Korca (Korçë) Albania – The 15 Best Things To Do

Korca › Korca (Korçë) Albania – The 15 Best Things To Do

Discover fun and unique things to do in Korca, the cultural center of Albania’s Southeast.

Korca is located 160 km or a 3hr drive from Tirana, in my opinion, is still a real gem. With around 76,000 inhabitants, Korca is the ninth largest city in Albania.

Table of Contents

The Best Things To Do In Korca

The city’s best sights and attractions are very easy to reach on foot, so put on some comfortable shoes and explore the cobbled streets. You’ll discover beautiful churches, mosques, the bazaar and a lovely pedestrian zone.

You shouldn’t underestimate what Korca has to offer. Not only does the city offer an old bazaar from the Ottoman Empire, but also some green spaces and parks and the largest cathedral in Albania.

Visitors in particular enjoy the brewery in Korca, which is located just north of the city center. Incidentally, a beer festival is held in the center every year.The small town is also known for its museums and history. For many travelers, Korca is either the first or last stop on their trip to Albania, as it is the furthest away from the capital.

Others visit Lake Ohrid or take a trip to the neighboring country of North Macedonia. Many also travel on to Greece, as the border is only 35 kilometers east of Korca.

The Best Things To Do In Korca

Korca is primarily known for its cultural sights and attractions. Over the centuries, French, Central European, Greek and Turkish cultures have merged to create an extraordinarily diverse Albania. The area around Korca is also known for its beautiful nature around the villages and lake Prespa. After all, the town lies at an altitude of 890 meters and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

Old Bazaar – Explore the cobbled streets

The old bazaar of Korca dates back to the times of the Ottoman Empire. The old quarter was characterized not only by cobblestones but also by narrow alleys. In contrast to the tall blocks in the surrounding area, the small houses feel rather cute. It was really pleasant to stroll through the colorful rows of houses.

• Location: Old Bazaar of Korçë

The trading square used to be a meeting place for merchants from Turkey, Greece, Venice and Trieste. In its heyday during the 19th and early 20th centuries, there were over 1,000 stores in the bazaar area. However, the bazaar and its buildings have often caught fire in the past.

The old town of Korca also includes the clock tower, which stands right next to the Mirahor Mosque. However, this is not the original building from 1784, as it was destroyed twice by an earthquake. The current Korca Clock Tower has been faithfully reconstructed in the Ottoman style and dates from 2016.

Mirahor Mosque

The Mirahor Mosque is also located in the old market district, right next to the reconstructed clock tower. The historic building dates back to the late Middle Ages in 1495.

• Location: Iliaz Bej Mirahori Mosque Korca

The religious site became known as Iliaz Bey Mirahori , who was also the founder of the city of Korce. It is also the second oldest mosque in Albania. A typical feature is the single dome on the roof. The minaret was damaged in an earthquake in 1961 and was only rebuilt in 2008.

Resurrection Cathedral – Ringjallja e Krishtit

Korca’s Resurrection Cathedral can be seen from afar. With its domes and two towers, it is the largest Orthodox cathedral in the whole of Albania. The religious building appears symmetrical from the front.

• Location: Katedralja Ortodokse “Ringjallja e Krishtit”

It is particularly beautiful just before sunset . With the fountain and the statue on the boulevard opposite, it is a perfect photo opportunity. But the interior with its colorful frescoes, ceiling paintings and the massive chandelier also left a powerful impression on me.

St. George Boulevard

The Boulevard of St. George is located directly opposite the Resurrection Cathedral Korca. As in Shkoder or Berat, this boulevard is an important section for the locals. Almost every evening or at the weekend, locals meet on this pedestrian path for their “Xhiro“.

The term translates as something like “walk” or “round”. Xhiro therefore refers to a leisurely stroll, usually with family or friends. People chat and catch up on the latest news. The evening xhiro is a popular activity and also represents a kind of social center.

The pedestrian zone is known for its lively atmosphere as locals and visitors alike stroll around or sit in cafés. The section is also home to numerous restaurants and bars offering a variety of food and drink. Furthermore, the Boulevard of St. George is lined with a number of stores selling crafts and souvenirs .

Korca – Museums

National Museum of Medieval Art

The National Museum of Medieval Art houses an extensive collection of artifacts, works of art and historical objects from the Middle Ages. It showcases the rich cultural heritage of Albania and the surrounding regions.

