little extra time, Germia Park and the surrounding countryside are also worth exploring.

A Memorable Short Trip to Pristina

While a 24-hour trip to Pristina may seem like a tight squeeze, I managed to experience some of the best highlights that this vibrant city offers. Kosovo’s capital is perfect for a weekend escape, offering a combination of history, modernity, and culture in a compact and welcoming environment. If you're looking for a short break to a unique destination in Europe, Pristina should definitely be on your list.