where to visit macedonia

21 Mind-Blowing Places to Visit in Macedonia

Macedonia is one of the least-traveled countries in Europe (less than fifteen thousand American, Brits, and Canadians visit here annually – combined!). Yet, this mountainous, landlocked country has so much to offer! There are quirky cities, gorgeous villages, interesting historic sites, majestic lakes, and beautiful mountains. And while some of the most beautiful places to visit in Macedonia rival those anywhere in the world, you’ll pay a fraction of what you would for a trip to similar spots in western Europe or even Croatia or Slovenia .

So whether you’re backpacking the Balkans or you’re just looking for a quick city break , don’t make the same mistake most travelers do and just hit Skopje or Ohrid. There are far too many unexpected and wonderful places to visit in Macedonia to give this country short shrift. 

A note about Macedonia versus North Macedonia: This article is about planning a trip to North Macedonia (the country) and not the region of Greece called Macedonia. However, the name “North Macedonia” is not commonly used yet, so we will simply by substituting the name Macedonia in places. This is not a political statement; we are merely trying to help those looking for information about the country find it easily. Political comments will be deleted. 

The Best Places to Visit in Macedonia

From small fishing villages to resort towns to interesting historic sites, these are our picks for the best places to visit in Macedonia.

Most trips to Macedonia will start in Skopje, either landing at the airport or grabbing a bus  from Sofia , Tirana, or Greece. Visitors will find that there are fantastic things to do here, but the real joy is simply strolling the quirky streets and enjoying the juxtaposition of the city’s delightfully slow pace with its urban atmosphere. Highlights include visits to the Old Bazaar, Skopje Fortress, and the stone bridge. Don’t forget to check out the city’s decidedly strange architecture!

Skopje is also a great place to base yourself to visit a few of the other spots on this list, so if you’re the kind of traveler who likes to spend a week or two in a place, you can use Skopje to explore the greater region on day trips. 

The Jerusalem of the Balkans, many people have heard of Ohrid as an important cultural and religious city. But this UNESCO World Heritage Site is worth visiting for so many reasons. Yes, it is full of beautiful churches and monasteries, including the picture-perfect St. John at Kaneo , but it’s also just a fabulous lakeside town. Here you can mix your summer fun with cultural pursuits, making Ohrid the perfect all-around vacation destination.

Give yourself time to tour the churches, but don’t skip on time on the water. No trip here is complete without getting in a boat! You can go on a quick sunset cruise, or you can take an entire day trip on the water visiting some of the other villages on the lake (several of which are listed below). 

Matka Canyon

The most popular day trip from Skopje, though you can also choose to stay at Matka Canyon for a few days at the local hotel. Easily reachable by taxi, bus, or car, you simply have no excuse not to take in this beautiful Macedonian natural wonder while in the city.

Matka Canyon is beloved by hiking enthusiasts, spelunkers, and photographers of all levels. While here you can go for a boat ride, visit the monasteries, swim, kayak, hike, or visit one of the caves. 

Located in the southern part of North Macedonia near the border with Greece, Bitola is the country’s second largest city. Yet it receives a fraction of the tourists of Skopje or Ohrid, so it has a decidedly off-the-path feel. Start your time here in Magnolia Square underneath the clocktower, before making your way through the city’s important religious sites. 

You don’t come to a sleepy Bitola to rush, so take your time by enjoying the local cafe scene on Sirok Sokak, the city’s main pedestrian drag. Visit the city’s Old Bazaar and the covered market, where you can get your  Macedonian shopping fix.

Mavrovo National Park

While Lake Ohrid attracts international travelers, the rest of Macedonia’s natural wonders are far less known outside of the country. Yet Mavrovo National Park is home to the country’s highest mountain (Mount Korab), the best ski resort (Zare Lazareski), and one of the country’s most beloved festivals (the Galičnik Wedding Festival). So if you’re looking for somewhere that offers interesting culture and beautiful nature year-round, look no further.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll want to make a visit to the twin villages of Janče and Galičnik, which have become something of a culinary mecca in Mavrovo and across Macedonia. 

The town of Trpejca on Lake Ohrid has earned the nickname of the Macedonian Saint-Tropez as tourists have increasingly set their sights on visiting this tiny yet glamorous former fishing village.

Most hotels here are actually guest houses run by locals who open their homes to the numerous tourists during the high season and return to regular life during the rest of the year. While here, you can indulge in swimming, snorkeling, boating, and soaking up the sun on the shore. It has a reputation as having the cleanest swimming water on the lake, and Instagrammers adore the photogenic rocks standing out in the water.

You can visit as a day trip from Ohrid or you can base yourself here for a few days of total relaxation. 

Kokino Observatory 

Located in the northern part of the country near the Serbian border, the four-thousand-year-old Kokino Observatory is an ancient megalithic site that Bronze Age peoples used to track the patterns of the sun and moon. Avid photographers will love the opportunity for astrophotography looking up at the same sites that men and women have been tracking for thousands of years: 

Four massive stone thrones, facing the direction of the east, make up the lower platform. The higher platform consists of markers carved into malleable andesite rocks, that indicated significant astronomical events like the summer and winter solstices, as well as the spring and autumn equinoxes.   While seated on the thrones, particularly the second one, the exact movement of light during these days could be seen. The most powerful member of the community usually took his place on this special seat, and observed the light that streamed through the carved markers, and soaked in the energy of the sun. Rituals based on these solar changes were held at the observatory.  

The Bay of Bones

The Bay of Bones is a unique experience in Macedonia. This overwater museum on Lake Ohrid is an authentic reproduction of a pile-dwelling settlement, so visitors can see how men and women lived here in the first millennium BC. There’s also a reconstructed ancient Roman military fortress up on the hill nearby. Both can easily be visited from Ohrid or the other lake villages by boat.

Situated in the crater of an extinct volcano, the museum city of Kratovo is famous for its six stone towers and its picturesque nineteenth-century architecture. Other can’t-misses in the city are the medieval bridges, including Rada’s Bridge, and the city’s underground tunnels.

If you visit Kratovo as a day trip from Skopje, make sure to pair it with a stop at the nearby Kuklika Stone Dolls. This natural wonder is a set of stone pillars, which legend has it that each pillar is a member of a wedding party put under a curse by a scorned bride.

The city of Tetovo has an Albanian majority, so while here you’ll see the city’s interesting mosques including its most famous, the painted Sarena Mosque. You’ll also want to set aside time to see Tetovo Art Gallery, located in the former bathhouse, the city’s beautiful churches, and the beautiful stone bridge.

If you come to Tetovo as a day trip from Skopje, pair your visit with a stop at the nearby fourteenth-century Monastery of Leshok. 

Stobi Archaelogical Site

The most famous archaeological site in North Macedonia, Stobi is located in the middle of the country, almost equidistant from Skopje and Bitola. Stobi served as the capital of the ancient Roman Provence of Macedonia Secunda, and it continued to play this important role during the early Byzantine Empire. 

While here, make sure to see the famous theater, the beautiful baptismal font, and the detailed mosaics.

Snake Island

The island of Golem Grad in Lake Prespa is better known by its more imaginative nickname, Snake Island. Visits here start from the villages of Konjsko or Stenje, where you can take a two-kilometer boat ride to the island (though you can visit from any point on Lake Prespa if you happen to have access to a private boat…).

Why the name snake island? Well, yes, it’s because there are quite a few snakes on the island:

The alternative name of Golem Grad is ‘The Island of Snakes.’ Upon arrival on the island itself, make sure that the first tree which you’ll see (and there are many) will be decorated with thin snakes that hang on the dry branches. The first ones are friendly and are not poisonous – beloushki (grass snakes) and they live in the rocks and by the water.   The second type…Well,  you may be amazed, excited or terrified – it depends on how willing you are to encounter horned vipers having a party on the island. Yes, they are everywhere. Yes, they are poisonous. These magnificent guards protect the place from the top of the island.

While here, make sure to stop by the grave of Tsar Samuil, the ruined church, and the flocks of pelicans who live here during the season.

Pelister National Park

Located about an hour outside of Bitola, Pelister National Park is the second largest national park in the country. The most famous landmarks here are the two mountain lakes known as Pelister’s Eyes.

Visitor’s come for the spectacular views, hiking, camping, rock climbing, and horseback riding. So basically Pelister National Park is an outdoor paradise.

Heraclea Lynkestis

Located just outside of Bitola, Heraclea Lyncestis was founded by King Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great. The ruins here are one of the last remaining ties between the ancient and modern Macedonian cultures. 

While here, there are many important landmarks to see:

Beautiful Roman baths, the Episcopal church and baptistery, a Jewish temple, portico and a Roman theater now used for summer concerts and theater performances, all stand proud in excellent condition.   The Roman theater on the hill, who’s ruins where unearthed in the late 1960’s, was constructed during Emperor Hadrian’s 20-year reign (A.D. 117-138). He is credited with building as well as restoring many structures in the province of Macedonia. It was not until after his death that the theater came into use. Artifacts found at the site indicate that it was primarily used to stage gladiator fights until the late 4th century, when such fighting was banned throughout the Empire.   There is a small museum on the grounds with few artifacts and a nice scale model of the city at its peak.

Radožda 

Located on Lake Ohrid just two kilometers from the Albanian border, the village of Radožda is over a thousand years old. Besides soaking in the sun and enjoying the peaceful village setting, you can tour the seven churches in the village. On Easter, the townspeople set out to visit each one, but the most famous is the cave church of St. Archangel Mihail from the fourteenth century. 

Galičica National Park 

Named after Galičica Mountain, which straddles the border between Macedonia and Albania, Galičica National Park is on the Macedonian side of the mountain and covers the area between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. 

If you get high enough on the mountain you can see both lakes simultaneously (and even grab a photo of both). The panoramic views from here are just breathtaking and more than worth the effort of getting this high.

An easy day trip from Bitola, the village of Prilep (which also encompasses the former village of Varoš) is famous for its namesake tobacco. 

After you arrive, start with the clocktower which is the most famous spot in the city. Make sure to see the Monastery of Treskavec and the Carshi Mosque and spend time exploring Varoš with its beautiful Ottoman architecture.

Hiking and history lovers should visit the nearby medieval fortress of Markovi Kuli. 

Completely off the tourist path, Kruševo is a great mix of museum town and decay. The colorful houses come to life when the sun is shining, spread across the hilly village.

Spomenik hunters need to put this place on their Macedonian itinerary since it’s home to one of the most unique Yugoslav Memorials. Makedonium, also called the Ilinden Monument, is located on Gumenja Hill and is dedicated to those who fought for Macedonian independence from the Ottoman Turks and during World War II.

Monastery of St. Naum

A popular day trip from Ohrid, the Monastery of St. Naum (Manastir Sveti Naum) is situated on the shore of the lake near the Albanian border. Yet the church is important for more than just its beautiful setting:

This is one of the first monuments of Slavic church architecture, built duringByzantinee times.   The central part of the monastery complex is the church of the Holy Archangels, and it is the most captivating building in the entire region. Surrounded by tall cypresses, traditional buildings and stone walls, it is nicely secluded…   The interior of the church is well known for its characteristic wood craving, which is very old, dating back from the 17 th and 18 th century. Inside the church, the icon of the holy Assumption of St. Naum is still there, representing the oldest item of the theme.   The core of the monastery complex is a lush and serene garden, with fountain streams and colorful peacocks. An attraction on its own, these birds are a popular highlight of the entire region as well.

By Reklam-net, CC BY-SA 3.0 , Link

About an hour away from Ohrid by taxi, the trip out to Recica is an easy one. Once here you’ll find a “village” with only one resident and no stores. But the highlight here isn’t the people watching or the shopping, rather you come here to see one of the most unique sites in the Balkans: the natural laundry!

The laundry here is done using a vortex in the river which agitates the clothing the way a washing machine does. Afterward, the laundry is hung up to dry, so you’ll find a field full of laundry hanging in the sun.

You won’t find a more unique day trip from Ohrid or any other city in the Balkans, so make sure to make time to see this cultural site!

Šar Mountain (Sharra Mountain)

Located an hour and a half from Skopje on the border with Kosovo, Shar Mountain is a popular ski resort and hiking spot.  The mountain is covered in glacial lakes, called Sharplaninski Ochi in Macedonian. Dog lovers will be excited to see the Shara Mountain Sheepdog, also known as the Sharplaninec, a local dog breed endemic to the mountain.

Foodies should make sure to check out the local cheeses, made from sheep’s milk, and other local dairy products. 

Macedonia Travel Resources

Headed to Macedonia? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip. First read our guide to planning a trip to Macedonia , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more. We also have a Balkan currency guide which explains how money works in Macedonia and local tipping customs.

Next, you’ll want to read our guide to shopping in Macedonia so you know which souvenirs are truly local gems.

If this will be one of your first trips in the Balkans, check out our massive list of things to know before traveling the Balkans  as well as our Balkan bus ,  road trip , and itinerary guides. 

For more information about traveling to Macedonia and the Balkans, check out our North Macedonia and Balkan  travel pages. 

Finally, Make Sure You Come to Macedonia with Travel Insurance

I’m sure you’re aware that  travel insurance  is essential for Macedonia and for travel in general! Allison and I have both been paying customers of  World Nomads  for the last two years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption.

While Macedonia is perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel, so it’s better to play it safe. The saying goes “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel” is true!

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin this Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Macedonia for Your Trip

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

Related posts

Omg! I need to go back to Macedonia! I only spend a week there, and there’s so much to see! I’ll save this post to plan the next trip ❤️

It’s insane how much there is in this tiny country! We live next door and we still haven’t seen it all after many visits <3

Thanks for sharing your amazing experience. Macedonia is indeed a lovely country that I would love to explore next time. I am going to bookmark this post as a useful source for my next trip!

We adore North Macedonia! I hope you get to visit soon!

Was a nice experience I agree its worth visiting. Been there last August and going back in November👍👍👍

So glad you enjoyed your visit to North Macedonia! Enjoy your return trip!

Such a beautiful country! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide! Saved your post for the future 🙂

Yes, North Macedonia is beautiful!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

New on Sofia Adventures:

• How to Spend a Magical One Day in Istanbul: Mini Itinerary
• 30 Insanely Delicious Greek Street Foods You Need to Try
• 13 Things That EXIT Music Festival Visitors Should Know

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Macedonia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on October 3, 2023

A fascinating country to explore that is still very much off the beaten path, Macedonia is blessed with incredible natural beauty and an intoxicating mix of cultures that draws on both Balkan and Mediterranean influences. Ruled at various times by the Romans, Ottomans, Serbs, and Soviets, there are a wealth of historic sites dotted around the country.

Among the best places to visit in Macedonia are old monasteries and hilltop fortresses. Mosques, Orthodox churches, and amazing archaeological ruins are also prevalent, and many of its cities have delightful Old Bazaars at their heart which date back to Ottoman times.

Map of the best places in Macedonia

Its mountainous landscape is home to glittering lakes and tinkling waterfalls and its three national parks are full of beautiful hiking trails that weave their way amongst the verdant hills and valleys. With its often turbulent past now behind it, Macedonia’s wealth of stunning tourist attractions makes it a fantastic, little-known destination that has a plethora of amazing things to see and do.

10. Strumica [SEE MAP]

Famed for the beautiful Byzantine monasteries lying just outside of the city, Strumica is located in the east of Macedonia. The surrounding countryside is full of magical waterfalls and mountains.

A quiet and relaxed city, Strumica is home to some lovely ruins and archaeological sites, such as the Roman Therma and the Carevi Kuli Fortress dates back to the 5th century.

While many people simply stop by on their way to the nearby border crossing into Bulgaria , the stunning countryside, historic sights, and the glittering Kolesino and Smolare waterfalls certainly warrant a longer stay. The best time of year to visit is during the Strumica Carnival, when the whole city comes together to celebrate, with various parades, music and traditional events taking place.

9. Prilep [SEE MAP]

Located beneath a bare hill adorned with the ruins of an old fortress, Prilep is full of history. It was once the ruling seat of a medieval kingdom; as such, there are lots of fantastic churches and monasteries scattered around.

Hiking up to the 10th-century fortress is a must when in Prilep for the breathtaking views it offers of the city down below. On the way, you’ll pass lots of strange and marvelous rock formations, such as the intriguing Stone Elephant.

A peaceful, laidback place, strolling around Prilep’s Old Bazaar is a lovely way to spend the day. The city’s numerous churches all have their own characteristics and distinctive features. The Sv. Blagoveshstenie Church is the undoubted highlight with its delightful galleries and woodcarvings.

8. Mavrovo National Park [SEE MAP]

The largest national park in the country, Mavrovo has loads to offer outdoor aficionados. Over the course of the year, you can explore its splendid scenery by horseback, kayak or skis, as well as on foot or via mountain bike.

Named after the scenic village located in the park, Mavrovo is home to the country’s largest artificial lake. While taking a boat trip on its tranquil waters, you’ll get to see the half-submerged St. Nicholas Church, a truly breathtaking sight.

With its wonderful natural beauty, Mavrovo is a lovely park to visit. Because it is home to the country’s highest peaks, there is plenty of great rock climbing and skiing to be had in winter, and the views on offer are spectacular.

7. Tikves Wine Region [SEE MAP]

Renowned for the fabulous wine it produces, Tikves’ undulating hills and valleys are home to fertile soils and the warm climate makes it perfect for cultivating grapes.

Wine has been produced here since the 4th century BC. The peaceful scenery is charming to tour around while stopping off at picturesque, quaint wineries and vineyards to taste the local produce.

In addition to the fabulous wine and scenery, Tikves Wine Region also has a number of churches, lakes and dramatic gorges for you to stop off at on the way to your next winery.

6. Pelister National Park [SEE MAP]

Established in 1948, Pelister National Park is a mountainous area which covers the Baba Mountain massif. The reserve is home to a host of endemic animals, among which are bears, wolves, and soaring eagles.

The oldest national park in the country, Pelister is home to two stunning glacial lakes which are nestled away amidst its towering peaks. These are delightfully known as Pelister’s Eyes.

With loads of diverse nature on show and a plethora of hiking trails twisting their way amongst the valleys and forests, Pelister is a joy to explore. The views from atop of Mount Pelister will take your breath away – if the hike hasn’t already. In addition to all of this, you can camp in the park or go skiing, depending on the time of year.

5. Bitola [SEE MAP]

Located not far from the border with Greece in the south of Macedonia, Bitola is the second largest city in the country. It is full of beautiful old buildings, delightful art galleries and a plethora of welcoming and friendly cafes.

Very much off the beaten path, Bitola is located amongst three different mountain ranges. As such, there is lovely scenery on show, as well as scenic walks amongst the verdant hills and mountains surrounding the city.

In town, visitors will find elegant, pastel-colored townhouses alongside beautiful mosques and churches, while the Old Bazaar dating to Ottoman times is a delightful place to grab a coffee and people watch. With a lively cultural scene, lots of festivals take place here over the year. Among the museums, the Museum of Bitola is particularly worth checking out; it provides a fascinating look at the city’s history and culture.

Founded in the 4th century BC, Bitola is one of the best places to visit in Macedonia. Just out of town are the amazing archaeological ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis, which are not to be missed. The Roman site is home to some splendid floor mosaics and the ruins of Roman baths.

4. Galicica National Park [SEE MAP]

Located between Lakes Ohrid and Prespa, the stunning Galicica National Park is a wild and wonderful place to visit. Hiking amongst the unspoiled and untouched valleys, forests and mountains will certainly delight nature lovers.

Dominated by the Galicica limestone massif that lies between the two lakes, the national park is home to a number of lofty peaks. From their summits are some breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

With picturesque little mountain villages, an abundance of fantastic fauna and flora, and a diverse landscape that encompasses lakes, mountains and valleys, Galicica National Park’s natural beauty is well worth checking out when in Macedonia.

3. Skopje [SEE MAP]

Macedonia’s capital is an intriguing and interesting place to visit, in large part due to its eclectic architectural collection that includes beautiful Ottoman-era mosques, enormous Neoclassical buildings, and a huge array of gleaming, modern statues.

Inhabited for over six thousand years and ruled by countless empires and kingdoms, Skopje certainly has its fair share of historic sights. Among the most popular are the impressive 6th century Kale Fortress and the Stone Bridge, which both feature on the city’s coat of arms. Wandering around the Skopje’s atmospheric Old Bazaar will make you feel like you’re in the souks of old Istanbul.

Alongside its wealth of restaurants, shops, museums, and cafes, Skopje also has some great nightlife to offer, which revolves around the city’s main square. The square is home to the Porta Macedonia, a huge triumphal arch that celebrates twenty years of Macedonian independence. Lovely views and scenery are also on hand from the top of Mount Vodno that looms over Skopje to its southwest; it is adorned by the towering Millennium Cross, which is now a popular tourist attraction.

Located on the banks of the Vardar River, Skopje is certainly worth visiting when in Macedonia. While critics say it now has a theme park feel to it due to the recent proliferation of nationalistic and, at times, tacky monuments and statues, there is much to see and do of interest in this unique city.

2. Ohrid [SEE MAP]

Sometimes known as ‘the Jerusalem of the Balkans,’ as it was once home to 365 churches, Ohrid is a very historic town that is among the most beautiful and atmospheric in Macedonia.

Wandering around its old cobbled streets is a treat; you will pass by some delightful architecture and its quaint little restaurants and cafes make for a perfect stop when you feel like taking a break to watch the world go by. Among its most popular attractions is the captivating Samuil’s Fortress which overlooks the town, and the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon – one of the most impressive of the numerous churches in Ohrid.

What really sets Ohrid apart, however, is its beautiful location on the shores of Lake Ohrid. The town is blessed with numerous breathtaking views out over the turquoise waters. As well as taking a scenic stroll along the town’s shoreside boardwalk, visitors should not miss out on Saint John at Kaneo Church for the incredible panoramas it has out over the lake.

