Gjakova is a lively town in Kosovo that offers more than just its charming old town and historic sites. It’s a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and those looking to get off the typical tourist trail. The town’s location makes it ideal for adventures in the mountains, scenic drives, and discovering authentic villages. Among the many options, we especially love the Gjakova: 7 Day MTB Tour with tasting Epic Trails, which combines adrenaline-pumping riding with local flavors, or the Pashtriku and Kunora Peak Mountain Biking Tour, for a more intense mountain experience. Whether you’re into biking, boat cruises, or cultural tours, Gjakova’s diverse offerings won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover an exciting range of guided mountain biking tours, multi-day Balkan explorations, short cultural trips, and adventure-packed hikes. If you’re seeking something active, the MTB adventures are top picks. For those interested in exploring beyond Kosovo, the Semi-Private Balkans Tour from Tirana to Sarajevo/Belgrade offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights. Alternatively, if culture is more your style, the Kosovo exploration tours provide rich visits to monasteries and historical sites. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions to help pick the perfect fit.
1. Gjakova: 7 Day MTB Tour with tasting Epic Trails
Starting at Prishtina International Airport, this 7-day mountain biking adventure takes you across Kosovo’s stunning mountain trails, scenic valleys, and hidden villages. The ride crosses the borders of Kosovo, Montenegro, and Albania — a rare chance to pedal through three countries in one trip. Fully guided by expert guides, you’ll use electric bikes to conquer some of the most scenic off-road routes in the region.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of adventure and local flavor. Along the way, you’ll stop at traditional villages for guided tours and tastings, savoring regional dishes that complement your active days. The itinerary begins at Prishtina Airport and ends in Gjakova, with stops for scenic views, mountain biking, and cultural insights. Guests rate this tour 4.9/5 for its stunning landscapes and seamless organization.
This trip is perfect for outdoor lovers who want a challenge but also some downtime sampling local food. It’s especially good if you want a mix of adventure and authentic Balkan culture. The main potential drawback? The ride is physically demanding, so some fitness is required.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers eager to experience Kosovo’s spectacular mountain scenery and local hospitality in an organized, guided setting.
2. From Tirana: 2-Day Trip, Albanian Alps, Komani Lake, Kosova
This 2-day trip from Tirana offers a compact yet rich taste of the Albanian and Kosovan highlights. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but craving scenery, outdoor activities, and cultural stops. The tour includes a boat cruise on Komani Lake, considered one of the most beautiful in the Balkans, plus visits to the Valbona National Park.
The itinerary mixes scenic drives, guided hikes, and river swims with stops in Gjakova and Prizren, two towns known for their historic architecture and lively markets. Highlights include Prizren Castle with panoramic views and a relaxing boat cruise on Komani Lake. The tour scores 4.5/5 in reviews, mainly for its variety and well-organized schedule. Guests particularly enjoy the combination of nature and culture in just two days.
This experience suits travelers who want a quick escape into nature, with a bit of cultural exploration. It’s perfect if you enjoy boat trips and scenic hikes, but beware that it’s a busy schedule with lots of moving parts.
Bottom Line: A great option for travelers wanting a snapshot of Kosovo and Albania’s landscapes and towns, with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable scenery.
3. Gjakova: Pashtriku and Kunora Peak Mountain Biking Tour
For around 6 hours, this Pashtriku and Kunora Peak Mountain Biking Tour takes you through some of the most striking landscapes near Gjakova. It’s an excellent choice for intermediate to experienced bikers wanting a full-day adventure. The tour includes riding through Pashtriku’s rugged terrain and reaching Kunora Peak, which offers breathtaking views of both Albanian and Kosovar landscapes.
What makes this ride special is the visit to the Cave of the Thieves, an intriguing site with stories that add a layer of local lore. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a break in a picturesque village with coffee and friendly company. The guide, a local with detailed knowledge of the area, enhances the experience with stories and tips.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers love the challenging trails and panoramic vistas. This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with mountain biking and looking to explore beyond the town. The terrain can be rough, so some biking experience is helpful.
Bottom Line: A rewarding ride for mountain biking enthusiasts eager to combine physical challenge with cultural stories and incredible views.
4. Semi-Private Tour: Balkans from Tirana to Sarajevo / Belgrade
At number 4, this 8-day Balkans tour takes you from Tirana through Bosnia and Herzegovina, ending in Sarajevo or Belgrade. It’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown of the region without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The tour features UNESCO sites like the Kotor Old Town and the Old Bridge of Mostar.
