Things To Do
in Macedonia
North Macedonia is a land of rugged mountains, sparkling lakes, and centuries of cultural interchanges. From Skopje's bold squares and bridges to the tranquil shores of Lake Ohrid, the country blends ancient heritage with everyday warmth. Ancient ruins, Ottoman-era bazaars, and sacred monasteries punctuate the landscape.
Whether you crave outdoor adventure, historic sites, or lakeside relaxation, Macedonia offers welcoming towns and dramatic scenery at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Skopje by visiting the iconic Stone Bridge, which offers picturesque views of the Vardar River. Explore the nearby Old Bazaar, wandering through its narrow alleys to discover traditional shops and cafes. Don't miss the impressive Mustafa Pasha Mosque, a hallmark of Ottoman architecture.
In the afternoon, visit the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle to deepen your understanding of the country's complex history. Take a leisurely walk around Macedonia Square, where you can admire the impressive statues and fountains littering the area. Stop for lunch in one of the vibrant restaurants that offer local delicacies.
As dusk approaches, head to Vodno Mountain for a stunning sunset view over the city. Dine at a local tavern, savoring traditional dishes like tavche gravche, while enjoying live folk music. Conclude your day by experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Skopje, with lively bars and clubs.
Set out early for Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its crystal-clear lake. On your way, stop at the picturesque town of Struga, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning stroll by the lake. Upon arriving in Ohrid, visit the majestic Samuil's Fortress for panoramic views of the landscape.
After exploring the fortress, visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched on a cliff with breathtaking views. Spend some time at the lakeside, perhaps taking a boat ride or relaxing on the beach. Try local fish dishes for lunch at a waterfront restaurant, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere of the town.
As evening falls, wander through the charming streets of Ohrid, lined with cozy shops and cafes. Watch the sunset over the lake, an unforgettable sight filled with an array of colors. End the day with a traditional Macedonian dinner at a local restaurant, reveling in the delightful dishes and hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍷Mid-range dinner for two | $25-40 |
| 🧀Local cheese or street snack | $2-5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short city trip) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake and mountain scenery
- Rich history and warm hospitality
- Tight-knit, affordable dining and lodging
- Compact city centers ideal for walking tours
- Limited English in some rural areas
- Seasonal crowds in peak months
- Some highway routes can be winding and slow
- Smaller selection of high-end international cuisine outside big cities
- "Zdravo" - Hello
- "Dobar den" - Good day
- "Molam" - Please
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Govorite li engleski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kolku e?" - How much is this?
- "Poln e?" - Where is...?
- "Izvini" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Da li imate vegetarijanska jela?" - Do you have vegetarian dishes?
Places to Visit in Macedonia
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic modern architecture framed by the Stone Bridge and the river—great for sunrise or golden-hour photos.
Ruin overlooks the city with sweeping views of the area and river valleys.
Caverns, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Cliffside church with striking blue water views—perfect at sunset.
Historic stone houses, narrow streets, and gentle reflections on Lake Ohrid provide classic travel photography moments.
Food in Macedonia
Macedonia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A roasted red pepper and eggplant spread, typically served with bread or grilled meats.
Must-Try!
Clay-pot baked beans with peppers and herbs; a comforting staple in many taverns.
Cabbage leaves stuffed with rice (and sometimes meat) cooked slowly in tomato sauce.
Layered bake of potatoes or eggplant with meat and creamy sauce.
Grilled minced-meat skewers served with onions and flatbread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market stalls offering spices, dried fruits, cheeses, grilled snacks, and baklava.
Large outdoor market with fresh produce, dairy products, olives, and street bites; ideal for tasting local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact is common; use 'Dobar den' (Good day) or 'Zdravo' (Hello). Address elders with appropriate titles when possible.
Dress modestly and remove hats; photography may be restricted inside sacred spaces.
Eating is often a social activity; wait for everyone to be served and try to sample a bit of each dish shared at the table.
Safety
Tipping in Macedonia
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if a service charge isn’t included; in cafes and bars, rounding up is common.
Cash in local currency (MKD) is widely accepted in markets; major cards are common in cities; ATMs are plentiful; some rural places may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with warm nights; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and enjoy lakeside activities or mountain escapes in the cooler valleys.
Cold, with snow possible in the mountains; layering is essential and higher passes may require winter tires.
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; ideal for city strolls and hillside hikes.
Pleasant days and colorful foliage; great for hiking and exploring towns without peak-season crowds.
Macedonia at Night
Hiking in Macedonia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible gorge trails near Skopje with scenic viewpoints and cave visits.
Mountain trails with Balkan lynx habitats and the serene Big and Small Lakes.
Ridge hikes between Ohrid and Prespa with panoramic lake views.
Alpine routes near the Kosovo border offering challenging hikes and alpine scenery.
Forest and meadow trails near Tetovo with rustic villages and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Macedonia by plane.
Main international gateway to Macedonia; frequent connections to Europe and regional destinations; transport to the city by taxi or shuttle.
Smaller airport serving seasonal and regional flights; convenient for Ohrid-based itineraries; transfer by car or bus to town center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group, mainly Orthodox Christian with diverse cultural traditions.
Significant minority; many communities in western regions with strong bilingual presence.
Communities contributing to a multicultural landscape across urban and rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; many local clubs and a strong fan culture.
Widely played and followed, with active amateur leagues.
Popular in schools and clubs with regional teams.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Macedonia, vegetarians can enjoy fresh vegetables, dairy, breads, and dishes like ajvar and corn-based dishes; look for tavče gravče prepared without meat and ask for cheese or egg-based fillings where available.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Macedonia.