1. Lake Ohrid [SEE MAP]

Lying on the border between Macedonia and Albania, Lake Ohrid is spectacular; its beautiful clear blue waters glisten in the sun surrounded by mountains. Tourists are only now slowly returning to its shores after the break-up of Yugoslavia in the ‘90s.

One of the deepest and oldest lakes in Europe, Lake Ohrid is a very important and biodiverse ecosystem. It is home to a vast array of species that are endemic to the area, such as predatory fish and freshwater snails.

Its weaving shoreline is just as picturesque as its mirror-like waters; quaint villages and towns such as Ohrid and Struga are tucked away amongst glorious forests and alongside peaceful beaches. With loads of watersports, boat trips and swimming spots on offer to complement the incredible scenery, Lake Ohrid is one of the Balkans and Macedonia’s hidden gems.

Share this post:

15 Best Cities to Visit in Serbia

25 Most Photographed Cities in Europe

10 Best Places to Visit in Finland

10 Most Beautiful Lakes in Finland

6 Most Beautiful Regions in Finland

10 Best Places to Visit in Latvia

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria

25 Best Places to Visit in Europe

25 Best Cities to Visit in Europe

10 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

Reader interactions.

September 8, 2019 at 12:53 am

I went to skopje and it was wonderful in August, going back in November.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home » Travel Guides » Macedonia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Macedonia

15 Best Places to Visit in Macedonia

Although it’s easily accessible and comes complete with all the comforts of the Western world, the Republic of Macedonia is Europe’s best hidden treasure. The county is part Balkan, part Mediterranean and has been heavily influenced by Roman, Greek, Albanian, and Ottoman culture. It’s a stunning natural paradise with grand historic sites and ruins tucked into idyllic villages that haven’t seemed to change in centuries.

The surprising part is that you get all that, plus fully modern cities and luxuries right at your finger tips. It doesn’t seem that you could fit all that into one country, and maybe it’s because of its size that it gets overlooked.  Macedonia is a wonderful representation of the Balkans with a wide variety of influences and ethnicities, modern cities and beautiful countryside, where life moves at its own unique pace. Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Macedonia !

Skopje is most definitely Europe’s most eclectic capital city.  Efforts have been made, rather successfully, to bring infuse new culture in the form of museums, fountains, bridges, and statuary throughout the city.  The result is something grand that has come to symbolize a new national identity for all Macedonians.

The history still remains in places like Kameni Most (Stone Bridge), Sveti Spas Church, Tvrdina Kale Fortress, and the old Turkish bazaar Caršija. Be sure to check out the giant statue of Alexander the Great, commissioned to celebrate Macedonia’s 20th year of independence. The shopping and nightlife in Skopje are also something to experience – if this is what you’re looking for, head straight to Makedonija Street.

Bitola is an old Ottoman town once known as the “City of Consuls” because it served as a diplomatic centre for the region. Elegant and sophisticated are the best worlds to describe it. You’ll see colourful townhouses from the 18th century and Turkish mosques throughout.

The not-to-be missed and certainly often repeated experience is to sit along the Širok Sokak (Wide Street), sipping espresso, and watching everyone come and go. Bitola is the second largest city and is a favourite among Macedonians for its café culture and European atmosphere. Discover the Deboj Amam Turkish Bath (17th century), the Old Bazaar, Jeni Mosque, and Isak Beg Mosque (both 16th century).

Prilep is famous for a few unique things.  First, agriculturally speaking, it’s Macedonia’s tobacco capital.  Second, became known as “the city under Marko’s towers,” from when it was the medieval capital for Kings Marko and Volkasin – who populated the town with churches and monasteries.

Located in Western Macedonia Prilep has a distinctive landscape of huge rocks sparsely scattered at the base of a small hill.  At the top of the hill are the ruins of a medieval fortress.  The locals have a distinct flavour as well – which you can see in their humour and their dedication to preserving their traditions.

Though it only has 10,000 citizens, Kruševo was once its own republic. Macedonians equate the town with the centuries-long struggle to win independence from the Ottoman Empire. During the last revolution, as it looked like Macedonia might be successful, Kruševo experienced ten days of freedom before a massive Ottoman army burned the town and martyred national heroes like Pitu Guli and Nikola Karev, who led the revolution.

You can visit Mechkin Kaman and Makedonim, two monuments built to commemorate the uprising. As you explore the town you’ll learn the many reasons why August 2 is an important date throughout the country and such an intense point of pride. Nestled in the Baba Mountains, Kruševo features incredible architecture and several monasteries and churches worth visiting.

5. National Park Mavrovo

The perfect place for skiing, National Park Mavrovo is Macedonia’s biggest winter resort, covering over 730 sq km of forests, gorges, waterfalls, and karst fields.  You can also see the country’s highest peak, Mt Korab, which stands at 2764m.  No matter what time of year you visit, the high-altitude fresh air and the staggering vistas are more than worth the trip.

Nature lovers can wander among the diverse fauna and flora and take a hike around Mavrovo Lake. Galichnik and Janche are two quaint villages nearby, as is St. Jovan Bigorski Monastery.

6. Pelister National Park

The oldest of the three great national parks is Pelister, located in western Macedonia near Bitola.  With nearby Mount Pelister (2600m), and eight other peaks that top 2000m, the vistas are a magnificent natural escape from daily life. The park is home to the five-needle pine molica – found on only a few mountains in the Balkan Peninsula – something all nature enthusiasts will love to see. There’s also roe deer, wolves, bears, chamois, eagles, partridges, and red billed jackdaws.

Pelister also has two wonderful mountain lakes, which the locals call Pelisterski Oci or Pelister’s Eyes, that offer great hiking opportunities like the Stone River – crushed rocks that form a path heading up the mountain slopes.

One of the most important archaeological sites in the country is found in Stobi.  First founded in the 7th century by the King of Paeonia, the city changed hands several times, from the Macedonians, to the Romans and Byzantines.

Strategically located along an old Roman trading route, Stobi quickly became a hub for traders travelling from the Danube in Serbia to the Aegean Sea in Greece.  The dig site is open every day and the town itself is just an hour drive from Skopje.

8. Gevgelija

Most likely the top tourist spot in all of Macedonia, sunny Gevgelija has a reputation for fun and big times.  It’s called the “Macedonian Las Vegas” because of the casinos, five star hotels, nightclubs, galleries, and concert venues.  There are lots of opportunities for exclusive entertainment here but the fun is meant for all.

If you need to step away from the black jack table or the buffet, Gevgelija offers Smrdliva Voda, a spa with sulphur baths and over 400 villas to choose from. Nature is also on full display here with a sublime climate and a pine and deciduous forest, there is a rich biodiversity here that makes the region special for all of India.

9. Povardarie

There are well over 24,000 hectares of vineyards in Macedonia, as well as an incredible 2000 year history of viticulture. Deep in the fertile Vardar River Valley lies Povardarie, whose wines are well known throughout the world. The most popular varieties are Vranec and Smederevka – so be sure to sample them when you visit.

In Povardarie there are three wineries that you must discover for yourself: Winery Tikves, Stobi Winery, and Popova Kula. Popova Kula Winery is regularly ranked at the finest winery in the country. They produce over 20 wines and offer cooking lessons, accommodation, and folklore shows.

10. Strumica

Strumica lies in Eastern Macedonia with a number of great attractions worth exploring. Enjoy hiking on Mt Belasica or head out to Smolare and Kolesino, two nearby waterfalls.

There are also some stunning monasteries, including tranquil Veljusa and Vodoca.  Both are Byzantine and still occupied by both monks and nuns.  Be sure to check out the incredible frescos at both. From there, head to St. Bogorodica Eleusa, built in the 11th century, the healing spa of the Roman Therma, as well as St Leontuis.

The largest town on Lake Ohrid, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ohrid has a remarkable history and heritage to share. At the top of the list are the frescoes inside Saint Sophia Church, the Ancient Theatre, St. Clement Church (13th century), and Tsar Samuel’s fortress – which has an unbelievable view over the city and lake.

The surrounding mountains reach upwards of 2800m, which means that Ohrid is not only culturally significant, but naturally breath-taking. It’s no stretch at all to say that Ohrid showcases the best of Macedonia. It’s a good idea to use the town as base camp to explore the lake as well as its many surrounding towns and monasteries. Just 30km away is St. Naum’s, one of the richest and oldest monasteries in the country.

A visit to Struga makes a great day trip from Ohrid. Nicknamed the “City of Poetry,” the town is relaxing and beautiful to stroll through.  The national anthem, “Denes nad Makedonija se raga,” was written by Vlado Maleski, a poet born in Struga. In fact, the first time the anthem was publically sung was in the town itself.

You’ll enjoy the lively market at the Old Bazaar, St. George Church, the Halveti Teke, and a walk down Goce Delcev Street where you can see some well-preserved traditional houses.

13. The Monastery of St. Naum

A 30 minute drive from Ohrid will take you to Sveti Naum, an impressive 10th century monastery which sits on a high outcropping over the lake. Most popular for its excellent frescos, it’s also a relaxing and rejuvenating place.  Some of the best religious paintings in all of the Balkans can be found here.

You’ll love the panoramic views of the lake and if you have time, the rowboat tour down the Drim River is highly recommended. Wrap up the day by popping over to one of the islands for dinner. Because it encompasses so much of what is phenomenal about Macedonia, this is the perfect place to end your tour.

14. Tikves Lake

Built in 1968, Tikves Lake is both the largest and oldest man-made lake in the country. It’s close to Kavadarci and makes the perfect Sunday afternoon family picnic spot.  Scuba diving, sailing, kayaking, and canoeing are all on offer – plus you can paraglide or mountain bike in the summer and ski and snow board in the winter.

If you like fishing, spend a morning trying to land the sheat-fish, which can grow to be over two metres long. The valley itself is so fertile that many orchards and vineyards dot the landscape.

15. Kumanovo

Outside of Skopje is Kumanovo.  It’s one of the larger cities in the country and has a fantastic blend of Macedonian and Serbian culture.  The Kumanovci are a feisty group and the town and outlying villages highlight the colourful multi-ethnic blend of Roman, Serbian, Albanian, and Turkish minorities.

Check out Kostoperka Karpa, a unique rock formation, the Church of St George, the monument to  Batko Gjorgjija – a local , legendary, and much loved bohemian.

15 Best Places to Visit in Macedonia:

• National Park Mavrovo
• Pelister National Park
• The Monastery of St. Naum
• Tikves Lake

28 Amazing Places to visit in Macedonia – Bucket List Ideas

Macedonia is probably one of the most fascinating but still underpublicized tourist destinations in Europe . You might not think there aren’t too many interesting places to visit in a country barely bigger than Vermont but you’d be wrong. Macedonia today is a melting pot of Persian, Roman, Ottoman, and Slavic cultures where most cities’ skyline is dominated by both, Orthodox Christian churches and mosques and where the omnipresent limestone-crusted mountains rise over the quiet countryside. There are many good reasons why should you visit this lovely country and hopefully, this article will show you some of them. Here are the 28 best places to visit in Macedonia.

Let’s start from the beginning:

Skopje, Not Your Typical European Capital

If you’re looking for places to visit Macedonia, the capital, Skopje , will probably be your first stop. Skopje will show you how Macedonians embraced a modern European way of living while still preserving their ancient past. There is no better example of this than the Stone Bridge, which connects the new, modern part of Skopje to the Old Ottoman Quarter , and crossing it will make you feel like traveling back in time.

Some other interesting sights include the Kale Fortress, Skopje’s own standing guard, the city square, Vodno Hill, and the Mother Teresa Memorial House (she was actually born in Skopje). While you’re here, you should also not miss…

The Deepest Underwater Cave In Europe

Stobi, The Ancient Capital

If you’re a fan of history and looking for places to visit in Macedonia, Stobi is always a great idea. Stobi was the capital of the Macedonia Secunda province during the Roman times. It was one of the most important ancient capitals in the region, lying on the route that connected the Danube River with the Aegean Sea. In just one hour driving away from Skopje and 120 denars (2 EUR), you can get an ultimate glimpse of history .

Shara, The Mountain Of Ice Lakes

Spreading across 80 kilometers, the Shar Mountain is the longest mountain massif in the country. It’s here that you’ll find some of the highest mountaintops in the country, with the highest one being Titov Vrv, named after Josip Broz Tito sitting on 2 748 meters. The massif also has a very diverse flora and fauna featuring over 100 species, including the very rare Balkan Lynx. The Shar Mountain is also home to probably the best skiing center- Popova Shapka and over 20 breathtaking ice lakes. If you’re looking for an ultimate winter paradise destination, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Gonoi, The “Beauty Cave”

Sunken Church And A Traditional Week-Long Wedding

When talking about places to visit in Macedonia, we have to mention Mavrovo; the largest National in Macedonia, spreading across 192,000 acres. It has an amazing nature and diverse wildlife and some of the most famous skiing resorts in Macedonia. Mavrovo Lake is another beautiful place that attracts a lot of photographers from around the country throughout the year.

Mavrovo also has its own underwater church which was flooded in 1953 when a severe earthquake damaged the dam containing the local lake. The church today is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the region. Another place to visit around Mavrovo is St. Jovan Bigorski, one of the most beautiful monasteries in the country that supposedly has a few pieces of the legendary cross Jesus was crucified in its foundation. Finally, while you’re here, don’t forget to visit Galicnik, one of the most beautiful small villages in Macedonia which is one of the last places where you can witness a traditional Macedonian wedding that lasts for 7 days. This happens every year in the month of July. Finally, if you want to get there, you’ll have to drive on arguably the most scenic road in the country!

Related: Unique wedding destinations

The Stunning Nature Of Lazaropole

These are two beautiful villages that many locals don’t know about. This whole area is so green that it will shock your senses. The lovely countryside parceled out in patches of green and brown, over roads and rivers winding through the landscapes always makes me wonder how there aren’t more tourists around. This is one of those places that will make you forget about your daily struggles and just enjoy nature as the gurgling waters of Gari River sing the hum of the turning earth.

If you want to get to places like this, the best option is to rent a car.  Use this link and save 15% on all car rentals the country.

A Cave That Resembles Lord Of The Rings

The most interesting part about Peshna is that familiar feeling you get when you go inside and turn around. If you’re struggling to remember, it’s Lord of the Rings . The New York Times described Peshna as identical to the imaginary caves in Lord of the Rings which obviously makes it a great candidate for our ultimate list of places to visit in Macedonia.

The Oldest Lake In Europe

No bucket list of the best places to visit in Macedonia is complete without a trip to Ohrid . This UNESCO World Heritage city is probably the best destination in Macedonia for a summer vacation. Ohrid also has the nickname The Jerusalem of the Balkan because, at one point in time, it had 365 churches- one for every day of the year.

The city is also home to Ohrid Lake- a 4 million years old lake that happens to be the oldest one in Europe . While you’re at Ohrid, you should visit the Kaneo Monastery, the Ancient Theatre, St. Clement- what was once arguably the oldest university in Europe, and the Samuel’s Fortress, where you can experience an amazing view of the city.

A Beautiful Monastery That Hangs Off A Cliff

Located around 25 kilometers away from Ohrid, this stunning monastery located on a rocky cliff near the Albanian border is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Macedonia. Here, you’ll enjoy some panoramic views of Lake Ohrid, find some 16th-century frescoes, and the grave of St. Naum, one of the most important people in Macedonia’s history. Read more about traveling to Albania .

The Bay Of Bones , A Replica Of Ancient Settlement

Roughly halfway between Ohrid and St. Naum, you’ll find the legendary museum on water, known as the Bay of Bones. This is actually a reconstruction of an ancient settlement that was built somewhere between 1200 and 700 BC according to information received by excavations conducted in the area.

The Galicica National Park & The Endangered Balkan Lynx

Spreading across an area of 25,000 acres, Galicica is the smallest National Park in Macedonia. If you’re lucky, you can see the endangered Balkan Lynx. There are 36 of them in Galicica and there are also small populations of bears and wolves. Galicica is home to arguably the most famous hiking trail in the country which leads to the top of the mountain, from where you can see the Ohrid Lake on your right, and the Prespa Lake on the left.

In my opinion, this is the most beautiful view in the whole country and personally, one of my favorite places to visit in Macedonia! No matter how many times I visit, I just can’t get enough of the peaceful atmosphere at the top.

A Village That’s 1,000 Years Old

This sleeping, charming fishing village is a place that not many locals know about. This is the closest inhabited place to the Albanian border. Hence, you’ll witness a rich culture with influences from both nations and you can even hop across the border if you fancy. This calm and picturesque village will give you a real taste of Macedonian rural life and history, as Radozda is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Macedonia. It was first mentioned in historical documents in 1342!

Trpejca, The St. Tropez Of Macedonia

Macedonia’s Very Own Snake Island

The Snake Island is one of the most unusual places to visit in Macedonia. It’s one of only few islands in a landlocked country in the world. On this island, you’ll find a lot of pelicans, turtles, and cormorants, as well as some endemic species of trees. However, what makes this island famous (and also a bit dangerous to visit) are snakes.

The island today is open for visitors and has been since 2008. However, the large presence of snakes, especially in their mating season makes it very difficult (and not so recommendable) to visit.

Bitola, The Second-Largest City Tourists Don’t Know About

Even though often underrated in terms of visitors , Bitola deserves a special mention when it comes to places to visit in Macedonia. Bitola is the second-largest city in Macedonia with a great all-around sampling of Macedonian culture, dining, and day trip options. Some places you can’t miss while in Bitola are the Magnolia Square, the Old Bazaar, and Sirok Sokak, Bitola’s very own Champs Elysees. While you’re around, you also shouldn’t miss…

And Another Ancient Capital

In the ancient world, Bitola was known as Heraclea, founded in the 4th century B.C. by Phillip the Second of Macedon. These fascinating ruins are only 2 kilometers away from the city and the archeological park is home to several buildings that are more than 3,500 years old! Another very notable attraction are the beautiful floor mosaics that depict religious imagery dating back to the Byzantine era.

Pelister And The Most Beautiful Mountain Lakes In The Country

Located around 30 kilometers away from Bitola, you will find Macedonia’s oldest national park, created in 1938. Pelister is widely famous for its diverse flora and fauna including the five-leafed Molika pine, Pelagonian trout, wild boars, wolves, deer, and eagles, as well as the breathtaking hiking trails. My favorite places in this National Park are the two glacial lakes, known as the Eyes of Pelister, situated on the highest point of the national park.

Krusevo, The Ultimate Paragliding Spot

See Exactly What Roman Baths Used To Look Like

Located around 12 kilometers away from Strumica, you’ll find Bansko- one of the largest hot water springs on the Balkan. These Roman baths have been around since the 2nd century BC and remain one of the last remnants of Roman times to be preserved in such great shape. The bath has 11 rooms, including rooms for the sick, massage rooms, and rooms for cold baths.

For the cheapest flights to Macedonia, use this Qatar Airways special offer .

Smolari, The Highest Waterfall In Macedonia

Also located near Strumica, Smolari is the tallest waterfall in Macedonia, rising above nearly 30 meters. The waterfall is a part of the Lomnica River and if you want to get there, you have to pass a trail that includes 300 stone steps. The beautiful nature surrounding the falls makes Smolari one of the hotspots for picnics and camping.

Kavadarci, The Wine Capital

Located in the heart of the country, Kavadarci might not be as pretty as some other places on this list but it’s one you have to visit because of two reasons. Wine and Rakija! I traveled to many places in the Balkan Peninsula and I can say that the best wine you can find in this region comes from Kavadarci. This alone should be a reason enough to visit!

Berovo, The City With The Cleanest air

Hidden in the Malesevo Mountains, Berovo is one of the smallest towns in Macedonia. In recent years, Berovo has become an attractive tourist destination, especially in the winter. Berovo is the city with the cleanest air in the Balkan Peninsula and the city that gets the most sunny days out of all cities in Macedonia , with an average of 6.4 hours per day. Three things Berovo is famous for are the legendary Berovo potato, the cheese, and the traditional skill of wood-crafting.

Ponikva, The Ultimate Mountain Getaway

The Mountaintop Where You Can Be In Two Countries At The Same Time

Ruen is the highest top of the Osogovo Mountains, elevating up to 2,252 meters. Like many other mountaintops in Macedonia, Ruen offers spectacular views and beautiful, pristine trails where you can get away and feel isolated from the rest of the world. However, what makes this top special is that it’s located right on the border with Bulgaria . Hence, both, Macedonia and Bulgaria account for this top as part of their territory, and by making it to the top, you can actually get to a location where you can have your two feet in two different countries.

Stanecki, Another Gorgeous Waterfall

The Stanecki Falls are located in the northern part of the Osogovo Mountains, 8 kilometers south of Kriva Palanka. This place lies off the beaten track and getting here isn’t easy as the Kozjak Valley Trail is really tight and almost vertical in several places but once you get there, it’ll be worth it.

A Wonder Of Nature: The Stone Dolls Of Kuklica

The Stone Dolls of Kuklica is another monument that started gaining popularity in recent years. This fascinating, stone town was formed as a result of natural erosion processes but that didn’t stop locals from creating legends about these strange stone pillars.

One of them is that a woman who was supposed to marry a man saw him marrying another woman and cursed them and all the guests and turned them to stones. Nevertheless, this place looks different than anything I have seen before and it’s certainly worth visiting.

One Of The Oldest Space Observatories In The World

Helpful Tips For Finding Places To Visit In Macedonia

For the cheapest flights to Macedonia, use this Qatar Airways special offer . In case you’re wondering, yes it is an affiliate link but I also use it when booking my flights.

For the best travel insurance for you trip to Macedonia, check out these SafetyWing deals .

Looking to rent a car in Macedonia? Use this link to save 15% on all car rentals.

If you want to save on accommodation, use this Booking discount code and this IHG Hotels special offer .

Finally, check whether you need to obtain a visa before your trip to Macedonia. If you do, you can easily obtain it through IVisa without going to the local Macedonian embassy. I used their services a few times and I can’t recommend them enough.

