bigtravelbuzzKorçë County is located in southeastern Albania, bordering Greece to the south and North Macedonia to the east. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. Here are some highlights of the county:
Korçë City: The county seat of Korçë County is Korçë City, a vibrant and bustling city known for its historic architecture, cultural museums, and lively nightlife. Be sure to visit the National Museum of Medieval Art and the Korçë Archaeological Museum, which showcase the county’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Prespa National Park: Located in the eastern part of Korçë County, Prespa National Park is a beautiful natural area that offers stunning views of the Prespa Lakes and the surrounding mountains. The park is home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, as well as numerous hiking trails and picnic areas.
Voskopoja: Voskopoja is a small village located in the mountains of southeastern Albania, known for its well-preserved medieval churches and monasteries. The village was once a major cultural and religious center in the Balkans and is now a popular tourist destination.
Përmet: Përmet is a town located in the southern part of Korçë County, known for its beautiful natural landscapes, hot springs, and delicious cuisine. Be sure to try the local specialties, such as qifqi (a type of meatball), petanik (a type of pie), and byrek (a savory pastry).
Germenj National Park: Located in the central part of Korçë County, Germenj National Park is a beautiful natural area that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park is home to many hiking trails, as well as numerous campsites and picnic areas.
Overall, Korçë County is a beautiful and diverse region of Albania, with something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or cuisine, you are sure to find something to enjoy in this stunning part of the country.
Places to Visit in Korçë County
Korçë County is located in the southeastern part of Albania and has a rich history and culture. Here are some places to visit in Korçë County:
The Old Bazaar: Located in the heart of Korçë, the Old Bazaar is a historic district filled with colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to explore and get a sense of the local culture.
National Museum of Medieval Art: This museum is located in the center of Korçë and houses a collection of religious art and artifacts from the medieval period.
Lake Prespa: This beautiful lake is located on the border between Albania, Greece, and North Macedonia. It’s a great place for hiking, fishing, and bird watching.
Dardha Village: This picturesque village is located in the mountains near Korçë and is known for its traditional architecture and stunning views.
Voskopoja Village: Another charming village near Korçë, Voskopoja is known for its historic churches and monasteries, as well as its beautiful natural surroundings.
Gramoz Mountain: This is the highest mountain in southern Albania and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a great destination for hiking and mountain climbing.
Pogradec: This lakeside town is located on the shores of Lake Ohrid and is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Boboshtica Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located in the Boboshtica Valley and is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking.
Germenj National Park: This national park is located in the mountains near Korçë and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species. It’s a great destination for hiking and camping.
Tushemisht Village: This charming village is located on the shores of Lake Ohrid and is known for its traditional architecture and delicious local cuisine.
Best Time To Visit Korçë County
The best time to visit Korçë County is from May to September, during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature during this time is around 25°C (77°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the region’s natural beauty.
The spring months of April and May are also a good time to visit, as the landscape is lush and green with wildflowers in bloom. This is also a good time to explore the region’s cultural heritage, as there are several festivals and celebrations during this time.
The fall months of September and October are also a good time to visit Korçë County, as the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer tourists around. This is a good time to explore the region’s historic landmarks and cultural attractions without the crowds.
The winter months of November to March can be cold and snowy, especially in the mountains. However, if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, this can be a good time to visit Korçë County, as there are several ski resorts in the region.
Things to Do in Korçë County
Korçë County is a beautiful region in southeastern Albania that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Here are some things to do in Korçë County:
Explore the Old Bazaar: The historic district of Korçë is home to the Old Bazaar, a colorful collection of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and soak up the local culture.
Visit the National Museum of Medieval Art: This museum houses a collection of religious art and artifacts from the medieval period. It’s a great place to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Hike in the mountains: Korçë County is surrounded by beautiful mountains, including Gramoz and Mali i Thatë. There are several hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the landscape.
