ohrid tourist guide

The Balkans and Beyond

Balkan travel inspiration and practical travel tips

The Ultimate Guide to the Very Best Things to Do in Ohrid!

The Best Things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia

There are many incredible things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia. This historic city sits on the banks of a vast, ancient lake providing some of the most diverse nature in Europe. Ohrid is also a culturally significant city containing ruins dating back to 200BC.

Where is Ohrid

The city sits on the shores of the ancient lake of the same name. Lake Ohrid spans the border of Albania and North Macedonia, but the city of Ohrid belongs to the latter.

How to get there

Most visitors travel from Saranda in Albania or Skopje, North Macedonia. There are a few options for travel around this part of the Balkans.

Many people choose to hire a car to give flexibility and independence. However, driving in the Balkans can be a hair-raising experience, even for seasoned drivers. It is advisable to take out full insurance and plan your route in advance. Remember, you will need your passport and travel documents for border crossings.

You can take the bus from Skopje (North Macedonia) to Ohrid, from Saranda (Albania) to Ohrid and from Tirana (Albania) to Ohrid.

The nearest airport is the Ohrid St John the Apostle Airport . There are very few flights per day to and from here – most are from Germany, Switzerland and Austria. However, it’s always worth checking as it is very conveniently located for exploring the best things to do in Ohrid.

Skopje or Tirana both have larger airports with many international flights daily.

There is no train station in Ohrid. The nearest is in Bitola which is over an hours drive away. However, this line is well connected to the capital city, Skopje.

Is Ohrid worth Visiting?

So, is the city of Ohrid worth visiting? Yes absolutely! This ancient city is full of character and charm and surrounded by mesmerizing nature. Ohrid is worth visiting if you want to combine a trip to one of the oldest human settlements in Europe with some incredible hiking, camping and lake swimming opportunities all in one weekend.

Things to Do in Ohrid

That’s all great, but let’s talk specifics. What, exactly makes Ohrid worth visiting? Firstly, there are so many amazing things to do in Ohrid.

Explore Lake Ohrid

Let’s begin with the obvious… Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. It is also a place of astounding natural beauty. The serene lake is home to over 200 species of plants and animals unique to the area and is now the most densely biodiverse lake in the world! Because of this, it is sometimes referred to as the European Galapagos.

However, this natural wonder is at risk of being added to UNESCO’s list of endangered sites. UNESCO claims this is due to “unrestrained development, lack of response to illegal construction, and the destruction of nature and the ecosystem”

So, when you visit, please remember to respect the beauty and wildlife of the area. Take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints.

Go Hiking in Ohrid

Ohrid is really worth visiting if you enjoy hiking, nature and phenomenal views.

For beautiful hiking with phenomenal views across the lake, head out to National Park Galicia. Great if you like to experience untouched nature and authentic, rural North Macedonia. There are signed routes but the signs are not easy to find or follow. If you’re not confident, it might be a good idea to hire a guide. Hikes in NP Galacia with Free Pass Ohrid start from €28.

Discover the Old Bazaar

One of the best things to do in Ohrid is to explore the Old Bazaar. This street goes back to roughly the 9th century and gives visitors a good feel for the cultural importance of the city. The large tree in the centre of the ancient square claims to have been there since the beginning – making it around a thousand years old!

During the day, the streets are bustling with shoppers and hungry tourists. Many stores sell pearls from the lake, others sell delicious barbequed meats, burek and ice cream (not together…). The architecture is really interesting as it beautifully reflects the Ottoman period.

Take a wander down the ancient streets and sample some fare. There is a really fun and vibrant atmosphere here in the summer, especially on market days.

St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid 6000, North Macedonia

Marvel at the Beautiful Churches and Mosques

The town of Ohrid is something of a spiritual hub. There are many churches, monasteries and mosques dotted around the old city. Apparently there are 365 churches in total, but we didn’t keep count.

The Church of St Jovan at Kaneo is built on a cliff overlooking the lake. If you only visit one church in North Macedonia, this is it!

Around 30% of the town’s population is muslin, so there are many beautiful mosques in Ohrid. The largest and most central is the Mosque of Ali Pasha. However, we found the most charming to be the Haji Durgut Mosque – constructed in 1466.

The Eastern Orthodox Monastery of Saint Naum is also worth a visit. It is a 45 minute drive south of the town. However the road follows the lake shoreline and the views are impressive.

Perform at the Greek Amphitheatre

The Greek Amphitheatre was built in 200BC. Initially used as a stage for Greek performing art, it was also later used by the Romans for gladiatorial duals. The amphitheater was only rediscovered in the 1980s – by accident – when houses were being built in the area.

To this day, plays, ballets and other performances are held here during the Ohrid Summer Festival. No sign of any gladiators fortunately

Ilindenska, Ohrid 6000, North Macedonia

Take in some History at Samoil’s Fortress

Samoil’s (or Samuel’s) Fortress is a medieval fortress with great lake views. Ohrid was the capital of the first Bulgarian Empire in the 11 th century when Tsar Samuel had the castle constructed. However, it is thought the present fortress was built on top of an older fortification which can be dated back to the 4th century BC.

The fortress was restored in 2003 and you can explore the whole thing and enjoy the incredible views across the lake and the ancient town. Entrance is 80 Denara (about €1.50) per person – bring cash!

Kuzman Kapidan, Ohrid 6000, North Macedonia

Where to eat in Ohrid

Another reason to visit Ohrid? The amazing places to eat and drink! There are many great culinary options available.

Before we could even check in to our accommodation, we had to get food! In the main square in the old town (next to the ancient tree) is Pizzeria & Restaurant Luna . We stopped here for a quick bite. The place was very busy but we were served pretty quickly and the food was decent and relatively cheap. As we were starving, it might not be the most accurate review. However, make sure you sit outside as customers inside are still allowed to smoke.

Dimche Malenko, Ohrid, North Macedonia

For the best quality food in town, Kaneo is tough to beat. This family run restaurant serves plenty of fresh seafood and the view across the lake is unforgettable. The prices are a little higher than normal, but it’s worth it for the location.

MK, Kocho Racin 43, Ohrid 6000, North Macedonia

The next day, we stopped at Fruit Box for a refreshing morning smoothie. Definitely recommended as they have many great flavor options and the icy drinks taste great in the baking heat.

St. Clement of Ohrid, St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid 6000

For amazing burek, dont miss the Ohrid City Bakery. They also serve decent coffee here.

Boulevard Turistichka 47, Ohrid 6000

La Terrasse Cafe is a nice spot to relax with a coffee. It is near the old Bazaar so its great for watching the world go by.

St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid, North Macedonia

For an evening cocktail, Shilla has a great menu with reasonable prices. They also serve nice coffee during the day and have decent WIFI.

St Clement of Ohrid Letnica Complex, Ohrid 6000

When to visit Ohrid

The best time to visit Ohrid is between April and June and September and November. The summer – particularly August – can get incredibly hot and very dry (over 40°C or 104°F). This can attract crowds of people to the lake’s shores, all trying to escape the heat.

If you visit in the summer months, pack sunscreen, keep in the shade and drink plenty of fluids. The spring and autumn months are very pleasant weather wise.

Ohrid is quiet and cold between the months of November to March. If that’s what you’re looking for, then these months are perfect.

Where to stay in Ohrid

There are many great places to spend the night in Ohrid.

Budget – Old Town Hostel . Perfect for a quick stop in the city. It’s cheap and cheerful and has private rooms.

Mid-Range – Boutique Villa Arte is conveniently located, serves a delicious breakfast and has underground parking. there are also amazing views from the balcony.

Luxury – Hotel and Spa Tino is perfect for a little R&R. This spa hotel looks out over the lake so you can enjoy they serene views as well as the hammam.

Traditional – The Villa Flora Apartments are quaint and quirky. There are beautiful gardens, bike rentals and the apartments are pet friendly.

How long to stay in the “Pearl of the Balkans”

If you would like to experience everything that Ohrid has to offer, you will probably need 2 or 3 days. However, it is definitely possible to stop over for a night while passing by en route to another location. It is an ideal stopping point when travelling from southern Albania to Skopje .

How expensive is Ohrid

Ohrid, and North Macedonia in general, is very cheap compared to western countries.

A substantial meal will cost between €5 and €20 and accommodation between €10 and €100 per night. It is perfectly possible to do this trip on a strict budget but there are luxury options as well.

Is Ohrid Safe?

Yes! Ohrid is a very safe and welcoming city. We found people to be very friendly and helpful and even curious about our visit to their country. We had the same experience across North Macedonia.

One thing to look out for is taxi scams. Make sure you call for a taxi where possible. If you are not in a position to do so, ensure you only use registered cabs. These will have a plate on the top with the name of the company or they will have a ‘taxi’ sign and the name of the company on the doors. A registered driver will also show their license in the right bottom corner of the windshield and have a taximeter and radio station in the car.

Try Taxi Global +38970515180 when booking a cab. They will hang up and call you back, send an SMS with the cab number and also let you know how many minutes the car will be.

What to Pack for a Trip to Ohrid

We have put together a simple yet convenient packing list for your trip to Ohrid

Passport and travel docs
Cash (Macedonian Denar MKD can also be withdrawn from ATMs locally)
Printed travel tickets (if using public transport)
Hiking boots or shoes
Beach towel
Book/audiobook/music for travelling
Water bottle
Insect repellent
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Map or downloaded GPS or map application on your phone
Phone/charger/power bank
Decent camera with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery

The Language in North Macedonia

There are two official languages spoken in North Macedonia – Macedonian and Albanian. Many Macedonians in the cities speak a little English but it is useful to learn a few phrases. Macedonian is an Eastern South Slavic language and is therefore not easy for English speakers. However, any attempt is greatly appreciated by the locals. Here are a few words to try out:

Hello – Zdravo (ZDRA-voh)

Please – Molam (MOW-lahm)

Thank you – Blagodaram (blaag-OH-Daar-ahm)

Yes – Da (DUH)

No – Ne (NEH)

Goodbye – Dogledanje (dough-GLAD-anye)

Where to go next

Ready for another adventure? Why not try travelling from Ohrid to Skopje ? There is plenty of history and culture to discover in beautiful North Macedonia.

Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited North Macedonia? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

The Best Things to Do in Ohrid

We would love to hear what you think! Cancel reply

The Budget Savvy Travelers

BREAKING FREE WITHOUT BREAKING THE BUDGET

Home » Lake Ohrid Macedonia Ultimate Travel Guide and Itinerary

Lake Ohrid Macedonia Ultimate Travel Guide and Itinerary

Life is always better at the lake. Now imagine a scenic mountain backdrop and an assortment of adventurous activities to fill your day. From thrilling mountain biking to sunset cruises, Lake Ohrid is the perfect destination for any traveler.

This Lake Ohrid, Macedonia ultimate travel guide will share day-trip ideas, offer budget-savvy tips and provide contact information for locals to help you plan your next holiday to this fantastic region.

Macedonia has been keeping a secret from the rest of the world. It’s a little hidden paradise called Lake Ohrid. During weekends in the summer, Skopje becomes unusually quiet because many Macedonians make the 200 km drive to escape to this lake.

It’s also a major holiday destination for many Dutch, Polish, Serbian, Bulgarian, and German tourists. Although we’ve spent quite a bit of time exploring the Balkans , we’ve heard little about this region. Visiting Lake Ohrid simply blew us away! Especially, with its natural beauty and affordable prices.

Lake Ohrid is unique in that it holds a UNESCO World Heritage Site award for both nature and culture. With so much to see and do in the area, visitors can be as active or as laid-back as they prefer. Most travelers flock here during summer, but Lake Ohrid is a year-round destination.

Where to Stay in Ohrid

These are the best places to stay in Ohrid, Macedonia sorted by price.

Budget: Villa Dvor Ohrid (great value) or Villa Mishe (modern and clean) Mid-Range: Villa Dislievski Apartment: Apartment Villa Dudanov or Port Villa Luxury: Unique Resort and Spa (large rooms and a pool!)

Best Day Trips in Lake Ohrid

The best day trip in Ohrid includes taking the ferry from Ohrid to St. Naum. From St. Naum, visitors may tour the monastery, swim on the beach, visit the St. Naum Spring, dine at one of several restaurants, or rent a paddleboat.

Beach, Boat, and St. Naum Monastery

One of the best days we had in Lake Ohrid was spent boating, sunbathing, and visiting St. Naum Monastery. If you are not traveling by car, the best way to get to the other side of the lake is by the Lake Ohrid Holiday Ferry.

For two people, the cost was about USD 25. The ferry provides round-trip transport to the other side of the lake and a beautiful scenic boat ride. The ferry departs from Ohrid’s main city center around 10 a.m. and departs St. Naum around 3 p.m.

Floating over the springs provides passengers with a spiritual and mystical feeling.

Once we arrived, we toured the picturesque Monastery taking note of the famous peacocks, beautiful architecture, and scenic views. There are a hotel and a restaurant on the premises. During our visit, the restaurant was playing some lovely guitar music, making it a relaxing place to enjoy a coffee or a cool drink.

Thanks to Aleksandar from the EDEN Tourism Cluster of Southwest Macedonia , we were wisely advised to explore the freshwater springs located next to the Monastery. A 30-minute rowboat ride through some of the most pristine water on the planet is available for about USD 3 per person.

St. Naum Spring

Floating over the springs provides passengers with a spiritual and mystical feeling. The guides narrate throughout the boat ride and point out specific locations where the water is released from the earth below. This was one of our top experiences in all of Europe!

After our boat ride, we headed to the only sandy beach on Lake Ohrid. It’s located adjacent to St. Naum. The lake was warm despite being so close to the chilly spring water. There are changing stations, fountains for drinking water, souvenir stands, and a few restaurants.

We ate at Cuba Libre Restaurant Drim, which is directly next to the springs. The ferry departs for Ohrid at 3 p.m. If you’d like to stay longer, consider the option to take a minibus back for a small cost. Minibusses provide pickup and drop-off in the Saint Naum parking lot.

Outdoor Adventures

Ohrid’s diverse topography provides a great backdrop for a variety of outdoor adventures. For this reason, we decided to enjoy an ATV adventure through Galicica National Park .

Hiking Around Lake Ohrid

Hikers will love the 350+ kilometers of mountain trails to explore around the lake. We spent one day hiking in the Marin Dol Valley, along the Old Velestovo Trail. The trail is elevated providing glorious views of the lake below.

Many of these settlements are now abandoned and it gave us the feeling as though we were walking through an opened time capsule.

On the walk, we passed through several small villages such as Velestovo, Shipokno, and Gorno Konjsko. Many of these settlements are now abandoned and it gave us the feeling as though we were walking through an opened time capsule.

Villa Minami

Halfway through our walk, almost like a mirage, we came upon Villa Minami located in the village of Gorno Konjsko. During the tourist season, this quaint B&B offers visitors a lovely opportunity for a traditional lunch with gorgeous lake views. (Non-hikers can reach Villa Minami by taxi for about USD 10 from the city center.)

After lunch, we continued through the wooded forest in Galichitsa National Park. During our slow, easy walk, we learned more about the area and shared stories along the way. After a while, we reached Risto’s Guest House where we enjoyed the perfect refresher, homemade cherry juices picked fresh from her garden.

While enjoying our juices we were informed that many hikers plan multi-day hiking tours through this region and use Risto’s as a pit stop. Often people will start in Struga and make their way to St. Naum, overnighting in guesthouses along the way.

Risto’s Guest House is a popular stop on this hiker circuit. They receive stellar reviews, with some of the best homemade cooking on Lake Ohrid. The Eden Tourism Cluster of Southwest Macedonia can provide additional information and help in arranging these multi-day hiking tours.

Best Hiking Guide in Lake Ohrid

We spent the day hiking with our new friend Ivan Cekic, a licensed mountain guide. Ivan specializes in organized mountain biking and cycling excursions through Travel Velodrome, but he’s also an avid hiker with lots of knowledge to share. You can contact Ivan at [email protected] to set up personalized tours throughout the Ohrid area.

Biking Around Lake Ohrid

The following day we connected with J.J. Adventures to enjoy a cycling day trip on Ohrid’s backroads and mountainsides. There are a variety of different trails and difficulty levels for a wide range of experiences.

J.J. recommended the medium level course that winds it’s way along some beautiful countryside and up a mountain to Saint Bogorodica church.

Ivan and J.J. also organize multi-day biking tours for cycling enthusiasts. That morning we met at a local hotel where we received our bikes, helmets, and packed lunches.

Exploring Ohrid’s Old Town and City Center

Although enjoying lake life was our main goal, many historical attractions are worthy of a visit too.

Samuel’s Fortress

The Samuel Fortress was constructed by Tsar Samuel of Bulgaria who moved the Bulgarian Empire’s capital city from Skopje to Ohrid in 990 A.D. Today, the fort is a very controversial character, especially between Bulgarians and Macedonians.

Climb up to the fortress towers to get a great view of the lake and surrounding city. There’s a small admission fee, but the views make it well worth it.

Amphitheater

This amphitheater was discovered by accident in the 1980s and was used for gladiator battles and murdering Christians during its heyday. It was believed to be constructed around 200 B.C. and is now mainly used for summertime concerts and performances.

1,000-Year-Old Tree

The Old Plane Tree is one of Ohrid’s most famous landmarks. It is estimated to be over 1,000 years old.

National Workshop for Homemade Paper

This tiny working museum demonstrates the old-world tradition of making handmade paper. There are many beautiful handmade paper products for sale including journals, postcards, and frame-worthy sketches all for as little as 2 euros. Admission is free.

Church of St. John at Kaneo

Gracing the cover of National Geographic twice, this church is truly the iconic beauty of Lake Ohrid. The earliest surviving documents can confirm that the church has been perched on the cliff overlooking the lake since at least 1447. In 1964, restoration efforts found wonderful frescos painted on the dome.

Ohrid was built on the Ancient Greek city of Lychnidos. The Amphitheater and the remains of this early Christian basilica, believed to be from the 5th century, were the only two structures left of the initial settlement. However, recent excavations revealed lovely mosaics constructed with the up-most attention to detail.

Bay of Bones

Consider visiting one of Macedonia’s most popular museums. The Bay of Bones is a speculative recreation of a prehistoric settlement, from 6000-8000 B.C. It features staged over-water huts replicating the living conditions of the people who once lived here.

There is a very small museum on-site, but it doesn’t provide much information. Touring the museum takes about 30 minutes.

There is a small cafe so grab an ice cream or coffee to enjoy the waterfront and to extend your time at the museum. Next, to the archaeological site, there is a company that arranges scuba diving tours.

We took a minibus from a local bus stop to get to the Bay of Bones Museum. After our visit, we had a very difficult time getting back to the city center.

We waited for almost two hours at the side of the road waiting for another minibus to come from St. Naum. The easiest, most reliable way to visit the museum is by arranging transportation ahead of time.

Best Restaurants in Lake Ohrid

On our tour, we were lucky to discover three great restaurants that offer a more memorable dining experience in Ohrid.

Fish House Kaneo

Known locally as belvica, this freshwater fish is a specialty dish around Lake Ohrid. At Fish House Kaneo, we dined lakeside enjoying this local delicacy served with grilled vegetables, roasted green peppers with garlic, and potatoes. When accompanied by a glass of white wine and rakija, this dining experience is as local as it gets.

Before dinner, we enjoyed a sunset boat cruise on the lake. Locals line their boats along the lakeshore making it easy to hail one for a short sunset cruise. Ask a local to find out the going rate.

The trendy SU Hotel features a fresh, modern menu, lake views, and a great outdoor seating area. Order the Real McCoy, 180 grams of pure baby beef. This is our top pick for the best burger in the Balkans!

As previously mentioned, we reached this charming, family-run restaurant by hiking, but folks can drive to the restaurant or hire a taxi for about USD 10 from the city center. The restaurant boasts aerial views of the lake and fabulous local Macedonian food at reasonable prices. It is here where we tried Gomleze, a layered Macedonian pie that when prepared in the traditional method, takes several hours to properly make.

Best Cheap Eats in Ohrid

As busy budget travelers, we love cheap local eats that are hearty and satisfying. We found three places worthy of a stop.

One morning, our host from Apartments Joce invited us to his favorite local restaurant, Restaurant Boem. This place served up some of the best chorba in Macedonia. Along with fresh bread and a regional garlic dressing, this was one of my favorite meals in Macedonia.

It took us some time to realize this, but chorba is a morning dish only. It is often referred to as a cure for morning hangovers. If you want to sample chorba, come before noon! It goes quickly!

Along the lakeside promenade, a small stand grills up meats for hearty hamburgers and ćevapi pitas. The bonus is the ability to garnish your order. There’s a salad bar where you can personally load up on tomatoes, onions, and delicious grilled peppers! It’s a good place to stop if you’re looking for a quick cheap meal. Great value!

Spicy Sausage Pita

Located in the square with the Old Plane Tree, this restaurant sells spicy, grilled meat sandwiches at a great price. They offer to take away so it’s a great option when you want to grab a quick bite to eat.

We’d like to give a special shout-out to our friends at EDEN Tourism Cluster of Southwest Macedonia for helping us plan our week around Lake Ohrid. Their hospitality, warmth, and pride in their country are as beautiful as the landscape itself. We arrived as tourists and left as friends.

TRAVEL TIPS

🏘️ Book Your Accommodation

We use Tripadvisor and Priceline’s Express Deals to compare prices and reviews in advance and check availability

✈️ Book Your Flight in Advance

To find the cheapest flight options, you can use WayAway and Skyscanner to find the most suitable choice for you

🚗 Reserve Your Rental Car

Use DiscoverCars and Skyscanner to compare prices and view the largest selection of vehicles

Best Travel Tech to Take on Your Adventures Abroad in 2024

Things to Do in East London: Stadiums, Museums, Bagels

Travel And Learning: Why Ray Bradbury Literature Is Important In Exchange Programs

One thought on “ lake ohrid macedonia ultimate travel guide and itinerary ”.

Nice to see some attention given to the active tourism opportunities that the Ohrid-Prespa region has to offer. Not many people realize that Lake Ohrid, Prespa and Mount Galichica create one of the most biodiverse locations in all of Europe with several plants and animals that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. Together with the stunning scenery, that makes for superb hiking and biking. We’re glad you enjoyed that experience.

The Ultimate Ohrid Travel Guide

Ohrid travel guide – captivating visitors with its timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Ohrid is recognized as both a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. The city’s medieval old town, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture, is a treasure trove of historic sites, including the iconic Ohrid Cathedral and the ancient Saint Naum Monastery.

The lake, framed by the picturesque Galicica National Park, offers crystal-clear waters and opportunities for leisurely boat rides. Ohrid seamlessly combines natural splendor with cultural significance, making it an enchanting destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Ohrid is great for…

Watersports
Architecture
coffee culture
Galicica NP

Ohrid Transport Links

By Bus Intercity Bus Station ( Google Maps ) ( Timetable and tickets ) Domestic Routes: Skopje, Bitola, Kichevo, Tetovo, Gostiva, Struga, Sv Naum International Routes: Belgrade, Nis, Tirana, Shkodër, Podgorica, Kotor, Dubrovnik

By Plane Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport ( Google Maps ) ( Timetable and tickets ) International Routes: Vienna, Dortmund, Manchester, Memmingen, Zurich

Things to do in Ohrid

Attractions and activities to make your visit an unforgettable one

Ohrid Old Town

Begin your adventure in the enchanting Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets adorned with medieval architecture. Explore the historic churches, traditional houses, and artisan shops that make this area a step back in time.

Ohrid Lake Promenade

Take a leisurely stroll along the Promenade and absorb the breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, stop by charming cafes, and consider a boat ride to fully appreciate the beauty of the lake.

Samuel’s Fortress

Ascend to the hilltop to visit Samuel’s Fortress, an ancient stronghold that provides panoramic views of Ohrid and the lake. Explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and archaeological remnants, immersing yourself in the town’s rich history.

Saint Naum Monastery

Venture south along the lake to discover the Saint Naum Monastery, a tranquil and scenic site. The monastery complex, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a peaceful retreat. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat trip to the nearby springs, known for their crystal-clear waters.

Church of St. John at Kaneo

Perched on a cliff overlooking the lake, the Church of St. John at Kaneo is an iconic symbol of Ohrid. Admire the medieval frescoes inside the church and savor the spectacular views of the lake and mountains from this vantage point.