How did you like this list of places to visit in Macedonia? Have you heard about some of these before? Would you like to visit Macedonia and some of them and did this article give you any ideas? Let me know in the comments!

Wednesday 15th of January 2020

Wow looks like such an amazing place to visit! I totally agree with you ! I love adventure but I'll pass on snake island ! Can't imagine why any One would go there ! What's the good spas with the best massages? I have to have massages lol ! ❤

Passport Symphony

Macedonia is one of those few places in Europe that hasn't been a tourist destination yet and you should totally visit it.

Tuesday 29th of January 2019

Documents of the Continued Existence of Macedonia and the Macedonian Nation for a period of over 2500 years http://www.historyofmacedonia.org/ConciseMacedonia/Documents.html

Well done Passport Symphony very well presented and informative

Thank you, Steve- I really appreciate it.

Monday 7th of January 2019

I love Macedonia as one of my best friends is from there, have visited so many times and we always go off the grid and visit the less touristy places. I loved this list and realize despite having hbeen there so many times, there are a few things I've missed out on.

Tuesday 8th of January 2019

It's awesome that one of your best friends is from here and I'm glad you visited so many places around. I hope you visit again and discover some of the places on this list.

Bhushavali N

Thursday 3rd of January 2019

Whoa! Macedonia is just wonderful! I recently visited Budapest and came to know of Underwater caves. Good to know the biggest one is here in Macedonia! Being a history enthusiast, Stobi will be my top priority along with Bitola and Bansko. Peshna is fascinating too. I should go now to check the flight costs to here, esp in July...

Friday 4th of January 2019

Well, we're not sure if it's the biggest as it still hasn't been fully explored but it is possible :) I hope you get the chance to visit soon :)

Wander-Lush

Lakes, Spomeniks & Old Bazaars: The Perfect North Macedonia Itinerary (7-10 Days)

The perfect North Macedonia itinerary for first-time visitors – including the best things to do in North Macedonia in 7-10 days, detailed transport instructions for getting around, and other helpful travel tips.

A quirky destination even by Balkan standards, North Macedonia will go down as one of my most memorable travel experiences of all time.

I spent just under a month in North Macedonia as part of a half-year journey around the region by bus and train.

Before I arrived, I imagined it as a country with an identity crisis. By the time I left, I had caught a glimpse of the history and started to appreciate why people have fought so hard to hold onto their heroes, their culture , and their name.

It’s easy to write North Macedonia off as odd or eccentric or an outlier. But I see its nonconformity as a mark of free-spiritedness (and maybe stubbornness). North Macedonia does its own thing. From a traveller’s perspective, this makes it a truly unique place to visit.

My North Macedonia itinerary follows the exact route we followed on our trip, distilled into a much shorter timeframe. It’s designed for first-time visitors who want to check off the highlights and venture to a couple of lesser-known spots as well.

It takes you from the streets of Skopje , where neo-neoclassical monuments almost outnumber people, to the sparkling Lake Ohrid , North Macedonia’s most popular attraction. You’ll experience the small town of Krusevo , the region’s highest settlement where time stands still, and contrast that with the bustling ‘European-style’ city of Bitola in the country’s far south.

Along the way, you’ll visit spomeniks (Yugoslavian war monuments), abandoned churches , outstanding mosques , sprawling Old Bazaars where traders craft leather shoes and other homespun treasures, hammams that have been transformed into art galleries and wine bars, and Roman ruins as old as the hills.

There will be brutalist architecture , vintage cars , lots and lots of delicious Macedonian food , and perhaps more history than you can handle.

Planning a trip to North Macedonia? – For more things to do, don’t skip my dedicated guides to Skopje , Bitola , Krusevo and Tetovo . – For more travel tips and inspiration, my North Macedonia Travel Page has all my posts in one place. – If you love road tripping, don’t miss my Balkans road trip planner for suggested routes around the region.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

North Macedonia itinerary essentials

First things first, here are my tips for planning the perfect North Macedonia itinerary.

Do you need a visa?

North Macedonia’s visa policy is similar to the Schengen countries (although it is not included in the Schengen Area). Citizens of 85 countries (including Australia, the UK and the US) can visit North Macedonia visa-free for up to 90 days.

Some nationalities (including most countries in Asia, the Middle East and Africa) are required to apply for a visa in advance.

I recommend using iVisa to check if you need a visa and to apply for an expedited visa online .

Where to start your North Macedonia itinerary

I recommend starting your North Macedonia adventure in the capital, Skopje. Not only is this the country’s main transport hub, it’s also the cultural centre and a good place to dip your toes into all things North Macedonia before diving into the smaller cities and towns.

There are regular flights from across Europe to Skopje International Airport. To avoid confusion with taxis (there are no taxi apps like Uber in North Macedonia), it’s a good idea to book your airport transfer into the city in advance.

It’s also possible to arrive in Skopje overland from Kosovo, Serbia , Albania or Bulgaria by coach. Check Balkan Viator for schedules and fares, and always confirm in person at the bus station before you travel.

If you’re coming overland from Greece , it makes more sense to start in Bitola – in which case you can easily reverse this North Macedonia itinerary and finish in Skopje instead.

How many days in North Macedonia?

I think 7 to 10 days is the ideal amount of time to spend in North Macedonia.

The country is small and transport connections quite good, so if you’re just wanting to visit Skopje and Lake Ohrid for example, you could reasonably spend as little as 3 days in North Macedonia.

I lingered a bit longer than usual and spent just under a month in North Macedonia, including a full week in Skopje, a full week in Ohrid, and another fortnight on the road.

The Macedonia itinerary I’ve designed is for one week of travel, which I think is the sweet spot. I’ve also included a range of itinerary additions so you have plenty of options for extending your trip.

When is the best time to visit North Macedonia?

It depends on your interests. Cities such as Skopje and Bitola are great in any season. If you want to go hiking in Macedonia and visit the country’s national parks and high-altitude villages, late spring or summer is best.

Fall is ideal to indulge in the wine harvest season , and in winter, there are several ski resorts that open up across the country.

We visited North Macedonia in the month of May. The weather was perfect, everything was open, and it wasn’t too crowded either.

Where to stay in North Macedonia

The most popular type of accommodation across North Macedonia is the ‘apartment’ – essentially a self-contained apartment, usually with an ensuite bathroom and either a shared or private kitchen, set inside a complex or family property.

Most of the larger cities also have hostels, but you’ll often find that apartments are better value for money.

Airbnb is also very popular in North Macedonia and a good choice for budget travellers, especially in Skopje.

I’ve included specific accommodation suggestions for each destination (including links to the places where we stayed) in the itinerary below.

Getting around by bus

The easiest way to move around North Macedonia is by bus. Cities and larger towns are serviced by coaches, while vans are used in small towns and villages.

Because the country is so compact, you get just about anywhere in under 4 hours. Skopje to Bitola is the longest journey you’re likely to take, coming in at around 3 hours.

We used buses to travel around North Macedonia and apart from a few minor timetable hiccups, we had no issues. I recommend confirming schedules ahead of time in person at the bus station whenever possible, as times displayed online are often incorrect (yes, that includes here – but I do my best to keep things updated!).

You’ll find detailed transport instructions for each destination in the itinerary below.

Hiring a car in North Macedonia

If it’s within your budget, hiring a car is a great option. I didn’t drive in North Macedonia personally, but from my experience travelling around by bus, I think the roads are in good condition generally and the driving style is pretty tame by regional standards. There are mountainous roads where you’ll need to take extra care.

I suggest using the Discover Cars website to explore your options and find the best price on a rental. They aggregate a good range of manual and auto transmission cars from international hire companies, with the option to pick up a car in either Skopje, Bitola, Ohrid or Tetovo.

Compare prices for a rental car in North Macedonia using Discover Cars.

How much to budget for your trip

North Macedonia, like most other countries in the Balkans , is an extremely affordable travel destination by European standards.

• Budget traveller: 20-30 USD/day (hostel, buses, local meals)
• Mid-range: 30-50 USD/day (guesthouse or Airbnb, buses & taxis, restaurant meals)
• All-out: 50-100 USD/day (boutique hotel, taxis & private transfers, restaurant meals)

Perfect 7-day North Macedonia itinerary

Skopje – krusevo – lake ohrid – bitola.

Here is my ideal base itinerary for a week in North Macedonia. Later I’ll run through suggested extras if you want to expand your itinerary to 10 days or more.

True to my travel style, this itinerary focuses on culture, history, wine and cuisine . There are lots of hiking and outdoor adventure activities on offer in North Macedonia, but my itinerary favours small towns and cities over national parks (although there are a few day trips mentioned).

Because of this, you could happily do this itinerary in any season.

Day 1: Start your Macedonia itinerary in Skopje

Torn apart by an earthquake in 1963 that destroyed 80% of the city, Skopje was later rebuilt in a socialist-brutalist image befitting the era. Then came Skopje 2014 , an ambitious project to beautify the city by installing a series of classical facades, monuments and sculptures.

Maybe Skopje is a Potemkin village. Or maybe the new look is exactly what the city needed and deserved. Beautiful or kitsch, grand or contrived – however you judge Skopje, there’s no getting past the fact that this is a capital like no other.

Beyond the truly bizarre mix of architectural styles , Skopje also holds a truly fascinating blend of cultures, religions and traditions within its boundaries. As you traverse the Vardar River that divides the city in two, you toe the line between the twin Skopjes: One was carefully planned out by the Ottomans and still runs at the same pace it did under the Empire, while the ‘New Skopje’ – the fantasy socialist modernist futuristic neoclassical city of futures past – is a more ad-hoc, slower-paced city of outdoor cafes, open plazas and parks .

My advice: Don’t hold on too firmly to your first impressions of Skopje. Give it some time to settle in before deciding whether you love it or loathe it. (And if you find yourself falling towards the latter, try taking a city tour with a local guide – that will surely swing your opinion.)

Things to do in Skopje

• Explore the Old Bazaar: The oldest part of the city (the only area spared by the earthquake) conforms to a classic Ottoman city plan, with curled rows of shopfronts, huge stone Silk Road caravanserais, domed hammams, and more beautiful mosques than you can count.

For more, check out my DIY walking tour of Skopje Old Bazaar .

• Macedonia Square & ‘New Skopje’: Marvel at the monuments and sculpted facades added to the city as part of the Skopje 2014 project.

• Eat Macedonian cuisine: Visit any of the cool kafanas (old-school cafes) to try North Macedonian specialities such as tavce gravce .
• Kale Fortress: Climb the walls of Skopje’s fortress for a panoramic view of the city.

Discover more of the city: My guide to the 21 best things to do in Skopje .

Where to stay in Skopje

I recommend staying at an Airbnb in the Debar Maalo neighbourhood of Skopje. This is the city’s bohemian area (read: lots of coffee shops and kafanas ) and it has a great vibe. This is where we based ourselves for our one-week stay in Skopje.

If you prefer a hotel, these properties are all centrally located:

• Budget hostel: Get Inn Skopje Hostel
• Mid-range hotel: Hotel Fama or Hotel Arka
• Boutique hotel: View Inn Boutique Hotel

Day 2: Take a day trip from Skopje

There are plenty of full and half-day trip options available from Skopje. These range from easy 1-hour side trips that you can do by public bus, all the way to international day tours.

If you’re interested in visiting Kosovo from Skopje, it’s possible to pop up to Prishtina and Prizren in a day by joining a guided tour.

Day trip from Skopje to Matka Canyon

If you want to escape the concrete jungle and get a hit of green, Matka Canyon is the most accessible nature area near Skopje. It takes less than an hour to reach the canyon by city bus.

Once there, you can hike along the canyon walls, visit the caves and small monasteries, and hire a boat to take you out on Matka Lake, an artificial lake set within the canyon. When we visited, we paid 400 denars (approx. 8 USD) for a 40-minute trip on the water.

If I’m completely honest, I found Matka Canyon a bit disappointing. The setting is beautiful, but it’s very touristy (and I imagine even more so in the summer months). 

If you plan on eating lunch near the canyon, do your research first. We popped into one of the larger restaurants near the car park for a coffee, and it was the worst cup of coffee I’ve ever had in my life. This definitely tarred my experience of Matka, ha!

Matka Canyon is roughly 25km (45 minutes by bus) from Skopje. To get there, you can take bus #60 from the main bus station in Skopje. Note that you’ll need to purchase a rechargeable Skopska card to pay the fare (cash is not accepted).

Day trip from Skopje to Tetovo

My preferred day trip from Skopje is the city of Tetovo, home to the most beautiful mosque in North Macedonia (IMO), a Dervish teke, and a totally charming, laid-back main street.

Tetovo gives you a taste of small-town Macedonia. I really enjoyed walking the main street, browsing the local market and eating at one of the buzzing cafes there. The mosque itself is stunning inside and out and is reason enough to travel to Tetovo.

We spent several hours in the mosque compound taking in all the hand-painted details, then another 2 hours drinking tea with the spiritual leader at the teke who taught us all about Dervish culture and traditions before inviting us to spend the night at his sister teke in Albania (sadly we never made it).

Tetovo is located 42km (roughly 1 hour by bus) west of Skopje. To get there, take a city bus from the main bus station. This time you can pay the fare in cash at the counter before you board.

Day trip from Skopje to Stobi Winery

If you want a taste of North Macedonia’s emerging wine scene, I recommend taking a day trip to Stobi, one of the country’s biggest wineries. Stobi is located in the town of Gradsko, south of Skopje.

Note that there will be more wineries later in this North Macedonia itinerary, notably Ciflik Winery, which is located on the outskirts of Bitola.

Stobi is 80km (roughly 1 hour by road) from Skopje. Public transport connections are limited, so for convenience, I highly recommend visiting as part of an organised day tour. This four-hour itinerary includes a tour of the wine-making facilities, a degustation of four wines, plus door to door transfers from your accommodation in Skopje.

Days 3 & 4: Continue to the mountain town of Krusevo

For a change of scenery and a change of pace, head to Krusevo, North Macedonia’s highest mountain settlement. This town doesn’t make it onto many North Macedonian itineraries and that’s a great shame, because it’s by far my favourite place in the country .

Within North Macedonia, Krusevo is commonly associated with the Ilinden Uprising , a grassroots rebel movement that pitted Macedonians against the region’s Ottoman rulers. The battle was bloody, and the independence they achieved was short-lived, but their legacy has been long-lasting.

Krusevo is a peaceful, tight-knit town of vertiginous stone streets, beautifully decorated private houses, another Old Bazaar (you’ll see this is a recurring feature of all North Macedonian towns) and small museums, with a wild and beautiful landscape right on its doorstep.

How to travel from Skopje to Krusevo

There are at least three daily direct vans to Krusevo departing from the main bus station in Skopje. Travel time is roughly 3 hours . At the time of our trip, a ticket to Krusevo from Skopje cost 430 denars (approx. 8.30 USD) per person.

Another option is to transit through Prilep, the nearest ‘big city’ to Krusevo. There are frequent vans between Skopje and Prilep and Prilep and Krusevo.

Things to do in Krusevo 

• The Ilinden Monument (Makedonia): Spot the spomenik from afar, then venture inside for a closer look. Built during Yugoslav times to honour those who fought in the Ilinden Uprising and in WWII, it’s since been lovingly restored.

• Krusevo’s craftspeople: As you pace the streets and stone stairs of the Old Bazaar, pop into the small shops to meet the craftspeople who hand-made lokum , wooden barrels and snow sleds, among other things, according to age-old traditions.
• Hiking, paragliding & skiing: Venture towards the plains and mountains surrounding Krusevo for hiking and paragliding in the warmer months. In winter, Krusevo becomes a skiing and snowboarding destination.

Experience the best of Krusevo: My detailed Krusevo guide .

Where to stay in Krusevo

If you want to stay right in the heart of the old town, an apartment rental is the best way to go. We spent three nights at On Top Apartments , a very comfortable one-bedroom apartment with a shared kitchen, tidy ensuite bathroom, and best of all, a spacious private balcony with an amazing outlook over the entire town.

Find more apartment options in Krusevo on Booking.com.

Days 5 & 6: Relax at Lake Ohrid

Lake Ohrid is the symbol of North Macedonian tourism and a can’t-miss in the Balkans. Shared with Albania, this is the only inscribed UNESCO World Heritage Site in North Macedonia and one of only a few dozen anywhere in the world to be included on both the Cultural and Natural lists.

Ohrid’s cobalt waters are a mecca for international and domestic tourists alike. The town of Ohrid is an obvious place to base your stay. It boasts a charming Old Town and a buzzing ‘tourist centre’ filled with restaurants, wine bars and shops.

There are lots of alternative (read: quieter) towns and villages around the lake if you want something less chaotic. If I had my time again, I would probably choose a smaller town – I found Ohrid a bit too touristy and crowded for my taste (I can only imagine how busy it is in the summer high season).

I couldn’t imagine skipping it though as it’s definitely one of the highlights of the region.

How to travel from Krusevo to Ohrid

There are no direct vans from Krusevo to Ohrid as far as I’m aware, so the best option is to transit through Prilep. This first leg takes 30-60 minutes depending on the service and costs 110 denars (approx. 2 USD) per person. From Prilep, you can find a direct coach to Ohrid ( 2 hours ).

Another option is to take a van from Krusevo to Bitola ( 1 hour; 120 denars ) then continue from Bitola to Ohrid ( 1.5 hours; 190 denars ). This is what we did when we travelled to Ohrid (mainly because we missed the Prilep bus).

I recommend double checking the schedule at the bus station in Krusevo – times are displayed on the window and the English-speaking attendant is quite helpful.

Things to do in Ohrid

• St. John the Theologian Church: Walk the Ohrid Boardwalk for a photo of the iconic church on the peninsula (pictured above).
• Explore the lake by boat: The full-day cruise down to St. Naum Monastery where the lake meets the Albanian border is a popular choice. We paid 600 denars (approx. 12 USD) per person when we travelled. From St. Naum, you can take a smaller boat on Black Drim’s Springs or just walk around the swampy landscape in search of smaller chapels. Don’t miss the Holy Mother of God church, which features a Holy Trout Pool cut from the church floor.

• Ancient Theatre of Ohrid: The city’s most impressive Greco-Roman archaeological site.
• Old Town Ohrid: Wander amongst the grand houses set on cobbled streets. If you’ve travelled around the region, the architecture will take you straight back to Plovdiv and Berat .
• Drive or cycle around the lake: You can even skip into Albania for an affordable fish lunch. The village of Lin on the Albanian side of the lake is a must-see.

More things to do in Ohrid: I recommend this Lake Ohrid guide .

Where to stay in Ohrid

There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from around Lake Ohrid. If your main priority is to spend time around the lake, I recommend basing your stay in Ohrid town.

We stayed in an Airbnb in the suburbs of Ohrid, a short walk from the Old Town. There are lots of Airbnbs available at competitive prices, so if you want something self-contained, this might be a good option for you.

More options in Ohrid:

• Budget hostel: Old Town Hostel Ohrid
• Mid-range guesthouse: Guest House Ohrid Trpeski
• Luxury self-contained apartment: Villa Varosh or Villa Ohrid

Day 7: Finish up in Bitola

Final stop on your North Macedonia itinerary is the nation’s second-largest city, Bitola. We chose to end our trip in Bitola for strategic reasons: This is the gateway to Northern Greece for those continuing overland, or an easy transit point back to Skopje for anyone flying home. For more details about onward travel from Bitola, see the next section below.

I really loved Bitola, especially as a contrast to Skopje. It has a similarly laid-out Old Bazaar and a comparable number of beautiful mosques , but combined with a certain ‘European elegance’ that apparently comes from the Ottoman period when Bitola was home to a number of European consuls. The cafe culture here is strong, as is the preference for pizza.

The real star of Bitola, though, is Heraclea Lyncestis . The earliest iteration of the city was founded by Philip II of Macedon in the 4th century BC and later ruled by the Romans. Today it’s an open-air archaeological site on the edge of Bitola that boasts a stunning theatre and a set of world-renowned Byzantine floor mosaics.

How to travel from Ohrid to Bitola

There are frequent buses between Ohrid and Bitola departing throughout the day. Travel time is around 1.5 hours . We paid 210 denars (approx. 4 USD) per person for our tickets.

Things to do in Bitola

• Heraclea Lyncestis: An afternoon at the famous archaeological site on the southern edge of the city is a must. Follow it up with a visit to the Bitola Museum, where you can see pottery and jewellery unearthed during the various digs.

• Shirok Sokak: Amble down Bitola’s pedestrian street, a lively cafe and restaurant precinct fringed with beautiful European facades.
• Bitola Old Bazaar & City Market: One last Old Bazaar! Bitola’s is especially cute, with charming corner buildings and Ottoman fountains. It’s a lot less lively than the one in Skopje, but there is a cool wine bar inside (see my guide below for the location). The produce market is also a must-see.
• Magnolia Square: Bitola’s main square, framed by a clocktower on one side and a mosque’s minaret on the other.

More Bitola recommendations: Don’t miss my detailed Bitola city guide .

Where to stay in Bitola

We stayed two nights at guesthouse El Greco , a budget-friendly family run place set above a cafe on Bitola’s main street. Rooms are simple and comfy, and the staff are incredibly helpful, especially with organising transfers to Greece.

More options in Bitola:

• Boutique hotel: Hotel Theatre
• Luxury hotel: Grand Central Hotel
• Luxury apartment: Robevski Luxury Rooms

Extend your itinerary: Other places to visit in North Macedonia

If you have more time, you might want to consider adding one or more of these alternative destinations to your travel itinerary.

Pelister National Park – add 1 day

Pelister National Park and Baba Mountain are right on the edge of Bitola, making this an easy day trip or overnight addition to the end of your itinerary. The area is known for its day hiking trails, abundant flora, and the alpine Big Lake.

If you want to stay close to the park, I recommend Villa ORKA cabin apartment .