The exposition was founded in 1980 and has since played a central role in the preservation and presentation of medieval art and culture in Albania. The exhibition space is spread over several floors, with each room themed to highlight different aspects of medieval art and culture.

• Location: National Museum of Medieval Art

The collection includes a wide range of objects, including icons, textiles, metalwork, wood carvings and manuscripts. Many of these objects date from the 13th to 19th centuries. There are said to be 6000 icons in total, but only 400 of them are on display.

The collection includes a number of famous artists who shaped the art of the late Middle Ages and early modern period. Among the most important are Onufri, the Zografi brothers and Kostandin Shpataraku. All in all, a brilliant mix of old and new!

• Opening hours: Tue-Sat: 09:00 to 16:00, Sun: 10:00 to 15:00, Mon: closed
• Admission price: 700 Lek, about 7 Euros

Education Museum – The first school in Albania

The Muzeu i Arsimit (EducationMuseum) is dedicated to the history of education and the school system in the region. After attempts were made to introduce Greek and Turkish culture, this former Albanian school was built by an Albanian patriot named Diamond Terpo. The building dates back to 1887, and was opened during the Ottoman occupation.

• Location: Mësonjëtorja e parë shqipe dhe Muzeu i Arsimit

The school played a decisive role in the spread of the Albanian language. In addition, the school was open to girls as well as boys. Faith and religion played no role in attending the school.

Today, the building houses a variety of exhibits, including old school books, teaching materials, photos, documents and personal items from teachers and pupils. You can also get an impression of the old classroom with original benches and desks from that time.

• Opening hours: Tue-Sat: 09:00 to 16:00, Sun: 10:00 to 15:00, Mon: closed

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum in Korça is another important cultural institution in the town. The museum was founded in 1985 in an old stone house in Korça to research and present the rich archaeological history of the Korça region.

Inside, a collection of artifacts from different periods of Albanian history can be viewed. In addition to ceramics, tools, jewelry and coins, there are also other objects that were found during archaeological excavations in the region.

The stone building is also very impressive from the outside. The best way to visit the exhibition is to take a detour to the large Orthodox cathedral, which is very close by.

• Opening hours: Tue-Sat: 09:00 to 16:00, Sun: 10:00 to 15:00, Mon: closed
• Admission: 300 lek, about 3 euros

Gjon Mili Photography Museum

The Gjon Mili Photography Museum is another interesting cultural site in Korca. The exhibition is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Albanian-American photographer and filmmaker Gjon Mili.

• Location: “Gjon Mili” Photography Museum

The artist is one of the world’s 20 best photographers of the last century and is also the inventor of the stroboscopic light. Gjon Mili is also known for his collaboration with the artist Pablo Picasso. The gallery includes a variety of Mili’s photographs, including some of his most famous works as well as personal items and documents from his life. If you are interested in photography, you should definitely visit this place.

• Opening hours: Tue-Sat: 09:00 to 14:00 and 16:00 to 18:00, Mon: closed

Vangjush Mio House

The Vangjush Mio House is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Albanian painter Vangjush Mio. The impressionist was known for his landscape paintings and is considered the best Albanian landscape painter of the 20th century.

In the Vangjush Mio House, built in 1811, art lovers can view a wide collection of works. Vangjush Mio’s paintings illustrate above all his love of the Albanian landscape and culture.

• Location: Show on Google Maps
• Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 09:00 to 19:00, Sun: closed

Bratko Oriental Museum

The Bratko Museum in Korça houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from Asia and Africa.
It was founded in 2003 by the Albanian artist and collector Dhimitër Mborja-Bratko, also known as Bratko. The latter was not only a photographer, but also served in the US Army on the balcony and in Japan. Bratko wanted to make his private collection accessible to the public.

In addition to Japanese women’s clothing, Chinese skirts and belts, an Indonesian sword and European medals, you can also marvel at various Japanese paintings and different photographs.

• Location: Show on Google Maps
• Opening hours: 10:00 to 13:00 and 17:00 to 18:00 daily

Observation Tower

The Korcas lookout tower is known as Kulla e Ngjyrave in Albanian. Korcas Wahrzeiten is known for its colorful design. The exact year of construction has not been recorded, but it is assumed that the current lookout tower dates back to the 19th century. Originally, it was also used as an observation point.