Ohrid Amphitheater

Immerse yourself in ancient history by visiting the Ohrid Amphitheater, a well-preserved Roman theater. This archaeological site hosts events during the summer months, offering a unique cultural experience against a backdrop of ancient ruins.

Plaoshnik Archaeological Site

Explore the Plaoshnik Archaeological Site, home to the reconstructed Church of St. Clement of Ohrid and the University of St. Clement. Uncover the history of the first Slavic university and admire the beautiful mosaics.

Icon Gallery

Dive into the religious and artistic heritage of Ohrid by visiting the Ohrid Icon Gallery. The collection features icons from the medieval period, providing insight into the region’s Byzantine and post-Byzantine artistry.

Ohrid Bazaar

Wander through the lively Ohrid Bazaar, where traditional markets meet modern boutiques. Explore the vibrant stalls selling handmade crafts, local souvenirs, and traditional Macedonian delicacies.

Water Activities

Take advantage of Lake Ohrid’s crystal-clear waters by engaging in various water activities. Whether it’s swimming, kayaking, or simply enjoying a relaxing boat tour, the lake provides ample opportunities for aquatic adventures.

Bay of Bones Museum

Explore the Bay of Bones Museum, a reconstructed prehistoric settlement built on stilts over the water. Learn about the lifestyle of the ancient inhabitants of Lake Ohrid and their innovative construction techniques.

Beach Labino

For a relaxing day by the lake, head to Beach Labino. This pebble beach, nestled between the cliffs and the lake, offers a tranquil setting for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the serene atmosphere of Lake Ohrid.

Find out more about beaches to visit in North Macedonia in this post .

Walk along the well-preserved City Walls, which once encircled the Old Town for protection. The walls provide not only a glimpse into Ohrid’s medieval past but also offer stunning views of the town and the lake.

Galicica National Park

Venture into the Galicica National Park, which surrounds Lake Ohrid. Hike or drive through this pristine natural reserve to witness diverse flora and fauna, including rare orchids and endemic species. The park offers numerous trails for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Day Trip to Struga

Take a short drive to the nearby town of Struga, located at the other end of Lake Ohrid. Explore the charming streets, visit the unique Vevchani Springs, and experience the cultural and architectural highlights of this lakeside destination.

Sunset Cruise on Lake Ohrid

Wrap up your day with a romantic sunset cruise. Several local operators offer boat trips during the evening, allowing you to witness the sun setting over the lake, casting a warm glow on the surrounding mountains and creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Try Macedonian Cuisine

Indulge your taste buds in Macedonian cuisine by sampling local dishes at the numerous restaurants and taverns around the city. Don’t miss out on specialties like Tavche Gravche (baked beans), Pastrmajlija (Macedonian Pizza), Ohrid trout, and traditional desserts like Tulumba and Palachinki. Find out more about what food to try during your visit, in our post on North Macedonian Food.

Upcoming events

Explore upcoming events in Ohrid, that you may want to incorporate in to your visit

may 24-26, 2024

Ohrid ultra-trail.

The Ohrid Ultra Trail event is an exhilarating and challenging trail running race that unfolds amidst the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Lake Ohrid.

JUL – AUG 2024

Ohrid summer festival.

The Summer Festival transforms the picturesque lakeside city of Ohrid into a vibrant stage for music, dance, and theater, captivating audiences with a diverse array of performances.

JUL 27 – AUG 1, 2024

Ohrid waves.

The Waves Festival immerses attendees in a dynamic celebration of electronic music, creating an electrifying atmosphere on the shores of Lake Ohrid.

Bucket List
Year in Antarctica
United Arab Emirates
United States
Country Comparisons
Digital Nomad Cookbook
Gifts & Gear
Hike Your Home State
Interesting Reads
Long-Term Travel
Travel Blogging
WORKING ABROAD

Select Page

Visit Lake Ohrid in Macedonia With This Complete Guide

Posted by Di Minardi | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links.

Macedonia isn’t a super popular travel destination in Europe but there are some hidden gems in the country and Lake Ohrid is definitely one of them.

Lake Ohrid is one of the best places to visit in Macedonia because it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few in the world that is both a natural world heritage site (the lake itself) and a cultural world heritage site (the Old Town).

The beautiful lake is also on the border with Albania, so it’s also easy to combine with a trip to Theth in Albania’s Accursed Mountains.

This little gem on the water is a perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a few drinks while swimming under the sun. If you want to visit Lake Ohrid on your next trip to the Balkans, don’t hesitate to add it to the itinerary.

Ready to go? Make the most of your visit with this complete guide to Lake Ohrid!

How to Get to Lake Ohrid

Determining how to get to Lake Ohrid all depends on which city you’re coming from.

If you want to learn how to get from Sofia to Lake Ohrid, click the link to see my detailed guide.

To get to Lake Ohrid from Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, it’s much easier. Simply check this timetable and then go to the Skopje bus station for the one that suits you best. The bus ride is a bit over 3 hours long and costs 520 denars / about 10 usd.

To get to Lake Ohrid from Tirana, you can buy a bus ticket on the route that eventually goes all the way from Tirana to Skopje (which is where we were heading).

You can buy the tickets from Drita Tours, an agency located behind the large International Hotel in the center square.

The bus leaves every day at 4pm and 7pm. Just be warned that this route takes forever .

We went from Tirana to Durres (on the coast) and then s l o w l y made our way to Struga. The border crossing required a personal search of each bag and we all had to get off the bus which took another 45 minutes.

Finally, we arrived in Struga, which is where you’ll get off to go to Ohrid. From here, it’ll be another 20 minute taxi ride (and should cost about 10 to 12 usd) to get to the lake.

Having inadvertently went to Lake Ohrid from both Skopje and Tirana (don’t ask), I can strongly suggest that the trip is much faster and better on the Macedonia side.

If you can schedule your itinerary to go from Skopje to Lake Ohrid to Tirana instead of the other way around it will definitely be better.

What to Do When You Visit Lake Ohrid

Ok, you made it to your destination!

Now, what should you do when you visit Lake Ohrid? I have all the answers for ya right here.

Chill on the Water

The best thing to do when you visit Lake Ohrid is to simply relax.

My favroite place to do that during our 3 night stay was at Cuba Libre Beach Bar . It’s about a 15 minute walk from the center and here they have lounge chairs on a dock on the water and a restaurant serving food and drinks.

You can show up the morning to get a lounge chair or reserve yours the day before. From here you can jump off the dock to cool off when you get too hot and they have everything you need, including wifi and clean bathrooms, for a great day.

The cost is 200 denar / 4 usd for a bed and umbrella for the day and it’s totally worth it.

Also, the food was surprisingly good (I mean, it was totally average but that was better than I expected) and the prices were great.

Mixed drinks and food started at 250 denar / 5 usd and beers were only 110 denar / 2 usd. In total for coffee, lunch, sun beds and plenty of beers for two we spent 2700 denar / 50 usd at Cuba Libre. I thought it was a pretty good deal for a full day!

Cuba Libre Beach Bar in Lake Ohrid, Macedonia

Go on an Adventure

If laying in the sun all day isn’t for you there are also more adventurous activities available in Lake Ohrid.

If you’re looking for more, paragliding trips are easy to organize directly at Cuba Libre, or you can rent scooters, bikes, or kayaks from agencies in the center, get a paddle boat for only 200 denar / 4 usd per hour to explore the lake, or take boat tours on the water.

Take a Boat Trip to the St. Naum Monastery

On our third day, we decided it was time to switch it up a bit and visit the St. Naum Monastery .

This required a 1.5 hour boat ride and you can buy tickets directly on the dock in the main square. They cost 600 denar / 11 usd per person and the boats leave at 10 am every day.

The ride is nice and we arrived to the monastery around 11:30.

It has an old painted chapel and a lot of peacocks running around the grounds. After that, we ate lunch at Ostrovo with a table right on the water and then took a short boat ride into the fresh water springs. The cost was 200 denar / 4 usd per person and was definitely worth it.

It felt like I was exploring a long lost jungle and the color of the water was gorgeous.

Finally, we finished our day trip laying on the beach under a tree and reading until it was time to go. The boat left at 3 and with an extra stop at the Bay of Bones museum on the way back we returned to Lake Ohrid around 5 pm.

Explore the Old Town

The Old Town was built around 800 AD and is quite beautiful to walk around in.

There’s not a ton to actually do in it but it’s great for photography and has lots of cute little restaurants to sit down in for a bite to eat.

In the Old Town one of the main attractions is the National Museum and you can visit a workshop for handmade paper as well.

Catch the Sunset at the Church of St. John

How beautiful is this place? It was right by our Airbnb and is an easy walk from the Old Town.

We went for sunset and the view of the water and the chapel and the sun sinking behind the mountains was great. Afterward, walk a few steps down the coast for dinner at Kaneo (I’ll get to that soon!) and you’ll have a perfect night.

Church of St. John, Lake Ohrid, Macedonia

Where to Stay When You Visit Lake Ohrid

When you visit Lake Ohrid you can either stay in the center area or the Old Town area. They’re about a 15-minute walk apart and it just depends on what you’re looking for.

We stayed in the Old Town at an Airbnb and had amazing views from the balcony.

If you want to be closer to the lake and the bars and restaurants then staying downtown will be better for you. Whichever you choose you really can’t go wrong and they’re so close together that the decision won’t have a huge impact on your stay either way.

Click here to book your stay in Lake Ohrid .

Turkish food at a restaurant in Lake Ohrid

Where to Eat When You Visit Lake Ohrid

Now for my favorite category: food! If you visit Lake Ohrid you’re in for a treat because the food is great.

I was surprised because usually small touristy towns are overpriced and the food is disappointing but not Lake Ohrid… if you know where to go that is.

We stayed for three days and stopped here every single day for breakfast. Fruit Box is just that good.

They have tons of different smoothies on the menu, both fruit and protein, and have these small little chocolatey breakfast balls that are only 30 denar each as well. The smoothies were super cheap and were a perfect refreshing start to our hot days under the sun.

Dr. Falafel

This place is amazing.

It’s a tiny little Turkish restaurant tucked in at the far end of the pedestrian street. Their menu is small, which is always a good sign, and we each got the falafel plate. It included bread, hummus, six falafel balls and an array of veggies for only 170 denar / 3 usd. So filling, so flavorful, so cheap.

That’s my kind of meal.

Kaneo Retsaurant

Kaneo was my favorite restaurant and if you visit Lake Ohrid definitely don’t miss it. It’s located right by the Church of St. John, so it’s perfect to combine some sunset pictures at the church with dinner at Kaneo.

Here I strongly recommend the truffle gnocchi (I love truffle) and a dish called “trout in prison.”

Both were made with homemade pasta and were just so delicious. Plus, for the quality and view the price was great. Meals cost between 300 and 500 denar / around 5 to 10 usd and the mojitos were spectacular as well.

Visit Lake Ohrid With This Complete Guide

Our 3 night / 4 day stay in Lake Ohrid was everything I wanted and more.

The water was cold and refreshing, the food was hot and tasty, and the vibe was just right. Lively but relaxing is exactly what I need on vacation and Lake Ohrid definitely delivered.

If you’re considering a visit to Lake Ohrid, book it. This is one of the most beautiful places in Macedonia and has everything you need for a perfect vacation!

Ready to go?

Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights to Skopje and explore accommodation like unique stays on Airbnb or the top-rated hotels on Booking.com to plan the perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay at Lake Ohrid!

This article is part of the Mesmerizing Macedonia series. Read the rest below:

How to Get from Sofia to Lake Ohrid by Bus

How to Spend 24 Hours in Skopje, the Strangest City in the Balkans

The Complete Guide to Craft Beer in Skopje

How to Get From Lake Ohrid to Tirana

Then, explore the complete Macedonia series for more insider tips on what to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in the country.

Like it? Pin it!

Did you know every time you read an article on Slight North, you're also planting trees for the monarchs in Mexico? Start here to learn more about our mission and how to get the most out of the site!

What to Eat, Drink, and Do in Cloudcroft, New Mexico

Last updated Nov 6, 2022

The 24 Best Things to Do in Sibiu, Romania

The Complete Guide to Playa del Carmen Coworking Spaces

Vineyards in San Miguel: How to Visit Rancho Toyan Winery

Let’s connect.

10 Best Things To Do in Ohrid: A One-Day Itinerary

Last Updated on October 25, 2023

by Michael Rozenblit

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Straddling North Macedonia and Albania, gorgeous Lake Ohrid is one of the top destinations to visit in North Macedonia. There are a number of things to do in Ohrid beyond enjoying the tranquillity and beauty of the body of water itself and it’s so worth setting some time aside to enjoy this lovely destination.

Considered to be one of the oldest lakes in the world and the deepest lake in the Balkans , Lake Ohrid is a popular holiday destination among North Macedonians and other Balkan residents.

Though it does straddle two countries, the North Macedonia side of Lake Ohrid is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And the town of Ohrid itself has a lot to do aside from lounging around on the lake.

So if you want to step a bit off the beaten path and explore a truly spectacular area, then consider visiting Ohrid – you’re sure to fall quickly in love.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Ohrid?

There isn’t a lot of information out there about visiting North Macedonia, let alone Lake Ohrid. So it is normal for visitors to wonder how many days to spend in Ohrid in order not to feel too rushed, be able to explore the town and also get some time to get out onto the lake.

Fortunately for those short on time, the town of Ohrid is quite small and compact and you can see the vast majority of what it has to offer in just one day. That being said, spending only one day in Ohrid doesn’t really give you the time to relax and chill out in this holiday destination, which is what most do when they flock to this lake!

Ideally, you would spend 2 days in Ohrid or more. This will allow you to do a bit of sightseeing while also giving you time to lounge on the beach or get out onto the lake. With a few more days, you can also head outside of Ohrid Town and visit places like the St Naum Monastery and Galičica National Park. You can even go wine tasting in the surrounding area!

Church of Saint John the Theologian on Lake Ohrid

Getting To & Around Ohrid

Ohrid Town is located in the southwest of North Macedonia and sits along the shores of Lake Ohrid. As mentioned above, Lake Ohrid itself actually spans across both Albania and North Macedonia, making it a central place to visit if you’re on a longer trip through the Balkans .

When it comes to getting to Ohrid, there is a small international airport just outside of Ohrid Town. The airport, however, is seasonal and only serves a handful of European destinations, so it’s not always the best option. Your best bet is travelling overland.

From the North Macedonian capital of Skopje , you can get a direct bus to Ohrid and the journey will take about four hours through the gorgeous countryside.

If you have a rental car, the drive from Skopje to Ohrid takes about 3 hours. It is also possible to visit Ohrid as a day trip from Skopje either on a full-day tour or on a private tour.

If you’re coming from Albania, there is a direct bus from Tirana to Ohrid that takes about 2.5 hours, however, it is not very frequent.

You could also get a bus from Tirana to Struga – a town on the lake just north of Ohrid Town – and grab a minibus or a taxi from Struga to Ohrid. It’s only about 15 minutes away. You can also organise a tour if you want to take an Ohrid day trip from Tirana.

You also could combine a trip to Ohrid with a longer trip across mainland Greece . There are no direct buses from Ohrid to Thessaloniki , however, you can drive between the two in about 4 hours if you’re keen for a beautiful road trip.

Once in Ohrid Town, you can easily get around the town itself on foot and there is no need for a car.

Even if you want to get somewhere outside of the town, for instance to the Saint Naum Monastery, you can grab a boat to ferry you across the lake. However, if you do want to head out to Galičica National Park, it may be best to hire a car for this.

10 Things to do in Ohrid: A One-Day Itinerary

A good part of the appeal of visiting Lake Ohrid has to do with simply chilling out and enjoying the beauty of the lake – this is a popular holiday destination for a reason!

However, there are a number of great things to do in and around the town that you can easily occupy a day or two if relaxation isn’t really your thing!

Ancient Macedonian Theatre

You can begin your exploration of Ohrid Town at a fascinating ancient ruin. The Ancient Macedonia Theatre of Ohrid is a wonderfully preserved Greek amphitheatre that dates back to 200 BCE. Nestled between two hills, it’s in a perfect location to keep it protected and to ensure that the acoustics are fantastic.

Because of this, the theatre is still used for performances to this very day. Especially in the summertime, the theatre plays host to performances in the Ohrid Summer Festival.

The fascinating thing about this theatre is that it is the only Hellenistic theatre of its kind in North Macedonia, so it’s definitely a place that is worth checking out while visiting Ohrid. Especially if you’re a history buff!

Samuel’s Fortress

Ohrid Town was once the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire during the 11th Century while under the rule of Tsar Samuel of Bulgaria.

During that time, he constructed this imposing fortress to guard the town from invaders. Though the majority of the fortress was constructed in the 11th Century, there is archaeological evidence that a fortress of some sort has existed in this spot since the 4th Century BCE.

Today, the imposing fortress is a major tourist attraction in the town and paying a visit to it is one of the best things to do when you’re in Ohrid. From the top of the fortress, you can get spectacular views over the old town and of Lake Ohrid and it’s absolutely beautiful.

There is a small fee to enter, however, it’s worth it to be able to climb around the old stalls and take in the incredible panoramas from this historic place.

Labino Beach

From the fortress, you can wander through some walking trails for about 10 minutes until you reach the rocky and lovely Labino Beach. While no visit to Ohrid is complete without lounging a bit on the beach, one of the highlights of reaching here are the views you can get along the way.

If you wander along the pathways from the fortress, you will come across a few viewpoints where you can get an excellent vista of lovely Lake Ohrid.

After your walk, you can take the time to chill out a bit on the beach or maybe take a dip in the water. Though this isn’t going to be an expanse of soft, white sand, the pebble beach is still a great place to visit.

Old City Park

Next to the beach, you can take the time to wander through the Old City Park. This is a large park that’s on the edge of Ohrid Town and is filled with historic sites to see.

One of the most notable landmarks to take in while wandering around this area is the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon.

This Byzantine-style church is dedicated to St Clement, who was a disciple of St Cyril. The church has evidence of it being the site where the first students of the Glagolitic alphabet – which was the first written Slavic script and what today’s Cyrillic alphabet is derived from (the script that is used in countless Slavic countries – including North Macedonia – today).

During Ottoman rule of this area in the 15th Century, the church was actually turned into a mosque. Today, however, it is back to being an Eastern Orthodox Church.

There are other beautiful churches to see in the City Park along with plenty of archaeological sites that are so worth taking in. It really puts into perspective just how old and historic Ohrid as a town is.

Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon

Church of Saint John the Theologian

Hopefully, you haven’t tired of seeing beautiful and historic churches because the next stop is one of the most iconic in all of Ohrid – the Church of St John the Theologian, also known as the Church of Saint John at Kaneo.

This church sits on the banks of Lake Ohrid and is incredibly picturesque and symbolic of the town entirely and it is one of the top Ohrid attractions.

This 13th-century church is located on its own little cliffside peninsula jutting into the lake. It is a gorgeous site to see.

Inside the church, you can also view some beautiful frescoes painted on the interior of its dome that were discovered during a 1960s restoration of the building. No visit to Ohrid is complete without snapping a photo of this beautiful building.

Ohrid Boardwalk/Bridge of Wishes

After taking in the aforementioned historic sites, it’s time to stroll around and simply enjoy the lovely scenery along the lake. There is an expansive boardwalk that you can stroll along lakeside where you can really take in the tranquil vibes of this town.

Make sure not to miss the Bridge of Wishes, a small bridge that offshoots from the boardwalk. This bridge, like many in Europe, is where plenty of couples leave a lock to symbolise their love.

If you want to see the lake from a different vantage point, this is also a great time to head out on the lake and take a boat ride! There are plenty of operators around and you can be shown the sights and views of the lake and gain a bit of perspective.

Church of Saint Sophia

There are a lot of churches to visit in Ohrid, but after wandering along the boardwalk or getting out onto the water, it’s time to take in yet another – the Church of St Sophia.

This is another Byzantine-style Orthodox church located in Ohrid’s old town. Constructed in the 9th Century (and rebuilt in the 10th Century), it is home to a large collection of Medieval art and is considered to be quite an important church in North Macedonia due to its historical significance.

Robev Family House

Moving still further into the old town you will come across the Robev Family House. This 19th-century house was once home to the Robevi family – a family of wealthy merchants and today it has been turned into a museum.

For a small fee, you can tour the museum and take in a lot of interesting artefacts that were once owned by this important family. You can also learn about the history of 19th-century Macedonia and see the impressive collections held by this family over the three floors comprising this house.

Church of Holy Mary Peryvleptos

Yes, after the Robev House Museum, it’s time to head to another church! The Church of Holy Mary of Peryvleptos (also sometimes spelt Peribleptos) is also built in the Byzantine style and was constructed in the 13th century – making it one of the oldest churches in Ohrid.

What makes this church notable is its impressive and well-preserved frescoes that depict a number of beautiful religious imagery and are worth taking the time to view.

Ohrid Old Bazaar

And if you’re looking for a great place to browse or maybe pick up a great souvenir from your time in Ohrid, then consider heading to the Old Bazaar. Located in the centre of the Old Town of Ohrid, this is the main tourist drag in the town and is filled with different shops and eateries.

This can be a great place to pick up a necklace or earrings adorned with Ohrid pearls , which are made from grinding down shells found in the lake.

Even if you aren’t in the mood to pick up a souvenir, this is a great place to stroll along and take in the lively atmosphere, especially as the sun begins to set. The Old Bazaar has had a marketplace along it for centuries and it is still lively today, though certainly selling different things!

Have More Time?

If you have more than a day to spend in Ohrid, then there are a few other things you can do to occupy your time.

One of the most popular places to visit as a day trip from the town is the St Naum Monastery. Located about 30 kilometres south of Ohrid close to the Albanian border, this is a historic monastery that can be reached via ferry from Ohrid town.

If you want to spend more time on the lake itself, you can opt to go on a longer boat ride. There are plenty of options to be able to spend a few hours out on the lake, enjoying the peaceful vibes and seeing the towns from a different perspective.

Those who want to get a bit more active may want to consider visiting nearby Galičica National Park. This gorgeous natural area is located within easy reach of Ohrid and has a number of hiking trails to enjoy. It is, however, best reached if you have your own vehicle.

Finally, you could also plan to go wine tasting! There are a number of wineries within the vicinity of Ohrid such as Monastery Winery that will take you on a tour of them. Otherwise, you can always find a local vintage in restaurants and bars within the town itself.

Where to Stay in Ohrid

Old City House – This cosy guesthouse is located 300 metres from the beach in Ohrid. They have a number of air-conditioned rooms along with a kitchen for guest use and a lovely terrace to enjoy.

Villa Jordan – This 4-star hotel overlooking Lake Ohrid is perfect for those after an upmarket stay. There are several great rooms to choose from along with a large swimming pool and free parking.

Blue Lake Hostel – Those looking for a hostel will love this highly-rated option in Ohrid’s old town. They have a number of different rooms and also organise fun activities for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Ohrid hotels!

Lake Ohrid is a delightful destination that isn’t necessarily on the radar of many visitors. However, there are plenty of great things to do in the area and it’s a wonderful place to visit.

Are you planning to visit Ohrid? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Visiting Skadarlija is a must even if you only have one day in Belgrade

The Balkans’ Best Hostels for Backpackers

Mostar Old Town is quieter in the evening

How To Plan a Split to Mostar Day Trip

7 Best Things to Do in Ptuj, Slovenia

About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

A Guide to Ohrid: Macedonia’s Lakeside City of Light

Last Updated on: 5th June 2022, 03:05 pm

The historical town of Ohrid is North Macedonia’s most popular tourism hotspot. Situated along a hill at the edge of Lake Ohrid, few other cities in the region can rival its picturesque setting. While Ohrid’s main appeal is taking things slow and soaking up the atmosphere, the town is home to historical churches, an ancient fortress and some unique museums, all of which we’ll be covering in the Ohrid guide below.

The main attractions in the town center can easily be seen in a single day on foot. You should also allow an extra day, however, to visit Sveti Naum (ideally by ferry), in addition to a day spent exploring Galičica National Park .

Ohrid Guide Contents

Wandering ohrid, the ancient theater.

Samuel’s Fortress

The Church of St. John at Kaneo

The church of st. sophia.

Ohrid’s Museums

Swimming in Lake Ohrid

Accommodation & Transport Info

In antiquity, the city was known as Lychnidos, or the ‘city of light.’ While inhabited at least as far back as the Iron Age, the town as we see it today was largely built between the 7th-19th centuries.