Mavrovo National Park & lake – add 2 or 3 days

North Macedonia’s largest national park, Mavrovo is located around 2 hours by bus from Skopje, close to the Albanian border. Private day tours from Skopje are available, but I would suggest spending a few nights inside the park to make the most of it.

As well as remote hiking trails and delightful alpine cabins , the park boasts a rather impressive lake with a half-sunken church in the middle (pictured above).

Veles – add 1 day

Before Veles made the news in 2019 for a rather unusual reason , it was a picturesque city defined by a distinctive bridge and red-roofed houses cascading down a hillside. Well, I’m sure it still is.

I’m still kicking myself for skipping Veles – it looks exactly like the kind of small city I’d love to explore at my usual snail’s pace. It’s located right in the middle of the country, only 50km from Skopje. I would suggest stopping here on your way from Skopje to Krusevo.

My friend Kami has spent time in Veles and wrote this excellent guide

Onward travel from North Macedonia

If your flight home is departing from the capital, you can simply loop back to Skopje from Bitola by bus (2.5-3 hours journey time).

If you’re travelling on, you have the option to continue overland to Northern Greece and Thessaloniki by taxi and train. Here are detailed transport instructions for crossing the border into Greece from Bitola.

Alternatively, you can travel from Bitola to Albania , starting with the lovely city of Korca , or head back to Skopje to travel north to Prishtina or Sofia.

North Macedonia itinerary: Share it on Pinterest

What’s this about booking a taxi from the airport in to Skopje in advance? There are taxis lined up outside the airport building. And a fixed price into Skopje prominently posted right there. And you can take the bus into the city. Much cheaper, but only three stops in the city.

Of course, as you wish! Not everyone has the same travel style – some people might prefer to pre-book depending on their arrival time, budget, etc. and I am simply giving them an option.

Hi Emily, Great info about Macedonia, thanks! I am thinking of travelling this itinerary but in reverse, coming overland from Albania then flying out of Skopje. I’m going to be travelling in November 2024, and wish to use public transport like you did. Do you think that time of year transport will still be operating regularly? I know it will be cold that time of year, but surely before the snow? You have given me lots of great ideas. Cheers Cindy

Hi Cindy, great to hear that! It might be snowing in Krusevo!

Yes, I think public transport will be operating as normal in November as locals use it too.

Have a wonderful trip!

Do you set up itinerary’s with accommodations and GPS for a car we will rent? Dan

Hi Dan – yes, I can help you plan an itinerary. Here is the info: https://wander-lush.org/itinerary-planning/

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Subscribe to future posts

North Macedonia

Part Balkan, part Mediterranean and rich in Greek, Roman and Ottoman heritage, North Macedonia has a fascinating past and a complex national identity.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Adrift on Lake Prespa, Golem Grad was once the king's summer playground but is now home to wild tortoises, cormorants and pelicans, and perhaps a few…

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…

Ilinden Uprising Monument

This 1974 monument, commemorating the Ilinden Uprising from 1903, is a marvel of Yugoslav architecture and a fantastic example of abstract historic…

Sveti Jovan Bigorski Monastery

Mavrovo National Park

This revered 1020 Byzantine monastery is located, fittingly, up in the gods along a track of switchbacks off the Debar road, close to Janče village…

Kokino Observatory

A Bronze Age, archaeo-astronomical site, this megalithic observatory sits atop a volcanic hill, at an elevation of 1013m; it's a truly marvellous place…

Treskavec Monastery

The 13th-century Treskavec Monastery rises from Mt Zlato (1422m), a bare massif replete with imposing twisted rock formations. One doesn't know which is…

Burial Mound of the Unbeaten

This magnificent monument to Prilep's Partisan soldiers who died in WWII is the 1961 work of one of the former Yugoslavia's most brilliant architects,…

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…

Latest stories from North Macedonia

Filter by interest:

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

Oct 21, 2019 • 3 min read

With the new year just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start planning your 2020 adventures.

Sep 5, 2019 • 6 min read

Feb 10, 2019 • 4 min read

Feb 10, 2019 • 5 min read

Sep 19, 2018 • 1 min read

Jun 15, 2018 • 5 min read

Nov 7, 2016 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in North Macedonia

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

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

North Macedonia and beyond

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

Fishing boats sway in the waters of Lake Ohrid, a World Heritage property.

Explore 10 of Macedonia's Top Natural and Historic Treasures

A crossroads between East and West, this tiny country is a treasure chest of historical monuments, natural wonders, and vibrant culture.

Macedonia might be one the world's most fascinating, and underpublicized, places. A former Yugoslavian republic, this tiny country—barely bigger than Vermont—is tucked between Greece, Albania, and Bulgaria on the Balkan Peninsula.

Modern-day Macedonia is a melting pot of Persian, Greek, Roman, Ottoman, Serbian, and Soviet flavors. Friends linger over coffee in outdoor cafes as throaty Slavic chatter drifts amid curls of cigarette smoke and clinking glasses of rakija . Rounded domes of Orthodox Christian churches share the skyline with towers of Muslim mosques, limestone-crusted mountains rise over quiet villages, and glittering lakes punctuate the wild countryside.

Whether you’re a city-dweller or outdoor adventurer, here are 10 reasons to plan a trip to Macedonia:

Hike Mount Ljuboten

The Shar Mountains rise to the clouds for 994 miles along northwestern Macedonia, reaching upwards of 8,000 feet. Mount Ljuboten’s prominent pointy peak (8,196 feet) demands attention. The five-hour hike to the top can be completed in a day. Villa Ljuboten Mountain Resort , a simple guesthouse perched at the treeline, at an elevation of 5,500 feet, is a great base. From there, follow soft, wildflower-dotted meadows to the windy summit. Soak in fantastic views of Macedonia and Kosovo before returning to the villa, where a warm fire and the hearty aroma of a home-cooked feast greet weary hikers.

Explore Skopje

A bronze statue of Alexander the Great is the centerpiece of Skopje's main square.

Home to more than half a million people, Macedonia’s capital is a quirky blend of old and new. The first landmark to catch your eye is the 217-foot-high Millennium Cross , which crowns Vodno Mountain. A cable car whisks sightseers to the summit for easy viewing.

Also commanding attention is Kale Fortress , which has been presiding over the city since the sixth century A.D. Amble up the hill to venture inside the walls, partially built with stones from Scupi, a nearby ancient Roman city that has been crumbling into red poppy fields since an earthquake in A.D. 518.

A short stroll brings you to Skopje ’s downtown square, a unique medley of architectural styles. The scene is a product of Skopje 2014, a $700 million government project intended to spruce up the city. Instead, it earned kudos for being kitsch. Looming statues—including a huge Alexander the Great—are juxtaposed against baroque and neoclassical buildings and an Arc de Triomphe. Spouting fountains and colored lights add to the pizazz.

Cross the Stone Bridge and explore the Old Bazaar, where narrow, cobblestone streets have been alive with commerce since the 12th century.

Slither through a cave

Macedonia's limestone karst landscape is like Swiss cheese, riddled with more than 300 caves. Don a spelunking suit and squeeze through a small hole in the rocks to enter the underworld at Gorna Slatinska , a quarter-mile labyrinth that lets you through only if you’re willing to slither. By light of a headlamp, duck under eerie stalactites and dodge tiny bats that dangle from the ceiling. The local caving society, Ursus Speleos , researches caves in the area and can show you what they’ve found.

Rock climb or kayak in Matka Canyon

A boat glides past the emerald landscape in Matka Canyon.

Less than 10 miles from Skopje is Matka Canyon , where the Treska River weaves past limestone cliffs before pooling in the emerald Matka Lake. Drive to the end of the road and nab a table on a stone terrace at the Canyon Matka Hotel’s lakefront restaurant . Rent a kayak and paddle upriver to Vrelo Cave , a deep chasm with lit pathways and wooden steps that leads to underground lakes. For those with less pep, motorboat tours are available.

Matka Canyon is also a magnet for rock climbers. A 40-minute hike leads to popular routes, many near the tiny Monastery of St. Nicholas Shishovski. If you’re not up for scaling rock walls, take a seat on the cliffhanger deck and watch. Macedonia Experience can show you around.

Hike the hills of Mavrovo National Park

Mavrovo is Macedonia’s largest national park, cradling the country’s highest peak: the 9,068-foot Mount Korab. Bears, lynx, wolves, deer, and 129 bird species roam the rolling forest and highlands of the park. Base yourself at Hotel Tutto , which is tucked into a hillside in the Radika River Valley. From there you can explore the park by foot, horse, mountain bike, or kayak. Winter is also a good time to visit—with your skis in tow.

Dive into history in Ohrid

The Church of Saint John at Kaneo overlooks the calm waters of Lake Ohrid.

Click your heels in Ohrid and you might think you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean. The crystal clear waters of Ohrid—one of the world’s oldest lakes—date back more than a million years. Tucked along the lush, hilly shore is the city of Ohrid, home to 56,000 people and one of the oldest settlements in Europe. The entire region is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage property.

Ohrid’s importance in religious history is evident in dozens of historic churches and monasteries, such as the Church of Saint John at Kaneo , which occupies a prominent perch on the edge of the lake. While stunning, it might be outdone by St. Panteleimon, the world’s oldest Slav monastery, where the intricate rockwork has been meticulously restored.

Wander the bustling streets of the Old Bazaar before venturing farther afield. To the south, Galicica National Park straddles a big hump between Ohrid and Prespa Lakes, which can be viewed from the 7,395-foot peak of Magaro Peak. Afterward, hop on a boat at Prespa Lake to Golem Grad, also called Snake Island. Yes, there are snakes, and more than 200 species of birds, including pelicans. Also check out the beautiful frescoes in the 14th-century St. Peter’s Church.

Paraglide Krusevo’s thermals

Krusevo , Macedonia’s highest city at an elevation of more than 4,400 feet, is nestled along a ridge that rises from the broad Pelagonia Valley, a geography that creates steady updrafts perfect for paragliding. Colorful wings paint the sky like brushstrokes—swirling, climbing, and gliding. Conditions are so prime that the World Air Sports Federation held the European Paragliding Championship here in 2016. If you’re looking to learn or give it a whirl, Heli XC can assist.

Visit the Painted Mosque

The interior of Tetovo's Painted Mosque is decorated with intricate geometric designs.

Every other religious monument in Macedonia might pale in comparison to the Painted Mosque , a 15th-century masterpiece in Tetovo. The exterior’s vibrant pattern of rectangular paintings framing lattice windows is just a hint of the grandeur within. Slip off your shoes and step inside. Your jaw might drop at the sight of the swirling geometric artwork that covers every inch of the walls and balconies.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Indulge in food and drink

One thing is for certain in Macedonia: You won’t go hungry. Forget about the clock at mealtime and prepare for a feast. Macedonian cuisine blends Turkish, Mediterranean, and Balkan themes. Burek , or “salty pie,” is a mainstay— a warm, doughy treat filled with spinach or cheese. It often starts a meal, along with ajvar (a red pepper and garlic sauce) and shopska salad of tomato, onion, cucumber, and green pepper topped with tangy sheep cheese.

Don’t be fooled into thinking the starters are the whole meal. The main course might be a hearty bean stew, peppers stuffed with ground meat, grilled lamb, or perhaps all three. Pair it with fine wine from one of the country’s 84 wineries—or your host’s home brew.

The national drink is rakija —a fiery brandy that burns your throat. You might have one too many, as Macedonians seem to find many reasons to say cheers.

Meet for coffee

“Meet for coffee” in Macedonia is actually code for coffee, beer, dinner, or even just hanging out. Macedonians love to socialize. Meet someone new, and you might make a friend for life.

Avery Stonich is a freelance writer based in Boulder, Colorado. She has traveled to more than 50 countries in search of adventure. Visit her website at averystonich.com and follow her on Twitter and Instagram .

Related Topics

You may also like.

A taste of North Macedonia, from flaky burek to rakija and farmhouse cheeses

Why midlife looks different for millennials

Free bonus issue.

How to plan a family summer trip to the Swiss Alps

Why it's high time for slow travel in Gstaad, Switzerland

6 dishes to eat in Glasgow, from chunky noodles to smoked tomatoes

The best packing cubes to save space and keep you organized

Where to find the best steak in Buenos Aires, Argentina

• Environment
• Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Paid Content
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

• Balkan Countries

Travelling Balkans

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Privacy Policy
• Work With Me

16 Must-see Places to Visit in Macedonia

This post may contain affiliate links. When you click on and/or make a purchase through an affiliate link placed on this website, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.Thanks for your support! Read the full disclosure here .

Last Updated on July 27, 2021

*The name of the country was recently changed from Macedonia to North Macedonia. However for people to find my articles on the country I will refer to it as both Macedonia and North Macedonia for the time being. There are many political and strong opinions about the name change so I just want to note that any negative or political comments will be deleted.

Macedonia, much like the other countries in the Balkans, and in Eastern Europe as a whole, is an almost undiscovered gem of a country. It’s a place that doesn’t get half as much tourism as it should. And, while that’s a shame for those who ignore these beautiful places to visit in Macedonia, it’s certainly not a shame for you!

You get to discover all the wonderful places to see in Macedonia for yourself, free from most of the tourist traps and density of tourists found in European cities like Rome and Paris.

You’ll get to discover Mavrovo National Park, Snake Island, Pelister National Park, and discover so many amazing things to do in Macedonia for yourself! Macedonia is, after all, a place with as much cultural history as neighbouring Greece and as much natural beauty as Croatia and Slovenia.

Snow-capped mountains, endless green landscapes, a bustling modern capital, and ancient ruins are just some of the treasures that await when you visit Macedonia. So, let’s take a look at eighteen of the very best places to see in Macedonia!

Photo by  Toa Heftiba  on  Unsplash

16 most beautiful places to visit in Macedonia

It may be the capital but Skopje has a lot to offer and shouldn’t be left off your places to visit in Macedonia. A city with over thousands of years of history to explore in the form of monuments, fortresses, and statues, so many statues!

Many of the buildings in downtown Skopje are relatively new but built in a classical style giving the city a quirky and colourful feel that’s fun to wander around in. You’ll also still be able to see buildings in the brutalist style although they are disappearing quickly.

Make sure you don’t miss the old bazaar, it’s the second-largest in the Balkans after Istanbul and has a real old-world charm about it, there are plenty of bars and cafes there to get lost in the atmosphere for a while. You’ll also be able to visit the Kale fortress nearby which offers a lovely (and free!) view of the city.

best accommodation in skopje

2. Mavrovo National Park

Ready for some rugged mountain ranges and the best skiing in the country? Mavrovo National Park, in the western part of Macedonia, contains the highest peaks in the country including the Great Korab Mountain (2,746 meters high) and it’s one of the oldest national parks in Europe.

Within you’ll find Macedonia’s biggest ski resort offers tracks for beginners through to advance and ski lift to take you up to some stunning views but if you’d rather get lost in nature then this is a perfect place to do so.

The extensive forests in the park contain hundreds of species of trees and wild herbs and tea which can be gathered and an impressive number of animal species including otters and wolves and the endangered Eurasian Lynx. While there make sure you pay a visit to one of the country’s most important monasteries Sveti Jovan Bigorski and two traditional villages Galičnik and Janče.

best accommodation in Mavrovo

3. Pelister National Park

Created in 1948, this is Macedonia’s first national park and is one of the best things to do in Macedonia.

One of the biggest draws to the park are ‘Pelister’s Eyes, two huge glacial lakes at the top of Mount Pelister. Surrounded by eight other peaks, Mount Pelister is the crowning glory of this diverse mountain range that’s been drawing hikers to the area for decades.

You can catch views of Bitola and Lake Prespa from the summits and encounter a huge range of flora and fauna including deer, eagles, and even bears and wolves. The national park sits on the southern border with Greece and is only 15km away from Bitola making a nice urban escape for those that live there.

As far as things to do in Macedonia go, Ohrid is often at the top of people’s bucket list and with good reason. Historical Ohrid is one of the oldest settlements in Europe, once the centre of Slavic culture and an absolutely one fo the most charming places to visit in Macedonia.

It’s like stepping into a medieval world so it’s no wonder it was named as a UNESCO World Heritage site partly down to the stunning Lake Ohrid, a three million-year-old lake and one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe.

There’s plenty to do in Ohrid from hiking and cycling to delving into Macedonian cuisine with some amazing restaurants situated here or wandering churches that date back to 200BC. It’s a wonderfully varied place and perfect for a city break that’s yet to be flooded with tourism. Ohrid is one of the most popular places to visit in Macedonia due to its beauty!

best accommodation in ohrid

5. Kokino Observatory

If your interests lie in ancient history or astronomy then this long undiscovered marvel in the far north of Macedonia (about 19 kilometres northeast of Kumanovo) can’t be missed. Alongside the likes of Stone Henge, Angkor Wat and Abu Simbel this group of stones, at an elevation of 3,300 feet, were discovered alongside a settlement in 2001.

It’s an impressive sight that features seven markers that were used to follow the sun and moon across the sky, the observatory is thought to be over 3,800 years old. Many visitors choose to camp at the observatory with telescopes watching the sky themselves like those before but simply visiting to enjoy the impressive day time view is a must.

6. The Bay of Bones

Found 16km south of Ohrid, this archaeological complex has been dubbed ‘a museum on water’ and features an authentic recreation of an ancient settlement, the original dating back to 700BC. The settlement sits on a wooden platform supported by wooden piles reaching down to the lake bed – it makes for an impressive sight and a spectacular lake view from within the museum.

The pirate-like name ‘Bay of Bones’ is due to the many animals and ship remains that they found here while excavating. People who love to dive will be pleased to know that you can actually go down and view the remains of the original settlement with Diving Center Amfora. This is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Macedonia! Check out this great tour that leaves from Ohrid and visit the Bay of Bones.

7. Snake Island

Macedonia is landlocked but the one island you can visit, in the south of Lake Prespa, is actually not inhabited by humans at all but a large snake population (although you’re most likely to see these in the water around the island).

It’s not just snakes though, you’ll find other animals and many rare plant species on this beautiful island. Also known as Golem Grad, the Island is part of Galičica National Park and features nine archaeological sites which range from the 4th century to the 9th century including remnants of buildings, churches, and a monastery complex.

You can reach the island by organizing a boat from one of the villages surrounding Lake Prespa.

This excavation site in the middle of Macedonia (80km from Skopje) is an incredible place to see the long history of Macedonia. There’s so much to discover by just wandering the ruins which date back to the 2nd century when it fell under the Romans and became the capital of the Macedonia Salutaris province.

Beautiful mosaics, 26 buildings, a theatre, and baths can be explored and you can just picture the civilizations that have lived here through the ages. This is one of the best places to visit in Macedonia if you love history.

This charming lakeside fishing village sits near the border of Albania and offers a real mix of Macedonian and Albanian culture and some wonderful food! Built into the mountainside is the 14th-century Saint Archangel Micheal Church which sits above the village proudly and adds to the atmosphere.

There are actually seven churches you can visit which makes for a nice walking tour of the village. Although Radožda is small, it has a lot to offer, not least a serene and tranquil environment which will make you never want to leave.

best accommodation in Radozda

10. Kuklica

Although not the easiest place to get to, it’s one of the most impressive and unique things to do in Macedonia. These towering stone structures have some interesting folklore behind them, the 120 stones represent a full wedding party turned to stone by a woman when the husband, unable to make up his mind between two women, married a second bride at the same time.

The stones have stood for over 100,000 years in the village of Kuklica 8km northwest of Kratovo. If you love photography or just want to take some really impressive pictures then this is one of the best places to visit in Macedonia.

Photo by  Mike Tinnion  on  Unsplash

11. Kratovo

This postcard-perfect town is full of winding streets, bridges and romantic stone towers – it also happens to be situated in the crater of an extinct volcano. Quaint stone buildings line the cobbled streets and although modernized in some respects, Kratovo very much retains its charm and is often described as a ‘living museum’.

There are even underground tunnels to explore and the famous Kuklica stones (mentioned) are an easy day trip away making for a diverse Macedonia getaway.

best accommodation in kratovo

12. Galicica National Park

If you’re ready for some panoramic views of both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa then head over to Galicica National Park on the border of Macedonia and Albania. The park is situated on Galicica mountain, the largest mountain of the Sara-Pind mountain range.

The hike is so worth it for the unparalleled views but you’ll also find many species of rare flora and fauna within the park.

Tucked within the Baba, Nitze, and Kajmakčalan mountain ranges is another beautiful Macedonian city to discover. There’s a wonderful coffee culture here so you could easily spend a day just wandering in and out of cafes on Sirok Sokak, the city’s main pedestrian area.

Shopping in the Old Bazaar is also an excellent way to while away a few hours. With neo-classical buildings, galleries and museums, this is a real walking city with a relaxed laid-back vibe that you’re sure to fall in love with. Make sure you catch the prehistoric rock monument Veluška Tumba for an impressive sight in the city.

best accommodation in bitola

Photo by  Márton Környei  on  Unsplash

14. Canyon Matka

One of the most amazing things to do in Macedonia and an easy day trip from Skopje, visit Canyon Matka. The popular thing to do is take a boat trip around the canyon but there’s so much more to do there including swimming, hiking, visiting medieval monasteries and even cave exploring.

Although it’s a popular day trip, you can actually stay in the area and spend more time exploring the canyon which is definitely worth it if you have time. Canyon Matka is a wonderful spot for photography and nature lovers so don’t miss out.

Another spot that makes for an easy day trip from Skopje but can easily be extended is the city of Tetovo which actually has an Albanian majority population. The Pena River flows through the centre of the city and right on the bank, you’ll find one of the city’s most famous landmarks the Hamam of Tetovo which dates back to the 16th-century. Inside you’ll find Tetovo Art Gallery which is a fascinating visit.