Visit the lakes: Korçë County is home to several lakes, including Lake Prespa and Lake Ohrid. These lakes offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Explore historic villages: The region is home to several charming villages, including Dardha and Voskopoja. These villages are known for their traditional architecture and historic churches and monasteries.
Attend a festival: Korçë County hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Korça Beer Festival, which celebrates the region’s brewing traditions.
Taste the local cuisine: Korçë County is known for its delicious local cuisine, including dishes such as tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) and lakror (a savory pie filled with vegetables and cheese).
Visit the Germenj National Park: This park is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, and offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and nature observation.
Explore the Boboshtica Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located in the Boboshtica Valley and is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking.
Ski in the mountains: Korçë County is home to several ski resorts, including the resort at Mali i Thatë. These resorts offer opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
How to get around in Korçë County
Korçë County is a beautiful region in southeastern Albania that can be easily explored by various means of transportation. Here are some ways to get around in Korçë County:
Car: Renting a car is the easiest way to get around in Korçë County. There are several car rental agencies in Korçë, and the roads are generally in good condition. However, be aware that Albanian driving can be somewhat erratic, so drive carefully and defensively.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Korçë, and they are a convenient way to get around the city and surrounding areas. However, be sure to negotiate the fare with the driver before you get in the taxi.
Bus: There are several bus routes that connect Korçë with other towns and cities in Albania. Buses are relatively cheap, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.
Bicycle: Korçë County is a great place to explore by bicycle, as there are several scenic cycling routes in the area. You can rent a bicycle in Korçë, or bring your own.
Walking: Korçë is a relatively small city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s narrow streets and historic buildings.
Hitchhiking: Hitchhiking is a common practice in Albania, and many locals are happy to give rides to travelers. However, be aware that hitchhiking can be unpredictable, and it’s important to use caution and common sense when hitchhiking.
Where to eat in Korçë County
Korçë County is known for its delicious local cuisine, and there are several great restaurants in the area that serve traditional Albanian dishes. Here are some of the best places to eat in Korçë County:
Era Restaurant: This popular restaurant in the heart of Korçë serves traditional Albanian cuisine, including dishes such as tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) and fërgesë (a meat and pepper stew).
Taverna Kuka: Located in the historic district of Korçë, this family-run restaurant serves delicious homemade food, including stuffed peppers and moussaka.
Bar Restorant Era II: This cozy restaurant serves fresh seafood and grilled meats, as well as traditional Albanian dishes such as qofte (meatballs) and byrek (a savory pastry filled with cheese and vegetables).
Piceri Miri: This casual pizza restaurant in the center of Korçë serves delicious wood-fired pizzas, as well as salads and sandwiches.
Restaurant Veranda: This elegant restaurant in the village of Voskopoja serves traditional Albanian cuisine with a modern twist, including dishes such as lamb shank and grilled trout.
Restaurant Kodra: Located in the village of Dardha, this cozy restaurant serves traditional Albanian dishes such as gjellë me presh (a stew made with leeks and lamb) and lakror (a savory pie filled with vegetables and cheese).
Restaurant Pallati: This restaurant in the town of Bilisht serves delicious grilled meats and fresh salads, as well as traditional Albanian dishes such as fasule me mish (a bean and meat stew) and pite me mish (a meat-filled pastry).
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Korçë County. Be sure to try some of the delicious local cuisine while you’re there!
Famous street stalls in Korçë County
Korçë County is known for its delicious street food, and there are several famous street stalls in the area that are worth checking out. Here are some of the best street stalls in Korçë County:
Qebaptore E Bilishtit: Located in the town of Bilisht, this popular street stall serves delicious qebapa (grilled meatballs) with onions, tomatoes, and homemade bread.
Byrekçi Zgërdheshi: This famous street stall in the village of Dardha serves delicious byrek (a savory pastry filled with cheese and vegetables), as well as other traditional Albanian pastries.