With its well-preserved houses, cobblestone streets, and views of the lake, one of the best things to do in Ohrid is simply wandering through town.

As North Macedonia is landlocked, locals flock to Ohrid in the summer to soak up the sun and take a dip in the lake. While the town is indeed touristy, it still manages to maintain its local feel and is an all-around pleasant place to explore on foot.

In addition to its traditional houses – many of which were built in the 19th century, Ohrid is also well-known for its churches. The small town of around 40,000 people is home to no less than 365 churches – one for each day of the year.

While there are several prominent churches that will be mentioned in the Ohrid guide below, many of them are tiny. Wandering through town, you’ll often encounter these compact ancient structures nestled between houses or shops.

Situated right near the Old City’s Upper Gate is one of Ohrid’s oldest structures. The amphitheater was built around the 3rd century BC during the Hellenistic era and was later used for gladiator fights by the Romans.

Amazingly, the refurbished theater still hosts modern musical performances as part of the annual Ohrid Summer Festival. While not especially impressive on its own, it’s interesting to see such an old structure completely surrounded by modern residences.

Just behind the theater, meanwhile, is the Upper Gate which is worth a quick look. Ohrid was a fortified city throughout much of its history, with its walls extending out to a whopping 3 km. And this gate served as one of the town’s main entry points for centuries.

Over in the National Museum, you can look at an ornate golden mask dating to the 5th century that was found around here (the original may actually be in Belgrade). Today, in stark contrast, the area around the gate is home to a concrete parking lot.

Samuel's Fortress

Visible from all over town, Samuel’s Fortress was built atop a hill some 100 m above the lake. According to Greek historian Polybius, there was a fortress here as far back as the reign of Macedonia’s King Philip II (father of Alexander the Great) in the 4th century BC.

The fortress remained in use until relatively recently and is now one of modern Ohrid’s top tourist attractions. Entry costs 80 MKD and the fortress is closed on Mondays.

Following the Hellenistic era, the expansive fortress was controlled by groups like the Romans, Byzantines and Slavs. It took its current shape under the reign of Tsar Samuel (r. 976-1014) of the First Bulgarian Empire, after whom the structure is named.

Samuel made Ohrid his capital during his reign and it’s from here that he was in constant conflict with the Byzantine Empire .

The Byzantines would end up the victors, with Emperor Basil II destroying the fortress. But it was ultimately restored not long after.

The fortress then remained in use up through the late Ottoman era, when a rogue feudal lord named Dzeladin-Bey ruled Ohrid from here into the early 19th century.

There’s not a whole lot to see inside, but you can walk along the walls for some of the best views of Ohrid and the lake. Be sure to get here early to beat the crowds.

Beginning in the early 2000s, the fortress has undergone extensive restorations and archaeological excavations. At some point during your time in town, be sure to check out the National Museum where you’ll find some of the artifacts uncovered here.

On display are ceramics from the Hellenistic era as well as various figurines of Greek mythological figures.

From atop the fortress, you can also get a view of Plaoshnik’s Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon, the next location featured in this Ohrid guide.

The path downhill through the forest to the Plaoshnik area can be a little tricky, but follow the signs to the ‘Basilica’ or use the Maps.me app.

Considering how compact Ohrid is, it’s somewhat surprising to find a secluded forested area right in the heart of the Old Town. And it’s in this area, roughly in between Samuel’s Fortress and the Church of St. John at Kaneo, that you’ll find the site known as Plaoshnik.

Amazingly, archaeological findings discovered here are as old as the 12th century BC. Other important artifacts found here date from the early Iron Age, the Hellenistic era and early Roman period followed by Byzantine and Ottoman times.

Archaeological ruins, evidently dating to the Byzantine era, can be found scattered throughout the site. But signage offering context is unfortunately lacking.

Normally, the highlight of Plaoshnik is the 5th-century basilica known for its mosaics. Sadly, however, it was off-limits at the time of my visit. It seems like much of the site is under restoration, and there will hopefully be more to see in the future.

With the mosaics inaccessible, Plaoshnik’s main highlight is the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon, believed to date back to the time of Saint Clement himself in the 10th century.

During the Middle Ages, Ohrid long served as an important Orthodox educational center. This was largely thanks to Saint Clement and Saint Naum, two of the region’s most venerated saints who lived here in the 10th century (Panteleimon, on the other hand, was martyred in the 4th century).

Supposedly, the very first Slavic script, Glagolitic, was taught for the first time in this building. It served as a precursor to the Cyrillic alphabet which remains in use throughout North Macedonia and the wider Slavic world to this day.

The church has some nice icons, but its refurbished interior isn’t nearly as interesting as the other churches featured in this Ohrid guide.

To complement your visit to Plaoshnik, be sure to visit the National Museum (more below), where you’ll find a wide range of artifacts uncovered here.

Notable pieces include a marble portrait from the 2nd century BC, statuettes and bones from the Roman era, various ceramics and findings from a prominent individual’s tomb.

Built in the 13th century, the Church of St. John at Kaneo is arguably Ohrid’s most photographed landmark. But that’s more for its picturesque lakeside setting than for the small cruciform-shaped structure itself.

Disappointingly, this is yet another Macedonia Orthodox church which charges an entrance fee for foreigners (100 MKD, or €2).

But by simply stepping inside to inquire about the entry requirements, you can already see all the frescoes in an instant. For Ohrid’s best frescoes, you’re better off saving your change for Sveti Sophia in the center of town (more below).

After seeing the church, it’s worth exploring the Kaneo Beach area around it. The pebble beach is set amidst scenic rocky outcrops, while you can grab lunch in one of the nearby restaurants.

The residential road leading back to town, meanwhile, contains some historical houses, such as the 19th-century ‘House of Petrush Vangelov.’

St. Sophia is Ohrid’s most impressive church – both inside and out. It was built in the 11th century on the foundations of an even older Christian structure, and long served as the Patriarchate and Archbisphoric of Ohrid.

Later on, upon their conquest of Ohrid in the 15th century, the Ottomans converted the structure to the mosque, plastering over the vivid frescoes with lime. The artwork would remain obscured for centuries until the end of World War II.

Interestingly, the frescoes were painted around the time of the schism between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, and they depict dozens of ecclesiastical dignitaries from the East along with several Roman popes.

This mix of Eastern and Western religious figures in a single church is said to be totally unique.

Entry costs 100 MKD for foreigners. And while signs outside state that photography is prohibited, I simply asked at the ticket gate and was granted permission.

Ohrid's Museums

In addition to the landmarks mentioned in the Ohrid guide above, the town is also home to a few unique museums that are well worth a visit. They can all be easily reached on foot while exploring the Old City.

National Workshop For Handmade Paper

The National Workshop For Handmade Paper is dedicated to Ohrid’s paper-making tradition that’s been in place for centuries. Amazingly, it also happens to contain one of only two working replicas of the Gutenberg Press in the world.

Stepping inside, you can enjoy a demonstration of the process, while the guide will be happy to answer any of your questions. Entry is free, but after such a comprehensive explanation, it will be hard to walk away empty-handed.

The small shop sells large prints of religious iconography and scenes of Ohrid, birthday cards, notebooks and more. As souvenirs, they certainly beat your typical mass-produced plastic trinkets!

The Ohrid National Museum

Also known as the Robev Family House Museum, this three-story museum is a must-visit during your time in Ohrid. Split into two halves, it serves as both an ethnographic and an archaeological museum.

In certain sections, you’ll find well-preserved rooms of the former Robev home, a wealthy merchant family who built this house in 1863. There are also numerous late Ottoman period artifacts, costumes and local artwork on display, including some stunningly ornate woodcarvings.

Other rooms, meanwhile, take you much further back into time. You’ll find Greco-Roman era artifacts from Plaoshnik and Samuel’s Fortress (see above), in addition to interesting grave finds from elsewhere throughout the Ohrid region.

Archaeological findings uncovered from various tombs range from the 6th century BC to the 3rd century AD.

The Icon Gallery

Another popular attraction in Ohrid is the Icon Gallery, situated right outside the Church of Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta. You can find it near the Upper Gate.

While I went over to check it out, they were charging around 200 MKD for entry and told me that no photos were allowed.

Having just seen some magnificent icons at the National Museum of Medieval Art in Korçë , Albania, I decided to save my money. All these seemingly small entry fees in Macedonia really start to add up after awhile!

But for those with an interest in medieval icons, the art here dates from the 13th-18th centuries. From what I could gather from standing outside, there seem to be a couple dozen or so pieces on display.

If you’re visiting Ohrid in summer, you won’t want to miss the chance to swim in the lake at some point. But while there are several places to swim right in the city center, they’re crowded and uncomfortable, lacking any sand or proper place to relax.

Some of the best beaches can be found outside the city, such as right outside Sveti Naum or the long stretch of beach to the south of town. But these locations are too far to reach on foot.

Staying in the Old Town near the Upper Gate, I discovered an unlabelled beach to the north of the city. I had plenty of space to relax and, while not the very cleanest beach, the scenery was gorgeous and the water felt nice. I’ve marked it on the map above.

Other places to consider near the town center are Beach Labino (north of Kaneo) and Beach Voena, about 20 minutes on foot south from the pier.

Additional Info

Ohrid is arguably North Macedonia’s number one tourism destination. Accordingly, you’ll find direct connections with most Macedonian cities.

You can take a direct bus from Skopje or nearby Bitola . Just be sure to check the schedules at the bus station in advance. Buses were running on a reduced schedule due to the pandemic during my visit, and for some routes there were only a few buses per day.

If you’re coming from Bitola and no bus is about to depart, you can take a shared taxi from outside the bus station which will cost the same (around 200 MKD).

You can also take direct buses to Ohrid from neighboring countries, with buses coming in from as far away as Belgrade.

If you’re coming from southern Albania, figuring out the bus routes can be a bit tricky. There’s no direct bus from Korçë, despite its proximity to the border. Instead, you’ll need to take a bus to Porgradec (just across from Sveti Naum ) and then another bus to the border.

After that, you’ll need to walk across the border and then find another bus or taxi for Ohrid on the other side. If you don’t have much luggage, you can even stop at Sveti Naum on the way.

While I’d planned to enter Ohrid from Korçë/Pogradec, I ended up needing to go and pick up a package in Vlorë , where I’d been living earlier. Fortunately, there was a direct bus from Vlorë to Ohrid that also made stops in Durrës and Elbasan.

I went with a company called Senad Tours, which took us through the border crossing to the north of the lake rather than the one near Sveti Naum. It was one of the easiest border crossings of my life, with none of us even needing to exit the minibus.

Ohrid’s bus station is a few kilometers out of town, and you’ll need to take a taxi to your hotel if they’re not willing to come and pick you up.

For those coming from farther away, Ohrid’s St. Paul the Apostle International Airport has direct connections with various cities throughout Europe.

Ohrid consists of the Old City area and the modern city just southeast of it. Ideally, you’ll want to stay within or as close to the Old City as possible. As Ohrid isn’t very large, staying somewhere in the modern city near the lake should be fine, as long as you’re within walking distance of the main attractions.

I stayed within the Old City in a place called Surban , situated just next to the ancient theater. For around €10 a night I had a private room with a shared bathroom. But as I was the only guest for the first few nights, this wasn’t a big deal.

While the room was rather small and simple, the host was incredibly helpful and kind. She even picked me up and dropped me off at the bus station for no extra charge.

Destinations
Work With Me

Budget Travel , Hidden Gems , Macedonia , Travel Guides

Best things to do in ohrid, europe’s hidden gem.

Are you dreaming of a European lake getaway but you don’t want the crowds of Lake Como or Lake Geneva? Macedonia has your back with it’s pristine Lake Ohrid.

But it’s way more than just a pretty lake – it has a great display of Macedonian culture, and archaeologists claim that Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. That, along with its picturesque villages, lakeside restaurants, and beautiful architecture make Lake Ohrid a relaxing weekend getaway packed with fascinating things to see and do.

Here is my Lake Ohrid travel guide, including practical information to plan your stay + all the best things to do in Ohrid. Whether you’re a history buff type of traveler or a nature lover, there’s a reason for everyone to fall in love with Ohrid!

A brief history of Ohrid

Like I said earlier, Ohrid is one of the oldest known human settlements in the whole of Europe, dating back to the 2nd century (100-200 AD)! During this time, it was an important stopping point on the Via Egnatia, the ancient Roman road that connected Rome to Constantinople.

A devastating earthquake hit Ohrid in the year 526 and was later rebuilt by the Romans. So much of the old, impressive architecture you see in Ohrid (like the Ancient Theatre) is from this time period forward.

Lake Ohrid sitting next to the town is one of the deepest and oldest lakes in Europe with a maximum depth of 945 feet (288 meters) and an age of around 3 million years (!!!). When taking its surface area into account, Lake Ohrid is actually one of the most diverse ancient lakes in the world because of the high amount of endemic species (these are species that are unique to a certain geological area).

Because of its extraordinary history and biodiversity, the entire city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.

How to get to Ohrid

Macedonia’s natural wonder is easily reachable by bus from nearby Balkan destinations. A bus from Skopje (the capital) to Ohrid takes around 3 and a half hours and costs 520-750 Macedonian denars (roughly $10-12 USD) depending on the season. There is also a bus from Tirana to a Macedonian town called Struga, where you can take a really quick, cheap taxi to Ohrid for around 300 Macedonian denars ($5 USD).

If you’re coming from other cities in the Balkans, the best bet is to connect through Skopje. For example, I was traveling from Sofia, Bulgaria to Ohrid, and instead of a direct bus, I had a stopover in Skopje.

The bus station is about a 30-minute pleasant walk outside of the city center, or a $2 taxi ride. Be wary that taxi drivers may try to upcharge you (I don’t blame them – I’d want to get paid more than $2 for a ride!) so agree on a price before getting in the car!

Ohrid has a small international airport called St. Paul the Apostle, which is only 7 km away from the city. It would be convenient to fly in, but very limited cities in Europe fly there. You’re in luck if you’re coming from Amsterdam, Belgrade, Brussels, Tel Aviv, Zurch, and London as they do fly to Ohrid. If you’re arriving from elsewhere, you can always fly into Skopje (a much bigger and more-serviced airport) and take the bus ride to Ohrid.

Many people also visit Lake Ohrid as part of a day tour from Skopje, so transportation is set up in advance. Here’s a list of tour providers if you’re interested in such a tour. But, I hope I can convince you by the end of this article that Ohrid deserves at least a few nights’ stay!

View of Lake Ohrid from Tsar Samuel's Fortress in Ohrid, Macedonia

Where to stay in Ohrid

As a pretty under-the-radar destination, it’s really easy to find places to stay in Ohrid that fit lower budgets (perfect for backpackers!). There are also some more upscale places to stay for a high-end trip.

It’s best to base yourself in the Old Town or as close to it as possible.

Best hostels in Ohrid:

I stayed at Sunny Lakes Hostel which is very well-located for exploring the city and the nearby lake. It was pretty clean and comfortable for Balkans hostel standards.

There is also the option of Old Town Hostel . Both are around the $15 mark for a dorm bed. There’s no glitz or glamour to these hostels (not like that one time I slept in a converted 747 airplane hostel) but they do the trick!

Best mid-range hotels in Ohrid

Villa Varosh is a well-rated lakefront guesthouse with beautiful balcony views for only around $40 per night. I would honestly look no further for a mid-range property – this is the best in town.

Villa St. Sofija is another option, though it’s more understated than Villa Varosh. $44 per night.

Best luxury hotels in Ohrid

You’re not going to get peak luxury like you could in Miami or London for example, but Ohrid does have some more upscale places to stay. Bonus: they’re CHEAP!

Aleksander Villa & Spa Ohrid is a beautiful resort located just 500 meters away (1/4 of a mile) from the crystal clear waters of the lake. And it only costs around $100 a night!

Another option is Villa Bisera , a stunning property with updated, lake-view rooms, but without the luxurious price-tag. It’s only around $85 a night! Gotta love the Balkans, you can find such nice properties for such a cheap price.

Things to do in Ohrid

There are a couple specific things to do in Ohrid that should be on everyone’s to-do list. They appeal to all types of travelers too, whether you want to do cultural activities, be lazy by the water, or be active in nature.

1. Church of St. John at Kaneo (aka St. John the Theologian)

This picturesque Byzantine church from the 13th century is a must-see in Ohrid. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the lake, it’s the quintessential postcard image for Macedonia and one of the top photographed places in the country. Entrance is free!

To get there, all you have to do is walk from Old Town toward the lake and turn right along the boardwalk path. After about a 15 minute pleasant walk (and a bit of a hill climb), the church is there. Put “St. John the Theologian” in your Google Maps to find it.

View of Church of St. John at Kaneo and Lake Ohrid in Ohrid, Macedonia

2. Tsar Samuel’s Fortress (aka Samoil’s Fortress)

My personal favorite thing to do in Ohrid was the fortress, boasting massive fortified walls. It’s always fun to explore fortresses, but the real treat here is the view from the top. Almost 360-degree views of the blue-green lake and cute town can be seen from atop the fortress walls.

To get there is about a 20-minute walk through winding streets from Ohrid Old Town. You can take a cheap taxi (expect a fee of less than $5), or put “Samuil Fortress” in your Google Maps and enjoy the walk! The fortress is only 120 Macedonian denars to enter (about $2).

Macedonian flag flying in the wind at Tsar Samuel's Fortress in Ohrid, Macedonia

3. See the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid

Less than a 10-minute walk from the fortress is the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid. History buffs will especially love this. It’s a Hellenistic (aka Greek cultural influence) theatre built in 200 B.C. 200 B.C.!!!! How many times in your life can you say you explored a structure from 200 B.C?!

Once the Romans came to Ohrid a few hundred years later, they started using the theatre for gladiator fights. But then they decided to use it as an execution site for Christians, which made it an unpopular location. The theatre was eventually abandoned as a result.

Fun fact: When the Roman Empire fell, the locals of Ohrid buried the theatre I guess because they wanted to reject Roman influence. It remained buried like that all the way until the 1980s when it was accidentally uncovered. Because it was buried for so long, it was able to stay super well-preserved.

Steps at the Ancient Roman Theatre in Ohrid, Macedonia

4. Marvel at the beauty of the Church of St. Sophia (aka Sveti Sofia)

The Byzantine-style church was built in the 9th century. Today, it’s considered one of the most important monuments in the entire country. Particularly because the inside has frescoes from the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries that represent very significant achievements of the Byzantine times.

To get there, face the lake with the old town behind you and walk about 5 minutes to the right. There are street signs leading the way as well. It’s a must-see in Ohrid if you’re into religious history!

Church of Saint Sofia in Ohrid, Macedonia

5. Visit St. Clement Church

A lot of churches on this list, I know! But did you know Ohrid has 365 churches in the small town alone, one for every day of the year?

St. Clement Church was constructed in the 13th century has the Byzantine-style architecture that is widespread in Macedonia and the rest of the Balkans. The inside has a nice collection of medieval frescoes.

To get here, it’s a windy 15-minute walk through Ohrid town. Use Google Maps so you don’t get lost. Honestly though, if you’re short on time I’d say you can skip this church. St. John at Kaneo and the Church of St. Sophia are more impressive.

Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon in Ohrid, Macedonia

6. Hike at the National Park Galičica

By now, you’ve seen a lot of impressive Macedonian architecture. If you want to get out in nature, don’t worry, there’s a lot of that here too!

National Park Galičica is a mountain area that separates Lake Ohrid from Lake Prespa. So when you hike up, you get panoramic, breathtaking lake views in any direction you look.

There are several hiking routes to choose from. I recommend either getting yourself a tourist map with a detailed depiction of the trails, or arrange your hike with a tour agency. Here are a few that do hikes up to National Park Galčica.

If you happen to rent a car, you can also enjoy the views by driving up the mountainous area to several different viewpoints. In any case, to get here, you’ll need to drive or take a taxi. It’s about an hour drive away from Ohrid town.

7. Hit the beach!

The best beaches in Ohrid are:

Cuba Libre Beach. Located very close to the city center so it’s a popular, lively beach atmosphere. There’s a fun bar here too, right on the beach.
Potpesh Beach. This is a little further out from the Old Town (near St. John at Kaneo Church) so it’s more secluded. It’s small, private, and beautiful here.
Gradiste Beach. This beach has got the reputation of being the party, hippie beach. People sometimes camp out here for the entire summer. There’s DJs, bars, and restaurants – it’s a lot of fun! You have to drive here since it’s not located within walking distance from Ohrid town.

Clear blue water at Lake Ohrid with view of Old Town Ohrid in Ohrid, Macedonia

8. Water sports + activities

In the heart of Ohrid town, you’ll find lots of tour agencies advertising all sorts of water activities. You can take a boat tour around the lake, go paragliding over it, kayaking and canoeing, scuba diving and snorkeling – you name it, they’ve got it here.

No need to book anything in advance, just head to the tour agencies and see what they’re offering!

9. Take a day trip to the Monastery of Saint Naum (aka Sveti Naum)

Situated 30 km (18 miles) away from Ohrid, this Eastern Orthodox monastery is a popular spot to take a day trip from Ohrid. It was built in the 10th century during Bulgarian rule in Macedonia.

Here you can enjoy both religious heritage and nature. The monastery is situated right on a cliffside with sweeping views of the lake.

You can get here by boat from Ohrid’s harbor. It takes an hour and a half each way and costs around $12 USD for a return ticket. Or you could get a taxi, which takes around half an hour and should cost somewhere under the $20 mark.

10. Tour the Robevci Family House Museum

Last but not least, this structure is a great example of 19th-century traditional Macedonian architecture. It was originally built for the wealthy Robevci family. It’s lavish, intricately detailed both on the outside and inside, and an interesting look into how the wealthy lived in Macedonia in the 1800s.

To get here, it’s just a 4-minute walk from the main street in Ohrid Old Town. Follow the signs, ask a local how to get there, or input it into your Google Maps.

Where to eat in Ohrid

Your trip to Ohrid wouldn’t be complete without enjoying yummy Macedonian dishes with the beautiful atmosphere of Lake Ohrid around you. Here are my recommendations on where to eat in Ohrid.

Letna Bavča Kaneo . Considered by many as the best restaurant in the Ohrid region. It overlooks the crystal clear waters of the lake and has a wonderful selection of traditional Macedonian food. Order the Polneti Piperki (stuffed bell peppers).
Restoran Čun. Located in a traditional house right in the heart of Ohrid town. They have outdoor seating right next to the lake in the summer season. Lots of traditional food here as well, especially good is the fish.
Terrazza Aquarius. If you’re looking for the best coffee in Ohrid, this is your place! It’s atmospheric as well, with views overlooking the lake.
Taverna Momir. If you’ve already tried all the Macedonian food you wanted to, head to Taverna Momir for Mediterranean fare. They’re known for being quite creative with their dishes.
The Gladiator. While you’re at the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, this restaurant next door is the perfect place to stop for food and an interesting view. The same family has owned this restaurant for hundreds of years.

Food is CHEAP in Macedonia! I believe I paid around $6 for each very filling dish at a sit-down restaurant.

Don’t forget to try the local Macedonian beers , too ;). The most popular are Vergina (huh, funny name :P), Zlaten Dab, and Skopsko.

FOR TIPPING : rounding up the bill is common practice. In nicer restaurants, you should tip 10-15%.

The best part about Ohrid is that you get to enjoy all of the above with relatively few people. Lake Ohrid still remains off the general Europe-travelers’ radar. It’s got all the makings of a mega tourist destination, though: beautiful nature, ancient architecture, and cultural sights to marvel at. Don’t make a trip to the Balkans without visiting Ohrid!

I thank you if you’ve read this far, and I sure hope this travel guide to Ohrid helped you plan your visit there!