There are also some interesting mosques and museums in the city with the most famous being the stunningly painted Sarena Mosque. Make sure to set aside some time just to wander the back streets, walk the stone bridges and generally enjoy the unique style of this city.

best accommodation in tetovo

Image by Josef Kotarba from Pixabay

16. Monastery of St. Naum

Set within the lush landscape above the lake and an easy day trip from Ohrid, this captivating Byzantine monument represents one of the first examples of Slavic church architecture. The monastery itself is incredibly well-preserved and you can spend hours wandering the church, admiring the art and famous wood carvings which date back to the 16th-century.

The grounds, which contain peacocks and fountains, are also lovely to walk around and offer spectacular views over the lake. This is one of the most beautiful and religiously important places to visit in Macedonia.

Other articles you will love:

• The Most Delicious Balkan Food You Must Try
• The Best Places to visit in Albania

Love this article?  Pin it for later!

Author: Jessica Esa

Jessica is a full-time freelance travel writer from the UK. She splits her time between East Asia and Europe and has traveled extensively within those regions. She also manages Books and Bao, a travel and culture blog with her partner. Find her on her travel blog Books and Bao and on social media @booksandbao

You May Also Like...

21 dazzling balkan holiday destinations to visit, best tips to prepare for a balkan road trip, what to do in skopje, macedonia: 11 things you can’t miss, is macedonia safe to visit, leave a reply cancel comment.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

26 Unique Things to do in Romania

When to visit slovenia, privacy overview.

A Complete Guide for Visiting the Country of Macedonia

• Post last modified: February 7, 2024
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: December 19, 2022
• Post category: Europe / Guides

Sharing is caring!

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Macedonia? Well, we're here to share everything we learned from our road trip through this Balkan country this summer.

Being a landlocked country, Macedonia is often overshadowed by its neighboring countries, but we're here to share all of the fun and unique spots to check out within the country.

In this guide we're not just going to share the best places to visit in Macedonia, but how to get around, how to stay safe, and all the other things you need to know before you go. Without further ado, let's jump right into our complete guide to visiting the country of Macedonia.

*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you.  Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience.  Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!

Where is the Country of Macedonia?

The country of  Macedonia is situated in the south east of Europe. It lies directly north of Greece , West of  Bulgaria , and East of  Albania .  Kosovo  also borders  Macedonia  to the north, and  Serbia shares a border to its north east.

Macedonia is located in south east Europe.

How to Get to Macedonia

The biggest, and easiest city to start your trip to Macedonia is by going to Skopje , the capital of Macedonia. Skopje is easily connected to surrounding countries such as Serbia , Kosovo , and Bulgaria . If you're coming from Albania , the easiest place to begin your Macedonian travels is Lake Ohrid , which is right on the border with Albania .

Want to take a bus to Macedonia? Here are some popular routes that you can book:

• Sofia to Skopje
• Belgrade to Skopje
• Tirana to Skopje

Flying to Macedonia

The two international airports in Macedonia are Ohrid and Skopje , which is the main hub. Cities that fly direct to Skopje include Athens, Baden, Basel, Belgrade , Berlin, Bologna, Bratislava, Bremen, Brussels, Budapest , Cologne, Copenhagen , Dortmund, Eindhoven, Friedrichshafen, Geneva, Gothenburg,  Hamburg ,  Istanbul , Izmir, London, Malmo, Memmingen,  Milan , Nuremburg, Oslo, Paris,  Rome , Stockholm, Treviso, Vienna , Warsaw,  and Zagreb .

Cities that fly into Ohrid include Basel, Dortmund, Memmingen, Vienna , and Zurich .

Flight Tip:  Using Skyscanner you can out from "your city" to "Macedonia". This way you can see which is the cheapest airport to fly to. Also, you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for flying.

Search for a flight to Macedonia:

Stay Up To Date📫

We have a  non-spammy  weekly newsletter, where we give travel tips, and exclusive content and discounts .

Entry Requirements for Macedonia

Before entering any new country, it's important to check the requirements to get in. Here are both the visa and covid requirements for visiting the country of Macedonia.

Visa Entry Requirements for Macedonia

Macedonia allows visa free access to all citizens from the EU, UK ,  US , and Canada, for a period of up to 90 days. If you plan on spending more than 90 days in Macedonia, you will need to apply for a visa at your local embassy.

Covid Entry Requirements for Macedonia

All Covid related requirements have already been lifted, so all tourists (whether they are vaccinated or not) can freely enter the country of Macedonia without any issue. When we traveled there in June, we also found that masks were not really worn much anymore.

Looking To Travel Somewhere?

Off The Beaten Trips  is our travel agency.

But this isn't anything like you've ever experienced before. You'll have an epic trip without having to break the piggy bank.

Unique locations. Epic adventures. Lifetime  memories.

Local Adjustments

Whenever you are traveling somewhere new, there may be some things that differ from where you're coming from to keep in mind. Here are the local adjustments for Macedonia to know before you go.

The official language in Macedonia is Macedonian. It is very similar to the surrounding countries that speak Slavic languages such as Croatia  or  Serbia . Macedonians also use an adaptation of the Cyrillic script, so reading can be quite hard for those not familiar with this alphabet. If you visit bigger cities, you will find plenty of people that speak English, but if you visit smaller villages, it could help to have Google Translate handy.

The currency used in Macedonia is the Macedonian Denar. Currently (February 2024) 1 USD and 1 euro are both equal to about 57 Denar. Most hotels and restaurants throughout the country usually only use cash, as well any street vendors. You'll need to make sure to withdraw plenty of Denar from a local ATM, as it is what you'll be mostly using throughout Macedonia.

Macedonia uses the same outlets as the rest of the European countries , which are for plug types C & F. The standard voltage in Macedonia is 230 V, and has a standard frequency of 50 Hz. If you are from the US make sure to get an energy converter (not just an adapter), so that your electronics don't burn out.

Water Potability

All throughout Macedonia there is potable water, so you can drink from the tap or fountains in the cities. We suggest bringing a reusable water bottle so that you can fill up and stay hydrated while exploring.

Tipping Culture

Unlike many other European countries, Macedonia actually doesn't have a set tipping culture. Some people don't leave anything extra at all, while some others will leave just 100 or 200 Denar for very good service. It isn't typical to leave a tip anywhere, even restaurants and bars. If you are particularly satisfied with the service though, you can leave up to 10%.

Travel Planning Services

Travel More . Spend Less .

Let us help you plan your dream trip.

The Best Places to Visit in Macedonia

Now that you know the basics for before you go, here are the best places to visit in Macedonia.

Skopje is the capital, and main hot spot of Macedonia. This is definitely a place you'll want to either start or end your trip while visiting the country. Make sure you check out the beautiful architecture of the old town, browse the old bazaar, and grab a bite to eat at Senigallia, a restaurant located on a boat along the river.

Skopje is the most popular of all the places to visit in Macedonia.

Matka Canyon

Matka Canyon is one of our favorite places to visit in Macedonia. It's situated just a half hour south west of Skopje, making it the perfect day trip from the capital.

The main area of Matka Canyon has a boardwalk going along the side of the canyon, where you can find kayak rentals, boat trips, and even a restaurant that hangs over the water of the canyon.

There is even a cave that you can visit inside Matka Canyon.

Matka canyon offers plenty of other great things to do such as hiking trails, as well as a large area where families have picnics and spend the day cooling off in the river from the summer heat. There are plenty of kiosks and restaurants in and around the canyon, and even one that has a cave inside!

You can easily rent a car and go on your own, or get a tour to Matka Canyon from Skopje.

Matka Canyon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Macedonia.

The Stone Dolls

Ever been to Cappadocia in Turkey ? Well, this hidden gem in Macedonia has similar formations to the famous Turkish ones. It's so underrated that we were actually the only ones there. Located in the north eats of the country, this is a great day trip from Skopje, or a short stop from the capital to Sofia in Bulgaria .

Want to visit a great restaurant nearby? Kuklika Etno Restaurant is located on a lake and has super tasty local cuisine.

The Stone Dolls have a similar landscape to Cappadocia in Turkey.

Lake Ohrid is the most beloved and sacred places to visit in Macedonia. Known to be holy, the lake is full of beautiful churches and monasteries. Go shopping in town, explore the fortress, relax at one of the beaches, or take a boat trip to see all that Lake Ohrid has to offer. As one of our favorite places to visit in Macedonia, this is definitely a must for your trip.

Kozjak Lake

Want to see another beautiful lake in Macedonia? Well Kozjak Lake is actually the largest artificial lake in Macedonia, and is actually known as the Macedonian Grand Canyon. With stunning landscapes and viewpoints, this is definitely something to add to your list if you have a car.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

Makedonium- Ilinden Monument

While most beautiful structures in Macedonia have historic looks, but this one is quite different. The Makedonium Ilinden Monument is a futuristic white domed structure, and represents a memorial for a large uprising. Located in a small mountain village called Kusevo, you could come here on a day trip from Lake Ohrid .

All Your Travels

In one book.

Transform your travel memories into a unique book, with personalized pages, country by country.

Kratovo is a tiny village that pleasantly surprised us on our road trip. Located in eastern Macedonia, this is a great place to stay if you want to visit the Stone Dolls. We stayed at a Etno House Shancheva, which is one a century old. The owners were so sweet, and even gave us a full history tour, as well as some local products as gifts.

How to Get Around Macedonia

We rented a car when we were visiting Macedonia, and the countries around it. We found that outside the capital, it was particularly helpful, especially for experiencing some of the unique spots in the middle of nowhere. If you only plan on visiting Skopje though, you won't necessarily need a car, and can get around fine by public bus.

How To Travel Cheaper and Better in 15 minutes!

How much more would you travel, if it costed you less resources?

With our Free eBook, you will learn how to save money and time on your future trips . Plus, you'll see the exact system we use.

Grab your copy for free when you sign up for our newsletter 👇

Local Cuisine of Macedonia

Macedonian cuisine is a mix of the surrounding countries. Just like Bulgaria and Greece , there are a lot of dishes made with local cheeses, and phyllo dough, and just like the mountains of Albania , and Serbia, there is a lot of meat and heavier food. Head to Lake Ohrid though, and one of the specialties is the trout. Macedonia has generous portions, and low prices. The only thing they could improve on a bit is their service.

Is Macedonia Safe?

Overall, we felt pretty safe throughout Macedonia. Unfortunately though, we did have one experience that made us feel otherwise. We parked in a private lot in the center of Skopje, and despite paying for a private lot, and only being gone from the car for an hour for dinner (it was still light out), the window to our car got smashed and our belongings got stolen from the trunk.

The police weren't as helpful as we were hoping, and they told us that this is common for that area. While we don't think Macedonia as a whole is super unsafe, unfortunately there are bad people everywhere, so we definitely suggest being extra cautious with your belongings, and while walking around during the night.

Other Things to Know About Visiting Macedonia

Now that you know the best places to visit in Macedonia, how to get around, and the local adjustments, we have a few other things to share. Here are some extra things to keep in mind when visiting Macedonia.

Weather in Macedonia

The weather in Macedonia is similar to the surrounding countries in Eastern Europe. Macedonia experiences all 4 seasons, with cold snowy winters, and super hot summers. 

The Best Time to Visit Macedonia

We think the best time to visit Macedonia is in late spring, or early fall, when the temperatures are mild and pleasant. We visited Lake Ohrid in June, and absolutely loved it. The summer is when it is busiest, but we definitely think that early June or September would have been a bit more ideal.

Transform your photos

One click is all it takes  to make your photos look stunning. Get our latest package of Lightroom presets, Into The Wild .

Packing for a Trip to Macedonia

When it comes to packing for a trip to Macedonia, it really depends on what time of year you plan on visiting. We suggest bringing a reusable water, and comfortable shoes for exploring. If you plan on visiting Lake Ohrid , definitely bring a bathing suit and sunscreen. Finally, bring a backpack or purse that zips to protect your belongings.

Travel Planning Tools

Here are some useful tools that you can use for planning your upcoming trip!

Macedonia is definitely an underrated country, and has some really cool destinations that are under the radar. We spent a week in the country, and felt that it was the perfect amount of time to see the top places to visit in Macedonia.

Want to learn more about Skopje or Lake Ohrid ? We have full travel guides for both, and have weekly travel guide about various destinations throughout the Balkans. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter , so that you can always be in the know about our new articles, and get exclusive discounts.

Want to start planning your trip? Well, we can help you save both money and time. Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning is unlike the ordinary travel agent services, and is aimed to help you explore more and spend less. Want to learn more? Take a look at some of our  travel planning packages

 or email us to set up your free consultation.

Here are a few other articles you'd love:

December 12, 2022

A Complete Guide to Visiting Skopje in Macedonia

Are you planning a trip to through the

November 21, 2022

A Complete Guide for Visiting Serbia

Welcome to the heart of the Balkans, and

August 15, 2022

A Guide to Theth: Albania’s Mountain Paradise

Theth was our first stop in Albania, and

August 8, 2022

Seven Rila Lakes: The Most Beautiful Hike in Bulgaria

If you're looking for one of the most

August 1, 2022

Osum Canyon: The Grand Canyon of Albania

Have you ever heard of Osum Canyon? Well,

July 21, 2022

Lake Ohrid in Macedonia: A Sacred Balkan Paradise

Welcome to the most sacred and beautiful place

Like this article? Please share it with your family and friends, so that we can continue to keep creating free travel guides for you! It takes just a second, and would mean the world to us. Thanks for being here!

You Might Also Like

Everything to Know About Visiting the White City Peru, Arequipa

Hiking Pulpit Rock: One of Norway’s Most Iconic Hikes

Everything you need to know to travel to mexico right now.

• South Africa
• El Salvador
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Czech Republic
• Transnistria
• Liechtenstein
• North Cyprus
• New Zealand
• Map with posts
• Alternative Guides
• Architecture Guides
• Cafe Guides
• Itineraries
• Neighborhood Guides
• Travel Guides
• Travel Tips
• Photo Galleries
• Photo Locations
• Solo female travel
• Train Travels
• Work with me
• Privacy Policy

19 Amazing Places to Visit in North Macedonia

North Macedonia is one of the most underrated countries in the Balkans, often overlooked by tourists exploring the region. And even if they decide to visit Macedonia, it’s often just Lake Ohrid and Skopje. But there are so many more great places to visit in Macedonia: breathtaking mountains, charming towns, ancient sites, interesting architecture, and more.

I’ve been visiting Macedonia frequently for some 10 years now and it quickly became one of my favorite countries to travel to. There always seem to be new places to discover and returning to the old ones is always a pleasure. Add to that delicious food, friendly locals, and affordable prices and you will see why I enjoy North Macedonia so much.

But creating this list of best places to visit in North Macedonia made me realize that there are still some awesome destinations there that I need to see (and need a car to get to as not everything is reachable by public transport, unfortunately). That’s the plan for the near future, though!

When you decide to visit North Macedonia be sure to include more than just the popular destinations in your itinerary. Below you can find the list of what to see in Macedonia that can hopefully serve as the inspiration for your trip.

Planning a trip to North Macedonia?

Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I use either Viator or Get Your Guide .
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to North Macedonia check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Get insured for your trip to North Macedonia with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Best places to visit in North Macedonia

Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is one of the quirkiest cities you will ever see. At first, it might seem pretty random, with blocks of flats covering the center, but once you dig a bit deeper into the place you are in for a treat.

You won’t find many historical sights there as the city was largely destroyed by the 1963 earthquake but Skopje is such a weird combination of architectural styles that they somehow fit together.

The central part of the city is lined with modern buildings that try to resemble ancient ones and with countless statues (some of them portray well-known historical figures, others are just random scenes). The most important one is “the warrior on the horse” located in the middle of the main square of the city – Macedonia Square. Not only it is very impressive with its 12-meter height, but it is also a very controversial statue that in fact shows Alexander the Great.

Across the Vardar river, you can explore the oldest part of Skopje – the bazaar with the maze of narrow streets and the fortress towering above the area. Wandering around there is like stepping back in time.

If you enjoy brutalist architecture (I do!), Skopje is like a huge playground with so many concrete masterpieces around.

For a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can head to the nearby Vodno mountain from where you can go hiking or simply enjoy the stunning panorama of Skopje and its surroundings.

Read more about Skopje in my articles:

• What to do in Skopje, the kitschy yet cool capital of North Macedonia
• Guide to Skopje Brutalist Architecture
• Alternative Skopje
• North Macedonia: Skopje monuments in pictures

Matka Canyon

Only a short ride away from Skopje you will find one of the most beautiful places to visit in Macedonia – Marka Canyon. This spectacular place was actually not made by nature. In 1938 the dam was built on river Treska, creating an artificial lake surrounded by high mountains, the oldest lake of that kind in North Macedonia.

The Matka Canyon covers an area of around 5,000 hectares. 20% of the plant species you can see here are endemic, meaning they can’t be found anywhere else. You can also see 77 kinds of butterflies in the area! There are also ten caves at Matka Canyon, the most popular one being Vrelo Cave. It was even included on the list of the top 77 natural sites of the world in the New 7 Wonders of the World project.

When visiting Matka Canyon you can do here numerous activities, like hiking, fishing, or kayaking. You can also find some old monasteries in the area. But the main reason to visit Matka Canyon is to simply see what a stunning place it is.

You can get to Matka Canyon from Skopje by bus or join one of the tours that visit this place.

Read more about Matka Canyon in my article: Matka Canyon – a perfect nature getaway outside Skopje

Tetovo is one of the most underrated places to visit in North Macedonia. Even if it’s conveniently located only 45 km away from Skopje, on the way to Lake Ohrid, not many tourists decide to stop there. Huge mistake as Tetovo hides one of the most stunning buildings you can see in North Macedonia – the Painted Mosque.

It was built in 1438 and later rebuilt in 1833. Even if the mosque is rather small, it surely is stunning with very rich decorations (unlike many other mosques, the dominant motifs are floral and bright). This is also the only mosque in southeast Europe where you will find the illustration of Mecca – the holy place of the Islamic world.

While the Painted Mosque is amazing there are actually more things to do in Tetovo: the 16th-century Turkish hammam turned into a gallery, Arabati Baba Tekḱe – a spiritual complex popular in Sufism religion, founded in the 16th century, or a few great brutalist buildings. Tetovo also offers some beautiful views of the surrounding Sar Mountains.

Read more about Tetovo in my article: Tetovo, North Macedonia – Stunning Painted Mosque and More

• Are you planning a trip to North Macedonia? Be sure to join my Facebook group about traveling in the Balkans and be part of the amazing community of like-minded travelers. Click here for the access!
• Don’t want to miss new articles? Sign up to the monthly newsletter to receive all the updates to your mailbox!

Lake Ohrid is, hands down, the most amazing place to visit in Macedonia and one of the best in the Balkans. Every time I’m there my jaw drops at how stunning this area is. Whether you are looking for cultural, relaxing, or active holidays – Lake Ohrid falls into all of these categories.

The main town at the lake is Ohrid where you will find most of the attractions and monuments. The best way to get to know Ohrid is to simply wander around the Old Town and stumble across all it has to offer: numerous churches (it is said that in the past there were 365 churches in town), the 10th-century fortress or the ancient amphitheater. The most iconic view in Ohrid (or even the whole country) is the 14th-century church dedicated to Saint John at Kaneo, built on a high cliff above the lake.

Once you are done with visiting Ohrid, there are more places along the lake that you shouldn’t miss: Saint Naum Monastery (founded at the very beginning of the 10th century, it is one of the most important religious sites in North Macedonia), Bay of Bones, Holy Mother of God Zahumska church or Struga (another large town on the lakeside).

Both, the city of Ohrid and the lake were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and are one of the few places that are both on the Cultural and Natural list.

Read more about Lake Ohrid in my articles:

• 17 Best Things to Do in Ohrid, North Macedonia
• Beautiful Ohrid, North Macedonia off season

Veles might not be the not obvious destination choice when visiting Macedonia but the city, located 55 km south-east of Skopje, has at least one landmark that is worth the attention. If you are familiar with the concept of Yugoslav spomeniks – the WW2 memorials that often have rather unusual shapes – you might want to come to Veles to see one of them.

Kosturnica Memorial, dating back to the late 1970s, was created to honor Partisan soldiers from Veles and surrounding areas who were fighting against the fascist German and Bulgarian forces during the National Liberation War from 1941 to 1945. The memorial was supposed to look like the open poppy-seed flower, the symbol of life and rebirth. Inside you can find the museum with the biggest mosaic in North Macedonia.

Visiting Kosturnica Memorial has one more advantage – from the monument, you can admire a beautiful panorama of Veles (the city has a really picturesque location). Besides the abstract-looking spomenik other places worth seeing in Veles include the historical clock tower from the 18th century and the Church of Saint Pantaleon from the 19th century.

Read more about Veles in my article: Veles, North Macedonia – an underrated city in the Balkans

Even if today Kratovo is a sleepy little town, it has a long and interesting history, dating back to Roman times and for centuries it’s been an important mine center with various raw materials mined here.

Kratovo is picturesquely located in a basin surrounded by green hills at the edge of Osogovo mountains and the townscape is packed with red rooftops and medieval stone towers. In the past there were seventeen stone towers from the 12th to 14th century (the highest number of medieval towers in Macedonia), today only six remain but they sure are impressive. Another remnants of the old times are medieval stone bridges connecting two sides of the small rivers and creeks, there are still five of them in Kratovo.

Altogether, visiting Kratovo feels a bit like stepping back in time. This is one of the most underrated places to visit in Macedonia.

Read more about Kratovo in my article: Kratovo, North Macedonia – the Town of Stone Bridges and Towers

Bitola , known also as the “City of Consuls” is the second-largest city in North Macedonia, located in the south of the country near the border with Greece.

Thanks to the many consuls who had their seats here in the 19th century the city still has a different, more laid-back, and European vibe than other places in Macedonia. The center is lined with beautiful 19th-century buildings and the pedestrian central street – Shirok Sokak – is packed with cafes where you can sit down, observe the world around and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of Bitola.