For 50 lek (about 50 cents), visitors can climb the stairs to the top and enjoy a great panorama over the town of Korca and the surrounding countryside. According to a reader, the elevator is currently (October 2023) broken.

• Opening hours: 07:00 to 22:00 daily

More Things To Do Around Korca

Morava Mountains

The Morava Mountains are located east of Korca, just six kilometers from the center. As we had a rental car, we drove up the mountain via the short serpentine road. There is a large parking lot where you can leave your car or scooter. Alternatively, it is of course also possible to walk up. I reckon you won’t need more than two hours for this, depending on your fitness level of course

From the top, you have a great view of the surrounding landscapes, mountains and, of course, Korca itself. A few meters from the parking lot is a large cross and a small Orthodox church. The latter was only built a few years ago, I assume. The cross stands on a kind of viewing platform. But you have a great view from anywhere up there.

There are also some hiking routes nearby. However, I didn’t travel to Albania for hiking this time. Furthermore, the restaurant “La Montagna” is right next to the parking lot.

The Morava Mountains are definitely worth a climb or drive. In addition to the fresh air and great views, you can also enjoy a bit of peace and quiet at the top of the mountain, which you won’t necessarily find in Korca.

Trip to Lake Ohrid and Sveti Naum Monastery

If you travel north towards North Macedonia, you will find yourself on the edge of beautiful Lake Ohrid within an hour. Along the lake on the Albanian side you’ll find some beautiful viewpoints and Pogradec, a great town with lovely swimming spots.

The Sveti Naum monastery is located in North Macedonia. Even at the height of summer, it didn’t take long to cross the border to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Location: Sveti Naum Monastery

The monastery has an unusual location. When you get there, there is a huge parking lot (it costs €1 per day). From there, you walk along the lake. You will find a great, beautifully designed beach in the middle of a green park with stores and restaurants right up to the monastery entrance. At the end of the beach, you will reach the beautifully maintained monastery complex. Not only the monastery from the 9th century, but also Lake Ohrid and the town of Ohrid are under UNESCO protection.

Where to stay in Korca? – Hotel Recommendations

Korca genrally is still very affordable and good vlaue for money when it comes to accommodation. You can find some pretty stylish places to stay here that won’t break the bank.

HANI I PAZARIT Boutique Hotel (Luxury): Situated right next to the old bazaar is this chic small hotel located in an old trade building. Easy access to all sights and places to visit is guaranteed. At the hotel, every room comes with a seating area, a desk and a flat-screen TV. Rooms are complete with a private or shared bathroom fitted with a hairdryer. Free toiletries and slippers are provided. The hotel is particularly poular for couples.

Life Gallery Hotel: A very stylish option with beautifully designed rooms. Set on the reconstructed Republika Boulevard, the complex consists of 4 buildings and a summer terrace in the yard. The main building is originally a 3-floor aristocratic house built in 1924. The ground floor features the meeting room, the Hall is right above, and while restaurant is on the top floor. There are also 2 newly built hotel buildings housing 28 rooms, on the ground floor. The 3rd building is an Italian-style villa from the 1936 housing a popular bar.

Suite Terrace Rooms & Apartments: During my two-day stay in Korca, I stayed at the Suite Terrace Rooms & Apartments. This was a room that belonged to the Hotel Hani i Pazarit. The room wasn’t particularly large, but had a great roof terrace with a panoramic view of Korca and the mountains. The room itself was clean and had a nice bathroom. The fact that you had to pick up the key at the Hotel Pazari 150 meters away was not a let down for me. The price also included a small but delicious breakfast in the morning. 40 Euros per night is not cheap, but Korca generally had a slightly higher price level, at least in terms of accommodation. Eating out, on the other hand, was cheaper than in other parts of Albania.

Eating out in Korca – Restaurants and more

A number of restaurants have settled in Korca. Especially in the center around the old market district there are plenty of opportunities to eat something delicious.

Birra Korca – Brewery with beer garden

The brewery has been a center of beer production for decades. Birra Korca is one of the best-known beer brands in Albania. The beer is really good and you can even take part in a guided tour.

After my visit, I can definitely say that it is worth it. Not only because of the good and fresh Korca beer, but also because of the food.

You can reach the brewery by walking up the main road for about 20 minutes. The way back is then slightly downhill and therefore much easier after the drink.