The perfect 2 day guide to Ohrid, Macedonia

Understand [ edit ]

Archaeological finds indicate that Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. The lake itself is over three million years old. Ohrid town is first mentioned in Greek documents from 353 BCE, when it was known as Lychnidos - or, “the city of light.” Only much later, in 879 CE, was it renamed Ohrid. The name probably derives from the phrase “vo hridi” – meaning roughly, “in the cliff.” It comes from the time when the town was limited in a small area on the lake side of the hill, which in fact is a huge cliff rising above the lakeshore. The town as we know it today was built mostly between the 7th and 19th centuries. During the Byzantine period, Ohrid became a significant cultural and economic centre, serving as an episcopal centre of the Orthodox Church and as the site of the first Slavic university run by Saints Clement and Naum at the end of the 9th century. At the beginning of the 11th century, Ohrid briefly became the capital of the kingdom ruled by Tsar Samuel, whose fortress still presides over the city today.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Ohrid's Airport serves 9 year-round flights to many major destinations throughout the continent. Both Chair Airlines and Edelweiss Air serve flights to Zürich . Wizz Air , a major budget airline in the region, is the main provider at the airport, with flights to EuroAirport Basel / Freiburg / Mulhouse , Dortmund , London–Luton , Malmö , Memmingen , Milan–Malpensa , and Vienna . As for seasonal flights, even more airlines serve this area: these include Arkia [dead link] flights to Tel Aviv ; Corendon Dutch Airlines [dead link] to Amsterdam and Maastricht / Aachen ; Onur Air [dead link] to Istanbul ; and TUI fly Netherlands to Amsterdam and Eindhoven . Seasonal charter flights are available by Enter Air to Warsaw–Chopin and LOT Polish Airlines to Katowice . TUI fly Belgium is planning to begin seasonal flights to Brussels on 6 June 2020.

By boat [ edit ]

There is a daily boat to Pogradec in Albania in the tourist season, leaving Ohrid at 10:00.

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ]

The city centre and the old town is compact and best seen on foot. An interesting walk that takes in the main attractions starts in the main square. The city's museums are in this area. From here, visit St. Sophia Church, the Antique Theater. Finally, walk up the hill to King Samuil's Fortress. Plaoshnik, and St. John - Kaneo can be visited on the return journey.

By taxi [ edit ]

Transport in Ohrid is inexpensive and covers all areas of the city. Taxi drivers may try charge tourists higher rates, so insist on a set price.

Daily boat trips to St Naum Monastery and a few interim beaches. It leaves Ohrid's main harbour at 10:00 and at 15:30 from St. Naum Monastery, with additional trips on certain days. 600 denars return.

By rental car [ edit ]

At Ohrid's airport, there are 8 car rental services available that you can quickly book at the airport or on the website [dead link] . These include

Avis ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 2 256 1847 )
Enterprise ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 70 343 112 ; ☏ +389 78 504 500 )
Europcar ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 78 20 55 46 )
Hertz ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 71 446 584 )
Inter Ways ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 75 404 031 ; ☏ +389 75 404 030 )
Sharr Express ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 70 209 578 ; ☏ +389 70 389 417 )
Sixt ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 75 448 902 )
StarCar [dead link] ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 75 356 688 ; ☏ +389 76 334 555 ; ☏ +389 71 333 644 )

See [ edit ]

Aside from the lake, Ohrid is most famous for its ancient churches, basilicas, and monasteries where Saints Kliment and Naum with the help of Bulgarian king Boris I (students of Cyril and Methodus) wrote their teachings and formulated the Cyrillic alphabet used in North Macedonia, as well as neighboring countries Bulgaria, Serbia and Montenegro and as far as Russia, and many of the countries of the former Soviet Union. Most of these churches charge an entry which for tourists is normally double that what locals pay, but is still worth it. It is a good idea to cover up when entering a church, but most locals will understand the inconveniences involved during a hot Macedonian Summer. There is also a wonderful ancient walled fortress at the top of the city.

Fortifications [ edit ]

The old town is circled with walls, which are crowned with Tsar Samuel fortress. The first fortifications were built in the 5th century BC, but the oldest remains preserved are from 3rd century BC. The fortifications were reinforced various times throughout history and what stands today is largely from the 10th century. There used to be four gates to the city: the Lower Gate - you'll reach it soon after you walk from the main square inside the old part of the town on “Car Samoil” street. It used to be the gate through which regular visitors entered the city in the ancient and medieval times, just one tower of it still stands; the Upper Gate - in ancient times it used to be connected with the ancient theatre by portico. It is well preserved due to the reinforcements made in the 16th century; the Front Gate - near St Mary's Celnica Church. It is the main entrance gate but just stands in traces today; and the Water Gate - the entrance in the city from the lake, the place where it used to stand is not known.

Do [ edit ]

Beaches [ edit ]

Apart from sightseeing, there are a few different natural beaches. Usually, the further from the city centre the more scenic they become, and each offers a unique beach experience. Gradiste beach is known for many young people and music for instance, while others have families or tranquil atmosphere. Beaches are most crowded in July and August, and quiet the rest of the year, which is a whole different experience.

Labino beach . It's a small, stony beach that is not crowded. The water is clear and refreshing. Best time to go is in the morning.
Ljubaništa beach ( On the southwest side of the lake. ). Probably the best beach on Ohrid Lake. The beach is long and sandy with usually clean water. There are a lot of people, but you can't feel that since the beach is really large. Best time to go is after 18:00. A sunset you won't forget. ( updated Sep 2023 )
Gorica Hotel beach . This is maybe the most beautiful beach on the coast, it's covered with small pebbles and cut between deep rocks. Unfortunately it can get very crowded, so come here in early morning or late afternoon. If you visit Ohrid off-season this is the place to come and enjoy a great swim. There is a small cafe on the beach where one might also get some snacks and ice cream or rent beach beds. Walking along the coast from the city centre to this beach is scenic, even more past it, and takes about 1½ hr. The presidential Villa Ohrid, where the Balkan's Peace Framework was signed, is in the woods nearby. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Scuba diving [ edit ]

It is possible to scuba dive in lake Ohrid. You have to get to Gradiste, some 15 km south of Ohrid town. At the site is also Bay of Bones, an open air museum of how life used to be here. There is only one scuba diving shop (SSI affiliated), Amfora Diving [dead link] , with the usual choice of courses and diving trips. One dive including rental of all equipment costs €45.

Events [ edit ]

Ohrid Summer Festival , ☏ +389 46 261 304 , [email protected] . The Ohrid Summer Festival is one of the largest and most important music and drama festivals in North Macedonia. The first concert took place in 1961 in the church of St. Sophia, with its exceptional acoustics. The festival in Ohrid has a particular international flavour because of the participation of a large number of leading musicians and ensembles from the best known European and world music centres. There have been participants from 44 countries. This Festival has a solid reputation as it has gradually become part of the large family of the most famous European music festivals. The Ohrid Summer Festival has its own sound conceptions, and it is able to draw up a musical program that includes artists of world renown. This festival is held each year from July 12 to August 20. ( updated Sep 2023 )
Ohrid Swimming Marathon - Each year, in the second half of July, the swimming elite throughout the world gathers in Ohrid and, starting from the monastery St. Naum, they swim along the Lakeshore to the town harbour, approximately a 30-km route. Since 1998 the Ohrid Swimming Marathon has entered in the World Swimming Club of the 12 worldwide held marathons under the patronage of FINA-The World Swimming Association.
The Balkan Folklore Festival - Member of the UNESCO Association of The International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folklore Art, and The International Organization for Folklore Art. This festival has so far presented numerous original songs and dances from folk culture for more than 30 years. About 1,200 ensembles with 42,000 members have taken part in the festival.
Ohrid Calling , Biljanini Izvori Stadium . This electronic dance music festival first began in the early 2010s and has grown each year, drawing some of the biggest names in the genre such as David Guetta, Afrojack, Martin Garrix, and others. It runs for a few days at Biljanini Izvori Stadium around the Ilinden national holiday (August 2). Promotional posters for the event can be seen throughout the country and tickets usually start around 1,000 denars. ( updated May 2019 )
Kostoski international festivals [1] - they have participants from all over the world, including folklore groups, majorettes, choirs, brass bands, and modern dance ensembles.

Buy [ edit ]

Traditional Macedonian musical instruments, filigree jewelery, woodcarvings, items made from copper, or a CD with authentic Macedonian music , can be brought home to refresh your memories of your visit.

If interested in real Macedonian folk music, ask for music performed by Aleksandar Sarievski, Nikola Badev, Vaska Ilieva, Petranka Kostadinova, Anka Gieva, Jonče Hristovski, Kočo Petrovski... Avoid CDs with modern-day "turbo folk" music (i.e. semi-naked girls with bad voices, singing on techno melodies).

The Talevi and Filevi are the two Ohrid families who make genuine Ohrid pearl necklaces, earrings and broaches; they carried over this handcraft down from one generation to another. Ohrid pearl is created from seashells and coated with 5-7 thin layers of emulsion made from the scales of the Ohrid fish called Plashitsa, and is protected with a Designation of Origin.

Books [ edit ]

Books from Ohrid to read on the beach or take home.

Some of the modern buys in this birthplace of Cyrillic literacy, include books from Happy Something Press, Ohrid's book publisher in English, founded by Macedonian born author and Oxford University student Evangelina Cifliganec [2] known for her contemporary novel "Happy Something" . Its 2nd edition was published by the publisher's Ohrid branch, HappySomething.com, as the author was said to be inspired by Ohrid. You might find it easier online as the price of the English version there is higher and not always in stock.

A Passage through the Fog is a book that has been written in Ohrid by the Ohrid born writer and photographer Misho Yuzmeski. Dr. Michael Seraphinoff, in his Translator`s note on the book has written: "Misho Yuzmeski's novel invites the reader to join his young narrator on a journey of discovery through the heart of modern Europe. While this journey offers certain narrow insights into modern day city life in England and a few of the continent's major cities, it is the internal journey of the young traveler that is at the heart of this novel. Readers are liable to find parallels to some youthful search for meaning of their own in Michele's journey. He reminds us of a critical time in many of our lives, when childhood is finally behind us, but the road ahead is quite uncertain." A copy of the book can be found in all Ohrid's bookstores and there is no difference in price between different stores. Bulgarian translation of the same book is available, as well.

Short History of the Macedonian People by Risto Stefov was published in Ohrid in 2011. This book is a chronological outline of historical events involving Macedonia and the Macedonian people from ancient times to the present.

Numerous book stalls can be found (at least in good weather during the tourist season) in the square near Ohrid harbour. They sell a variety of maps useful for tourists as well.

Groceries [ edit ]

The downtown farmers' market has all kinds of fresh produce, as well as local specialties such as walnuts. There are cheese and sausage shops in the market as well, as well as numerous vendors of clothing and assorted industrial goods.

Bicycle supplies and service [ edit ]

There is at least one bike repair shop, which also sells common spare parts and supplies, next to the farmer's market. Some vendors in the market carry bicycle accessories (spare tubes, pumps, etc.) as well. This is pretty much the only place in the region to purchase stuff like this, since smaller towns around Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa do not seem to have any bicycle related shops or services - and even gas stations there may not have air pumps.

Eat [ edit ]

Restaurants and hotels throughout North Macedonia are proudly displaying Ohrid trout (Ohridska pastrmka) on their menus because it is very delicious but it is illegal to catch the fish along the Macedonian shoreline of Lake Ohrid. Please do not support or encourage the consumption of the trout. Ohrid trout, an ancient living fish, is in severe danger. There is also another trout species called Belvica. Some popular restaurants in Ohrid known to most people in town simply by the name are:

Try these foods:

Ribna Čorba , a traditional fish soup served in most restaurants, mostly as a starter.
Burek , a layered pastry inherited from Ottoman times and popular for breakfast here. Choose with meat, cheese or spinach/cheese (arguably the best), and take a cup of traditional Macedonian yogurt. Modest looking place Burekđilnica Igor makes the best burek in town, Žito Leb' s is also good.
Makalo , a starter spread made with garlic and yogurt.
Gjomleze , baked layered pancakes cut in a rhomboid shape, and usually served with white cheese.
Ohridski Gevrek , a traditional bakery product. You can buy it in Žito Leb' . Try it with yogurt or peach juice.

Around the Clock Tower [ edit ]

41.116865 20.798473 4 Gostilnica Neim , Goce Delchev 71 . ( updated May 2022 )
41.116838 20.798699 5 Vkusno Salim Usta , Goce Delchev . ( updated May 2022 )
41.118236 20.798972 6 Restaurant Boem , Boulevard Turistichka 75 . ( updated May 2022 )

In Dolno Konjsko 8 km from Ohrid [ edit ]

41.061197 20.802561 7 Gostilnica Kaj Meče , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 75 296 170 , [email protected] . ( updated May 2022 )

In Gorno Konjsko 9 km from Ohrid [ edit ]

41.054464 20.812518 8 Terasa Utarna , s.Gorno Konjsko , ☏ +389 76 621 843 . Traditional food, Local wine, Terrace, Lake and city view, Open only in summer ( updated May 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ].

The traditional Macedonian alcoholic beverages are rakija and mastika. Boza is a refreshing drink on a hot summer day; it was spread throughout North Macedonia with the arrival of the Turks and it has significant nutritional value. Other popular drinks are Macedonian wines called Kavadarka and Smederevka and Skopsko beer . Try boza with ice-cream. It's called "Ambasador".

Cafe Galerija , Kliment Ohridski ( city centre, just before the entrance to the old city ). 08:00-00:00 . If you like to have your morning coffee at the city centre, enjoying the view of the lake, you better find the small authentic coffee shop named "Galerija". It is one of the oldest coffee shops in the city. Enjoy in the lake view and the city at the same time. 80 cents .

Sleep [ edit ]

Main forms of accommodation are private houses, apartments and villas, you can also try to find a couchsurfer. For an average price of around €10-15 per night, you will find excellent private facilities, located mostly in the Old Town. Fastest and safest way of booking accommodation in Ohrid hotels and apartments is to visit website [dead link] . On the page are published different information which help tourists during their stay in Ohrid. While arriving there, to get a host you can ask at the nearest Tourist Information Bureau (at the bus station, for example). However, the best solution is to make your reservation in advance via Internet or phone, having in mind the growing popularity of Ohrid as tourist destination:

Villa St. Sofija , Kosta Abrash, 64 , ☏ +389 46 254370 , fax : +389 46 279028 , [email protected] . Check-in: after 13:00 , check-out: before 12:00 . 4-star hotel in the heart of the old city and close to Ohrid Lake. A restaurant with two dining rooms and a spacious terrace. Warm and inviting bar and lounge to unwind in the evenings. Relaxing reading lounge as well as on-site parking and meeting facilities for business functions or private celebrations for up to 80 people. €25-99 .
41.14472 20.76086 1 Albergo Mimi Ohrid , Straso Pindur, 2 , ☏ +389 46 250103 , [email protected] . Guest house, quiet yard. €10 .
Antonio Guesthouse Ohrid , Dejan Vojvoda str No.94 , ☏ +389 70 736906 , [email protected] . Nice family guesthouse in the centre. There are 4 double and twin triple bed rooms, car parking, free Wi-Fi Internet, cable TV, and bathroom.
Sunny Lake Hostel , ☏ +389 75 629571 , [email protected] . Cosy 35-bed hostel with friendly and helpful stuff, in the old town two minutes' walk from the centre. Nice breakfast included. Very nice kitchen and lake view balcony. Wifi, hot water showers. They have some bikes for guests to use free of charge. Dorms from €8 (low season), private rooms €25 per room . ( updated Jan 2017 )
Pela , St. Stefan village ( 4 km to the south, on the road Ohrid - Sv. Naum ). Is situated in a pine forest in the tourist settlement of St. Stefan. Nearest sandy beach is only 100 m away. Capacity: 40 rooms with 120 beds. All rooms with bathroom, cable TV, WiFi, direct telephone line, mini bar, air condition, balcony. The hotel offers: seminar hall, parking, football/basketball courts, restaurant, play garden for the youngest. B&B starting from €16 .
Risto's Guesthouse , 23 village of Elsani ( on the western slopes of Galichitsa National Park in the village of Elshani, 10 km south of Ohrid ), ☏ +389 75 977 930 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00-00:00 , check-out: 11:00-12:00 . The guesthouse has clean and tidy single and double rooms. The hosts serve home made drinks, home made bread and traditional food. All rooms have a terrace and prices include breakfast. €15 per person .
Metropol Lake Resort ( Hotel Bellevue ) ( 7 km south ), ☏ +389 277660 . These four star hotels are on the lake
Sv. Naum Hotel , Sv. Naum Monastery ( bus from Ochrid or walk 1.2 km from Border crossing ). The hotel surrounds the church of St. Naum. On the shore of Lake Ochrid. A beautiful and relaxing place to spend a night. Visit the monastery early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Hike in the surrounding area. €40 .
Villa Elena , Trpejca Village , ☏ +389 72 592 151 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
Villa Koceski , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 258 333 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
Apartments PS , Naum Ohridski 14, Pestani , ☏ +389 78 265 378 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.187996 20.869738 2 Villa Art MoMir , s.Openica , ☏ +389 70 331 223 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.087612 20.827696 3 Velestovo House , s.Velestovo , ☏ +389 76 337 335 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.024738 20.815787 4 Guest House Shoposki , s.Elshani , ☏ +389 75 792 641 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.07777 20.80965 5 Guesthouse Paradise Nest , s.Shipokno , ☏ +389 71 259 096 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.063251 20.801919 6 Apartments Golden Sunset , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 76 404 521 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.066697 20.800767 7 Villa Cvet Rooms , St.Stefan B.B, Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 78 322 725 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.066688 20.802975 8 Villa Chingo , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 77 914 419 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.063842 20.801969 9 Apartments Koteski , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 77 956 532 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.06216 20.802578 10 Villa Novak , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 75 604 547 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.014954 20.812233 11 Villa Majda , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 963 802 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.013924 20.808289 12 Villa Bane , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 71 504 309 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.089522 20.8073 13 Villa Marta , Jane Sandanski 60 , ☏ +389 70 387 672 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.099509 20.81506 14 Villa Megdani , Naum Ohridski bb , ☏ +389 71 426 411 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
40.962053 20.783243 15 Villa Bube , s.Trpejca , ☏ +389 78 313 570 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.074798 20.803428 16 Hotel Maida , St. Stefan, Konjsko , ☏ +389 46 277 667 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
40.961782 20.782346 17 Restaurant Ribar , Trpejca , ☏ +389 70 249 472 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.089604 20.810311 18 Villa Stefan , Racha , ☏ +389 71 265 594 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.014224 20.808692 19 Vila I Restoran Galeo , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 537 876 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
41.047482 20.802095 20 Villa Sandra , Lagadin , ☏ +389 70 200 356 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
40.959985 20.781467 21 Villa Trpe , Trpejca village , ☏ +389 72 277 600 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.164103 20.751133 22 Villa SiVa , s. Podmolje , ☏ +389 76 656 384 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
40.9141 20.74245 23 Ethno-villa "Risteski" , s.Ljubabanishta , ☏ +389 72 210 906 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.087916 20.824499 24 Vila Velestovo , s.Velestovo , ☏ +389 78 332 680 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.016942 20.810251 25 Apartments and Rooms Lipa , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 72 511 877 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.060341 20.80316 26 Grne , s.Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 71 463 322 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.04483 20.80521 27 Robinson Sunset House , s.Lagadin , ☏ +389 75 727 252 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.045533 20.803276 28 Villa Klia , Lagadin , ☏ +389 78 302 828 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.045873 20.803145 29 Hotel Dva Bisera , s.Lagadin , ☏ +389 46 285 920 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.052237 20.811954 30 Villa Minami-Guesthouse , s.Gorno Konjsko , ☏ +389 76 900 007 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
40.96138 20.783023 31 Villa De Niro , Trpejca village , ☏ +389 70 304 105 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
Country House Konak Zavoj , village Zavoj , ☏ +389 78 968 419 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.062675 20.804282 32 Guest House Stefanoski , village of Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 72 745 909 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.020017 20.809556 33 Guesthouse Zimovski , St Naum Ohridski br20, Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 637 583 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.018601 20.810162 34 Apartments Vela , Naum Ohridski 27, Pestani , ☏ +389 77 678 719 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.061364 20.803815 35 Villa Klibo , s.Konjsko , ☏ +389 75 275 767 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.063245 20.802351 36 Villa Idila , village of Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 71 298 297 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
40.963002 20.783977 37 Villa Marko , Trpejca village , ☏ +389 46 209 340 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.034142 20.80918 38 Karali apartments , Eleshec , ☏ +389 70 331 091 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.131042 20.837638 39 Villa Rechkof , village of Velgosti , ☏ +389 78 288 462 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.020968 20.809768 40 Villa Kliment , village of Peshtani , ☏ +389 46 285 032 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.086081 20.828274 41 Guest House Talec , village of Velestovo , ☏ +389 77 675 604 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.084798 20.827569 42 Villa Sunset , village of Velestovo , ☏ +389-75-450-382 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.088073 20.824328 43 Villa Velestovo , village of Velestovo , ☏ +389 77 890 292 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
41.158147 20.752873 44 Hotel Ambasador , village of Podmolje , ☏ +389 70 304 006 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.064558 20.801952 45 Apartments Nate , village of Dolno Konjsko . ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.012798 20.807103 46 Villa Davor , village of Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 771 193 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.011311 20.806805 47 Hotel Desaret , village od Peshtani , ☏ +389 46 207 700 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.025221 20.807381 48 Villa Blago , village of Peshtani . ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.0761 20.80362 49 Hotel Tino , St. Stefan , ☏ +389 46 209 340 , [email protected] . 52 rooms, restaurant (250 persons), spa centre, indoor and outdoor pools, children's pool and playground, table tennis, conference room ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.113009 20.812047 50 House Nativa , str. Lazo Trposki 14 , ☏ +389 71 714 742 . All rooms at the guest house are fitted with a seating area, a TV with cable channels and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and a shower. The units will provide guests with a wardrobe and a kettle. ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.120099 20.784323 51 Apartments Antigona , str Vasil Stefoski 36 , ☏ +389 46 270 278 . All studios are air-conditioned and comprise a fully equipped kitchenette, cable TV and a private bathroom. They come either with lake or garden views. ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.072818 20.802298 52 Hotel Aqualina , St. Stefan , ☏ +389 46 200 047 , [email protected] . Free Wi-Fi, TV, private parking, private Bathroom, garden terrace, air conditioning, swimming pool, bar, restaurant, beachfront ( updated Feb 2020 )

Apartments [ edit ]

Adeona Apartmani , ☏ +389 70 391 201 , [email protected] . Private 4 star apartments. Contact Nade Andreeska. Total capacity: 8 beds.
41.11139 20.79419 53 Apartments Rosana , Old Town, Ilindenska 4 ( close to the church St. Sophia ), ☏ +389 70 550590 , [email protected] . Family house overlooking the lake, quiet yard, a garden-terrace with a private beach, excellent conditions for families, free Wi-Fi. Max. 12 persons.
Liberta Apartment , Str. Partizanska 10 ( city centre ), ☏ +389 78 278007 , [email protected] . Central area, next to the Hotel Palas and Catholic Church, historical sites within reach.
Grebnos Stone-House Apartments ( in the heart of the city ), ☏ +38946272625 , [email protected] . All the rooms are made of stone walls, giving you the feeling of being inside a cave. The rooms have views of Lake Ohrid. You can overlook everything and still keep your privacy.
Jovan Apartments , Dimitar Vlahov 20 ( Old bus station ), ☏ +389 70 352025 . 2 apartments in the centre.
Matjan apartments , Ul.Kuzman Josifoski 2 ( in the centre ), ☏ +389 70 249908 , [email protected] . Luxury 4 star apartments.
Old Town Accommodation , Ul. Ilindenska 3 , ☏ +389 70 642 809 , [email protected] . A quiet place to stay in the old town. Private accommodation with rooms and apartments, situated near the Catedral church of St. Sophia.
Tiffany Apartment , ☏ +389 46 270090 , [email protected] . Apartment in the centre.
Villa Filip , Trpejca Village ( 18 km from Ohrid ), ☏ +389 70 248005 , [email protected] . Private 4 star villa located right near the Lake in. Contact Gabriela Nedelkoska. Total capacity: 14 beds.
Villa Germanoff ( Old Town, near church St. Sofia ), ☏ +389 46 266 831 , [email protected] .
41.11265 20.79697 54 Villa St Clement the Lesser ( Vila Sveti Kliment ), Metodij Patce 10 ( located near the Lower Gate ), ☏ +389 46 250 655 . 4-star villa in a quiet alley away from the traffic. €40-70 apartment . ( updated Oct 2017 )
Private rooms Blagica Angeleska , Dejan Vojvoda 111 , ☏ +389 46 265838 . Very nice people and place. +phone=+389 72 710439
Joce Apartments , Dejan Vojvoda str No.96 , ☏ +389 70 307293 , [email protected] . 4-star, nice family house in the centre of the city in a quiet place. There are twelve new apartments: four twin-bedded, six three-bedded and two four-bedded. Each room has French bed (double bed), bathroom, mini kitchen, fridge, balcony, central heating, air conditioner, free internet access, cable TV, car park. One of the cheapest places in town. about €10 pp/night .
41.11264 20.79631 55 Apartment Rozmari , Metodi Patchev 15 ( between Grebnos Stone-house Apartments and Villa St Clement the Lesser. ), ☏ +389-70994514 , [email protected] . The apartment occupies the ground floor of a private house and has a separate entrance. It has two bedrooms with two twin beds in each room, a spacious kitchen with a dining table for four, and a full size bathroom. From one of the bedrooms you can walk out onto a terrace with a beautiful view overlooking Lake Ohrid and the old city. For reservations contact the proprietor Prokopie PopStefanija.
41.061577 20.805048 56 Apartments Taneski , village of Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 70 212 343 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2020 )
41.066455 20.800875 57 Hotel Granit , village of Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 46 207 100 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2020 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Ohrid Pearl is a type of imitation pearl (an artificial, man-made pearl) and as such has no real value as a gemstone. Most of the "pearls" sold around Lake Ohrid, on the street and in most shops, are simply unfinished imitation pearls (beads made of nacre, but without the pearly coating). Although selling shops have clear notes stating these are hand made ones.