Even if the city is known for its 19th-century importance, Bitola is much older and you can find some older monuments here too, especially mosques and the bazaar area (which can compete with the one in Skopje).

But the real highlight of visiting Bitola is Heraclea Lyncestis – the ruins of the ancient town located just 2 km outside of the center.

Pelister National Park

When visiting Bitola don’t also miss Pelister National Park, located just outside of the city. This is the oldest national park in North Macedonia, established in 1848, and surrounds the Baba Mountain massif with its highest peak Pelister (2601 m, the third highest mountain in the country).

The park is known for its exquisite flora and fauna, it is also a perfect place for hiking around and the close proximity to Bitola makes it a popular nature getaway among locals. When wandering around you can expect some amazing views, you can also visit two mountain lakes called Pelister’s Eyes.

Prilep is known mostly as the Macedonian tobacco and beer capital but this city, located between Skopje and Bitola, has actually a lot to offer.

The central part of Prilep isn’t large but it’s packed with monuments from the ancient, Byzantine, Ottoman, neoclassical, communist, and modern times. The old bazaar is rather small but really pleasant with its vibrant atmosphere. On the edge of it, you can see the ruins of the Čarši Mosque from 1475 (the oldest mosque in Europe with a double balcony on its minaret) that was sadly set on fire during the 2001 protests. Despite its current condition, you can still easily imagine what a beautiful place it used to be.

In Prilep, you can also see another Yugoslav spomenik – Mound of the Unbeaten – commemorating the Prilep area’s fallen in the Struggle for the Liberation of Macedonia.

What catches the attention right away when visiting Prilep is the city’s beautiful location with rocky hills surrounding the place. On those hills on the edge of the city, you can find remnants of the medieval fortress from times when Prilep was the capital of the medieval kingdom of Kings Vukašin and Marko. This is one of the best places to visit in Prilep, not only for its historical value but also stunning views around.

10 km away from the city you can also visit the secluded Treskavec Monastery from the 12th century with incredible frescoes inside. The hike to the monastery is a bit challenging but the landscape and views around are the best rewards for the effort.

With an elevation of 1,350 m Krusevo is the highest-located town in the country that, in 1903, was the center of the Ilinden Uprising against the Ottoman Empire. Today it is a very picturesque yet sleepy town with a few monuments worth visiting.

The highlight of Krusevo is yet another spomenik, probably the most known one in North Macedonia – Makedonium, opened in 1974 on the 30th anniversary of the Second Session of the Anti-fascist Assembly for the National Liberation of Macedonia and the 71st anniversary of Ilinden Uprising. The design of this structure is really unique and looks like from outer space. If you are lucky and Makedonium is open be sure to visit it inside too to see some interesting stained glass windows and basreliefs.

Krusevo was also the hometown of the most popular Macedonian singer, Tose Proeski who died in a car accident in 2007 at the age of 26. Today you can visit his memorial home and his grave in Krusevo, there are also numerous signs all over the town commemorating this famous artist.

Krusevo is also a perfect place for a lazy stroll around, to admire the beautiful architecture of the town and beautiful views of the town and beyond.

Read more about Krusevo in my article: Visit Krusevo – the Picturesque Town in North Macedonia

Mavrovo National Park

Mavrovo National Park is the largest national park in the country, located in the western part of North Macedonia, near the border with Albania . You can find there some beautiful landscapes with lakes, rivers, and caves as well as the highest peak of Macedonia – Mount Korab (2,764 m).

The most popular place to visit in Mavrovo National Park is the submerged Church of Saint Nicholas from the mid-19th century. How much of it you can actually see depends on the water level in Lake Mavrovo, in the summertime when the lake dries up you can even visit the church inside.

The area of the national park has actually more interesting monuments you can visit, the highlight being Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery originally from the early 11th century, with the impressive wood-carved iconostasis. Don’t also miss the village of Galičnik, known for its historic architecture – it has the biggest number of buildings under protection in the whole country.

Stobi is probably the most impressive ancient town you can find in the territory of North Macedonia, dating back to BC times. Around the 2nd century BC, it fell under Roman rule and was developing until the 6th century when it was destroyed by earthquakes and invasions.

Today you can visit amazing remnants of that ancient town and see ruins of numerous historical sites: houses, basilicas, streets, and more, there are also some well-preserved mosaics still on the ground.

Šar Mountains

Located on the border between North Macedonia and Kosovo , Šar Mountains offer some breathtaking views and hiking possibilities. With 30 peaks higher than 2,500 m as well as a few glacial lakes located over 2,000 m, Šar Mountains is a paradise for all nature lovers.

Since the area isn’t widely popular you can expect fairly empty trails when wandering around. The highest peak of the Šar Mountains is Titov Vrv (2,747 m). The mountain range is located just outside Tetovo and is easily accessible from this city.

Osogovo Monastery

Located near the border with Bulgaria , Osogovo Monastery was founded in the 12th century but the oldest part of the structure we can visit today dates back to two centuries later.

The monastery in fact consists of two churches: the larger “Saint Joachim of Osogovo” and the smaller “Holy Mother of God”. That’s also where you will find a residency for the Head of the Macedonian Orthodox Church.

Besides its historical and religious value, it’s worth visiting Osogovo Monastery for the beautiful frescoes you can see inside the churches.

Stone Dolls of Kuklica is often called “the Macedonian Cappadocia”. There are over a hundred stone pillars: 15 large (10 meters tall) and 120 smaller ones. Since many of them resemble humans, the legend says that the pillars are in fact wedding guests that were turned into stones.

Kuklica is located only 10 km away from Kratovo so you can combine visiting these two places together.

Discovered only in 2001, Kokino is the site of the megalithic observatory that is believed to be almost four thousand years old, making it the fourth of the oldest observatories according to NASA. You can still find there special stone markers used to track the movement of the sun and moon on the eastern horizon.

What makes this place even more worth visiting is the spectacular scenery in the Kokino observatory is located in.

Kozjak Lake

Kozjak Lake is the largest artificial lake in North Macedonia, located not far from Skopje. Surrounded by picturesque mountains rolling down to its surface, the lake is 32 km long and in the widest place, the distance between the shores is up to 400 meters. Kozjak Lake was created in 2004 when the nearby hydroelectric power plant opened.

The lake is especially popular among fishermen but even if you are not interested in fishing you should still visit the area as the views, especially from the upper parts, are breathtaking.

Lake Prespa

Less popular than Ohrid, Lake Prespa is divided between three countries: North Macedonia (the largest part), Greece, and Albania. With an elevation of 853 meters, this is the highest tectonic lake in the Balkans, surrounded by two national parks of Macedonia: Galičica and Pelister. This is also where you will find some of the best beaches in North Macedonia, making Lake Prespa a popular destination among local tourists.

Besides the stunning views, there are other places worth visiting around Lake Prespa: Golem Grad (the largest island in the country) as well as a few old churches and monasteries.

Galičica National Park

The area between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa is where you will find Galičica National Park, focused around the Galičica mountain range with the highest peak being Kota (2,292 meters). Within the park, you can find over 1600 floral species. The national park makes a perfect nature getaway or even a day trip destination when visiting Lake Ohrid.

Map with the best places to visit in Macedonia

To give you a better overview of places to visit in Macedonia, here is the map with the locations of all the destonations mentioned above.

Final thoughts on visiting Macedonia

As you can see, North Macedonia really has a lot to offer and even if it doesn’t have sea access (which I think is the reason why it’s less popular than other Balkan countries) there are still plenty of great places to see in Macedonia. Give the country a chance and you will not be disappointed! You might even keep returning to North Macedonia just like I do.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in North Macedonia
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for North Macedonia here.
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to North Macedonia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

LIKED IT? PIN THIS POST FOR LATER!

If you enjoyed that post why don't you share it with your friends? That would mean so much to me! Also be sure to join 30.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! If you don't want to miss new posts sign up to my newsletter or follow on Bloglovin !

Jennifer Doré Dallas

Hi! I am curious, how is the Wi-Fi for a remote worker that needs to do a lot of stable Zoom calls?

I never had issues with the wifi in North Macedonia but then I didn’t use it for zoom calls, just to work online

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Let’s become friends!

Join me on Facebook for even more travel updates!

Kami and the rest of the world

• The 10 Most Beautiful Travel...

The 10 Most Beautiful Travel Destinations In Macedonia

Due to its lack of coastline and inland location, Macedonia is often overlooked as a holiday destination and is widely unvisited even by the most seasoned travelers of Europe . Yet with its UNESCO world heritage national parks, dramatic mountain ranges and the captivating Lake Ohrid, the country is home to some of the continent’s most jaw-dropping scenery, as well as a host of hidden, gorgeous destinations. Here’s our guide to the top ten most beautiful spots to wonder at, and wander around, whilst in Macedonia.

1. Mavrovo National Park

Church, Park, Ski Resort

Mavrovo National Park

The largest of Macedonia’s national parks, Mavrovo boasts some of the best scenery in the country and is an ideal travel destination for nature lovers. The Mavrovo Mountain peak is the highest in the region, thus the park is also a popular destination for climbers, and it operates as a winter ski resort too, bustling with snowy adventures. Lake Mavrovo stretches out over an expanse of 10 kilometers and makes for some of the country’s best trout fishing, whilst also being a wonderful place to swim, sail and walk. Visitors to the lake should be sure to take some time to marvel at the half-submerged Church of St Nicolas, once left completely underwater by floods in the 1950s before gradually re-emerging to form the mystical sight that it is today. Explorers should bring a tent and spend a few peaceful days enjoying the tranquility of the park’s lush expanse of forests, lake, and craggy mountains. For those who don’t want to rough it, the neighboring village of Mavrova offers a small selection of cozy hotels and restaurants.

Mavrovo National Park, Mavrovo, Macedonia .

The main settlement is situated on the UNESCO world heritage site of Lake Ohrid. This historic town is one of the country’s most interesting, as well as visually impressive, travel destinations. Inhabited since ancient times by the Greek Dassaretae and the Illyrian tribes, the town boasts architecture dating back to the 4th century BC. One of the area’s most fascinating ruins is Samuel’s Fortress, a structure first built during Tsar Samuel’s reign in order to protect the town from invaders during the First Bulgarian Empire. From the winding cobbled alleys and quaint restaurants of the old town to the orange-roofed homes and turquoise waters of the lake, Ohrid is a picture-perfect area alive with things to do and places to see. Come during the Ohrid Summer Festival to experience the town at its most lively. This event draws in crowds from all over the world who come to witness the plethora of theater, music and dance events on offer, all a celebration of Macedonia’s rich social and cultural history.

Another of Macedonia’s beautiful cities, Bitola, lies nestled within the Baba, Nitze, and Kajmakčalan mountain ranges. Thus ensuring some dramatic, eye-popping scenery. Largely untouched by the tourist industry, this town is Macedonia’s secret cultural hub, with its refined galleries, museums, restaurants and thriving coffee shop culture making it one of the best places to socialize in Macedonia. From its rock monument Veluška Tumba dating back to prehistoric times, to its neoclassical buildings not unlike the quirky streets of New Orleans, Bitola is a gorgeous melange of architectural styles and is the perfect place to take some great photographs. Home to The Bitola Museum and various beautiful churches and mosques, notably including the elegant Yeni mosque, there is simply no reason not to visit Bitola.

Bitola, Macedonia.

It would be a travesty not to visit the nation’s capital whilst in Macedonia, and Skopje does not disappoint in terms of urban beauty. Situated on the Vardar river, the city is an important European trade center exporting chemicals and machinery worldwide, and it is also beginning to make a name for itself as an international travel destination. Having at one time or another been ruled by the Romans, the Serbians, and the Ottomans, the city’s layout and architecture exude a vibrant, diversified feel which reflects its colorful past. With a landscape incorporating Ottoman-era mosques and the imposing structures of the communist era, visitors can be ensured a lively and compelling tour around the city. Take a wander to the Porta Macedonia , the city’s main square, which is home to the famous Independence Day celebrations every year on September 8th. During this time Skopje comes alive with fireworks, parades, and musical performances.

Skopje, Macedonia.

This charming village is situated in the crater of an extinct volcano on the slopes of Mount Osogovo. Known for its bridges and towers built in the Middle Ages, Kratovo is a postcard scene of winding lanes, cobbled streets, and rustic stone buildings. Separated by the Tavacka river, Kratovo was once an important mining town before it became largely modernized, and thus there is a real feeling of nostalgia evoked when exploring the streets here. With some of the friendliest locals in the country, visitors can expect an abundance of helpful historical advice and information, that is if they can understand the unique Kumanovo-Kratovo dialect spoken here.

Kratovo, Macedonia.

4. Pelister National Park

Park, Ski Resort

Pelister National Park

Renowned for its diverse ecology and hiking trails, a visit to Pelister National Park makes for a great walking holiday. Here hikers can view a diversified range of flora and fauna, and will perhaps be lucky enough to spot a roe deer, a wild boar or a red-billed chough. A celebrated ski resort alongside Mavrovo, Pelister is an intimate destination and a great spot in which to take advantage of 1172 meters of vertical descent void of the crowds of other popular ski resorts. As well as gorgeous natural camping grounds, there are a number of hotels dotted around the park and Bitola is only 30 km away, meaning that visitors can split their time between the urban buzz of the city and the refreshing natural beauty of the park.

Pelister National Park, Macedonia.

Lying on Lake Ohrid, but without the hustle and bustle of its main town, Struga enjoys the picturesque lakeside scenery without the crowds. With its mild climate and relatively quiet beaches, holidaying in Struga feels magically like a seaside retreat within a country that doesn’t have a coastline. With a number of lake watersports on offer as well as a good choice of inexpensive hotels in the pleasant town center, this is a place in which to sit back, relax and enjoy the surrounding forest and mountain scenery within the comfort of a typical Macedonian town. The Black Drin river divides the city and thus provides the perfect setting for a number of little cafes and restaurants which border its banks.

Struga, Macedonia.

6. Heraclea Lynkestis

Heraclea lynkestis.

The ruined town of Heraclea Lynkestis has a fascinating past and is thus a must-visit for history lovers. Founded by the Macedonian King Phillip II in the fourth century BC, this ancient ruined town was conquered by the Greeks and soon became an important Hellenistic stronghold. The town was then named after the Greek mythological hero Hercules, son of Zeus, before being taken over by the Romans in the second century BC. The empire split the country of Macedonia into four parts, and one of the main Roman roads connecting the sections ran through Heraclea. It thus became an important center of trade and commerce, and many Roman buildings were erected here by emperor Hadrian. The town then went on to be ruled by the Byzantine empire before falling into disrepair and becoming ruined. Nowadays tourists can wander around an ancient Roman theater used during the rule of Antoninus Pius, and can explore intricate Byzantine mosaics. A trip to this town makes for a riveting day out steeped in Macedonian history.

Heraclea Lynkestis, Bitola, Macedonia.

7. Matka Canyon

Matka canyon.

For adventurers and nature enthusiasts, the Matka canyons stretch over 5,000 hectares of land and provide some of the best canyoning adventures in Europe. Not only does the complex include 10 natural caves ideal for exploring by foot or by climbing, it is also the site of a number of Medieval buildings, including ruined monasteries as well as the remains of the ancient town of Matka. With its glass-like turquoise waters and craggy gorges, the Matka Canyon offers easily some of the best scenery in the country and beyond, and with the rustic, chalet-style Canyon Matka Hotel and Restaurant on hand to provide traditional Macedonian cuisine and hospitality, visitors can be ensured a place to rest and refuel after their excursions.

Matka Canyon, 1 Village Matka, Dolna Matka, Macedonia.

This sleepy fishing village is another of Lake Ohrid’s hidden gems. Situated at the point of Macedonia which is closest to Albania, visitors can enjoy a culture here rich with the influences of both nations, and can even hop across the border for a wonderfully varied traveling experience. Calm, tranquil and picturesque, Radožda offers a taste of real Macedonian rural life and history, with the town first having been mentioned in historical documents between 1342 and 1345. The Saint Archangel Micheal Church makes for an excellent day out, having been built into a mountainside just above the village centuries ago. A true piece of untouched paradise by the lakeside, visitors should be sure to put this town on their list and experience the authentic lifestyle, food, and culture of its native people.

Radožda, Macedonia. By Megan O’Hara

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Is Macedonian One of the Oldest Languages in the World?

Macedonia's Pavilion At The 55th Venice Biennale

The Global Anthology: Macedonia – Myanmar

See & Do

The 10 best festivals in macedonia.

Top 10 Beautiful Towns in Macedonia

Film & TV

A brief introduction to milcho manchevski.

Why Visiting Ohrid, Macedonia, Should Be on Your Bucket List

Macedonian Literature: In Search of a National Identity

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 425057
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Peter Moore | 31 May 2022

9 things you must do in north macedonia.

A little bit Balkan, a little bit Mediterranean, North Macedonia has been shaped by the empires that have conquered it. Expect natural beauty, fascinating ruins and a lively and hospitable local culture...

1. Walk through the ages in Skopje

Statue of Alexander The Great, Macedonia Square (Shutterstock)

The North Macedonian capital is a quirky mix old and new. Kale Fortress has been guarding the city since the sixth century AD and is partly built from stones from a nearby Roman city that was destroyed by an earthquake 518 AD.

A huge, kitschy statue of Alexander The Great has been standing rampant in Macedonia Square since being unveiled in 2011. Walk the streets and you’ll find a surprise around every corner.

The Old Bazaar on the eastern bank of the Vardar River remains much the same since its medieval heyday: a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets where hawkers sell their wares. Macedonia Square tempers Alexander’s grandiosity with a line of Baroque and Neoclassical buildings.

And looking over the entire city, the 217ft high Millennium Cross sits atop Vodno Mountain. Catch the cable car for astounding views.

2. Hike to the top of Mount Ljuboten

The Šar Mountains (Shutterstock)

Looming high along North Macedonia’s north-west edge, the Šar (or Sharr) Mountains form a natural barrier with the country's northern neighbours. It is home to untouched landscapes, abundant wildlife and some of  the  best (and least-used) hiking trails in Europe.  

One of the best is the hike to the top of Mount Ljuboten, a pyramid-shaped peak that stands 8,196 feet above sea level, and takes five hours to climb.

In winter, it is snow-capped. In spring, it is carpeted in wildflowers. Lynx and wild goats roam its slopes. Eagles and hawks fly above it. And at the top, it feels like the whole of North Macedonia and Kosovo lay before you.

A simple guesthouse is situated at the treeline, making a great base for your climb. On your return from the summit, you’ll be greeted by a warming fire and a hearty homemade feast of North Macedonian treats.

3. Stand in awe at the Painted Mosque in Tetovo

The gilded interior of the Painted Mosque (Shutterstock)

Get ready for a technicolour treat. The Painted Mosque in Tetovo, 43km from Skopje, is one of the brightest sights you’ll see in North Macedonia.

Built in the 15th century, razed to the ground in the 17th and rebuilt in the 19th, no colour in the artist's palate has been left unused on its stunning interior.

Sitting on the southern side of the Pena River, the exterior of the mosque only gives a hint of the splendours within – just a few brightly coloured rectangles framing the lattice windows, that’s all.

Inside, every inch of the walls and balconies are covered with flamboyant frescoes, painted in floral, geometric and arabesque patterns. Slip your shoes off, step inside and prepare for your senses to be overwhelmed.

4. Kayak through the stunning Matka Canyon

Kayaking Matka Canyon (Shutterstock)

Kayaking through Matka’s awe-inspiring canyon is a highlight of any visit to North Macedonia. From water-level, the rugged cliffs seem even more imposing.

Their mood changes throughout the day, as the sun drifts across their face, shadows dancing across the stone. Best of all? The canyon is less than 10 miles from downtown Skopje.

Kayaks are the only watercraft individuals are allowed to use here and the trip up to Vrelo Cave and back is the most popular paddle. Simply hire a kayak from just in front of the Canyon Matka Hotel and set off.

Kayaking to the cave and back takes about two hours, but leave time to explore the cave, which has a series of dimly lit paths and wooden stairways, leading to a series of underground lakes.

5. Eat, drink and be merry

North Macedonia is famous for its hearty local food (Shutterstock)

North Macedonian’s love their food and are determined that you do, too. A tasty mix of Turkish, Mediterranean and Balkan cuisines, every meal is a feast with you the special guest.

Burek , or 'salty pie', is a staple. You’ll find this warm, doughy treat, filled with spinach or cheese, everywhere. Ajvar , a red pepper and garlic sauce, is ubiquitous, as is shopska , a salad of tomato, onion, cucumber, and green pepper topped with tangy sheep cheese.

And that’s just for starters. You’ll also be plied with tavče gravče , a hearty bean stew, peppers stuffed with ground meat, sarmi (stuffed cabbage) and an assortment of grilled meat.

Pair it with a nice wine   from one of the country’s 84 wineries – those from Sopot are particularly well regarded - and you have pretty much the perfect North Macedonian meal.

6. Search for wildlife in Mavrovo National Park

A European lynx in the wild (Shutterstock)

Mavrovo is North Macedonia’s largest National Park and arguably its most beautiful.   A kaleidoscope of gorges, pine forests, karst fields and waterfalls, it is the perfect place to break your travels between Lake Ohrid and Skopje.

In winter, it is home to the country’s best ski slopes. But it is in summer when the park truly comes into its own.  Within the park’s boundaries you’ll find monasteries, cheese makers and pretty villages like Janče and Galičnik, famous for its traditional village wedding festival, one of the country’s quirkiest summer festivals.

There’s wildlife too, including bears, lynx, wolves and deer – and 123 species of birds, many endemic to the rolling forests and highlands here.

