Korça, the warm and cozy city of vibrant cobblestone streets, quaint houses, and romantic serenades, is an iconic destination in Albania which offers countless opportunities to enjoy it for free.

“Unknown Soldier” monument, Korça, photo by IntoAlbania

Thanks to its fanatically preserved architecture and urban landscape, the very walkable city of Korça is a veritable chest of treasures. From walks in parks and promenades to outdoor activities and meditation opportunities in the newly built Japanese garden, below is a full list of things to do for free in Korça.

1.Take a walk in Parku Rinia

This park is the city’s lungs, constantly furnishing it with clean fresh air! Established 60 years ago, the park has recently assumed a fresh new face as Korça’s largest green space, with an area of about 100 square meters. It’s also conveniently located close to the city center. So, you’ll have a chance to enjoy its peaceful nature and beautiful statues before heading back to the city.

Parku Rinia, Korça. Photo by IntoAlbania.

2. Visit the Resurrection of Christ Cathedral 

Though a fairly recent addition to the city, this cathedral has already become Korça’s landmark. Located at the very heart of Korça, it is one of the most popular touristic spots in the city and one of its most important structures. Built after the ‘90s, the cathedral is now one of the principal places of worship in the country. Entrance is free and the cathedral is open at all hours.

Resurrection of Christ Cathedral. Photo by IntoAlbania.

3. Enjoy a stroll along the Promenade  

You simply must take the walk along this promenade to get a true taste of Korça! It is a key spot where the city’s tradition and modernity meet and also simply pleasant! The cobblestone streets, lined with pubs and restaurants, museums and historic cafes, make this area one of the most visited parts of the city of serenades.

Korça Promenade, photo by IntoAlbania

4. Take in the atmosphere of the Old Bazaar 

The Old Bazaar is a must, if only for the beautiful photos you may get out of it. But, of course, it offers much more! While it is a culturally and historically valuable spot, it is its vibrancy and energy that will attract you. Recently renovated, its colors, sounds, and aromas will make sure to please your senses. In addition, here you can find the best souvenirs, from traditional works of craftsmanship to the area’s local agricultural products.

Old Bazzar, Korça. Photo by IntoAlbania.

5. Become immersed in the magic of Korça’s historic streets

The narrow cobble-stoned streets, locally known as sokakë, are part of the city’s traditional historic landscape. Korça is the best city to enjoy the old-timey atmosphere that only the sokakë can offer. These streets have witnessed every phase of the city’s history and hold within them every sweet serenade sung under the town’s famed draped windows.

Korça’s historic streets. Photo by IntoAlbania.

6. Hike in the Morava Mountain 

If you enjoy walking and especially hiking, Morava Mountain is the right destination for you! Right outside of the city, each season, the landscape offers its own particular spectacle of colors. Once there, you’ll also find the Great Cross and the Church of Saint Ilias, the combination of nature and religion making the hike unforgettable.

Morava Mountain, Korça, photo by IntoAlbania

7. Travel to the 15^th century in Bej Mirahori Mosque

This mosque is another meaningful place of worship and one of the oldest monuments of the city. Built as early as 1494, the mosque is named after the founder of the city. Because of its architecture and historical value, this mosque attracts many local and international tourists. If you find a moment, the fascinating monument is well-worth visiting!

Bej Mirahori Mosque. Photo by IntoAlbania.

8. Relax in the Japanese Garden

Recently added to the cityscape is the very first Japanese garden in Korça. Built at the foot of the hill of Korça, this park is a tranquil green space of 15 thousand square meters. Conceived to bring a little bit of Japan to Korça, the outdoor space exhibits all details of a Japanese garden: fountains, bridges, and vegetation from Asia. As its name implies, it is a beautiful and peaceful experience!

Japanese Garden. Source ; dritare.net

9. Explore the Fir of Drenova National Park

For those of you who love the outdoors, this vast and protected area of 1,380 hectares is a beauty. Dominated by the gorgeous Silver Fir, the fauna of the park also includes beech, hazelnut trees and black pine trees. On your hikes along the Fir of Drenova Park, you will find plenty of water sources, valleys and rock formations that create a spectacular landscape.

National Park Bredhi i Drenovës. Source: parksdinarides.org

10. Admire the post-Byzantine-style churches of Voskopoja

Among many other things, Korça stands out as a city of countless valuable religious monuments. While there are too many of these monuments to choose from, we suggest that you focus on the famous post-Byzantine-style churches in Voskopoja. In this pleasant village with unforgettable panoramas, you will especially enjoy exploring these churches. With their amazing architecture, carved arches and gorgeous domes, these churches amaze every visitor that ets eyes on them!

Church in Voskopoja. Photo source: flickr.com/