Go next [ edit ]

Bitola (E 80 km) – One of the most European-flavoured cities in the country, Bitola is known for its colourful neo-classical architecture and the Ancient Macedon ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis nearby.
Kičevo (N 60 km)
Kruševo (NE 90 km via Bitola) – A museum-city nestled high up in the mountains of southwestern North Macedonia; it is one the most historically significant destinations in the country as it was the site of a revolt against the Ottoman Empire; there is skiing in the winter, and paragliding, walking and mountain biking in the summer.
Prilep (NE 110 km) – Tobacco fields, medieval monasteries, and strange rocks.
Resen (E 25 km) – The home to Saraj Castle built in 1908.
Struga (E 16 km) – A small town on Lake Ohrid which used to be rather quiet, yet nowadays (2016) it receives an enormous number of Dutch tourists.
Debarca – A rural region just north of Ohrid.
Pogradec , Albania (SW 40 km) – A small city on the other side of the lake, and worth a visit for those with extra time in Ohrid.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites
UNESCO tag to be fixed
Has custom banner
Articles with formerly dead external links
Articles with dead external links
Has map markers
Airport listing
Has mapframe
See listing with no coordinates
Listing with Wikipedia link but not Wikidata link
Do listing with no coordinates
Eat listing with no coordinates
Sleep listing with no coordinates
Usable cities
Usable articles
City articles
Has Geo parameter
Western North Macedonia
All destination articles
Pages with maps

16 Wonderful Things to Do in Ohrid

April 5, 2024

Ohrid is a significantly historic and beautiful ancient lakefront town in Europe . However, depending on which part of the world you’re reading this from, there is a chance you’ve never heard of it.

For decades, Ohrid has been an important tourism hub and has entertained Europeans on their annual holidays. But the absence of international travellers makes it an intriguing hidden gem.

The city of Ohrid is steeped in historic landmarks, religious sites, and one of the most breathtaking lakes in the world . Before Ohrid really takes off with visitors from the rest of the world, it’s a magical place that any “off the tourist track” traveler will genuinely appreciate.

From the best things to see, how to get there and where to stay, this is our complete Ohrid travel guide.

Where Is Ohrid?

Is lake ohrid worth visiting, tourist map of ohrid.

Church of Saint John the Theologian
Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid
Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon
Church of Saint Sophia
Potpesh Boardwalk
Beach Labino
Galičica National Park
Samuel’s Fortress
National Workshop For Handmade Paper
Ohrid City Park
Old Bazaar Street
Boat or Sailing Tour
Promenade and Drinks
The Bay of Bones Museum
Trpejca Beachfront
Saint Naum Monastery

Flying to Ohrid

Flying to skopje, flying to tirana, the best time to visit ohrid, best mountain stay, best old town apartments.

Best Stay With a View

Best Lakeside Stay With Pools

Best quiet location apartment.

Best Luxury Stay
Search for Ohrid Hotels
Travel Tips for Visiting Ohrid

Lake Ohrid Travel Resources

STOP HERE if you’re not interested in a self-guided trip to Ohrid. Instead, consider a convenient day trip to Ohrid from Skopje that includes transportation and a guide . Easy peasy and done!

→ Book a Full-Day Tour of Ohrid from Skopje ←

Essentials for Visiting Ohrid

🛫 To reach Ohrid by plane, you’re more likely to find cheaper flights by flying into Skopje Airport instead of Ohrid Airport .

⛱ Ohrid is an incredible lake destination. To experience Ohrid at its best, plan a visit in late summer or early fall when the weather is still pleasant but crowds have gone.

🛌 If you’re visiting Ohrid without a car, book a stay in the centre of Ohrid . This way, you’re within walking distance of the major attractions and the lakefront. Comparatively, accommodation prices in Ohrid are a fantastic value.

→ Book a top rated stay in Ohrid ←

🚶🏻‍♀️Book a walking tour of Ohrid in order to learn about the city from a local or professional.

⛵️ Opt for a boat ride, water taxi or sailing excursion to explore Lake Ohrid or to visit the gorgeous Saint Naum Monastery.

📸 Must Do Activity: Panoramic Boat Cruise of Old Town Ohrid

Ohrid is the 6th-largest city in North Macedonia and is located in the southwest corner of the country. North Macedonia is a country in the Balkans , a group of countries in Southeast Europe. It is bordered by a handful of other countries, including Kosovo and Greece. Although North Macedonia is landlocked, the city of Ohrid is a frequented lakefront town on Lake Ohrid.

Lake Ohrid is partially divided between two countries, and approximately 1/3 of it belongs to Albania. This means that Ohrid is less than 30 km (18 miles) away from the Albanian border, and, in fact, it’s only a 2.5-hour drive to Tirana. Domestically, Ohrid is situated 180 km (111 miles) south of the nation’s capital, Skopje.

A second lake named Lake Prespa is situated just to the right of Lake Ohrid. This lake is also shared, but with Greece instead of Albania. From the Greek border, the city of Ohrid is just under 90 km (56 miles) to the north .

📞 Stay Connected: Before arriving in a country outside of the EU, pre-purchase an eSIM card for your phone so it can be used instantly once you get there. Setting up an eSIM with a provider like Airalo ensures you have internet access as soon as you arrive. For us, this method gives us peace of mind that we don’t have to scramble in the first day or so to find a local SIM card.

There are certain places we visit that leave us with the impression: “More people should know about this place.” Ohrid and its lake are unquestionably one of the most underrated destinations we’ve had the pleasure of discovering. However, this is not to say that it’s a hidden gem by any means. It’s long been a well-deserved holiday hotspot for many Europeans; it just has not made a splash with Americans and other international travellers. Honestly , we wouldn’t necessarily mind if it stayed this way so we can continue to come back and enjoy Ohrid’s beauty without mass tourism .

The most obvious reason why Lake Ohrid is worth visiting is its unparalleled beauty and distinctly clear water. Most photos you’ll see of Lake Ohrid beaches can easily be mistaken for the sea. For anyone even slightly keen on having the ultimate holiday by a lake, it’s hard to find a better option than Lake Ohrid.

Lake Ohrid has everything one would require for an idyllic European summer. Stunning beaches, waterfront dining, and an ancient town to wander through. As if these aren’t enough reasons, its overall affordability in comparison to other hotspots on the continent will certainly win anyone over.

Lake Ohrid is a natural wonder and holds significant historical importance. It was even deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. A majority of the lake’s water originates from underground springs, some of which are at the surface level. Along with its impressive deepest point of 290 meters, Lake Ohrid is believed to be over one million years old. Its many unique characteristics have led researchers to identify Lake Ohrid as one of the most special lakes in the world.

As if being so geographically blessed is not enough, history has uncovered that Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe. Furthermore, as recently as 2023, discoveries unearthed clues to finding remnants of villages from 8,500 years ago that were built on stilts in the middle of the lake.

→ ✈️ Find cheap flights to Skopje ←

The Best Things to Do in Ohrid

1. church of saint john the theologian.

One of the most famous symbols of Ohrid (and the most photogenic) is the Church of Saint John the Theologian . Originally built on a stone foundation, the astounding church is also a combination of architectural styles, including Byzantine and Armenian. Most notably, it is blessed with one of the most picture-perfect settings in Ohrid. Perched on a cliff over a historic fishing village , you won’t find a more idyllic atmosphere. Whether you plan a visit to sit in peace with an unobstructed view of the lake or simply want the best photo opportunity in Ohrid, this site is a must-see.

To reach the church from the Old Town, you can do so along the lower lakefront path or from the upper road by Samuel’s Fortress. The best panoramic view of the church and lake can be found here .

2. Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid

In modern times, it’s easy for visitors to gaze upon an ancient landmark and overlook the thought and purpose put into constructing it. When building the ancient theatre of Ohrid, it has been discovered how carefully each decision was made. The theatre sits in the upper part of the Old Town and between two hills, therefore protecting the performance acoustics from winds.

Furthermore, it advantageously faces the lake and boasts scenic views of Galičica mountain . Details have also been uncovered that imply the gladiator fights that took place during Roman times. Ohrid’s ancient theatre is the only Hellenistic-style theatre in the entire country and dates back to 200 BC . Visitors can now admire it anytime for free.

3. Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon

The ancient monastery originally dates back to when Saint Clement first arrived in Ohrid. At some point, it was used as a place to spread the teachings of what is now the Cyrillic alphabet . It was found that the number of students hosted reached a number of 3,500. Therefore, it created the reputation of being the first Slavic University in the world.

After the saint’s death, he was buried in a crypt built for himself underneath the monastery , which is still possible to visit today. As with all monasteries and historical landmarks in Ohrid, the religious site passed through a variety of empires. This has made it a rich archaeological site as research has uncovered remnants of a Roman basilica and different mosques . A small entrance fee of around €2 is needed to go inside the outdoor complex.

4. Church of Saint Sophia

With Ohrid’s more famous church on the waterfront stealing the spotlight, the Church of Saint Sophia is vastly underrated. The church’s marvellous architecture, peaceful surrounding garden, and its grand presence are a highlight of Ohrid’s Old Town. If you’re passing by without knowing it, the church’s beautiful arches and columns will catch your eye.

Originally from the 11th century, the church has undergone many changes, including being converted to a mosque at one point. Inside the church, medieval frescoes have stood the test of time and bring the interior of the ancient church to life. To enter the church, there is a small fee of less than €2, but the exterior is free to enjoy at any time. For those particularly focused on learning more about the church, you can pay extra (about €10) for a guided tour.

5. Potpesh Boardwalk

From the old city, it’s possible to reach the Church of Saint John the Theologian from the top or bottom. Walking along the waterfront route is much more scenic and overall a beautiful experience. The Ohrid Boardwalk, which leads to Beach Potpesh and beyond, is a charming yet functional feature most likely put into place because of tourists. As a boardwalk should, it is built into the water and hugs the cliffside , allowing pedestrians to maneuver along the shore without having to endure the old town’s hills.

After Beach Potpesh, you’ll run into a section of a few restaurants which also rent umbrellas and sunbeds for the beach. Kaneo Restaurant was specifically recommended to us more than once and has a dreamy location and view.

6. Beach Labino

For a tranquil setting to enjoy the beach, plan a brief hike to Beach Labino . It is an untouched and “wild” beach with zero bars or sunbeds to spoil the serene atmosphere. Since it is slightly off the beaten track , you won’t encounter many other visitors, which makes this beach that much more magical.

The water is characteristically immaculate, and the beach is comprised of pebble rocks. To reach Beach Labino, you must walk through the forest surrounding Samuel’s Fortress and down the hillside. If you’re already on a trek to visit the Church of Saint John the Theologian, you can reach Beach Labino by walking on the path directly above the shoreline.

7. Galičica National Park

Aside from the lake, Ohrid’s other prominent natural landmark is the Galičica National Park. Towering above the valley and city is the mountain of Galičica with the highest summit reaching 2,255 meters above sea level. Hiking and mountain biking are some of the national park’s most enjoyable activities, as the park is well-marked with trailheads.

Founded in the 1950s, the national park is home to an extensive range of vegetation and flora. Whether you take a 4×4 vehicle or trek your way on foot to the top, the panoramic view of Lake Ohrid at Galičica’s peak is guaranteed to blow you away. From both sides of the park, there are also dedicated paragliding starting points where you can watch people fly off into the distance.

Tips for Driving: You’ll want to enter the national park from the P501 road that runs along the lake’s shoreline. P504 is the road which leads all the way to Lake Prespa. To reach the top of Galičica Mountain, you need to turn left here . Keep in mind that from this point, the road is only paved for about 2 km until you reach the abandonded ski center. After these 2 km, it’s recommended you continue with a 4×4 car. Entrance to Galičica National Park is around €3.

8. Samuel’s Fortress

Upon one glimpse of Ohrid’s cityscape, you’ll notice the outstanding fortress perched on the hill. Derived from the oldest historical data on Ohrid, it is said that the fortress was erected around 209 BC . Although it’s been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the course of history, it still stands proudly as one of the largest medieval fortifications in the entire country.

Emperor Samuel, who reigned from 976 to 1014, ended up getting the credit for the fortress from his succession, and during the period when Ohrid was the capital for Macedonian Slavs. Today, it serves as a leading landmark of Ohrid city and a spectacular place to visit for sweeping views. Entrance to the fortress costs around €2 per person and takes about 15 minutes to walk through.

9. National Workshop For Handmade Paper

One of the most quirky and unexpected attractions you’ll come across in Ohrid is this paper-making workshop . Even for us, it wasn’t on our radar while walking through the old town, but we saw a sign for it and decided to stop in. Entrance is completely free, and the gracious family who runs the studio puts on demonstrations whenever a visitor is interested. From beginning to finish, the staff does great job explaining the process (in English too!).

The workshop features a Gutenberg-style machine, which is what was used to make handmade paper the old-fashioned way. Throughout the shop, you’ll also see works of art on the handmade paper for sale. For anyone seeking an unconventional souvenir or gift, this is the perfect place to find one.

10. Ohrid City Park

A lakefront town wouldn’t be complete without an attractive city park to people-watch from. The park is well-maintained with small flower gardens, shaded benches, and peaceful views of the boats funnelling in and out. I will admit, we only came across the Ohrid City Park because it includes a great children’s playground . A playground so entertaining that our walking tour of Ohrid was delayed by our daughter refusing to leave.

In addition to the traditional play sets, there are vendors who rent motorized toy cars for children to use by the minute. In short, the city park is an excellent pit stop for families visiting Ohrid with children.

11. Old Bazaar Street

Running in parallel with the main avenue that leads to the lake is the street once used as a bazaar. In present-day, it’s still used as a shopping street but in a different sense and without typical ancient trade items. You’ll see many different kinds of shops ranging from tattoo studios, currency exchange offices to jewelry stores .

During the summer, it certainly gets packed with tourists searching for the perfect souvenirs to bring home. Without a doubt, it’s Ohrid’s most lively street and a petite version of something you’d stumble upon on Istanbul or a busy NYC street. If you’re headed into the old town of Ohrid, enter by the Chinar Tree and walk down the bazaar street to take advantage of the full experience.

12. Boat or Sailing Tour

What better way to enjoy a ravishing lake than by taking a boat trip? Touring Lake Ohrid by boat is possible in a few different ways, and there are many to choose from that depart from the Port of Ohrid. First, there are large ferries which act as water taxis along the eastern shoreline. These are typically large boats and carry many people in the direction of popular attractions like Saint Naum or the Bay of Bones Museum . If you are not travelling by car or simply don’t feel like driving, this is the best way to visit nearby attractions with minimal effort.

For a more private or exclusive experience, you can rent a small motorized boat for just your family or group. If you rent a boat with a skipper, they’ll be able to give you a tour from their local perspective and take you wherever you’d like to go.

Sailing tours are also common on Lake Ohrid and one of the most scenic ways to discover the area. While browsing boat tour options, you’ll also notice that nearly every boat operator’s price is the same. Or at least, it’s advertised at the same rate and gives you the option to negotiate if you prefer.

13. Promenade and Drinks

One of Ohrid’s most delightfully surprising features was its pedestrian promenade . It is in great shape, stretches far along the lakefront, and is lined with bars and restaurants . Beginning at the Port of Ohrid, you can start walking south, where you’ll cross the channel over a small bridge and continue past Despina Lounge Bar.

Throughout the promenade, you’ll also find multiple playgrounds for kids, green lawns to lay on, and quiet beach areas . After a day of swimming, stop into one of the waterfront bars for a cocktail and enjoy the sunset. The evening light hits Lake Ohrid in a stunning golden filter.

14. The Bay of Bones Museum

As possibly the most mentioned tourist attraction on Lake Ohrid, this museum is certainly one of a kind. The Bay of Bones Museum is a constructed replica of an ancient dwelling in the style it is believed to have existed during its actual time. Based on scientific findings and centuries of research, this authentic reproduction is an example of what a settlement looked like on Lake Ohrid between 1200 – 700 B.C.

For a glimpse into a prehistoric time, stepping back into the past at the Bay of Bones Museum is a must while visiting Ohrid. Admission to the Bay of Bones costs around €3 per person and includes access to the settlement model, an artefact museum and Roman military fortress.

15. Trpejca Beachfront

While many visitors will remain near Ohrid’s town centre for beaches, the eastern shoreline of the lake is where the best beaches are. Particularly as you head further south, a stunning landscape begins to present itself. The small village of Trpejca is home to arguably the most beautiful beach on Lake Ohrid . With clear water and blue hues, Trpejca Beach could be disguised as something you’d find on an island in the Adriatic Sea.

To reach Trpejca, it is best to drive. Parking is quite tricky in the small village, especially during the summer. It’s recommended to park near the mini market above the village and walk down to the beach.

If you feel like exploring, take a quick detour to Bluebay , which is hidden below Trpejca. There is nearly no public area as most of the shoreline belongs to the private waterfront homes, but it’s still worth catching a glimpse of. The scenery is exceptionally mesmerizing and reminds us of something from Southeast Asia.

16. Saint Naum Monastery

After visiting many monasteries, we made assumptions about what it was going to be like to see Saint Naum (Sveti Naum). Boy, were we wrong. Not to say it was better or worse than what we expected, it was just a unique experience . In the most respectful way possible, visiting St. Naum Monastery felt like going to a theme park. The drive down the tree-lined and landscaped driveway to reach the entrance feels as if you’re about to meet a queen.

Since it’s technically a monastery, entrance is free but parking is not . You don’t have an option to park anywhere else and must pay the insignificant parking fee.

The actual monastery is just one aspect of the entire area. A large section at the front of the complex is comprised of vendors selling souvenirs, ice cream, and beach equipment. The fact is, most people don’t come to visit Saint Naum Monastery, they come to visit the beaches and swim . Within the monastery grounds, you’ll also find a couple of restaurants and bars for lunch as well as large public restroom facilities.

The Springs of St. Naum was our favourite feature as it was fascinating to experience the cold water springs feeding directly into the lake. The monastery itself is gorgeous, boasts a beautiful view, and is still frequented by people who visit for religious purposes. Visitors interested in seeing this monastery from 900 A.D. can also get there by a one-hour long boat ride from Ohrid.

How to Get to Lake Ohrid

Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport is the nearest international airport to the city of Ohrid and is less than 30 minutes away. It may sound convenient, but in reality, flight options tend to be limited since it is a smaller airport in comparison to the nation’s capital. Finding indirect flights to Ohrid is the most common, so it really depends on whether you value price, time, or convenience more. Nonstop flights to Ohrid are very restricted, so counting on flying directly to Ohrid shouldn’t be your first plan of attack.

→ ✈️ Find flights to Ohrid Airport ←

To reach North Macedonia by plane, most people would fly into the international airport in Skopje, the country’s capital. It is the largest airport in the country and therefore, services the most flights. For visitors traveling from within Europe, direct flights to Skopje are widely available, especially in the summer. Well-known airlines that fly into Skopje include Austrian Airlines, easyJet, LOT, Lufthansa, Norwegian, SWISS, and the budget airline of Wizz Air. Flights departing from Rome, Vienna, Zurich, Warsaw and Frankfurt are just some of the possible nonstop flights to Skopje within Europe .

How Far Is Skopje From Ohrid?

After flying into Skopje, it takes about 3 hours to drive to Ohrid . By public transportation, expect a journey of nearly 4 hours from Skopje to Ohrid.

→ ✈️ Find cheap flights to Skopje Airport ←

Alternatively, it is an option to fly into Tirana, Albania and cross the border into North Macedonia from the western side. The driving distance from Tirana to Ohrid (3 hours) is the same as if you were to drive from Skopje. However, you’ll need to keep in mind the border crossing, which can take up to one hour on a busy day. If flights happen to be cheaper or work better for your schedule, browse flights to Tirana instead.

→ ✈️ Find cheap flights to Tirana ←

One of the most common ways that travelers are visiting the Balkan countries is by road tripping. With a handful of borders within close proximity of each other, driving to and throughout the Balkans is efficient, convenient, and the best way to explore on your own schedule. Personally, we’ve completed a few border crossings from and to North Macedonia, none of which were problematic.

If you are driving from Albania, there are two options to access Lake Ohrid by land . The border by the Albanian town of Lin is called Kafasan and will take you along the west coast of Lake Ohrid. Secondly and from the bottom of the lake, it’s possible to drive through the St. Naum border crossing. From both Albanian borders, it takes one hour or less to reach Ohrid. From the north end of Greece, the closest border crossing to reach Ohrid is near Medzhitlija and is 1.5 hours away. Stretching further away from Lake Ohrid, there are land borders with entry to North Macedonia from every direction (Kosovo, Serbia, and Bulgaria) .

→ 🚗 Book a cheap rental car from Skopje Airport ←

Important Tips for Crossing Borders in the Balkans

Understand that although you’re driving from one Balkan state to another, the countries are completely independent of each other . Avoid making generalizations, but for the most part, entry and exit requirements are similar. If you’re unsure or hesitant about anything, quickly research land border guidelines ahead of time. Furthermore, be mindful when you are driving from/to the EU and into a non-EU country. These border crossings tend to be much more thorough and lengthy processes.
Do not always take navigation directions literally or trust them fully . We use Google Maps, and although it’s reliable in foreign countries 90% of the time, we always make it a habit to study the route before we commit. There was an instance where Google provided a route from North Macedonia to Albania through Kosovo. After examining the route, I noticed it had us crossing country lines through a forest with no official border in sight. If we were to have blindly started this navigation route, we would have wasted 2-4 hours by having to turn back around.

For a particular type of crowd, taking a tour bus to Lake Ohrid is very popular and was a common sight during our time there. These are not public buses, so tours are typically all-inclusive, which means they include guides and perhaps accommodation or activities. If you’re not one to self-plan, opting for this type of approach to explore Ohrid is an excellent choice. Full-day (or more) tours from Tirana and Skopje are abundantly available for tourists who aren’t renting a car or driving themselves.

→ 🎒 Book a full-day tour of Ohrid from Skopje ←

On average, Ohrid has a mild climate, and temperatures don’t usually reach extreme heights or lows. However, you can never be too sure nowadays, and it’s not uncommon for the weather to drastically change in a matter of days. In general, if you’re interested in taking full advantage of Ohrid’s lake , plan to visit between June and August . Temperatures can reach a high of 30°C (86°F) in the peak of summer, but the nice thing is that the lake’s temperature remains comfortably refreshing. Additionally, a couple of days filled with heavy rainfall are also not completely rare during the summer. Just in case, it’s not a bad idea to pack a raincoat.

For those who don’t plan on prioritizing beach days during a trip to Ohrid and perhaps are more keen on sightseeing, check out Ohrid in the fall . The months of September and October have a lesser chance of rainy days and are still warmer than spring months. Enjoying the national park and its many trails for hiking or biking is also best done during the shoulder season.

Compared to Western Europe, accommodation in Ohrid is inexpensive year-round . Nonetheless, if you’re looking to obtain the best deal possible or want a luxury experience that you wouldn’t normally be able to afford, you can save nearly 50% during the low season.

Where to Stay In Ohrid

There is a wide range of different types of accommodation in Ohrid. Ranging from beachfront hotels, town center apartments, mountain retreats to no-frills cabins , there are options for every budget.