Throughout the journey, you’ll explore narrow streets, historic bridges, and fortified towns with knowledgeable guides. The itinerary includes a traditional lunch at an agro-tourism farm, visits to Kruja’s Old Bazaar, and stunning mountain views from hilltop fortresses. Rated 4.9/5, travelers praise the well-paced schedule and local insights. The tour is a balance of sightseeing and culture, with comfortable accommodations included.
Perfect for first-timers or those wanting to see the Balkans with a group, this tour offers great value considering the diverse destinations. It’s especially suitable for those interested in history, architecture, and regional cuisine. Potential downside: It’s a busy schedule, so not for those seeking complete relaxation.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, guided introduction to the Balkans, perfect for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground with expert guidance.
5. Semi-Private Tour: Belgrade to Tirana in 8 Days
This 8-day tour from Belgrade to Tirana is designed for those who want to experience the diverse cultures, histories, and landscapes of the Balkans in one trip. Starting in Serbia, you’ll visit Belgrade’s energetic streets, Sarajevo’s historic sites, and the stunning Kotor Bay. The tour also includes stops in Prizren and Shkoder, with leisurely mornings and cultural activities built-in.
Guests enjoy staying in 3-star hotels with breakfast, which keeps the pace comfortable. Highlights include walking tours of Belgrade’s fortress, visiting the Latin Bridge where WWI was sparked, and tasting local wines near Rahovec. The trip has a 4.9/5 review score, reflecting its excellent organization and variety.
This tour appeals to travelers interested in history, cuisine, and regional diversity. It’s suited for those with moderate fitness, as some walking is involved. The value lies in the breadth of experiences packed into a manageable week.
Bottom Line: A smart choice for curious travelers wanting a detailed taste of the Balkans without multiple separate bookings.
6. Semi-Private Tour; Explore Kosovo, Europe’s Youngest Country
This 7-day Kosovo-focused tour offers a comprehensive look at this emerging destination. It includes visits to Ulpiana’s Roman ruins, the Ulpiana archaeological site, and the Ulpiana Museum. The tours visit the Ulpiana archaeological site and the White Drin River Waterfall, showcasing Kosovo’s natural beauty and historical richness.
Rated 4.9/5, travelers appreciate the depth of cultural insights and the chance to explore less-visited sites. The tour highlights the Gracanica Monastery and Decan Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, providing a meaningful experience of Kosovo’s religious heritage.
Ideal for those interested in history, religion, and natural landscapes, this tour suits travelers keen to learn about Kosovo’s recent independence and ancient past. The itinerary balances cultural visits with scenic nature stops, making it a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a deep dive into Kosovo’s cultural and natural highlights with expert guidance.
7. Small Group Balkans Tour; From Sarajevo to Tirana in 8 Days
Closing our list is this 8-day small-group tour that traces the heart of the Balkans from Sarajevo to Tirana. It includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Mostar Bridge, the winding streets of Kotor, and a stop at Mrizi i Zanave Agro-tourism farm for a taste of local produce.
The tour features cultural sites, scenic drives, and authentic farm visits. With a 4.9/5 rating, it’s praised for its intimate group size and comprehensive itinerary. Guests particularly enjoy the chance to explore Kotor’s old town and learn about local traditions at the farm. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a small, social group and want to see many destinations without the stress of self-planning.
This tour is perfect for history lovers, foodies, and those who appreciate personalized experiences. Be aware that some stops involve walking on uneven surfaces, so good mobility helps.
Bottom Line: An engaging and social way to experience the Balkans’ cultural diversity, with a focus on local food and historic sites.
How to Choose Your Best Gjakova Experience
Picking the right tour depends on your interest, fitness level, and time availability. If you’re an avid cyclist craving a multi-day challenge, the 7-day MTB Tour is unbeatable. For those with limited time but a love of scenery and culture, the 2-day trip offers a quick escape. The mountain biking around Pashtriku is ideal if you want a physically engaging day with spectacular views.
If your focus is exploring the broader Balkans, the multi-day regional tours and Sarajevo to Tirana cover lots of ground with expert guides and comfortable accommodations. Meanwhile, for a deeper cultural dive into Kosovo’s monasteries and natural sites, the Kosovo tour is perfect.
Remember to consider season, your fitness level, and whether you prefer active days or more relaxed sightseeing. Book early, especially for popular tours in peak seasons, to secure your spot and ensure a seamless experience.
Gjakova offers such a variety of adventures, cultural insights, and natural beauty that there’s truly something for every traveler. Whether you choose a challenging mountain biking trip, a scenic boat cruise, or a comprehensive Balkan tour, you’ll leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish. Take your pick, plan ahead, and enjoy discovering this vibrant corner of Europe.