7. Commune with God and nature at Lake Ohrid

Church of Saint John at Kaneo (Shutterstock)

There’s nowhere quite like Lake Ohrid. A beguiling shade of blue, ringed by nature and dotted with ancient monasteries, it is the spiritual heart of North Macedonia. That’s why it’s one of the country’s most treasured gems. And why the whole area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The lake itself is a thing of breathtaking beauty. Stretching as far as the eye can see, it glitters and shimmers, one of the oldest lakes in the world, dating back more than a million years. Take a seat, preferably on a grassy hill overlooking it, and marvel at its many moods.

Tucked on one of those hilly shores you’ll find Ohrid, one of the oldest settlements in Europe. It is crammed with dozens of historic churches and monasteries, including the Church of Saint John at Kaneo. It is picturesquely perched on the edge of the Lake. St. Panteleimon, and is the world’s oldest Slav monastery, boasting intricate stonework that has been meticulously restored.

Further along the lake, 20 miles from Ohrid, you’ll find St Naum, one of the oldest and the richest monasteries in North Macedonia.

8. Wander through ancient Macedonia in Heraclea

A mosaic in Heraclea (Shutterstock)

Famous for its stunning mosaics, ancient amphitheatre and bathhouses, Heraclea is the best preserved ruins from the time of the ancient Macedonian Empire.

Polybius and Strabo wrote about it. Caesar tried to conquer it. And wandering around the atmospheric ruins is one of the most rewarding things you can do in North Macedonia today.

The ruins sit just south of Bitola, on the slopes just below the village of Bukovo. There’s a small museum with a few artefacts, but it is much more rewarding to amble through the ruins and discover its treasures, like the Episcopal church and the Roman baths, by chance.

9. Take time to stop and smell the coffee

A group of elderly men sit for drinking coffee in Skopje (Shutterstock)

Ever since the days of the Ottoman Empire, coffee has played an important part in North Macedonian social life and even religion.

Meeting for coffee is a part of everyday life, offering the chance to catch up with friends, share gossip and swap news. It is also incorporated into many traditional ceremonies like weddings and christenings.

It is believed there are over 5,000 coffee establishments in North Macedonia, from traditional Balkan coffee shops and kafeana (a type of coffee bar particular to the regions) to more modern, western style outlets.

Follow the lead of the locals. Grab a seat at an outdoor cafe, order something strong and black, and watch the world go by.

More things to do in North Macedonia:

How to spend 24 hours in skopje, short break guide to ohrid, wildlife watching in north macedonia’s national parks, related articles, looking for inspiration.

Join our newsletter

Get the very best of Wanderlust  by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.

Eat, Sleep, Wander

What To Do in Macedonia? 15+ BEST PLACES YOU MUST VISIT

The first question, What to do in Macedonia? This overview of the best places to visit in Macedonia shows where to find the cultural, historic and natural attractions.

A land of rock and stone, medieval fortresses and monasteries , green hills, majestic mountains, deep caves and friendly people . A country where culture lovers will transported to the past while walking through the villages and towns. Place where every outdoor lover will be amazed by the stunning landscapes of the mountains and where every traveler will experience the incredible hospitality of the people and will be treated to a feast of  delicious food  and wine. Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Macedonia .

What to do in Macedonia?

These are the best places to visit in macedonia.

When you ask a traveler, what to do in Macedonia , the first thing on their mind will be visiting Ohrid.

Ohrid  is a small town on the hilly shores of  Lake Ohrid  in the southwest of the Republic of Macedonia . In the city’s compact old town, medieval churches, monasteries and open-air ruins stand alongside traditional houses with red-tiled roofs.It is the only  UNESCO World Heritage Site in Macedonia and one of the oldest human settlements in Europe . Built mainly between the 7th and 19th centuries, it has the oldest Slav monastery (St Pantelejmon). Ohrid is home to more than 800 Byzantine-style icons that are dating from the 11th to the end of the 14th century. After the collection in Tretiakov Gallery, the Ohrid collection is the most important in the world.

• If you want to do a day trip from Skopje to Ohrid trough Mavrovo with a private driver/guide, click here

GALICNIK VILLAGE & MAVROVO NATIONAL PARK

One of the most amazing places to visit in Macedonia are located in the Mavrovo National park . Saint Nicolas Church submerged when the Mavrovo Lake was created but after many droughts it can be seen again. The Duf Waterfall , Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery, the Mijak villages with the most famous among them, Galicnik Village .

The road to  Galicnik  runs through  Lake Mavrovo  dam, 14km uphill Mt. Bistra, at 1,450m above sea level. It passes by Toni voda , the Macedonian steppe. The village has large, robust houses and is virtually deserted. Yet, it gets crowded during the summer and then again desolate after September .

​The best time to visit is on  Petrovden  (St. Peter’s Day), 12 July. When Galicnik and its inhabitants are hosts to the only festival of this type, the traditional  Galicnik Wedding , echoing the sounds of drums, zurlas, and pipes and displaying the most beautiful and ornate folk costumes of Macedonia .

SAINT GEORGE CHURCH​

Recently when some of our guests are asking us what to do in Macedonia besides visiting Ohrid and the Mavrovo national park, we are sending them to the North East of the country to visit some amazing Monasteries & Nature formations. The Monastery bellow is a place you must visit in Macedonia if you love Orthodox architecture.

Located in the village of Staro Negoricane , the Church of Saint George is definitely one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches in the country and deserves its spot in the places to visit in Macedonia list. The Church is founded in 1071 by Stefan Uros II from Serbia .

​ Krushevo is the highest town in Macedonia (1350m above sea level) and the richest with national history. The city of Krushevo also was the birth place of the most famous Macedonian singer Toshe Proeski , who died in a car accident in 2007. Krushevo is famous for its “ lokum “, a sweet with Ottoman origins , rich history and its beautiful mountains.

The Paeonia Ancient city STOBI

Stobi was an ancient Paeonian town​ , afterwards part of the Macedon empire and in the end capital of the Roman province of Macedonia . Stobi is the most important archaeological site in Macedonia.

SAR MOUNTAINS

What to do in Macedonia if you are adventurer? GO TREKKING!

Sar Mountains  (Sar Planina) are near  Tetovo  and just 50km from  Skopje . Beautiful nature with a few lakes, lots of springs and more than 25 peaks that are over  2000m , with 15 of them being over 2500m. The Sar Mountains are the most popular for trekking amongst Macedonians.

• Read more for trekking in Macedonia

OSOGOVO MONASTERY

Established in the 12 century and dedicated to Saint Joachim & Saint Mary , the Osogovo Monastery is one of the most beautiful places in Macedonia. Just 10km from the Bulgarian border, the Monastery is overlooking the Kriva Palanka valley from the Osogovo Mountain .

KUKLICA – The Stone City

​ Kuklica  is a small village near  Kratovo , in the Republic of Macedonia. The formations are known for the hundreds of naturally formed stone pillars that resemble humans. The name  Kuklica  which means dolls. The stone formations are over 50000 years old.

What to do in Macedonia if you love the astronomy & astrophotography? VISIT KOKINO!

Kokino  is is a Bronze Age  archaeological site, an ancient megalithic observatory. Method of stationary observation was used, marking positions of the Sun at the winter and summer solstice, as well as the equinox.

Since few years ago Kokino has become very popular among astronomers from the world, therefore putting it in the TOP 5 most popular places to visit in Macedonia.

SKOPJE CITY, VODNO, MATKA CANYON & AQUEDUCT

Some of the most popular places to visit in Macedonia are located in the Skopje Valley . Beautiful monasteries , nature, bridges and ancient ruins are just small part of them.​

Skopje  the capital of  Macedonia is the gateway to a valley surrounded by 3 mountains , a luscious area where culture, traditions, gourmet food and drink is part of daily life.

Matka Canyon , only a half-hour drive away from  Skopje and it is a popular destination among locals at the weekends. With the beautiful green water, it is one of the most beautiful gorges in the region. There is a small church and a cave in the canyon to see. You can rent Kayaks on the spot and also there are boat trips to visit the cave. – In case you need info on how to get to Matka ⬅ Click.

• See also: One day in Skopje  – Walking map included

The Skopje aqueduct is an archaeological site located in the village of Vizbegovo, 2 km (1.2 mi) northwest of Skopje. The Skopje Aqueduct is the only one in Macedonia, and one of three largest and well preserved in the former Yugoslavia.

Mount Vodno is the heart of Skopje. Decorated with massive cross that is placed on the Krstovar peak (1066m), mount Vodno is the most popular weekend escape for most Skopjans. You can hike up to the top, or get a bus that will drive you to the middle of the mountain from where you can get a cable car that will take you up to the cross.

• Info on how to get to the Millennium Cross .

MOUNT JASEN & LAKE KOZJAK

​The Jasen Mount  with  Kozjak Lake  is very beautiful and much less visited than Matka Canyon , so mostly locals go there because it is only possible by car. After a short hike you can have this beautiful view and a gorgeous sunset/sunrise from the top overlooking the lake. It is a perfect picnic spot as well.

In case you have more time to spend in the country, then you should definetly put Bitola , Snake Island and Strumica in the Places to visit in Macedonia list.

Top 15 Places to Visit in Macedonia

Macedonia can quickly be labeled as one of the most fascinating yet underpublicized places in the world. A part of erstwhile Yugoslavia, this tiny country lies tucked between Bulgaria, Albania, and Greece on the Balkan Peninsula.

In fact, Macedonia is so small that regarding size, it is just about bigger than Vermont! Its reputation as a modern-day melting pot of Soviet, Serbian, Ottoman, Roman, Greek, and Persian flavors has given rise to many places to visit in Macedonia that are sure to enthrall the tourists.

Friends can spend long hours over coffee in outdoor cafes amidst the throaty Slavic chatter, clinking glasses of rakija, and curls of cigarette smoke.

Orthodox Christian churches with their rounded domes jostle for space with Muslim mosque towers in the skyline, quiet villages have limestone-crusted mountains in the backdrop, and glittering lakes punctuate the wild countryside.

Although the place is easy to access and has the complete repertoire of all the comforts that the Western world has to offer, the Republic of Macedonia is one of the best-hidden treasures of the European continent.

Apart from its natural beauty, Macedonia points of interest also include the tour of entirely modern cities that place marvelous luxuries right at one’s fingertips. Size is probably the only issue why Macedonia is overlooked as a possible tourist destination. Here is a look at some of the best places to visit in the country.

Here’s the list of the top places to visit in Macedonia

The capital city of Macedonia, Skopje, is also the cultural hub of Macedonia country. Tourists should ideally spend a minimum of a couple of days at this stopover point. The place offers a taste of what the state has done to embrace the modern European way of life while not forgetting the values of its ancient past.

The Skopje Stone Bridge, one of the significant Macedonia tourist attractions, perhaps best illustrates this combination of new and old as it links the traditional Ottoman quarter and the current side of the city. The crossover from a neighborhood that boasts condos and modern office buildings to the Old Bazaar is as good as travel back in time.

The other Macedonia points of interest in Skopje include the 6th century Kale Fortress that stands like a towering guard over the city and Skopje Central Square.

The Mother Teresa Memorial House is another of the favorite Macedonia points of interest built in commemoration to one of the most famous citizens of Skopje Macedonia, who dedicated her entire life towards the benefit of the poor and the needy.

Read also:   Top 20 Cheap European Holiday Destinations and Countries to Visit

Canyon Matka

Located 17 kilometers to the southwest of the capital city of Macedonia, Canyon Matka offers a beautiful day trip from Skopje. Dramatic gorge with steep walls surrounds it, and that makes for the perfect outdoor experience for those who love finding themselves in the lap of Nature.

Renting a boat to take you around on a tour of the ten surrounding caves is among the most popular activities in Macedonia Canyon Matka, after which tourists usually settle for some Macedonia food at the local eateries and restaurants .

The place is also home to over 70 butterfly species, with some of them having been discovered only in recent times. The nearby Treska Lake, along with the Matka Lake, is also famous as kayaking spots thanks to the lush Macedonia scenery and calm waters.

There are also three churches – the Matka Monastery, The Monastery of St. Nicholas Shishovski, and Monastery of St. Andrew, where tourists can enjoy the beautiful frescos as part of their sightseeing Macedonia.

Mavrovo National Park

The most prominent National Park in Macedonia, Mavrovo, stretches over 192,000 acres right up to the Albanian border from Lake Mavrovo. It is home to the highest peaks in the country and offers skiing as one of the most sought-after activities in Macedonia Mavrovo town.

There are many hotels in Macedonia Mavrovo town for those looking for a skiing vacation. The best time to visit Macedonia for a skiing vacation is from November to April .

Mavrovo National Park turns considerably verdant and lush during the warmer months, and the lake here is the most substantial such artificial water body in the country. The place is a popular tourist attraction in Macedonia during the summer for boating and swimming. Hotels line the lakeshore where tourists often choose to stay for a couple of days.

The submerged St. Nicholas Church is a curious and unusual Macedonia attraction here. The building was flooded on purpose when the lake was dug in 1953 but has become partially exposed after that, thus giving rise to an unexpected sight.

Read also:   26+ Best National Parks in Europe You Must Check Out!

Pelister National Park

Pelister is the oldest among the three great Macedonia national parks and is located close to the town of Bitola. Mount Pelister is one of nine peaks that scale up to 2000m in elevation and offer magnificent vistas to tourists who wish to escape from their daily life.

The five-needle pine molica can be found here and is a Macedonia tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts. Red-billed jackdaws, partridges, eagles, chamois, bears, wolves, and roe deer are other attractions for those inclined towards the creations of nature.

There are two magnificent mountain lakes in this national park where tourists can enjoy hiking activities in Macedonia, with the Stone River being a favorite trail of crushed rocks that head up towards the mountain slopes.

Read also:   The 20 Underrated Countries in Europe to Visit on Your Next Trip!

An old town that was part of the Ottoman Empire, Bitola used to be known as “City of Consuls” since it was a diplomatic center for the area. Sophisticated and elegant, the Turkish mosques and colorful 18th-century townhouses are the most popular Macedonia tourism attractions here.

Sitting on the (Wide Street) Sirok Sokak with a cup of espresso in hand and watching the world unfold itself is one of the most repeated experiences that indeed should not be given a miss. It is the second-largest among all the cities in Macedonia and also the favorite among local people. All thanks to its European atmosphere and café culture.

The Isak Beg Mosque, the Jeni Mosque, the Old Bazaar, and the Deboj Turkish Bath are the best sightseeing Macedonia options in this place.

Some unique things set Prilep apart from the rest. From an agricultural point of view, this is the tobacco capital of Macedonia. It was later called the “city under Marko’s Towers” after turning into the medieval center during the reigns of Kings Volkasin and Marko, who put up numerous monasteries and churches all around the town.

Prilep enjoys a distinctive landscape highlighted by huge rocks that are scattered sparsely along the base of a small hill on top of which stand the old ruins of the medieval fortress. Locals also offer a distinct flavor that is visible in their humor and dedication towards preserving the local traditions.

Read also:   Top 15 Places to Visit in Greece

Home to only 10000 citizens, there used to be a time when Krusevo was a republic of its own. The town is often regarded as a symbol of the centuries-old Independence struggle of the country to emerge out of the shadows of the famous Ottoman Empire.

When the age-old revolution was on, and Macedonia seemed to be on the verge of success, Krusevo enjoyed freedom for ten days before the town was burnt to the ground by Ottoman forces who also martyred the national heroes. Makedonim and Mechkin Kaman are two of the country’s points of interest that were built to honor the entire sequence of events.

August 2 is a significant date here, and tourists need to do some exploring to know the reason behind this high point of pride. Krusevo is situated in the beautiful Baba Mountains, with its highlights being several churches, monasteries, and some incredible architecture .

Stobi is one of the famous archaeological sites found in Macedonia country, and one of the more interesting  places to visit in Macedonia . Founded by the great King of Paeonia during the 7th century, this city had numerous changes of ownership.

It enjoys a strategic location along the age-old trading route that was popular among the Romans, which drove its growth as a major hub for all the traders on their way to Greece via the Aeagen Sea from the Danube in Serbia. The site can be visited on any day, with the town being only an hour’s drive away from Skopje.

Read also:  Top 10 Things to do in Tirana (Albania)

Regarded as the top draw among Macedonia tourist attractions , the sunny ambiance of Gevgelija enjoys the reputation of being a fun place with significant times on your Macedonia travel.

The concert venues, galleries, nightclubs, top hotels, and casinos have earned it the moniker of being the Macedonian Las Vegas. Exclusive entertainment opportunities are also present, but anyone can join in the fun. Tourists looking for a break from the buffet and table for blackjack can head over to the Smrdliva Voda, which is a spa offering 400 villas and sulfur baths to select from.

Nature can also be found here in full glory, characterized by deciduous and pine forests and a sublime climate that gives rise to its rich heritage of biodiversity.

24000 hectares of vineyard and almost 2000 years of viticulture history of the wine-making industry is one of the most popular Macedonia points of interest for those planning travel to Macedonia. Situated in the deep throws of the highly fertile Vardar Valley is Povardarie that produces wines that are sought after all across the world.

Smederevka and Vranec are the best varieties that should be sampled on a visit. Popova Kula, Stobi Winery, and Winery Tikves are the three most popular wineries here, with Popova Kula being ranked as the finest in Macedonia with regularity. There are over 20 varieties of wine produced here while they also offer folklore shows, accommodation, and cooking lessons.

Located in eastern Macedonia, Strumica is home to various Macedonia tourist attractions that are worth a visit. Mount Belasica offers a fantastic hiking experience with other trails leading out to two waterfalls , Kolesino and Smolare.

The tranquil Vodoca and Veljusa are among some of the more stunning monasteries in the area, dating back to the times of the Byzantine Empire with nuns and monks continuing to stay there. St. Bogorodica and St. Leontuis are healing spas belonging to the Roman Therma that was built in the eleventh century and make for the next Macedonia destinations for tourists.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most prominent town on the lake that goes by the same name, Ohrid enjoys a rich heritage and historical background. Topping the list of what to see in Macedonia Ohrid are frescoes that can be found inside St. Clement Church, Ancient Theater, Saint Sofia Church, and the fortress of Tsar Samuil that offers a fantastic view over the lake and the city.

The surrounding area has mountains scale up to 2800m, making the place naturally breathtaking alongside giving it tremendous cultural significance. To conclude that Ohrid reflects the best there is to Macedonia country would not be an overstatement. This town is a good option as a base camp from where to explore Ohrid Lake and the surrounding monasteries and villages.

Struga has been given the nickname of “City of the Poetry” and is a great day trip option for tourists who visit Macedonia. It is a beautiful and relaxing place to take a stroll through. Vlado Maleski, who penned the Macedonia national anthem, was born in this town with Struga holding the distinction of being the place where the hymn was sung publically for the first time.

The various activities in Macedonia Struga include a walk down Goce Delcev Street and a visit to the Halveti Teke, St. George Church, and the lively Old Bazaar market.

Kumanovo is among the larger cities of Macedonia and can be found just outside the capital city of Macedonia. This place is a fantastic blend of Serbian and Macedonian culture. The local people are regarded as a feisty group comprising a colorful multi-ethnic mixture of Turkish, Albanian, Serbian, and Roman minorities.

Other places to visit in Macedonia include the Batko Gjorgjija monument, the Church of St. George, and the unique rock formation called Kostoperka Karpa.

Monastery In St. Naum

Sveti Naum is only half an hour’s drive away from Ohrid and stands out as an impressive monastery dating back to the 10th century. The structure can be found on the high outcrop on the lake. It is famous for the frescos and an enjoyable place to rejuvenate and relax in.

The monastery is also home to some of the best religious paintings that the Balkan region has to offer. The lake’s panoramic view is something to take in while a rowboat tour Drim River is another highly recommended experience.

There are many islands nearby that can be visited for dinner and a taste of some delicious Macedonia food.

As the place that encompasses every phenomenally unique aspect of the country, this is one of the best destinations where tourists can end their travel to Macedonia.

With so much to explore and so little known about the best places to see in Macedonia, tourists can enjoy their Macedonia travel to the fullest. It is a safe country , so there is no need to worry about political turmoil or instability. It would be a good idea to check the weather conditions before planning a Macedonia visit to avoid surprises.

Read also:   Top 17 Most Beautiful and Best Lakes in Europe to Visit

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these for later read!

• Pinterest 215

Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > Things To Know Before Visiting Macedonia

Things To Know Before Visiting Macedonia

Written by our local expert Daniel

Originally from Macedonia, Daniel is a total budget travel junkie. Having visited over 35 countries, Dan knows a thing or two about traveling Macedonia and the Balkans on the cheap.

Unless you were born in Europe or visited Macedonia previously, you might not even know that this small but lovely country exists. But here are all of the things you need to know before visiting Macedonia.

 Macedonia is one of the smallest, poorest, and (undeservingly) one of the least visited countries in Europe . That’s why you won’t find many articles about it online , except for some articles about Ohrid and Skopje here and there.

Well, who can give you better tips about traveling to Macedonia than a local? In this article, I’ll try to give you a glimpse of the country, show you why you absolutely must visit, and tell you everything you need to know before you do so.

Spoiler alert: this article includes information about a city of 365 churches, remote monasteries that hide pieces from the cross Jesus was crucified on, the oldest lake in Europe, the deepest underwater cave, and Macedonia’s very own snake island.

With that being said, the first thing you should know if you plan to visit Macedonia is that…

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

You Shouldn’t FYROM It

As you may or may not know, Macedonia has a name dispute with Greece. Long story short, Greece currently has a part of Macedonia’s historical region within its territory, and they fear their territorial integrity as long as Macedonia is named Macedonia.

Actually, no one in their right mind in Macedonia has any territorial pretensions towards this part of Greece , but that’s a different story. The temporary reference The Former Yugoslav Republic Of Macedonia (FYROM) was forced upon Macedonia back in the 1990s (even though most countries already recognized it under its constitutional name). Macedonians don’t appreciate being called that at all.  

What About The Visa?