For people who will have a car during their trip, choosing a centrally located place to stay isn’t much of a factor. The nearby towns and points of interest in Ohrid are all fairly close to the center , so getting around doesn’t eat up much of your day. If you’re the type of traveler that books accommodation based on price, you can easily find more affordable hotels and apartments the further from Ohrid you are.

If you are not traveling with a car, choose to stay in the center of Ohrid. This way, you will still be close to the action, and there are many beaches, restaurants, and bars within walking distance. Whenever you do feel like exploring, you can catch a boat from Ohrid’s port and head south along the lake’s coast. Regular ferry stops are made in multiple areas, stretching from Ohrid and all the way down to the Albanian border.

The best towns to stay in along the east shore of the lake include Sveti Stefan, Lagadin, Peshtani and Trpejca.

→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Ohrid ←

Villa Velestovo

Bache Apartments

Vila Bisera

Final Tips for Visiting Ohrid

Unlike neighboring countries, North Macedonia does widely accept cards at other establishments like restaurants, bars, and attractions. Bigger hotels may accept cards, but for nearly all other accommodation, have cash on hand just in case.
English is spoken very commonly, especially with the younger generation. Still, it’s recommended to learn a few phrases in Macedonian to show respect as a visitor.
Ohrid is incredibly safe. However, you may come across people begging who aren’t shy to come up to you. In general, be mindful of your items . If you’re not already covered, consider purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Ohrid.
As a tourist, it’s easy to overlook the fact that you’re touring many religious sites. Try to be respectful in terms of clothing and your actions while visiting churches and monasteries .
The beaches found along the Ohrid Boardwalk are scenic but they are not the best beaches on the lake. Alternatively, you’ll find the best beaches between Lagadin and St. Naum .
Restaurants near Old Town can be overpriced and average tasting in comparison to other towns on Lake Ohrid. We always found the best meals near Ohrid at restaurants situated in the hills . When dining at beachfront eateries, you’re paying for the location and not necessarily the quality of food.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Ohrid | a complete travel guide to North Macedonia’s lakeside gem

→ T his post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Ohrid, the city of Ohrid offers a captivating blend of ancient charm and modern allure. As one of Europe's oldest cities, this North Macedonian gem boasts a UNESCO World Heritage designation, testament to its rich history and cultural significance. Its cobblestone streets wind through well-preserved medieval architecture, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman influences, providing a journey through time for every traveler.

Introduction to ohrid.

Known as “The Jerusalem of the Balkans,” Ohrid offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. From the iconic Ohrid Lake to ancient ruins and vibrant local markets, this travel guide invites you to explore the hidden gems that make Ohrid a must-visit destination. Join us as we unravel the timeless beauty of Ohrid, where every corner tells a story, and the past seamlessly merges with the present, creating an unforgettable experience for those seeking a slice of Macedonian paradise.

Getting started in Ohrid

Arrival information

Ohrid is conveniently accessible by air, with the St. Paul the Apostle Airport (OHD) serving as the city’s main gateway. Located just 10 kilometers northwest of Ohrid’s city center, the airport welcomes both domestic and international flights. Airlines such as Wizz Air, TUI Airways, and Edelweiss Air operate regular services, connecting Ohrid to major European cities.

While Ohrid itself does not have a train station, travelers can opt for the nearest railway connection in the town of Bitola, approximately 68 kilometers away. From Bitola, a short bus or taxi ride will bring you to Ohrid, allowing you to enjoy the scenic journey through the Macedonian countryside.

Ohrid’s bus station is centrally located, making it a convenient option for those arriving by bus. The city is well-connected to various cities in Macedonia and neighboring countries. Companies like Galeb, International Bus, and Vardar Express operate regular services, providing a cost-effective and comfortable way to reach Ohrid.

Overview of public transportation options

Ohrid’s compact size makes it easily navigable, and the city’s public transport system is efficient for exploring both the urban center and surrounding areas. Local buses and minibusses traverse popular routes, ensuring connectivity to key attractions. Taxis are also readily available and provide a convenient means of transportation within the city.

For a more immersive experience, consider exploring Ohrid on foot. The city’s charming streets and pedestrian-friendly zones allow you to soak in its unique atmosphere, uncover hidden gems, and appreciate the picturesque surroundings at your own pace.

Additionally, boat rides across Lake Ohrid offer a scenic and relaxing way to explore the lake’s shores and visit nearby landmarks. Whether you prefer the convenience of public transport or the freedom of exploring on foot, Ohrid’s well-planned transportation options ensure a seamless and enjoyable start to your journey in this captivating Macedonian destination.

Neighborhoods and Accommodations in Ohrid

Different neighborhoods and their characteristics

Ohrid’s distinct neighborhoods offer a diverse tapestry of atmospheres, each contributing to the city’s unique charm.

Ohrid Old Town Nestled on the hill overlooking the lake, the Old Town is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, historic homes, and ancient churches. Stroll through the charismatic bazaar, where local artisans showcase their crafts, and explore landmarks like the Ohrid Fortress. The Old Town exudes a timeless ambiance, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history.

Kaneo Perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid, the Kaneo neighborhood is renowned for its iconic church of St. John at Kaneo. This area offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sunset. The tranquil surroundings make Kaneo an ideal escape for those seeking serenity and natural beauty.

Dolno Konjsko Located on the outskirts of Ohrid, Dolno Konjsko provides a more rural experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and vineyards, this neighborhood is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Explore the picturesque landscapes, visit local wineries, and experience the warmth of Macedonian hospitality in this peaceful corner of Ohrid.

Lagadin Situated along the shores of Lake Ohrid, Lagadin offers a serene lakeside retreat. With a mix of traditional houses and modern accommodations, this area provides a peaceful escape while remaining in close proximity to the city. Enjoy water activities, lakeside dining, and the tranquility of this lakeside haven.

Sv. Naum To the south of Ohrid, Sv. Naum is renowned for the Monastery of St. Naum, a cultural and natural treasure. Surrounded by pristine nature, including the Black Drin Springs and the Ohrid National Park, this neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a blend of history, spirituality, and the great outdoors.

Whether you prefer the historical charm of the Old Town, the panoramic vistas of Kaneo, the rural tranquility of Dolno Konjsko, the lakeside serenity of Lagadin, or the cultural richness of Sv. Naum, each neighborhood in Ohrid invites you to discover its distinct personality and contribute to the overall allure of this Macedonian gem.

Accommodation

Attractions and Landmarks in Ohrid

Ohrid, with its rich history and cultural significance, is adorned with a myriad of attractions and landmarks that tell the story of its past and present.

Ohrid Lake The jewel of Ohrid, the pristine Ohrid Lake, stretches across the city’s edge, offering not only breathtaking views but also a myriad of water activities. Explore the lake by boat, swim in its crystal-clear waters, or simply relax along its picturesque shores.

Ohrid’s Old Town Steeped in history, Ohrid’s Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, adorned with charming houses and ancient churches. Highlights include the Ohrid Fortress, which provides panoramic views of the city and lake, and the charismatic bazaar, where local artisans showcase their craftsmanship.

St. Jovan Kaneo Perched on a cliff overlooking the lake, St. Jovan Kaneo isn’t merely a church; it’s a soul-stirring experience. This is probably our favorite spot in Ohrid—SO SO beautiful. The medieval architecture and the stunning backdrop create a serene setting, with views that redefine the meaning of insane . Especially during sunrise and sunset.

Church of St. Clement and St. Panteleimon Perched atop Plaoshnik hill overlooking Lake Ohrid, the Church of St. Clement and St. Panteleimon is a captivating symbol of Ohrid’s history and spirituality. Inside, our €3 tour unfolded like a captivating story, led by an enthusiastic guide who brought the church’s ancient frescoes and significance to life. As a sacred site attracting pilgrims and visitors alike, this Byzantine marvel offers a glimpse into Ohrid’s rich cultural heritage and continues to inspire awe with its timeless beauty.

Ohrid Fortress

Church of St. Clement and St. Panteleimon

St. Jovan Kaneo

Ancient Theater of Ohrid Transport yourself to Roman times at the Ancient Theater of Ohrid. This well-preserved amphitheater isn’t just a relic; it’s a stage where history comes alive. Today, it serves as a unique backdrop for cultural events and performances, injecting a vibrant energy into Ohrid’s historical legacy.

Robevci House The Robevci House isn’t merely a museum; it’s a portal to the past. Immerse yourself in the exhibits showcasing Ohrid’s history, with artifacts and glimpses into life from bygone eras. It’s not just a visit; it’s a journey through time, adding layers to your understanding of Ohrid’s cultural heritage.

Plaoshnik Archaeological Site Explore the depths of history at the Plaoshnik Archaeological Site, where the reconstructed Church of St. Clement and St. Panteleimon stands. Beyond the ruins, this site holds the essence of Slavic literacy and boasts an archaeological narrative that unfolds before your eyes.

Ohrid City Wall Ohrid’s ancient city wall, dating back to the 4th century BC, bears witness to the city’s rich history and strategic significance. Originally built during the reign of Philip II of Macedon, remnants of the wall can still be seen near the Old Town and Ohrid Fortress. These historic remains offer a glimpse into Ohrid’s past as a fortified city, showcasing its enduring legacy as a cultural and political center in ancient Macedonia.

Ohrid City Wall

Ancient Theater of Ohrid

Plaoshnik Archaeological Site

Dining and cuisine in ohrid.

As you navigate the charming streets and lakeside promenades, immerse yourself in the gastronomic delights that Ohrid has to offer.

Kaj Kanevche: Nestled in the heart of Ohrid’s Old Town, Kaj Kanevche offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere. Specializing in traditional Macedonian cuisine, this restaurant is renowned for its grilled meats, fresh salads, and, of course, Ohrid Trout.

Kaneo Restaurant: Situated near the iconic Church of St. John at Kaneo, the restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains. Kaneo Restaurant is renowned for its picturesque setting, fresh seafood dishes, and traditional Macedonian cuisine.

Su rooftop restaurant: With a menu showcasing mouth-watering cuisine and freshly roasted coffee, complemented by the stunning backdrop of historic landmarks and Lake Ohrid, visitors are welcomed by an atmosphere of exquisite style. Catering to both curious tourists and friendly locals, “Su” provides a perfect setting to savor local delicacies or unwind with a refreshing drink while enjoying the mesmerizing vistas of Ohrid.

Irish Pub Dublin: As avid travelers who love to explore various Irish pubs around the world, we stumbled upon Dublin, located right on the picturesque promenade of Ohrid. While it may not stand out as the most memorable spot, it does have its charms. What sets Dublin apart are the generous portions of hot snacks they offer at incredibly affordable prices!

Local delicacies

Ohrid Trout Indulge in the local specialty, Ohrid Trout, freshly caught from Lake Ohrid. Grilled or oven-baked, this delicacy showcases the region’s commitment to fresh and high-quality ingredients.

Tavče Gravče A Macedonian staple, Tavče Gravče is a hearty bean casserole seasoned with a medley of herbs and spices. Served as a side dish or a main course, this flavorful comfort food embodies the essence of Macedonian home cooking.

Ajvar A savory pepper-based condiment, Ajvar adds a burst of flavor to many Macedonian dishes. Made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and eggplant, this versatile spread is a must-try, whether as a dip or a relish.

Activities and Entertainment in Ohrid

Ohrid offers a plethora of activities and entertainment options to suit every traveler’s preferences. From exploring ancient sites to enjoying outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of experiences to immerse yourself in.

Cultural Exploration Delve into Ohrid’s rich cultural heritage by visiting its numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites. Explore the ancient ruins of the Ohrid Fortress, wander through the Old Town’s cobblestone streets lined with Byzantine churches, or delve into the city’s past at the Robevci House Museum.

Lake Activities Embark on a variety of water-based activities on the stunning Lake Ohrid. Whether you prefer swimming in its crystal-clear waters, kayaking along its tranquil shores, or taking a leisurely boat cruise to explore hidden coves and caves, the lake offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Hiking and Nature Exploration Lace up your hiking boots and set out to discover Ohrid’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Explore the trails of Galichica National Park, which boasts diverse flora and fauna, panoramic viewpoints, and pristine mountain lakes. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoying the fresh air and scenic vistas.

Waterfront Dining and Entertainment Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of Ohrid’s lakeside promenade, where a myriad of restaurants, cafés, and bars await. Enjoy a leisurely meal with panoramic views of the lake, sample local delicacies, or sip on cocktails as you watch the sunset over the water.

Evening Performances and Cultural Events Experience Ohrid’s vibrant cultural scene by attending evening performances and events. From traditional folk music concerts to contemporary theater productions, there’s always something happening in Ohrid to entertain and inspire visitors.

Shopping and Souvenir Hunting Explore Ohrid’s bustling markets and artisan shops, where you can find a variety of locally made crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Whether you’re searching for handmade jewelry, traditional Macedonian pottery, or unique gifts to take home, the city’s vibrant shopping scene has something for everyone.

Nightlife and Socializing As the sun sets, Ohrid comes alive with a lively nightlife scene. Join locals and fellow travelers at the city’s bars, clubs, and live music venues, where you can dance the night away, sample local wines and spirits, and make unforgettable memories under the starry skies of Ohrid.

Language and Customs in Ohrid

Language In Ohrid, the predominant language spoken is Macedonian, although English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Macedonian, such as greetings and simple expressions of gratitude, can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. Remember to say “fala” (thank you) to show appreciation for hospitality.

Currency The official currency of North Macedonia, including Ohrid, is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). While some establishments may accept Euros (EUR), it’s advisable to exchange your currency for Denars to ensure the best rates. ATMs are readily available throughout Ohrid, allowing you to withdraw local currency as needed.

Tipping Tipping in Ohrid is generally appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants and cafes, a tip of around 10% of the total bill is customary for good service. However, it’s always a good idea to check if a service charge has already been included in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff is also common practice for exceptional service.

Religious sites Ohrid boasts a rich religious heritage, with numerous churches, mosques, and monasteries scattered throughout the city. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting religious sites out of respect for local customs and traditions. It’s also customary to remove your shoes before entering certain religious buildings, so be prepared to do so when visiting mosques or monasteries.

Shopping in Ohrid

Whether you’re searching for traditional Macedonian keepsakes or contemporary treasures, the city’s diverse shopping scene caters to every taste and budget.

Old Bazaar (Charsija) Step back in time and wander through the bustling lanes of Ohrid’s Old Bazaar, where a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds awaits. Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of handicrafts, textiles, pottery, and souvenirs crafted by local artisans. From intricately woven rugs to hand-painted ceramics and embroidered textiles, the Old Bazaar is a haven for shoppers seeking authentic Macedonian goods.

Antique Shops For collectors and antique enthusiasts, Ohrid boasts a selection of antique shops offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past. Browse through vintage jewelry, coins, furniture, and artwork, each piece telling its own unique story and adding a touch of history to your home.

Art Galleries Immerse yourself in Ohrid’s vibrant art scene by visiting one of its many art galleries and studios. From contemporary paintings and sculptures to traditional Macedonian folk art, these galleries showcase the talents of local and regional artists, offering a diverse array of works to suit every taste.

L ocal Markets Experience the authentic flavors and aromas of Macedonia by exploring Ohrid’s bustling local markets. From fresh produce and spices to homemade jams, honey, and traditional sweets, these markets offer a sensory journey through the region’s culinary delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local specialties such as Ajvar (pepper-based relish) and Rakija (fruit brandy) before selecting your favorites to take home.

Lakeside Promenade Stroll along Ohrid’s picturesque lakeside promenade, where a variety of shops and boutiques offer everything from clothing and accessories to artisanal crafts and souvenirs. Pick up a handcrafted piece of jewelry, a locally made scarf, or a decorative item for your home, all while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Ohrid.

Traditional Workshops Discover the time-honored techniques of Macedonian craftsmanship by visiting traditional workshops scattered throughout Ohrid. Watch skilled artisans at work as they create pottery, woodcarvings, and other handmade goods using age-old methods passed down through generations. Many workshops also offer hands-on experiences, allowing visitors to try their hand at these ancient crafts and create their own unique souvenirs.

Shopping Centers For those seeking a more modern shopping experience, Ohrid is home to several shopping centers and malls offering a wide range of retail outlets, boutiques, and international brands. Whether you’re in need of clothing, electronics, or household goods, these shopping centers provide convenient access to a diverse selection of products in a modern and comfortable environment.

Happy travels!

As your time in Ohrid draws to a close, take with you the memories of its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you explored ancient sites, indulged in local cuisine, or simply soaked in the beauty of Lake Ohrid, this Macedonian gem has surely left its mark.

Save this post to Pinterest!

Share this post

North Macedonia

4 Responses

Ohrid Lake looks like a highlight of a trip to Ohrid. I’d love to have a chance to visit.

Wow I had no idea it was so beautiful !! Your photos are stunning, definitely adding to our list 🙂

Love this guide to Ohrid – a North Macedonian gem. And would love to explore all the neighborhoods in this charming and historic city with such scenic views.

Wow, Orchid looks amazing! I love the Church of St. Clement and Ancient theater! Would love to go hiking there as well!

Chapter Fernweh by Kiki & Jazzie

We are Kiki & Jazzie – travel content creators based in the Netherlands. On our website and social channels, we share our European adventures, insights, and discoveries. From immersive travel guides and breathtaking photography to personal reflections and captivating video content.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products that we have personally used and genuinely believe in. Your support helps keep this site running and allows us to continue providing valuable content. Thank you!

Standing in front of the colorful architecture and alpine mountains of Innsbruck

Innsbruck | a complete travel guide to Austria’s Tyrolean capital

Strasbourg | a complete travel guide to France’s charming Alsatian city

Pick your country

The Netherlands
Bosnia and Herzegovina

I LOVE your pics, every time!! 😍😍 what camera do you girls use! 😍😍😍

Looks so cozy and relaxing! The photos really captured the chill vacation vibe. 😊

This space is beyond beautiful - I love unique stays like this!

Wonderful suggestions! I love Bruges and can’t wait to explore Brussels on my next trip.

It sounds amazing! A quaint getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Jazzie in front of Skopje's fort with a North Macedonian flag for Skopje City Guide

Skopje | a complete travel guide to North Macedonia’s capital

Timișoara | a complete travel guide to Romania’s city of flowers

Tea House Džirlo in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo | the five best places to drink Bosnian coffee

Our Wanders

Your Everything-To-Know Guide To Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia

It’s not much of an exaggeration that we wanted to visit North Macedonia because of Lake Ohrid in the first place. (And because 85% of its territory is covered in mountains in the second place.) Is it really that beautiful? Yes, it is! We’ve seen quite some amazing lakes, and it’s not that easy to knock us off our feet anymore, but Lake Ohrid managed to do just that.

We spent an entire week there, slowly exploring the area and the beaches. Whether you have a week or less, this post helps you choose the sights and activities that’ll make your visit unforgettable, too. So let’s see the best things to do in Ohrid – the town and the lake.

What to do in Ohrid?

Ohrid is not only the name of the lake, it’s the name of a city, too. Together they were accepted as Cultural and Natural World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. We definitely recommend having the old town of Ohrid as your base while visiting the area, because it’s undoubtedly the most impressive place to stay!

Best place to stay in Ohrid :

luxury : Hotel Aleksandrija (central location, easy access to Ohrid Old Town)
mid-range : Apartments Kanevce Beach & Relax (central location, easy access to Ohrid Old Town)
budget : Apartment Ain Naum (great location)

But what to see there? If you’ve seen any pictures of North Macedonia ever, there’s a high chance it was one with the Church of St. John at Kaneo (or Sveti Jovan Kaneo in Macedonian), overlooking Ohrid lake:

Familiar? Among many other Macedonian Orthodox churches, St. John at Kaneo is located in Ohrid, and it offers the best views. You can take a look at its tiny interior for a small fee, but it’s the outside views that are truly astonishing! Several terraces look over the pure blue water of the lake, and you can walk up to the viewpoint above the church for that iconic view.

Best walking trails in Ohrid: the Old City Park

Once you’re up there, you’ll notice that trails continue further into the Old City Park, and it’s worth exploring them! Our favorite trail was the one running along the edge of the hill. In addition to those amazing lake views, it also gives access to secluded Labino Beach. It’s not really a hike, because it’s quite short and easy, but it’s as close to a hiking trail as you find in Ohrid town.

The trail in the center took us to 10 th -century Tsar Samuel’s Fortress through the quiet pine forest.

Best churches in Ohrid

Mother of God Perybleptos church, Ohrid, North Macedonia

The legend says that Ohrid once had one church for each day of the year. The number today is significantly smaller than 365, but we still found a surprising number of churches there, and it felt like we bumped into one wherever we walked in Ohrid.

Church of St. John at Kaneo has undoubtedly the best views, but there are some more special ones. Like the Church of St. Sophia with its pretty garden. It was actually converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire, and the same happened to the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon that dates back to the 9 th century.

The Mother of God Perybleptos church is close to the Upper Gate of the old town, and the square in front of it treated us with lovely views of Samuel’s Fortress and the old town from above.

Cobblestone streets and ruins of the old town

ancient theatre of Ohrid, North Macedonia

The Upper Gate is the best preserved of the gates that lead to the narrow streets of Ohrid old town. It’s built on a hill, and every street ends up at the lakeshore at some point.

The ancient theatre of Ohrid is not far from the Upper Gate either, and it dates back to 200 BC. Once it was home to performances and gladiator fights, then it was used for executions, and then was abandoned for a long time. Now it’s nicely renovated, and energetic little toddlers (like ours… khm) enjoy climbing its steps.

We also liked the Ohrid Boardwalk over the lake that connects the old town with Potpesh Beach . This small, pebbly beach is worth a visit, anyway, both for swimming and sunset views. It’s one of the best beaches in Ohrid, quickly accessible from the old town.

Ohrid waterfront

As for sunset views, there’s another perfect place to enjoy them: the pier and the waterfront promenade of Ohrid . It’s already outside of the old town, and this means you’ll have views of both the lake sunset and the old town.

This is the place you surely won’t miss, because it’s the main walking street and the busiest shopping street in Ohrid. That’s precisely the reason we didn’t like it that much, but it has one good thing: it ends at the waterfront promenade. 🙂

The best beach in Ohrid town: Labino Beach

Between the port of Ohrid and the Church of St. John at Kaneo you found several small public beaches. But our favorite was a bit beyond the church, accessible from the pathway running along the cliffs in the Old City Park. It led us down to Labino Beach, a secluded pebbly beach that was solely ours.

Best beaches at Lake Ohrid

When it comes to our absolute favorite Lake Ohrid beaches though, they’re all a bit further from Ohrid town. Drive about 20-40 minutes southwards from there, and you’ll stumble upon bays that remind you of the Adriatic Sea, and can choose from a wide selection of the most stunning beaches!

Gradishte beach

Gradishte beach consists of four crystal clear, perfectly turquoise bays, and they were our absolute favorites! The beach belongs to the Gradishte campground, but anyone can access it. At the camping entrance there’s a gate that the kind receptionist opened for us, and when we asked him if we could just visit the beach, he said “Sure” with a big smile. We were charged no entry fee or parking fee, but parking space for daytime visitors is limited. It wasn’t a problem for us as our car was the only one when we arrived, but it might be busier towards mid-summer.

The four bays are separated by large rock boulders, and water boardwalks were built around the rocks so that you can walk from one to the other. You can also find bars and deck chairs at each bay.

The color of the water is incredible, and to get the best views of the bays, walk up to the small hill on the southern peninsula of the campground, and take your seat on one of the benches . And enjoy one of the best lake views in North Macedonia.

Also, Gradishte beach was the only Lake Ohrid beach where we haven’t seen any trash on the beach. Sadly, on other beaches we found empty cans, plastic bags or bottles. Sometimes they were collected into one pile and tucked behind a tree or bush, sometimes a few were just buried in the sand. It’s just disappointing. Not the beaches, they were still beautiful, but can’t we all just take better care of them? If you could bring a bottle of anything, you can surely take it home with you, too, even if there’s no trash can.

Hidden bays after the Bay of Bones

Hidden bay at Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia

As far as we know these bays don’t even have names. But beaches without names should be fabulous, shouldn’t they? (They are!)

How to find them? Park at the dirt/grassy area right after the Bay of Bones parking lot. You’ll immediately find yourself on the top of a rocky plateau that offers amazing views of Lake Ohrid. Once you walk around, you’ll notice that some paths don’t lead to a viewpoint, but down to a small, pebbly cove. We found three of them, two very small ones, and one that’s suitable for several families. Feel free to choose yours.