What does Birra Korca taste like?

Incidentally, Korca beer is not only the first, but also the only 100% Albanian beer! The water used for brewing comes from the springs of the nearby Morava Mountains.

• Location: Show on Google Maps
• Opening hours: 08:00 to 24:00 daily
• Website: https://birrakorca.com.al/

Frequently asked questions

How to get to to Korca?

Getting to Korca is particularly easy if you have a rental car. I’ve been to Albania four times, but this was the first time I rented a car. Korca is only a three-hour drive from Tirana.

If you want to take the minibus from Tirana to Korca, you have to go to the south-east terminal (Terminali i Autobusëve Juglindje). Buses to Elbasan, Pogradec and Korca only run from there. The minibuses run there every hour from the morning hours until late afternoon. Of course, you can also travel from Pogradec to Korca.

There are also buses from the towns of Berat, Gjirokaster and Saranda to Korca. The bus from Saranda to Korca goes via Permet. From there, a bad and mostly unpaved road leads to Korca. If you want to do this, you will be in Korca in about six hours.

Onward journey from Korca

If you’re not in a hurry, you can take a detour from Korca to Pogradec. Minibuses take less than an hour to cover the 40 kilometers. It is also possible to drive from Korca to Permet.

You should allow three to four hours for the 130 kilometers. The roads are in a catastrophic state. I cannot confirm whether buses run there. Basically, yes, as buses also travel in the opposite direction from Saranda.

There are also buses from Korca to neighboring Greece. The journey to Thessaloniki takes around 5 to 6 hours.

What is the best time of year to visit Korca?

Korca is located inland and is surrounded by the Marova Mountains. The city is characterized by a continental climate . The best time to visit Korca depends on personal preference, of course. However, I find that the months of May, June and September have a pleasant climate with temperatures of around 20 to 23 degrees Celsius.

As Korca lies at an altitude of just under 900 meters, it doesn ‘t get too hot in summer either. Temperatures are usually between 25 and a maximum of 30 degrees Celsius. Other cities in Albania are much hotter.

However, winter can be very cold. During the months of December, January and February, temperatures are in the single digits.

Are there any special events or activities taking place regularly?

Korca is not only a year-round venue for museums and culture, but also offers special events.

Spring Festival

Every year in April, the Spring Festival takes place in the streets of Korca. Traders offer their pottery and other traditional items at the open-air markets. The family festival lasts for two weeks.

Carnival

Carnival is also celebrated in Albania every year in June. Locals and visitors parade through the streets of Korca wearing masks. I suppose the Albanian carnival can’t compete with the one in Rio, but it is interesting that this tradition is celebrated in a “supposedly Muslim country“.

Lakror festival

Every year at the end of July, the Lakror festival is celebrated in Korca. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to try this delicacy. To me, lakror looks like a larger byrek cake, usually filled with spinach, cheese, pâté or meat.

Lakror is often only available to pre-order and then only as a huge portion. During the Lakror festival, you can also enjoy smaller portions.

This event is not just about tasting, but also about showing how lakror is made. It is prepared in a large pan, which is covered on top. You then place the cake over an open fire. Incidentally, Börek is prepared in a similar way in Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Keyword Saç)

Beer festival

The Korcas beer festival is probably the annual highlight for male visitors. If you want to cool off from the August heat, you can drink cool Korca beer and other local varieties. You can also sample local delicacies.

Days of Mio

If you have read this blog post carefully, you have surely stumbled across the painter Vangjush Mio. A gallery with his exhibits is dedicated to this special artist.
Every year, the best painters and aspiring artists from all over Albania meet at the International Painter Colony in Korca. New talents are discovered and promoted in Korca!

How long should I stay in Korca?

Even though Korca is a fairly small town, you should stay at least two full days. If you’re not a museum fan and just want to visit the old market district, you can do it in one day.
However, if you’ve already traveled this far to the southeast of Albania, you should spend some time there – at least that’s my opinion.
During special event days and with an excursion and hikes in the mountains, you can easily spend three days or more in Korca.

Conclusion

Korca is definitely a great and sometimes underestimated city in south-eastern Albania. Even though it is only the ninth largest city in Albania, it has a lot to offer. From museums to nature and mountains, its own beer factory and a market district that takes you back in time. Korça is not just a city, but a piece of the Albanian heart and soul.