Lulishte Tava: Located in the city center of Korçë, this popular street stall serves tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), a traditional Albanian dish that is a must-try.
Përsheshi: This popular street stall in Korçë serves a variety of grilled meats and sausages, as well as fresh salads and homemade bread.
Leqëndi: Located in the village of Voskopoja, this popular street stall serves delicious trahana (a traditional Albanian soup made with fermented wheat and yogurt) and other local specialties.
Sheqeri Pasha: This famous street stall in Korçë serves delicious lokum (Turkish delight), as well as other sweet treats such as baklava and halva.
These are just a few of the many great street stalls in Korçë County. Be sure to try some of the delicious local street food while you’re there!
Where to stay in Korçë County
Luxury accommodation
Korçë County offers several options for luxury accommodation that provide comfort and convenience to travelers seeking a premium experience. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Korçë County:
Life Gallery Hotel: Located in the heart of Korçë, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant serving traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine.
Hotel Vila Sharm: This elegant hotel is located in the village of Voskopoja, and features stylish rooms and suites with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel also has a spa and wellness center, as well as a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
Hotel Grand Palace: This luxurious hotel is located in the center of Korçë, and offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities such as air conditioning and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has a restaurant serving international and Albanian cuisine, as well as a bar and lounge area.
Hotel Regency: This upscale hotel is located in the town of Ersekë, and features elegant rooms and suites with mountain views. The hotel also has a spa and wellness center, as well as a restaurant serving traditional Albanian and international cuisine.
Hani i Pazarit Hotel: This luxurious hotel is located in the historic district of Korçë, and features stylish rooms and suites with antique furnishings and modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, as well as a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodation options available in Korçë County. Whether you’re looking for a chic city hotel or a luxurious mountain retreat, Korçë County has something for everyone.
Where to stay in Korçë County
Budget accommodation
Korçë County offers several options for budget accommodation that provide comfort and affordability to travelers on a tight budget. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Korçë County:
Hotel Bujtina Leon: This cozy hotel is located in the heart of Korçë, and offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine, as well as a bar and lounge area.
Guesthouse Arberi: This charming guesthouse is located in the village of Dardha, and features cozy rooms with traditional furnishings and mountain views. The guesthouse also has a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, as well as a terrace with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Hotel Garden: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the town of Bilisht, and offers simple rooms with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine, as well as a bar and lounge area.
Guesthouse Era: This cozy guesthouse is located in the town of Ersekë, and features comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and mountain views. The guesthouse also has a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine, as well as a terrace with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Hotel Flamingo: This budget hotel is located in the city center of Korçë, and offers simple rooms with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine, as well as a bar and lounge area.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodation options available in Korçë County. Whether you’re looking for a cozy guesthouse or a simple hotel, Korçë County has something for everyone.
Travel Tips Korçë County
If you’re planning a trip to Korçë County, here are some travel tips that can help you make the most of your visit:
Visit during the summer: The best time to visit Korçë County is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is mild and sunny, and the countryside is lush and green.
Try the local cuisine: Korçë County is famous for its delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes such as qofte (meatballs), tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), and baklava (sweet pastry). Make sure to try some of these dishes during your visit.
Explore the countryside: Korçë County is home to some of the most beautiful countryside in Albania, with scenic mountains, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. Rent a car or bike and explore the countryside at your own pace.
Learn about the local history: Korçë County has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Visit some of the region’s historic landmarks, such as the medieval churches of Voskopoja, and the National Museum of Medieval Art in Korçë.
Attend a local festival: Korçë County is known for its colorful festivals, which celebrate everything from traditional music and dance, to food and wine. Check the local calendar to see if there are any festivals taking place during your visit.
Pack appropriately: Depending on the season, you may need to pack warm clothing, rain gear, or sunscreen. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Respect local customs: Albanians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, so be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and ask for permission before taking photographs of people or private property.
By following these travel tips, you can have a memorable and enjoyable visit to Korçë County.