Trpejca beach

Nicknamed as the “Saint-Tropez of Lake Ohrid”, Trpejca beach has truly romantic views. It’s a long, pebbly bay with some cliffs in the water. It’s accessible by stairs, and you need to park your car in the parking area at the top of the stairs. Or on any of the streets where there’s space.

Ljubanista beach

It’s also a bay that belongs to a campground but accessible for anyone. We parked our car in the paved area before the entrance gate. The long pebbly-sandy beach is backed up by lush green hills, and there’s a beach bar, as well.

The first beach in Lagadin

Or we should say right before Lagadin, if you drive from Ohrid. We don’t know if it has a name, but you can park your car in a paved parking area before the signpost that indicates the town of Lagadin. A few steps take you down to the beach from there.

Barely anyone knows about this lovely, pebbly bay which has clear, beautifully blue water, and trees give some shade on the beach. Lake Ohrid is truly among the most stunning lakes in North Macedonia.

Bay of the Bones: a unique open-air museum

The best museum we visited in North Macedonia? The Bay of the Bones at Lake Ohrid. On Lake Ohrid, I should say, because it’s a museum built on water. To be fair, I also need to add that this was the only actual museum we visited in the country, because this was one that all three of us could enjoy.

Our almost-2 years old Tomi is way too young for museums, but the Bay of the Bones made him excited. It’s a reconstruction of a prehistoric pile dwelling settlement , and he liked peeking into the houses and spotting fish in the water under our feet. If you’re more adventurous, you can sign up for a scuba dive to the underwater archeological site of the original settlement.

North of the reconstructed village there are ruins of a Roman fortress on top of a hill. While the ruins are probably not the most astonishing you’ve ever seen, we got stunning views of Lake Ohrid and the green mountains of Galičica, so they were definitely worth the walk. (And that’s where we spotted the turquoise bays of Gradishte, and we liked the views so much that we visited the beach the following day.)

Monastery of Saint Naum

This is the only thing we missed at Lake Ohrid. It’s a huge miss as this Orthodox monastery established in 905 is one of the most attractive sights in the country, and also a popular day trip from Ohrid.

Why did we not visit it then? We just felt it would have been too much for us with Tomi. He’s (understandably) not interested in visiting a monastery, he’s too young to comply with rules, and we didn’t want to spend our time looking after him instead of enjoying our visit. The days we spent at Lake Ohrid were hot, anyway, so we thought that the whole family would have much more fun on the beach. The beach it was, and no regrets there.

Despite the fact that all we’re able to tell you about this monastery is our reasons not to visit it, we encourage you to do so nevertheless. 🙂 You can also take a boat ride to the source of Lake Ohrid from the monastery grounds.

Hiking in Galičica National Park above Lake Ohrid

When it comes to hiking in Ohrid, your best bet is visiting nearby Galičica National Park. Galičica Mountains tower above Ohrid lake, and some local companies offer guided hikes, but you can also hike there on your own. Trail maps are posted at most trailheads, and trails start from the towns of Peshtani, Elshani or Trpejca, and along road P504.

P504 is a zigzagging road that took us through the park, and it connects Lake Ohrid with Lake Prespa. It’s a toll road, the road quality is varying from good to still acceptable, but the views are great! The famous trail to Magaro peak also starts along this road, and it was the only longer hike we’ve done in the park.

It’s an amazing, 7 kilometres scenic loop trail that took us through wildflower meadows and snow fields, and rewarded us with a panorama of the two large lakes and all the mountains of Galičica below us.

Read this, too: Complete Guide To Galičica National Park, North Macedonia

Where to stay in Ohrid

Ohrid old town is the best place to stay and use as a base to walk in town and explore the rest of Lake Ohrid.

Best luxury hotel: Hotel Aleksandrija is a 4-star hotel on the lakeshore of beautiful Ohrid lake. The location is excellent, even though it’s not inside the old town, it’s right by the lower gate. The waterfront promenade is also a few steps away. It offers spacious, elegantly furnished rooms, with breakfast upon request.

Best mid-range accommodation : Located next to the Church of Saint Sophia in the old town and connected to Potpesh Beach by a scenic boardwalk, the Apartments Kanevce Beach & Relax are great for those looking for a comfortable self-catering accommodation. It has a garden with a terrace, and you can rent bikes, too.

Best budget accommodation: Apartment Ain Naum is a few streets further from the lakeshore, but it still has a great location in the old town, and you can enjoy nice lake views from the balcony. The apartment is spacious, clean and has excellent guest reviews.

Parking and road tolls

First of all, the only toll road is P504 through Galičica National Park. North Macedonia has motorways, but they don’t reach Lake Ohrid. That also means you shouldn’t expect a motorway quality road. The road along the lakeshore is fine, but narrow and has lots of curves, so drive carefully. However, if you’re not the one driving, you can enjoy the nice views.

Parking is only a problem in Ohrid. You’re not allowed to drive into the old town – unless your apartment owns a space that you can use. Since the old town of Ohrid is the best place to stay, we recommend booking accommodation with free parking there.

Otherwise, paved or dirt parking lots are free to use on the lakeshore, and you can also park on the streets in the smaller towns if there’s enough space. Parking fee is charged at the Monastery of Saint Naum though , where you can use a large, paved parking lot in front of the building complex.

So… are you ready for a visit? What else would you like to know?

Read more about what to see and do in North Macedonia:

9 Things To Know Before Traveling To North Macedonia
Your Guide To Pelister National Park, North Macedonia
Your Guide To Mavrovo National Park, North Macedonia

Disclosure: Please note that affiliate links are used in this post, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase. If you are ready to book your trip and would like to support this website in some way, here’s your chance. Thank you! 🙂

Your Guide To Galičica National Park, North Macedonia

Where To Stay In Skopje, North Macedonia?

10 Things To Know Before Visiting North Macedonia

Which are the best lesser-known hikes in north america, sign up to get your free e-book and join the community:, by beata urmos.

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

Across the courtyard from the Holy Mother of God Perivleptos (Sveta Bogorodica Perivleptos) church is the Museum of Icons. Don’t miss it! Nothing like it it this side of Moscow! If it is closed when you get there, go back.

Things to do in Ohrid (My favourite Town in All of the Balkans!)

Best Things to do in Ohrid North Macedonia

Last Updated: January 28, 2024

This post is about my biggest surprise during my Balkan leg of travels. Ohrid stole my heart and became one of my favourite towns in the Balkans and maybe even in the whole world! In this travel guide you will find a complete list of all the awesome things to do in Ohrid and why Ohrid must be on your Balkan itinerary.

Top 7 Things to do in Ohrid:

Famous Saint John at Kaneo
Ohrid Old Bazaar and Ottoman Old Town
Samuel’s Fortress and Ancient Amphitheatre
Ohrid Boardwalk
Boat trip to Saint Naum Monastery and the Bay of Bones
Ohrid Beaches!
Galičica National Park

I was not actually planning to visit Ohrid or North Macedonia. But I had to catch a flight from Belgrade.

I almost never just get on a plane and go. Instead, I always see what’s on the way and try to make extra stops and travel by bus or train. And this is what happened this time. Between Albania and Serbia there was this mysterious, little-known Balkan gem – North Macedonia. And the first stop that was screaming my name was Ohrid. So I took a bus from Tirana and I went.

Little did I know that Ohrid would become my absolute favourite place in the entire Balkans. But is not that always the case?

I totally fell in love with the town of Ohrid and the most incredible Ohrid lake. This place is just magical!

So much so, that I had serious plans on coming back in the spring to live and work here!

(Instead, I moved to Greece hahaha)

The Ohrid Lake is like Balkan Maledives! Never seen a lake with waters so clean and beaches so inviting! Yes, I haven’t been to every lake in the world, but this will do!

The town of Ohrid is so charming and cute that it hurts. Maybe not in the way Gjorocaster is striking and dramatic but in its own intimate way.

Although tourism has been strong in this area for decades, it has mostly hosted local tourists from North Macedonia and other Balkan countries.

Lake Ohrid has been accepted as a Cultural and Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the town of Ohrid was included.

The lake is protected and extremely clean!

It is one of the oldest lakes in the world and the deepest lake in the Balkans. Lake Ohrid is shared between North Macedonia and Albania with 64% of its shoreline belonging to North Macedonia.

So is Lake Ohris worth visiting?

Absolutely! Lake Ohrid is one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe and the town of Ohrid is a true hidden gem of the Balkans!

The city of Ohrid combines the best of all worlds. It has the Balkan charm combining Ottoman, European, Orthodox and Muslim influences, the food is better than in many other Balkan countries, it is cheaper than most of the Balkans and yet not destroyed by the hoards of tourists and greedy beach owners.

For me, Ohrid ticked all the boxes! Stunning nature, mountain hikes, a beautiful lake, mild weather and affordable prices!

I resonated with North Macedonian culture and its people. The people are kind, quirky, free-spirited and funny. Very hospitable! North Macedonia also felt very solo traveller friendly and super safe!

How long should you spend in Ohrid?

I recommend spending at least 3 full days in Ohrid! This will give you enough time to soak in the town’s relaxed vibe, take a boat trip to St. Neum Monastery (a must!) and spend a day lazing on the beach or exploring the old town of Ohrid and many other sights.

However, if you are looking for a place in North Macedonia where you can spend more time either working remotely or enjoying a lakeside vacation – you can easily spend a week or even more in Ohrid!

In fact, this is one place in the Balkans that I really want to return to and now that I live in Greece, I will be back sooner rather than later!

So here is a complete list of all the best things to do in Ohrid.

Be sure to also scroll down to all the Ohrid tips and things to know before visiting!

Table of Contents

Awesome Things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia

Explore the town of ohrid.

The city of Ohrid is so multifaceted! From the waterfront and the Old Bazaar, to the windy streets on the way to the fortress and the medeaval streets of the old town!

Start at Ohrid City Square, where you will find a Sveti Stefan statue and the waterfront from where the boats depart. This is a lively area with many shops, restaurants, bars and walking paths.

From here, no matter which direction you choose, you will find a completely different Ohrid.

Be sure to wander towards the Ohrid Old Bazaar

At first, Ohrid Bazaar doesn’t seem like much, especially compared to cities like Sarajevo or Mostar. The Old Bazaar of Ohrid is actually just a long street with a few side streets where there is an abundance of shops, cafés, small restaurants, baklava shops and much more. But this is where the heart of the town is.

It’s a great street to just browse, eat delicious ice cream and enjoy the atmosphere of Ohrid. Strolling along the Old Bazaar and finding new shops and ice cream stands is definitely one of the best things to do in Ohrid!

But my favourite part of the Old Bazaar of Ohrid was the far end ‘Turskish’ part, where I found incredible and very affordable local restaurants, cevapcilnicas and baklava shops! Make sure you head there and visit the Vkusno restaurant (it’s worth queuing!) or Cevapcilnica Aren for lunch or dinner!

And then stop at the cutest tea house Istanbul Cayci Caytore!

In this part of the town, you will also find a local market worth checking out!

And the Varosh Ottoman Style Old Town

This is yet another completely different part of Ohrid! The Old Town, also known as Varosh, is an Ottoman-style old town that stretches up the hill to the fortress.

To uncover all its facets, lose yourself in the streets and look out for small souvenir shops, cafés and traditional restaurants!

The architecture here sometimes resembles that of Berat in Albania , but only at times. It definitely has its own distinguished feel.

As you will walk up higher you will be stunned by the views and overwhelming charm of those streets!

Old Town houses an Icon Gallery that displays a remarkable collection of icons, some dating back to the 11th century. You can also visit the beautiful Church of St. Sophia and the Ohrid City Walls and the Upper Gate.

Walk up to the Samuel’s Fortress

Samuel’s Fortress, also known as Tsar Samuel’s Fortress, is a historic fortress located on a hill overlooking the old town of Ohrid and Lake Ohrid. It is a landmark that can be seen from any part of the city and offers spectacular views!

The original construction of the fortress dates back to the 4th century BC, but it was significantly expanded and renovated in different periods, particularly in the 10th century during the reign of Samuel. It’s an interesting landmark of Ohrid, but even if you’re not interested in mediaeval sights, it’s worth a visit for the views and the breathtaking walk up there.

I am not totally crazy about this type of attractions, but I utterly enjoyed the afternoon walking up the hill, discovering parts of Ohrid I didn’t even know existed!

Stop by the Ancient Amphitheatre

On your way to the fortress be sure to stop by the ancient theatre which is believed to have been built during the 2nd century BC, making it a structure from the Roman period.

It is one of the few ancient theatres in the world that has retained its original structure.

It is still used today for cultural events, including concerts, plays, and other performances.

And the Church of Holy Mary Peryvleptos

This is one of my favourite churches in Ohrid and believe me, there are many of them! I stumbled across it on the way to the fortress and I truly loved its surroundings and the interiors!

Built during the time of Byzantine Emperor Andronicus II Paleologus, the church’s construction year is determined by the inscription above the entrance. The magnificent building, popularly known as St Clement’s, is a harmonious blend of impressive architecture and opulent frescoes.

Be sure to walk the ‘on the water’ by the Ohrid Boardwalk!

One of the best things to do in Ohrid is to enjoy the lake’s waterfront. And there are so many ways you can do that!

One thing you can’t miss is a walk along Ohrid’s waterfront Ohrid Boardwalk! It is beautiful no matter the time of the day or evening.

One thing you can’t miss is a walk along Ohrid’s waterfront promenade! It’s beautiful at any time of the day or evening. It leads all the way to the famous Kaneo Church, but there are many stops you can take along the way.

Stop for a coffee or an Aperol spritz at the Beach Potpesh

As you stroll along the boardwalk you will come across a few small beaches and restaurants. My favourite one is Potpesh Beach!

I came here quite a few times and I spent one afternoon lazing on the sunbathing deck and drinking Aperol Spritz! I couldn’t recommend this ‘Ohrid attraction’ high enough!

Visit the famous Saint John at Kaneo - The biggest Ohrid's Attraction

Why famous?

If you have ever seen any photos of North Macedonia, there is a big chance you have seen the Church of St. John at Kaneo perched on the cliff with the stunning backdrop of Lake Ohrid. Yes, that’s the one!

Saint John the Theologian, also known as Kaneo, is a Macedonian Orthodox church and a fine example of Byzantine architecture. The church’s construction is likely dating back to the 13th century. Archaeologists suggest its existence before the Ottoman Empire’s rise and the restoration of the church’s dome in 1964, revealed beautiful hidden frescoes.

The route to the church is also incredibly picturesque. You can either approach it from the top after visiting the fortress or from the bottom via the Ohrid boardwalk. Both paths are fantastic, so I recommend trying both!

It is a popular and busy sight, so if you want to take some photos, get there early in the morning before the tours begin arriving!

Stroll the Old City Park towards Secret Beach Labino

On the day you visit the Kaneo Church take a walk further up into the Old City Park!

This is just a wonderful, green area full of picturesque trails leading in all directions.

From here you can choose to walk up to the fortress (if you haven’t already), return to Ohrid via Old Town, or walk in the other direction towards the hidden beach!

Beach Labino is a hidden wild pebble beach offering a much more secluded and peaceful experience. There will be some people, but definitely fewer than in the town and the views are just gorgeous.

It is a wild beach so if you are planning to spend some time there be sure to pack some snacks and water. And also maybe pack some water shoes or just be aware of rocks and stones.

If you are feeling even more adventurous you can continue walking all the way to Partizan Beach too!

Stroll lake Ohrid Promanade

One of the most incredible things to do in Ohrid is just walking along its waterfront and discovering 100 faces of the town.

To the opposite side of kaneo you will find more contemporary promenade where both locals and tourists stroll day and night. But don’t stop there!

If you like your walkies, continue all the way to the Golden Beach resort. The resort is not the biggest attraction here – but on the way you will pass many small beaches, camping grounds, beach bars and restaurants and as always – incredible views!

I know I sound like a broken record, but I truly love Ohrid!

Have you considered an eSIM yet?

Tired of roaming bills or wasting time anxiously looking for a SIM vendor at the airport?

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards). With eSIMs from Airalo, download and install a digital data pack from 200+ countries/regions and be connected anywhere in the world the second you land.

Take a boat trip to Saint Naum Monastery

Visiting St Naum Monastery should be at the top of your list of things to do in Ohrid. Not only because of the famous Monastery of Saint Naum but because the whole place is incredible!

It is like a town in itself with a stunning beach, a lake with boats resembling Thai mangroves, a small promenade, a hiking trail with surprises and a few restaurants and bars.

The Monastery of Saint Naum was founded in the 10th century by Saint Naum of Ohrid , a disciple of Saints Cyril and Methodius, who were instrumental in the Christianization of the Slavic peoples. The monastery is mostly known for its picturesque location, with stunning views of Lake Ohrid.

The complex includes a church dedicated to Saint Naum, which houses well-preserved Byzantine frescoes. Saint Naum’s tomb is also located within the monastery grounds.

You can take a local bus to Naum which will be cheaper than a boat tour, but this is only one time I will advise against it.

If you knew me just a little you would know I always opt for local transport rather than organised tours.

But the boat tour to St Naum Monastery is just such an incredible value for money that you should definitely do it! Not only you will also stop at the Bay of Bones and marvel at the incredible views all the way through the trip, but they will also give you a very decent amount of time in Naum itself.

You will have enough time to visit the monastery, walk around some great easy hiking paths and stay on a beach for an hour or two!

I have a separate post about visiting Naum so head there if you want to know more!

Super Tip: There is this strange taxi driver that has been driving between St Naum and Ohrid for years taking people for the price of the bus. It is perfectly safe and fun to go with him. He will be picking up people on the way so you will definitely have some random company.

I got into his taxi after my hike when I ended up at the Bay of Bones. he just stopped and said the price was the same as for the bus. The Bay of Bones Museum ticket seller behind me said it’s fine to go.

I know he was doing those rounds for years as I read about him in some random blog years ago! I hope you will meet him let me know if you do!

Visit the Bay of Bones

The Bay of Bones is also known as the Museum on the Water and is a truly unique archaeological complex.

It is a reconstruction of a prehistoric settlement from the Bronze and Iron Ages, which was inhabited by pile dwellers. The water here was quite shallow back then, so they built their houses on wooden piles above the water, creating a kind of floating village.

It was only recently discovered during underwater archaeological research when the wooden piles were found along with some artefacts and remains of animal bones that were probably used as tools.

The museum and the complex were built in the late 20th century to recreate the former settlement. Inside the houses, you can learn how prehistoric people lived and what tools they used in prehistoric times.

It can be visited as part of a boat tour or individually. It is located halfway between Ohrid and the monastery of St. Naum.

And Trpejca - The Saint-Tropez of Ohrid!

Trpejca is a small fishing village just half an hour’s drive from Ohrid. Named Saint Tropez of Ohrid, it is not really comparable but it’s super cute and offers stunning views and a wonderful beach!

This is one of those places around Lake Ohrid where you will completely forget you are by the lake. You truly feel like you are by the sea! The water here is crystal clear!

Hike in Galičica National Park

The Galičica National Park Mountains rise majestically above Lake Ohrid, covering an area of approximately 227 square kilometres. It was designated as a national park in 1958 and is named after the Galičica Mountain, which is a prominent feature in the region. The park is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

There are several trails and viewpoints within the park and all trails are incredibly well marked. Those were some of the best-marked trailers I have walked.

Many of the trails offer incredible views of Lake Ohrid but some go very much into the forest.

The most famous is the Magaro peak hike at 2255m but you can also do the easier one starting at the Ramne village .

It is one of the least populated hiking areas I have ever visited and with this, I have a very important hint for you!

I have hiked alone for years and I absolutely enjoy it and most of the time prefer it.

Yet North Macedonia broke me for solo hiking since I have seen a bear there. Do not go hiking in Galičica National Park alone, especially in the ber season!

Discover Ohrid Beaches!

It maybe doesn’t seem so at first but Ohrid is a wonderful beach destination! Lake Ohrid is beautiful, the waters are clear and the beaches resemble those of the seaside rather than the lakeside.

You will find a few great beaches in the town of Ohrid like Potpesh , Kaneo or Labino beach.

You can also head to the main waterfront for a swim at the ‘ Old Swimming Court ‘ which is just a swimming spot off the jetty and a great spot to watch the sunset from!

But if you are prepared to venture slightly outside of the town you will find more incredible beaches! My favourites include the beach in the village of Peshtani , Lagadin , Gr adiste campsite beach and of course the Ljubanista beach at St Naum Monastery.

Rent a Bicycle!

Ohrid is great to discover by bicycle and you can get to many awesome spots by bicycle. One couple from my hostel even cycled to the Bay of Bones. It is definitely doable but part of the route will lead on a busy road, so consider this.

But bike rentals are extremely affordable in Ohrid and I recommend exploring Lake Ohrid by bike.

Take a Day Trip from Ohrid

If you are spending a few more days in Ohrid you should definitely consider a day trip. there are great towns and places you could see in a day that are just an hour or two bus drive away.

One of the best places to visit is Bitola – one of the oldest cities in the country boasting a a mix of architectural styles and ruins of the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis

You could also hop on a bus and visit Struga , a charming town located near Ohrid. It is a bigger and slightly more modern town but it is definitely worth a visit!

Finally, you can take a trip to the springs of Vevčani which is an off-the-beaten-path trip. Vevčani is a small village located only 20 minutes bus drive away from Ohrid where you can take nature walk along the springs which some call a mini Plitvice.

You can also take some more extensive, organised trips like a trip to Albania or Meteora in Greece. Here are some of the best-rated tours from Ohrid:

M eteora (Greece) Tour from Ohrid
Full-Day Private Lake Ohrid and Albania Tour
Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting

Sample North Macedonian Cuisine

Last but not least – North Macedonian Food! I think out of all the Balkan countries I visited I liked the North Macedonian food the most. It is simple yet super flavoursome and very affordable!

Check out some of the best restaurants for local food in Ohrid like Viva Ksantika, Restaurant „Orfej“ or Vkusno for the best kebap in town!

Kaneo Restaurant offers amazing food and views and Noa Lounge Bar is a great place to have a meal or drink by the lake at any time of the day.

If you are looking for an affordable beer or wine with stunning sunset views, pop into the Kadmo Lounge Bar where I came for an evening glass of wine twice!

Finally, if you are looking for a beachside lounge bar with the best views, great cocktails and delicious food be sure to pop into Cuba Libre Beach.

Did you get your travel insurance yet? Travel Insurance will let you travel with the peace of mind knowing that no matter what, your unexpected medical or travel emergencies are covered. I use Heymondo for a few reasons. They have clear policies with no deductibles, the price is excellent for what they offer and the price doesn’t go up when you are over 30 years old. They have a dedicated, easy-to-use app and free assistance calls.

I can get a cover for a month or three months and I know I can travel with peace of mind and get the best product for my money.

Heymondo offers my readers 5% off so go ahead, and click on this link and get your quote.

Things to know before visitng Ohrid, North Macedonia

The best time to visit Ohrid is between April and October. It’s when the weather is at its best. Some hotels close for the winter season so during this time you will have the biggest choice. To avoid summer crowds visit in the spring or fall. I visited in September and it was the best month for the beach and hiking!

Ohrid is totally walkable to don’t even bother with renting a car unless you want to make it a base for some great day trips.

Ohrid is very safe both all kinds of travellers. Whether you are a solo backpacker or a family you will be safe day and night in Ohrid!

Can you swim in Lake Ohrid? Yes! Ohrid Lake is protected and therefore very clean. You can definitely swim in Lake Ohrid without any worries. Most beaches are pebble so consider watershoes.

In Ohrid and the whole of North Macedonia, tap water is safe to drink.

I hope you enjoyed this Ohrid travel guide and you will love it as much as I did!

Pleas let me know!

Until then enjoy North Macedonia and happy travels!

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you purchase the product or make a booking via one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Please know that I will never recommend or promote a product I don’t believe in or haven’t used. This way, you are supporting this blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Follow Me On Social Media

Hi, I’m Pati. A traveller, photographer (aspiring), dreamer and hopeless believer in magic. I caught the travel bug in my forties – and not planning to look back any time soon. I travel solo and on a budget and I try to spend as much time and effort as possible to truly immerse myself in the country I am visiting.

