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Travel warning
Avoid travelling to certain northern areas near Mitrovica due to recent violent incidents and high tensions, as it's not safe for tourists right now.
Weather in Kosovo
Kosovo
11°
Moderate rain
Fri
1
11
Sat
4
8
Sun
4
11
Mon
5
10
Tue
3
10
SPF level in Kosovo
Recommended: SPF 50
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 50
Autumn
SPF 30
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Kosovo
Tipping in Kosovo
Tipping is not mandatory in Kosovo but is becoming more common, especially in tourist areas. It is a sign of appreciation for good service.
Restaurant
5-10% of the bill
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill or small change
Taxi
Rounding up the fare
Hotel Porter
1-2 EUR per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
1-2 EUR per night
Tour Guide
5-10 EUR per day, depending on the quality of the tour
Safety in Kosovo
Tips for British travellers
Kosovo is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Carry your passport with you at all times for identification.
Pickpockets target airports and public transport, so avoid carrying large amounts of cash and don't wear expensive-looking jewellery.
Penalties for possessing, using, or smuggling illegal drugs like cannabis are severe, including long jail sentences and heavy fines.
Take extra care in remote rural areas after bad weather due to risks of landslides, flooding, and poor road conditions.
Only travel in pre-booked taxis from registered companies, as unofficial taxis may overcharge and are less safe.
Bonus tips:
Avoid photographing military or police installations, personnel, or vehicles.
If driving, get local third-party car insurance at the border or in the nearest town.
Driving in Kosovo
A UK driving license is accepted in Kosovo for a limited period. An International Driving Permit is recommended, but not legally required in most cases. If staying longer than 6 months, a local license may be necessary.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
130 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: Kosovo drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
192
Ambulance
194
Fire
193
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Kosovo
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The voltage in Kosovo is 230V at 50Hz. Plug types C and F are used. British travellers will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Card payments are becoming more widespread, especially in larger establishments in cities. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, particularly when visiting smaller towns or rural areas.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Kosovo
ATMs are readily available in cities and towns, especially in Pristina and other major tourist areas. Availability may be limited in more rural areas.
Local name
Bankomat
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are the most convenient way to withdraw cash. Ensure you have a four digit PIN and notify your bank of your travel plans.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, the EU roaming regulations no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Kosovo, as they can be significant. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data and calls.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 10 EUR (~£8.50)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
IPKO, VALA
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants, particularly in urban areas. Coverage can be spotty in more rural areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Most hotels and many restaurants offer free WiFi to customers. The public WiFi can be of varying quality.
Health & vaccinations in Kosovo
As a British tourist, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in Kosovo. Check your policy's coverage for adventure activities if you plan to engage in them.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Consider vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, as these can be contracted through contaminated food or water. Discuss your travel plans with your GP or a travel health clinic for personalized advice.
Medical facilities in Kosovo, particularly outside Pristina, may be limited. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cover medical evacuation if necessary. Tap water is generally not considered safe to drink; opt for bottled water. Be aware of potential risks from stray animals and tick-borne diseases. Consult your doctor for personalized health advice and necessary vaccinations before traveling.
Calling Kosovo
Country code
+383
To call Kosovo from the UK, dial 00 383 followed by the local number.
To call the British Embassy in Pristina, you would dial 00 383 38 254 700.
To call Kosovo, you'll need the exit code for the UK (00), followed by the country code for Kosovo (383), and then the local number. Ensure you drop the leading zero if there is one in the local number.
UK Embassy in Kosovo
British Embassy Pristina
Ukshin Hoti 27, Arberia, Pristina 10000, Kosovo
Airport in Kosovo
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.
