Now is a great time to visit the capital of Europe's newest country. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in February 2008, becoming the latest country to break off from the former Yugoslavia after the devastating Balkan wars of the 90s. Pristina, pronounced and alternately spelled "Prishtina," is the capital of this proud, new nation. Hotels there are mostly occupied by United Nations and nonprofit workers and have a reputation for being overpriced. The city's hotels do "suffer somewhat from an all-expenses-paid-all-choices-made foreigner market," according to guidebook In Your Pocket. However, a few of the best hotels can be found right downtown.
This hotel is family-run, giving it a cozier feel than other options in town. Indeed, guidebook In Your Pocket calls this "perhaps the best city center hotel." The hotel rooms are nicely furnished, but the real stars are the posh apartments. Each has its own walk-in sauna booth and is decorated with antique furniture. Guests have access to a modern gym and swimming pool to work off the breakfast buffet. As of April 2010 prices ranged from $85 to $200 for apartments.
Payton Place
Vaso Pasha 20
Pristina, Kosovo 10000
011-381-3822-3284
hotelprishtina.com
If this business-oriented hotel is good enough for Bill Clinton and recent visitor Joe Biden, it is likely good enough for you, too. A favorite among visiting statesmen, the Ora is located right in downtown Pristina. The rooms are modern, come with all the amenities including Wi-Fi and include a lavish breakfast buffet. Furnished apartments are available for families. As of April 2010, prices ranged from $80 to $175.
Rruga Anton Zako Çajupi 4
Pristina, Kosovo 10000
011-381-38-233-709
hotelora.eu
Afa Hotel is located a 10-minute walk from downtown. The newspaper "The Guardian" lauded the hotel's idea of giving a 20 percent discount to citizens of countries that recognized Kosovo, calling it "inspired." The hotel features firm mattresses and a secluded garden out back. As of April 2010 prices ranged from $75 for a single room to $150 for a fully-furnished apartment. It also offers a 15 percent discount each Friday and Saturday, making the hotel one of the more affordable choices in the city.
Ali Kelmendi 15
Pristina, Kosovo 10000
011-381-38-225-226
hotelafa.com
