Korçë (Korce), Albania

Korçë (Korce) highlights

Known for brewery, historical center, museum, orthodox cathedral

Korce (Korçë): Albania's vultural crossroads. Nestled in southeastern Albania near the Greek and North Macedonian borders, Korce is a high-altitude town surrounded by the Morava Mountains. Its crisp climate, cobblestone streets, and mix of Ottoman and European architecture make it a refreshing escape. Known as the ＂City of Serenades＂, it blends tradition with vibrant urban energy.

You understand, it is impossible to see Albania just in a couple of days. Come with us to explore Albania in a 1-2 week road trip. We will pass Korçë (Korce), along with other Albania' attractions, to discover the soul of the country, its way of life, culture and traditions, food and drinks. Browse our tours passing Korçë (Korce), or contact us directly for a custom tour in Albania. By the way, we charge nothing for a custom itinerary. Contact us directly, let's plan all the details of your trip and get it done!

Other places in Albania that we are familiar with

Apollonia - Known for ancient theatre, archaeological site, museum, orthodox monastery; archaeological site is a UNESCO Tentative List Site

Berat - Known for architecture, bridge, byzantine empire, castle, historical center, medieval old town, museum, river, venetian empire; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Blue eye - Known for lake, nature, park

Borsh - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, fortress, viewpoint

Butrint - Known for ancient theatre, archaeological site, fortress, park; archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Dhërmi (Dhermi) - Known for beach, coastal town

Divjakë (Divjake) - Known for beach, coastal town, lagoon, nature, park

Durrës (Durres) - Known for archaeological site, architecture, beach, marina, venetian empire; ancient theatre is a UNESCO Tentative List Site

Elbasan - Known for ancient theatre, castle, historical center, orthodox church, islam mosque

Gjirokastër (Gjirokaster) - Known for fortress, historical center, medieval old town, museum, old bazaar, viewpoint; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Himarë (Himare) - Known for beach, castle, coastal town, viewpoint

Krujë (Kruje) - Known for castle, historical center, museum, old bazaar, viewpoint

Lëkurësi (Lekuresi) - Known for castle, viewpoint

Llogara pass - Known for scenic road, viewpoint

Shkodër (Shkoder) - Known for bridge, fortress, river, viewpoint, orthodox cathedral, franciscan church, islam mosque

Tepelenë (Tepelene) - Known for castle

Last reviewed: 2 June 2025

Korçë (Korce) description

Korce's history spans ancient Illyrian tribes, Byzantine rule, and Ottoman influence. In the 19th century, it became a center for Albanian nationalism, hosting the country's first Albanian-language school in 1887. Later, French architectural styles from the 1920s dot its skyline, reflecting its role as a cultural and intellectual hub.

The heart of Korce is its Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjeter), a pedestrian-friendly maze of cafes, artisan shops, and red-roofed buildings. Once a key trade route stop, today it buzzes with locals selling handmade carpets, silverware, and traditional qifqi (rice balls). Don't miss the 15th-century Mirahori Mosque, one of Albania's oldest.

Korce is famed for its religious harmony. The Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George, with its grand icons and frescoes, stands alongside the Islamic Education Museum in a restored Ottoman mansion. The 18th-century Vangjush Mio Theater celebrates the town's artistic spirit, hosting folk music and theater performances.

The National Museum of Medieval Art showcases Albanian Orthodox art, including intricate icons and manuscripts. For history buffs, the Education Museum occupies the original 1887 school building, detailing Albania's struggle to preserve its language and identity under Ottoman rule.

Just 20 km west lies Voskopoja, a once-prosperous medieval village with crumbling churches and hiking trails. In winter, nearby village Dardha offers skiing and cozy guesthouses, very similar to Zagori villages in Greece. The fertile plains around Korce are dotted with vineyards and apple orchards, perfect for scenic drives or cycling.

Korce's Beer Festival (July) draws crowds with live music and local brews, while the Winter Carnival features colorful parades. Savor hearty dishes like pite (savory pies) and tave Korce (baked lamb with yogurt). Pair meals with rakia or Korca Beer, brewed here since 1928.

We can visit Korce year-round: ski nearby in winter, explore festivals in summer, or enjoy autumn foliage. Stay in boutique guesthouses near the bazaar.  Just wear comfortable shoes for exploring hilly streets, and bring a jacket for cool evenings.

Korce offers a unique mix of history, culture, and alpine beauty. Whether strolling its bazaar, tasting local flavors, or uncovering Albania's resilient spirit, this town invites travelers to experience the soul of the Balkans beyond the beaches.

Korçë (Korce) related tours

Sorry, we have no any pre-designed tour passing trough this place yet. If you would like to visit this place, please contact us.