Whether you are like me and decided to change your life around a new dream or just wandering (because not all who wander are lost) – I am here to tell you that everything is possible.

Berat vs Gjirokaster – Why You Should Visit Both Albanian UNESCO Towns!

Backpackers Guide to visiting Gjirocaster, Albania

Koh Tao Budget Guide - Is Koh Tao Expensive?

Koh Tao on a Budget Complete Guide – Is Koh Tao Expensive?

Awesome Things To Do On Koh Tao Besides Diving

Ohrid travel guide

Ohrid tourism | ohrid guide, you're going to love ohrid.

Also known as the "Jerusalem of the Balkans," the exceptionally beautiful Ohrid brings out the best of nature and archaic architectural heritage.

Discover captivating landscapes, historical monuments, and the 365 churches dotted throughout town and the tranquil waters of Lake Ohrid.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Ohrid

1. festivals.

Ohrid has several festivals such as the Ohrid Summer Festival, which features performances from leading musicians and world music centers.

2. Attractive Sites

From Lake Ohrid to the city's 365 churches and the iconic Plaosnik Hill, Ohrid boasts a wide variety of sites that will completely mesmerize you.

3. Mouth-Watering Delicacies

Treat yourself to the fish at KANEO - Letna Bavcha and Restaurant or sample the crisp, mouthwatering pizzas as well as the excellent assortment of wines at the Via Sacra.

4. The Old Town's Architecture

The tall white houses with the typical dark edges, situated in narrow streets make this place quite distinctive.

What to do in Ohrid

1. samuil's fortress: the limestone fortress.

Located in the heart of the old town of Ohrid is the well-known Samuel's Fortress. Since its renovation in 2003, this historical monument is the perfect holiday destination. It is believed to have been established upon an already-existing fortification by Phillip II of Macedonia. Research has shown that it dates back to circa 4th century BC, and its entire facade is built entirely of Limestone. Discover ancient history that lurks within the interior of the fortress. Alternatively, you could enjoy the magnificent view of the Ohrid Lake from the fortress.

2. Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon: Uniting the People

Situated in Plaosnik District in Ohrid, Macedonia, Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon is believed to have been designed by Saint Clement of Ohrid. The main component used in the construction of this Byzantine church was marble. In the process of reconstruction and excavation on October 10, 2007, around 2,383 Venetian coins were discovered. These were of special significance as they symbolized trade between Ohrid and Venice. It is believed by some archaeologists that the Church was built on the site used to educate the first students of the Glagolitic alphabet, which was later used to translate the bible.

3. Church of St. John at Kaneo: The Perfect Blend of the Spiritual and Natural

On the edge of the Kaneo Beach cliff that overlooks Lakes Ohrid in Ohrid city lies the Church of St. John at Kaneo. It was built in honor of John of Patmos (one of Jesus' disciples) who is also referred to as John the Apostle. It was built before 1447, prior to the Ottoman Empire uprising. The view from the cliff is simply breathtaking. Witness the glorious skyline as it meets with the still waters and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this artistically constructed historical landmark.

4. Ohrid Amphitheater: Where Public Performances Come Alive

Surrounded by two hills in the old town of Ohrid is the Ancient theater of Ohrid. It was established in 200 BC and serves as the sole Hellenistic-type theater in the whole country. The theater was once known as an execution site of Christians by the Romans, which gave locals and tourists alike a negative outlook on the site. In the late 1980s, the theater was reopened, but this time not to execute Christians. Locals, as well as tourists, are treated to a set of public performances such as concerts and plays. Be part of the crowd and experience amphitheater entertainment like never before.

5. Church of Saint Sophia: Explore Art from the Middle Ages

Located in Ohrid city, the Church of Saint Sophia is one of the most prominent monuments in Macedonia today. It houses a number of relics, including art and architecture dating back to the Middle Ages. The time of its establishment is unclear, however, sources date it back to the reign of Knyaz Boris, which is about is 1852-1889. Through the years, there have been a series of adjustments and reconstructions so as to improve its appearance. A brief tour of the church will reveal ancient and artistic frescoes on the ceiling from the 11th-13th century.

When to visit Ohrid

The best time to visit Ohrid is from June to October when the weather is good, and rainfall is at its minimum.

Airports near Ohrid

Airlines serving ohrid, where to stay in ohrid.

Experience a touch of class at the Inex Gorica, which is nestled right on the lake's shore, a few minutes' taxi drive from the city. Indulge in absolute luxury at the Villa Germanoff, which is also right on the shore of Lake Ohrid.

Popular Neighborhoods in Ohrid

Kosel - Kosel is a village near Ohrid that is situated not far from the volcano Duvalo.

Struga - Struga is a quieter town lying on the shore of Lake Ohrid and is home to the Struga Old Bazaar.

Elani - Elani is located 6.2 miles south of the city of Ohrid and extends over the slopes of Galičica Mountain, a short distance away from Lake Ohrid.

The Cost of Living in Ohrid

Shopping streets.

Get a selection of handicrafts like leather wallets at the Knigovez Workshop and Gift Shop. Also, you can buy food and groceries at the famed Old Bazaar.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Saint Naum Monastery near Ohrid in Macedonia

Sveti Naum Monastery

Sveti Naum, 29km south of Ohrid, is an imposing sight on a bluff near the Albanian border and a popular day trip from Ohrid. Naum was a contemporary of St…

Ohrid Boardwalk & City Beach

Skimming the surface of the water along Ohrid's shore, snaking towards Kaneo fishing village and the town's most famous church, this over-water boardwalk…

Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo

This stunning 13th-century church is set on a cliff over the lake, about a 15-minute walk west of Ohrid's port area, and is possibly North Macedonia's…

Saluting the lake from Ohrid's hilltop, Plaošnik is home to the multidomed medieval Church of Sveti Kliment i Pantelejmon, the foundations of a 5th…

Sveta Bogorodica Bolnička & Sveti Nikola Bolnički

Bolnica means 'hospital' in Macedonian; during plagues visitors faced 40-day quarantines inside the walled confines of these petite churches, which are…

Keeping one sleepy eye on Lake Ohrid from its mountain perch, Vevčani dates to the 9th century and is a quiet rural settlement beloved by locals for its…

Museum on Water – Bay of Bones

In prehistoric times Lake Ohrid was home to a settlement of pile dwellers who lived literally on top of the water, on a platform supported by up to 10,000…

National Museum

Ohrid's National Museum is housed over three floors of this remarkably well-preserved Old Town house, which dates from 1863 and was once owned by the…

Latest stories from Lake Ohrid

Filter by interest:

All Interests
Adventure Travel
Art & Culture
Beaches, Coasts & Islands
Food & Drink

Setting up camp on Shar Mountain © Aleksandar Donev / Lonely Planet

Feb 10, 2019 • 5 min read

At 3:30am, on the fifth day of an expedition along North Macedonia’s mountainous western edge, we traded our trekking poles for reins and mounted horses…

Sveti Jovan at Kaneo church perched above Lake Ohrid © Lorna Parkes / Lonely Planet

Aug 23, 2016 • 6 min read

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Lake Ohrid with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Lake Ohrid and beyond

Church of St John at Kaneo at dawn, Lake Ohrid.

Plan Your Trip to Ohrid: Best of Ohrid Tourism

Essential Ohrid

Trending in the forums

Ohrid Is Great For

Cultural tours.

Archaeology Tours

Historical Tours

The great outdoors.

Hotel Desaret
Hotel Tino Sveti Stefan
Unique Resort & Spa
Aqualina Hotel
Villa Varosh
The Lion Ohrid
Kaj Kanevche
Restoran sveta sofija
VIVA Ksantika
National Park Galicica
Monastery of Saint Naum
Bay of the Bones Museum
St. Jovan Kaneo
1.5 Hour Ohrid Lake Sunset Cruise
Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting
Shared Cruise to St.Naum Monastery
ATV Full Day Adventure through National Park Galicica Ohrid
Stand up Paddle Tour in Lake Ohrid

9 Things to Do in Lake Ohrid

On the border between North Macedonia and Albania is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. Lake Ohrid is a place where it is not crowded with tourists, but due to the beautiful surroundings, it is growing in popularity. The lake is often described as one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans because of the picturesque places that surround it, the crystal clear water, and the beautiful mountains. In this setting, travelers can relax, be active, and even lovers of culture and history can indulge themselves in the many villages.

More than enough reasons to combine your holiday in Albania with a visit to Lake Ohrid in Macedonia.

The old center of the city of Ohrid

The old center of Ohrid city is wonderful to get lost in. Apart from the signs of the pizzerias with flickering LED advertisements and the signs for free Wi-Fi, you imagine yourself in the Middle Ages. There is no asphalt, no cars; the narrow streets are “paved” with pebbles. Houses are not made of neat bricks but made of flattened stones.

Several small churches can be found in this maze. In addition, there is a small vague museum, where all kinds of artifacts from the Romans until now have been exhibited. At the bottom of the hill is the Saint Sofia’s Church. In the evening this church is beautifully lit, but during the day it looks very sober.

Other things to do in Ohrid include enjoying a city walk past the antique amphitheater, a visit toSt. Clemens monastery and the Sveti Jovan Kaneo. This beautiful church is built on a hill with a beautiful view over the lake. Or climb the mountain of Ohrid. At the top is the ruin of Fort Samuel. There are still four towers and kilometers of city wall standing. But that’s not why you took the climb. It’s all about the great view!

Are you not such a culture lover? No problem! In addition to a wealth of culture and history, Ohrid also offers a lot of fun. Fine waterfront terraces, excellent restaurants, a lively shopping street and an attractive local market. So you will certainly enjoy yourself in Ohrid.

Historic Radozda

This beautiful, peaceful place is a great start to your route. There is not much, mainly fish restaurants, of which the fish are caught themselves. The unique thing about Radozda? You will find one of the 365 churches of Ohrid that is very unique as it is built in the cliff! This church was made for Archangel Michael and you can easily walk there via a steep, long staircase. Do not forget to get the key at one of the fish restaurants; otherwise you will not be able to enter. Are you upstairs? Then look up for a nice fresco by Michael and enjoy the view!

Monastery Sveti Naum

The monastery of Sveti Naum is located on the southern shores of Lake Ohrid. The 10th-century Orthodox monastery was founded and named after St. Naum. He is now buried here, and according to the locals, you can still hear his heartbeat if you put an ear on his tomb. Others believe it is the wave against the cliff that you hear, which borders the monastery. In the church on the patio of the monastery, you will find frescoes depicting Cyril: the inventor of the Cyrillic alphabet. This monastery is also known for the many peacocks.

At St. Naum, you can also step in a small rowing boat with which you make a trip over the Ohrid Springs. Enjoy in peace, beautiful waters, and immense mountains in the background.

Visit the Bay of Bones open-air museum

Just outside Ohrid, you will find Bay of Bones, a bay that takes its name from the large amount of animal bones that were once found there.It is an open-air museum that focuses on information. They would like to show you how the inhabitants probably lived here about ten centuries before Christ. In stilt houses, high above the water. It is also a popular dive site.

Take a boat trip on Lake Ohrid

In our opinion, if you are staying at a lake, you must go to the lake at least once. Fortunately, various boat trips are offered, especially from Ohrid. For example, book a day trip across the lake with a visit to hot springs and the aforementioned Sveti Naum monastery.

Visit the Vevčani hot springs

Speaking of sources, you will not only find this in the lake. Vevčani is a half-hour drive from Ohrid. The main attraction of this village are the springs on the eastern slope of Mount Jablanica. Due to this location, they are located at an altitude between 900 and 1,600 meters above sea level.

Spend some time at the beaches

Don’t expect long stretches of white sandy beaches on Lake Ohrid like you might be used to from the Spanish Costa; the charm of a holiday on Lake Ohrid lies in the small scale. You will find cozy (pebble) beaches spread along the banks of the lake, where you do not have to be afraid of massive crowds. One of the most beautiful beaches can be found near Ljubanista. It is a long pebble beach enclosed with clear water, and if you linger a little longer, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Prefer an active holiday?

The surroundings of Lake Ohrid are ideal for an active holiday. The water sports options are almost endless on Lake Ohrid! You can take a quiet boat trip or go fishing for an afternoon. But also scuba diving or kayaking is possible.

Enjoy Macedonian cuisine

During a holiday on Lake Ohrid, you can enjoy all the goodies that Macedonian cuisine has to offer. And that’s quite something! Due to its location, you will find influences from the Mediterranean and the Middle East, which has resulted in a varied cuisine. Some dishes you can find on the menus? Tava oriz, pindzur, pastrmajlija and tavce grace. It is up to you to discover what this is!

The Karaburun Peninsula: A Suggestive Delight

The 11 Most Beautiful Beaches in Albania

8 Best Shopping Places in Albania

11 Best Things to Do in Albania

9 Best Things to Do in Korca (Albania)

8 Best Places to Visit in Albania in Summer

Ohrid Tourist Association

Welcome to ohrid, the town of culture and the cultural-historical heritage….

Ohrid City Tour Our mission is promoting of Ohrid like tourist destination in the Republic of Macedonia and with Our Tourist Information office providing of informations necessary for the tourists who are visiting Ohrid city and area. Informations about accomodation, informations about history,…

Explore Ohrid Ohrid is a city on the eastern shore of Lake Ohrid in the Republic of Macedonia. It has about 42,000 inhabitants, making it the seventh largest city in the country. The city is rich in picturesque houses, monuments, and dominant…

National Park Galicica In the National Park Galicica we are promoting several activities and they are: Promotion of Hiking Tour quiding in the National park to the point from where it is posible to see both lakes Ohrid and Prespa lake Promotion of…

Archeo Park Raica Monastery a Roman bath 2 sent.a.c . and early Christian basilica 6 sent, a.c.

The historic towns and places strive to be dunamic centres of regional economic development and attract cultural tourism visitors, where tourist’s may combine their stay with variety of activities, visiting places of historical and cultural interest.

The history of Ohrid Tourist Association Biljana

Tourist Association Biljana is a re-eastblished subject in the field of tourism and hotel services, that exists since 1970. The spectrum of activities of our association is large and wide. Because of that we will present you a small part…

IMAGES

Ohrid City Tour with Guide
OHRID TOURIST GUIDE
Ohrid. Tourist guide
Ohrid 2021 : Les 10 meilleures visites et activités (avec photos
Ohrid Travel Guide
Ohrid Travel Guide

VIDEO

Ohrid, Struga, Belcista i Globocica 1968 god III del ( palmkd )
Ohrid
Ohrid mountains + city
Ohrid 歐西湖(奧赫里德)
(Sveti Naum) Monastery St.Naum of Ohrid Lake North Macedonia Cruise from Ohrid 4K
Lake Ohrid #travel #europe #lakeohrid #ohrid #shorts #shortsfeed

COMMENTS

Ohrid travel
Sublime Ohrid is North Macedonia's most seductive destination. It sits on the edge of serene Lake Ohrid, with an atmospheric old quarter that cascades down steep streets, dotted with beautiful churches and topped by the bones of a medieval castle. Traditional restaurants and lakeside cafes liven up the cobblestone streets, which in high summer ...
How to Spend the Perfect 72 Hours in Ohrid, North Macedonia
That's when Tsar Samuel restored an old fortress dating back to 4th century BC, resulting in Samuel's Fortress as we know it today. Although it's no longer the stronghold it once was, Samuel's Fortress is still worth a visit. At the time of our visit in 2022, the entrance fee was 120 MKD (around £1.70 / €2).
18 TOP Things to Do in Ohrid → From a Local's Perspective
Party at Gradishte Beach, Ohrid's youthful hotspot. 14. Unearth mysteries at the intriguing Bay of Bones. 15. Embrace lakeside bliss in the hidden gem of Trpejca. 16. Catch a boat to Holy Mother of God Zahumska. 17. Soar above Ohrid's skyline on a paragliding adventure.
The Ultimate Guide to the Very Best Things to Do in Ohrid!
St. Clement of Ohrid, St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid 6000. For amazing burek, dont miss the Ohrid City Bakery. They also serve decent coffee here. Boulevard Turistichka 47, Ohrid 6000. La Terrasse Cafe is a nice spot to relax with a coffee. It is near the old Bazaar so its great for watching the world go by. St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid, North Macedonia
Lake Ohrid Macedonia Ultimate Travel Guide and Itinerary
This Lake Ohrid, Macedonia ultimate travel guide will share day-trip ideas, offer budget-savvy tips and provide contact information for locals to help you plan your next holiday to this fantastic region. The mountainous landscape and turquoise waters make Lake Ohrid an idyllic holiday destination. Macedonia has been keeping a secret from the ...
The Ultimate Ohrid Travel Guide
Ohrid Travel Guide - Captivating visitors with its timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage. Ohrid is recognized as both a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes. The city's medieval old town, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture, is a treasure trove of historic sites, including ...
Visit Lake Ohrid in Macedonia With This Complete Guide
To get to Lake Ohrid from Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, it's much easier. Simply check this timetable and then go to the Skopje bus station for the one that suits you best. The bus ride is a bit over 3 hours long and costs 520 denars / about 10 usd. To get to Lake Ohrid from Tirana, you can buy a bus ticket on the route that eventually ...
10 Best Things To Do in Ohrid: A One-Day Itinerary
Old City House - This cosy guesthouse is located 300 metres from the beach in Ohrid. They have a number of air-conditioned rooms along with a kitchen for guest use and a lovely terrace to enjoy. Villa Jordan - This 4-star hotel overlooking Lake Ohrid is perfect for those after an upmarket stay.
A Guide to Ohrid: Macedonia's Lakeside City of Light
The historical town of Ohrid is North Macedonia's most popular tourism hotspot. Situated along a hill at the edge of Lake Ohrid, few other cities in the region can rival its picturesque setting. While Ohrid's main appeal is taking things slow and soaking up the atmosphere, the town is home to historical churches, an ancient fortress and ...
BEST Things To Do in Ohrid, Europe's Hidden Gem
Facebook. This entry was posted in Budget Travel, Hidden Gems, Macedonia, Travel Guides and tagged boat tour, cathedral, lake, old town. Top 10 best things to do in Lake Ohrid, Europe's hidden secret. 1). Church of St. John at Kaneo 2). Tsar Samuel's Fortress 3). See the Ancient Theatre.
Ohrid
1 Ohrid "St. Paul the Apostle" International Airport (OHD IATA), P.FAH 134 6000, Ohrid 6000 (about 7 km from city centre), ☏ +389 46 252 820, +389 46 25 28 30, [email protected]. The airport is open year-round but most airlines only fly during the summer, so check with your travel agent or airline for most current information.
16 Wonderful Things to Do in Ohrid
4. Church of Saint Sophia. With Ohrid's more famous church on the waterfront stealing the spotlight, the Church of Saint Sophia is vastly underrated. The church's marvellous architecture, peaceful surrounding garden, and its grand presence are a highlight of Ohrid's Old Town.
Ohrid
From the iconic Ohrid Lake to ancient ruins and vibrant local markets, this travel guide invites you to explore the hidden gems that make Ohrid a must-visit destination. Join us as we unravel the timeless beauty of Ohrid, where every corner tells a story, and the past seamlessly merges with the present, creating an unforgettable experience for ...
Your Everything-To-Know Guide To Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia
Gradishte beach, Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia. The color of the water is incredible, and to get the best views of the bays, walk up to the small hill on the southern peninsula of the campground, and take your seat on one of the benches. And enjoy one of the best lake views in North Macedonia. Also, Gradishte beach was the only Lake Ohrid beach ...
Things to do in Ohrid (My favourite Town in All of the Balkans!)
In this travel guide you will find a complete list of all the awesome things to do in Ohrid and why Ohrid must be on your Balkan itinerary. Top 7 Things to do in Ohrid: Famous Saint John at Kaneo; ... I hope you enjoyed this Ohrid travel guide and you will love it as much as I did!
Ohrid Travel Guide
Ohrid in July. Estimated hotel price. $27. 1 night at 3-star hotel. The best time to visit Ohrid is from June to October when the weather is good, and rainfall is at its minimum. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 0°F 15°F 30°F 45°F 60°F 75°F.
Lake Ohrid travel
Lake Ohrid. North Macedonia, Europe. Lake Ohrid, in its vastness and mystery, is a monumentally seductive attraction. Mirrorlike and dazzling on sunny days, it's a truly beautiful place - especially in and around the ancient town of Ohrid, with its cobbled streets, distinctive architecture, city beach and lakefront bars. 01 / Attractions.
Discover Ohrid
ABOUT APP. Discover Ohrid is the first interactive offline travel guide created to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Ohrid and ensure visitors discover its history and natural treasures to its fullest. We have mapped over 30 cultural landmarks included in 6 voice guided cultural heritage trails that will immerse you in the spirit of ...
Plan Your Trip to Ohrid: Best of Ohrid Tourism
Private day tour of Ohrid North Macedonia from Tirana. 21. from $158 per adult. One day tour to Ohrid and Ohrid lake from Skopje. 5. from $57 per adult. Highlights of North Macedonia & Kosovo in 2 days. 4. from $488 per adult.
Lake Ohrid: The Ultimate Travel Guide
A bus from Skopje to Lake Ohrid takes about 3.5 hours and costs around 520 MKD ($9.40). Buses run every couple of hours from Skopje. The bus station at Ohrid is outside of the old town (30 minute walk). A taxi in should cost around 120 MKD ($2) - always agree on a price before getting into the taxi.
9 Things to Do in Lake Ohrid
Other things to do in Ohrid include enjoying a city walk past the antique amphitheater, a visit toSt. Clemens monastery and the Sveti Jovan Kaneo. This beautiful church is built on a hill with a beautiful view over the lake. Or climb the mountain of Ohrid. At the top is the ruin of Fort Samuel.
Ohrid Tourist Association
visitors, where tourist's may combine their stay with variety of activities, visiting places of historical and cultural interest. nikolakiselinovbozdoganov 26/01/2019 04/06/2023 Projects

The Ultimate Guide to the Very Best Things to Do in Ohrid!

The Best Things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia

Where is Ohrid

How to get there

Is Ohrid worth Visiting?

Things to Do in Ohrid

Explore Lake Ohrid

Go Hiking in Ohrid

Discover the Old Bazaar

Marvel at the Beautiful Churches and Mosques

Perform at the Greek Amphitheatre

Take in some History at Samoil’s Fortress

Where to eat in Ohrid

When to visit Ohrid

Where to stay in Ohrid

How long to stay in the “Pearl of the Balkans”

How expensive is Ohrid

Is Ohrid Safe?

What to Pack for a Trip to Ohrid

The Language in North Macedonia

Where to go next

The Best Things to Do in Ohrid

We would love to hear what you think! Cancel reply

Lake Ohrid Macedonia Ultimate Travel Guide and Itinerary

Where to Stay in Ohrid

Most Popular Tours in Ohrid

Best Day Trips in Lake Ohrid

Beach, Boat, and St. Naum Monastery

St. Naum Spring

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking Around Lake Ohrid

Villa Minami

Best Hiking Guide in Lake Ohrid

Biking Around Lake Ohrid

Exploring Ohrid’s Old Town and City Center

Samuel’s Fortress

Amphitheater

1,000-Year-Old Tree

National Workshop for Homemade Paper

Church of St. John at Kaneo

Bay of Bones

Best Restaurants in Lake Ohrid

Fish House Kaneo

Best Cheap Eats in Ohrid

Spicy Sausage Pita

TRAVEL TIPS

Share this:

Similar Posts

Best Travel Tech to Take on Your Adventures Abroad in 2024

Things to Do in East London: Stadiums, Museums, Bagels

Travel And Learning: Why Ray Bradbury Literature Is Important In Exchange Programs

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

The Ultimate Ohrid Travel Guide

Ohrid is great for…

Ohrid Transport Links

Things to do in Ohrid

Ohrid Old Town

Ohrid Lake Promenade

Samuel’s Fortress

Saint Naum Monastery

Church of St. John at Kaneo

Ohrid Amphitheater

Plaoshnik Archaeological Site

Icon Gallery

Ohrid Bazaar

Water Activities

Bay of Bones Museum

Beach Labino

Galicica National Park

Day Trip to Struga

Sunset Cruise on Lake Ohrid

Try Macedonian Cuisine

Upcoming events

may 24-26, 2024

JUL – AUG 2024

JUL 27 – AUG 1, 2024

Visit Lake Ohrid in Macedonia With This Complete Guide

How to Get to Lake Ohrid

What to Do When You Visit Lake Ohrid

Chill on the Water