Ultimate Gjilan Soccer Travel Guide

At Soccer Trippers, we’ve explored the world’s greatest stadiums, matchday cultures, and fan experiences. This soccer travel guide combines expert knowledge and local insights to help you plan the perfect football trip to Gjilan.

Why Gjilan is a top destination for football fans

Gjilan is unique in Kosovo—and rare in Europe—for hosting two top-flight teams: SC Gjilani and KF Drita. Their rivalry is one of the most heated in the Balkans, with the “Derbi i Anamoravës” (Anamorava Derby) drawing thousands of fans and intense local engagement.

Beyond the derby, the city’s footballing culture is strong, passionate, and deeply embedded in the community. It’s football with an edge—and a heart.

Insider tip: Expect smoke, flares, and choreographed ultras displays during derby days. Local cafés shut down early, and the entire city tunes in.

Must-visit football stadiums in Gjilan

Gjilan City Stadium (SC Gjilani & KF Drita) → Stadium Guide: Gjilan City Stadium

Shared by both clubs, this 15,000-capacity ground is one of Kosovo’s key football venues. The architecture is modest, but the energy is off the charts.

Insider tip: Sit with the ultras of either club only if you’re fully invested—neutral fans should choose central stands.

Where to stay in Gjilan as a football fan

While smaller than the capital, Gjilan has solid accommodations for traveling fans:

• Hotels near Gjilan City Stadium → Best Hotels Near Gjilan City Stadium
• Luxury Hotels → Luxury Hotels in Gjilan
• Budget Hotels → Budget Hotels in Gjilan
• Airport Hotels → Hotels Near Pristina Airport
• Best neighborhoods to stay → Where to Stay in Gjilan for Football Fans

Pro-tip: Stay in the city center for easy walking distance to the stadium, fan bars, and cafés.

Best sports bars & places to watch the game

Gjilan’s football bars reflect its intense local loyalty:

• Bar Europa → Close to the stadium, popular with SC Gjilani fans.
• Bar Drita → Ultras-friendly spot for KF Drita supporters.
• Bar Vatra → More neutral and relaxed, good for visiting fans.

Recommended bar for a club: Choose carefully based on matchday—these bars are not neutral ground on derby day.

How to get around in Gjilan

Gjilan is compact and easy to navigate:

• Walking is ideal—most locations are within a 20-minute radius.
• Local taxis are cheap and easy to find.
• Buses connect Gjilan with Pristina and other Kosovan cities.

→ Gjilan Public Transport Guide

Matchday tip: Streets near the stadium may close or be blocked by fan parades—plan accordingly.

Other must-visit landmarks for football fans

Besides football, Gjilan has a strong local character and charm:

• Club Shops (if open) → Ask locals for fan gear; some merch is sold informally.
• Gjilan Town Square → Main gathering point and ideal for pre-match buzz.
• Zahir Pajaziti Park → A quiet green space if you need a breather before or after the match.

→ Best Football Landmarks in Gjilan
→ Football Restaurants in Gjilan

Passion, pride, and the derby divide

Gjilan lives and breathes football. Whether you side with Drita’s blue or Gjilani’s red, you’ll find a city united by its love for the game—and divided by its rivalry. Come for the derby, stay for the intensity, and leave with a story no one else has.

Experienced a derby in Gjilan? Share your photos or fan tales—we’d love to feature your journey.

→ Explore more raw football cities like Novi Pazar or Plovdiv.