Macedonia is not a part of the E.U. or the Schengen Zone, but you don’t need a visa if you are a resident of any European country. However, if you’re from a country outside of Europe, you might need a visa , depending on where you come from. To ensure whether you need a visa or not, check out this official government site before you plan your visit to Macedonia.

Getting Around Macedonia

Macedonia has two airports, one in Skopje (the capital) and one in Ohrid (the tourist hotspot). If you’re flying from Europe, the cheapest option would be to book a flight with Wizz Air. If you’re flying from outside of Europe, consider flying to a bigger city in Europe from where you can get a Wizz Air flight. This will always be a cheaper alternative.

The best way to explore Macedonia is by bus. It’s a bit more expensive than traveling by train, but it’s a lot faster. However, if you want to get off the beaten track and explore places in areas that are not inhabited, the best way is to rent a car or hire a driver from a local tour operator. Both options shouldn’t be costly because Macedonia is so small ; you can get anywhere in the country in under 3 hours.

Now that we covered some basics let’s see some of the best things Macedonia offers.

Brands We Use And Trust

The capital is a city of contrasts (for real).

Almost half of Macedonia’s population lives in Skopje , so it’s logical for such a city to be a city of contrasts but let me give you some background. If you’re wandering around the city square, you might feel like you’re in Paris or some other Western European capital. Skopje even has its own Arc de Triomphe. However, after you cross the legendary Stone Bridge, this vibe disappears, and you start feeling like you’re somewhere in Turkey or the Middle East.

This sudden change of the environment is something that dazzles most travelers visiting Skopje, and it’s worth exploring for a day or two ( check out these incredible hotels in the city for an overnight stay ). If you think that’s not enough, take a 20-minute bus ride from the city center if you want to feel like you’re in the slums of Mumbai.

Why might you ask?

Skopje Boasts The Only Romani-Run Municipality In Europe

Romani people (also known as Gypsies) are a nomadic group that migrated to Europe from the North of India around a thousand years ago. Today, they are one of the most discriminated ethnic groups in Europe, but many of them found a home in Skopje. Shuto Orizari, called Shutka by the locals, is the only municipality in Europe (and probably the world) where Romani people have complete autonomy, including their own mayor.

Shutka also has a very famous street market where you can buy practically anything for half the price you normally would and even less if you know how to bargain. It’s not the most charming place in Skopje but certainly an unusual one, and a one you indeed won’t find anywhere else, at least in Europe.

If you want to see the prettier side of the city , I suggest you visit…

The Deepest Underwater Cave In Europe?

According to multiple sources, the deepest cave in Europe is Hranicka Propast in the Czech Republic (402 meters). However, the Vrelo Cave, located in the Matka Canyon just outside of Skopje, isn’t fully explored, and many believe it might be deeper than 400 meters. There were several attempts to measure the cave’s depth, but teams couldn’t proceed due to the pile of rocks that were blocking the way. Hence, no one really knows how deep Vrelo Cave is.

However, this cave is not the only reason to visit Matka. The Canyon is also home to 77 endemic species of butterfly and large populations of bats. You’ll also find several medieval monasteries scattered across the Canyon; you can go kayaking, witness one of the most iconic views of Skopje, and go rock climbing (not recommendable if you’re not experienced). While we’re at it…

Get Ready To Be Blown Away By The Mountain Landscapes

Mountains cover almost 80% of Macedonia’s territory. In only 25,000 square kilometers, you’ll find 50 lakes and 34 mountains higher than 2,000 meters. This makes Macedonia the fourth country in Europe with the highest average elevation (741 meters), only falling behind Andorra, Switzerland, and Austria.

Despite being such a small country, Macedonia has three breathtaking national parks in Mavrovo, Pelister, and Galicica. These are some of the last places on Earth where you can spot a very rare species: the Balkan Lynx.

If you like mountains and hiking , you will find plenty of entirely unfrequented trails in all parts of the country. And since I mentioned nature, I should also tell you that while you are visiting Macedonia, you must visit…

The Oldest Lake In Europe

The Lake in Ohrid is a UNESCO heritage site that is more than 4 million years old. It’s also one of the deepest lakes in Europe, with a maximum depth of almost 300 meters. More than 300 endemic species call the Ohrid Lake a home, which is the main reason why the lake has been on UNESCO’s list since 1979.

The Ohrid lake is also a great summer destination hosting some of the most beautiful beaches in Macedonia . No wonder a lot of international tourists choose it as their summer holiday destination every year.

Ohrid is also nicknamed the Jerusalem of the Balkans . The city used to have 365 churches in the past: one for every day of the year. But unfortunately, after the Ottoman invasion, many of them were destroyed. Talking about churches and monasteries, in the western part of the country, you can find…

Monasteries That Have Pieces Of The Cross At Which Jesus Was Crucified In Their Foundation

Most of the people in Macedonia are orthodox Christian and have been for more than 1,000 years, and the name Macedonia is mentioned several times in the bible. Christianity has been around in Macedonia since its early beginnings. It’s also believed that there are three pieces of the cross Jesus was crucified on used in the foundation of three monasteries in Western Macedonia.

One is the Monastery of St. Bogorodica Prechista (Mother Marry) near Kichevo. The second is in the St. Georgij Pobedonosec Monastery in Debar, and the third one is in the St. Jovan Bigorski Monastery, near the city of Gostivar. These monasteries have jaw-dropping architecture and have great historical importance. Still, you can also find many more monasteries scattered across the country, some of which are tucked away in the most isolated corners of the country. Talking about incredible sights…

Macedonia Is (Probably) The Only Landlocked Country That Has An Island

Macedonia is landlocked and has no access to the sea, but it has its own island. Golem Grad or Snake Island is located in Prespa Lake and is a part of the National Park Galichica.

Today, the island’s only residents are snakes, but there is strong evidence that people lived on the island at one point in time. Snake Island was opened for visitors in 2008, and if you feel adventurous, you should check it out.

Macedonia Has The Fourth Oldest Space Observatory In The World!

Halfway between Skopje and the border with Serbia , you’ll find Kokino. According to NASA, this is one of the oldest space observatories globally , dating back to the 19 th century B.C. In 2002, it was proven that the stone markers found on the site were used to track the movement of the Moon and the Sun on the eastern horizon. Shortly after this discovery, Kokino was added to UNESCO’s heritage list.

Macedonia Hosts One Of The Largest Annual Poetry Events In The World

The Ohrid Lake is so big it spreads across two cities, Ohrid and Struga. And the latter hosts one of the world’s largest annual gatherings of poets. The Struga Poetry evenings have been around since 1961, and the Golden Wreath, awarded on this festival, is one of the most prestigious awards a poet can get. Some of the previous Golden Wreath winners include the likes of W.H. Auden, Allen Ginsberg, and Ted Hughes.

If this sounds intriguing, you might be wondering about the costs of traveling to Macedonia . Well, you can experience all of these things for only a fraction of the price you might think it’s realistic because…

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Macedonia Is Arguably The Cheapest Country In Europe

You’re probably aware that the Balkan countries have the lowest living standard in Europe, and hence, the prices for everything are a lot lower. The most expensive cities in Macedonia are Skopje and Ohrid, but they are still far from what you might consider expensive. All the other cities have ridiculously low prices, even for people from Skopje .

In Skopje, you can get a decent meal for 3-5 euros, a cup of coffee shouldn’t cost you more than 1-1.5 euro, you can get a comfortable hotel room for 20-25 euros, and you can make a circle around the country with a bus for less than 25 euros! If you want to save money, take with you a filter water bottle as you travel . The prices in most other cities are close to half of these, mainly because of the poor mismanagement of local development. This is the main reason why approximately half of the entire country’s residents live in Skopje .

Have you ever visited Macedonia before? If not, would you like to, after reading this article? Let us know in the comments!

• Guide To Ohrid – Macedonia’s UNESCO Site
• Most Famous Festivals In Macedonia
• How To Rent A Car In Skopje
• Interesting Museums In Skopje
• How To Tip In Macedonia
• Explore Macedonia Through Traditional Food
• Incredible Macedonia Winter Destinations
• Learn How To Speak Macedonian
• Affordable Luxury Hotels In Macedonia
• Top Souvenirs From Macedonia
• Travel From Skopje To Pristina, Kosovo
• Delicious Restaurants In Skopje
• Best Day Trips From Skopje

Comments (20)

I would be careful in the information you disperse. It would appropriate and professional being 100% accurate. Well very close to it. 1. There is no such country called Macedonia. 1a. Macedonia is a province of the Hellenic republic. 1b. You must be referring to North Macedonia. 2. I would not hold high in esteem people like Mr Allen Ginsberg. I suggest look up his own comments regarding NAMBL( North American men and boys lovers) yes pedophilia. 3. It is a shame people like you try to make a dollar out of sensationalism and blatant irredentism. 4. Western Macedonia? Or do you mean Ohrid and Tetovo? 5. Once again the only reference to western Macedonia, central or eastern is in the province Macedonia in the Hellenic republic. 6. Be professional this is sloppy and a terrible writeup with plenty of inaccuracies, terrible statements and questionable references.

Please leave this comment open to be viewed by as many people possible.

You must be tired of living ….. I pitty you… I can help get you out of your misery and it would be free of charge ….

What a contentious idiot you are. So sad.

Sam, I’m guessing you’re from Greece? I love how you talk about how unprofessional the write-up is yet you start by writing “It would appropriate and professional being 100% accurate. Well very close to it.” As a native English speaker, I have no idea what the hell that is supposed to mean because it makes no grammatical sense, yet you think you have the right to complain about other people’s writing. Fascinating. I think you are probably a very lonely, friendless, human being. Must kinda suck being you…

ahahah I was thinking the same

Not only does Sam Kostoulias not make grammatical sense, but he does not make historic or factual sense. In fact, he writes nonsense. Yes, it must suck living life through a politically indoctrinated lens since childhood and learning only how to hate the “Other.” Macedonia is a beautiful place with mostly great people. Forget the politicians, though.

Thank you for the information, unfortunately having fake ancient greek statues all over the city doesn’t say much about the real culture of the people. When I travelled in the region in early 80’s it was called Vranovska, it changed names a few times after the Yugoslavian war as well. I don’t see anything Greek about it, I would expect at least some authenticity as it’s claimed to be something that it’s not.

@SJ Thank you for the enticing descriptions. A very well-written piece! It has definitely made me want to go and visit the country!

Lay off the ouzo, Paula. It damages the brain. “Vranovska”? lol

Suck on my d!ck

Sam, I feel I need to correct you on your comments read coincidentally tonight Macedonia is not a monopoly of the Greeks, the name is also given to the South Yugoslavia in the days of General Tito and no one ever questioned it but the New Greeks, so please refrain from insulting the lovely people of Northen Macedonia that accepted the NORTH as the only way to go on with their life and have been busy trying to enter the EU since 2005 I am not a Pro-N. Macedonian or Anti-Greek I am a Greek with an open mind and knowledge of the Greek History No need to reply to me because I will not bother to either read it or take note of it

Sam you need to get a life.

Nobody in Macedonia has anything against the Greek people but you seem to have something against us.

Let’s be honest here.

Prior to 1988 nobody in Greece even mentioned the word Macedonia and now you are claiming it?

Why didn’t you try to claim it while Tito was in charge?

In 1977 your country officially recognised the Macedonian Language and why is that?

I have plenty of Greek friends and thank god they aren’t peasants like yourself.

Beautifully written!!

I like the article, feel it is written honestly and fairly describing the issue with name Macedonia. I am Not Macedonian, Nor Northern Macedonian, nor ever been in these two areas, I am not even living in EU, nor Europe, so feel I’m impartial enough, just checking about “Macedonia” as I was reading the Bible. Happy the authors left the critical comment – it shows the writer’s honesty. Most people realize that just bc someone has won a poetry award – it does Not make them a good person – they could be criminals too. Plenty of talented and charismatic people turned out to use their gifts from God for evil. So, Lord Jesus bless all who read this with grace, mercy and peace to know how much You love them and to love others, self, and You.

Hi, it would be great if can ask you some questions about north macedonia via email.

Thank you for your article (I will be visiting soon) About the island of a landlocked country, a quick search on google gave me : isla panza in Bolivia, ssese islands in Uganda, and many on lake Tchad

Hi,some decent information in your article.I visited Lake Ohrid in 2019 for a week and thoroughly enjoyed all the area had to offer.I would love to return to take in more of North Macedonia when flights from the UK get back to normal.The food was especially good at the restaurants sat on stilts over the Lake in the Old Town and also the people were very friendly.Swimming in the freshwater Lake was also a highlight .

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Macedonia again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

What is the best way to enter Macedonia from Greece? We will be flying into Athens from the US and are debating heading south to do Crete or North to check out Macedonia. Can you drive in if we rent a car? Or best to fly?

Thanks for the article. I want to go to Macedonia even more after reading it. I am from the US and appeciate the helpful information.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing

Your tourist guide to Macedonia

Upcomming events

There are no events

I've visited 93 countries, 57 of them with kids. These 5 underrated spots are great places to enjoy with your family.

• Karen Edwards has traveled to 93 countries, and 57 of them have been with her young children.
• Edwards said that her family has had more fun exploring underrated spots than the popular ones.
• Her favorites include Tanzania for its safari tours and Abu Dhabi for its vibrant festival scene.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Karen Edwards , who blogs about her family's travels around the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Since 2000, I've visited 93 countries and 57 of them have been with my four children who are all under the age of 10.

I am a nurse by background, but I have been blogging about traveling with my husband and kids since 2014. I cover a lot of off-the-beaten-track destinations and write itineraries for places I've been to, explaining how they work for families with children.

Many popular family destinations tend to be overcrowded. They're usually the ones that get a lot of media exposure or are shown in viral videos on social media. In America, it'd be places like Disneyland in California or Disney World in Florida, while for Europeans, it might be some of the Spanish resort areas.

Although my family and I have visited these places, we have always come away disappointed. They often lack educational experiences, feeling like pointless affairs.

I think traveling to underrated spots makes trips feel more exclusive and you can learn more about the cultures of the countries you visit — it also keeps you away from tourist traps.

We went on a safari tour in Tanzania

Our family visited Tanzania in 2019 in collaboration with a tourism brand. We were there for 12 days.

Our flights to the country were kind of expensive; we paid about $9,000 for our then-family of four, including a stop in Zanzibar at the end of the trip for a few days. However, overall, the entire trip didn't end up costing us that much.

We had some really unique experiences in Tanzania. We went to Mto Wa Mbu village , which is beneath a banana plantation, and we went on a safari tour in its Lake Manyara National Park .

Interestingly, Tanzania is one of the few places in the world where lions are known to climb trees. I remember seeing them sit in tall trees; it was quite unusual, but my kids really enjoyed how close they were to the animals.

Throughout our trip, we actually felt like we were experiencing life in Tanzania. Our campsite was on a river's edge in the depths of nature. It was nice not to feel surrounded by tourists.

My kids fell in love with Abu Dhabi's culture

Many people mistakenly believe that Dubai is a country, but in reality, it's a city in the United Arab Emirates, with Abu Dhabi being its capital.

My family and I moved to Abu Dhabi in 2021 and lived there for 18 months. The city does have a lot of similarities to glitzy and glam Dubai , but you get a more down-to-earth experience.

There are amazing festivals in Abu Dhabi where they display their culture in different formats, whether that be through local food or crafts. It does feel authentic because it's usually mainly locals participating and organizing them.

The city is also 1.5 hours away from Al Ain, which sits at the foot of  Jebel Hafeet , one of the tallest mountains in the region. Along the way up, you'll find many ancient artifacts, such as beehive huts, which have been there for thousands of years. At the top, you can watch incredible sunsets.

Related stories

The city also has the Al Ain Oasis , which uses an ancient irrigation system. It has these beautiful paved pathways that look like cobbled streets.

My kids loved Abu Dhabi and are constantly asking me to go back — they really liked all the cultural celebrations.

We love Sri Lanka so much, we're building a villa there

In 2022, my family and I moved to Sri Lanka from Abu Dhabi. We thought we'd have more family time here, and it was going to be an affordable place to live.

We're building a family-friendly villa here that should be completed by August. The area where we are building has a lot of nice cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby.

Overall, Sri Lanka is an amazing country that has so many diverse experiences. There are tea plantations, mountains, and beaches. As for wildlife, their national parks have loads of elephants and leopards.

On one occasion, we went on a safari boat tour to an isolated national park where we watched elephants swim across a lake and onto a tiny island. It was amazing.

The beaches in Sri Lanka are pristine. They have beautiful scenery with swaying coconut palm trees, clear water, and perfect waves. Our favorite is Kabalana Beach .

Because we're always on the beach, my children have learned how to surf. I think it's the most fun thing that we do on the weekends as a family.

The ski resorts and spas are amazing in Andorra

We visited Andorra in 2018 for about six days. It's a tiny country nestled in the Pyrenees between Spain. It's a two-hour drive from Barcelona and three hours from Toulouse, France.

The city has a unique fusion of cultures, though I think Catalonian is the strongest influence. During our trip, my family and I toured many ancient churches.

We also went to some amazing spas and resorts in Andorra. The hotel and ski system there is really family-friendly.

During our visit to the Grandvalira ski resort , my daughter learned how to ski and my husband got to snowboard — the resort has a kindergarten at the foot of its mountain, where kids can play or ski.

Andorra also has amazing spa facilities that are suitable for families and are sectioned off for different age groups.

Our trip was in collaboration with Andorra's tourism board, but I feel like it wasn't overly expensive in comparison to some other places around the world.

I was treated like family in Macedonia

Macedonia is a Balkan country just north of Greece. I haven't been there with children, but I wouldn't have any issues taking my kids there.

It has many beautiful small villages and it's great for skiing too.

The country is also home to one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe named Lake Orchid, which borders Albania. There's this beautiful, small village on the lake that has charming restaurant and a lovely atmosphere for relaxing and enjoying good food.

I visited the country in 2008, and then again in 2012 with my then-boyfriend and now-husband.

The first time I visited, I went with two girlfriends, and we were backpackers. We arrived in the middle of the night by bus and had no idea what we were doing. The bus driver just made a call, and a stranger came and picked us up in his car — I thought I was going to die.

The opposite happened. He took us back to his home with his family, and we stayed there with them for a few days. We ended up extending the trip because he and his family were so amazing.

They didn't speak a word of English, and we couldn't speak a word of their language either. We'd just gesture at each other, and they'd give us food and red wine.

I just totally fell in love with them and their country.

• Main content

North Macedonians’ Seattle visit highlights press freedom, judicial transparency

Sunshine, that best of disinfectants according to Louis Brandeis, seemed to be holding court over Seattle earlier this month.

Under clear blue April skies, four members of the Judiciary-Media Council of the Republic of North Macedonia spent the week traipsing through town for a series of meetings with local judges, journalists, prosecutors and academics. Their trip, supported by the U.S. State Department, was intended to provide an opportunity for them to plot a path forward in the areas of “judicial transparency and media reporting.” I had the privilege of tagging along.

Independent since 1991 and now awaiting admission to the European Union, North Macedonia has a genuine interest in strengthening its democratic institutions such as an independent judiciary and a vibrant press. With its successful Bench-Bar-Press Committee — active since 1963 — the state of Washington is rightly seen as a model for cooperative efforts of these entities so essential to a properly functioning democracy.

Our courts and news media have distinct functions but share one common goal. The preamble to the Code of Ethics for the Society of Professional Journalists states “We believe that public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy.”

Every good judge and prosecutor I’ve met — and that’s a large number — is fully convinced that increased public understanding of the workings of the justice system leads inevitably to a heightened level of trust and confidence in that system. It’s only anecdotal, but the reports of former jurors certainly bear out this view.

In a meeting at The Seattle Times, reporter Patrick Malone called the courts “the heartbeat of the community, the place where justice or injustice may be done.” Whichever one is being done, it’s being done in the name of the public and it is their business to know about it. That was not just the view of the assembled reporters and editors we met at The Times and at KIRO 7 but of all we encountered during the sunny week.

Justice Mary Yu of the Washington Supreme Court plainly told the group, “The more scrutiny we have, the better we are.” This sentiment was echoed in thoughtful meetings with U.S. District Court Judge John Coughenour, King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Ketu Shah and Municipal Court Presiding Judge Faye Chess.

To the same effect, Dan Clark, King County’s chief criminal deputy prosecutor, said, “I’d much rather be criticized for something we did, properly understood, than for something that is just imagined.” Again, an informed public will most likely be supportive but, if differences of opinion remain, that is what public debate is for.

The delegation also spent some time at the University of Washington in a lively discussion with Kate Starbird and her colleagues at the Center for an Informed Public. There, we were soberly told that those who wish to destabilize democracies are following “disinformation strategies designed to undermine trust in courts and the press.”

It was at this meeting that journalist Aleksandar Atanasov raised the profound question of whether trust is something that is won, something that can be lost or both. Although we may have long traditions, the fact remains that any democracy — old or new — needs to remain vigilant and continue making the most of those supportive tools such as transparency.

At the end of the week, visiting Supreme Court Judge Mirjana Lazarova Trajkovska pronounced herself “impressed at how all these entities (the legal community, journalists and academia) all spoke with one voice about anti-democratic forces.” She and her journalistic fellow travelers each expressed a hope for building a culture in which judges and journalists could feel such a sense of shared purpose.

Of course, it isn’t always sunny in Washington and, just as in North Macedonia, there are times when principled disputes will arise between the courts and the reporters that cover them. Without compromising their core functions — the courts doing justice and the press letting the public know when they are and are not — the two must work collegially toward the goal of public enlightenment. That foundation of democracy is the shining beacon that lights the days ahead in both North Macedonia and the United States.

Most Read Opinion Stories

• Trump’s immunity case was settled more than 200 years ago
• A small gesture could make a big change in a teen's mental health
• Mayor Harrell’s proposal for dangerous Seattle buildings deserves council support
• A vital voice has been left out of statements about Gaza
• Arizona politics swing between the unacceptable and the remarkable

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.