In this guide to North Macedonia, we’re diving into its best spots—from charming old towns to ancient monasteries, wine regions, and national parks.
North Macedonia, a landlocked gem on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe, remains a lesser-known destination, making it perfect for travelers seeking something different from the usual Balkan hotspots like Croatia.
I lived in Ohrid, a lakeside town in North Macedonia, for a few months, and it quickly became one of my favorite places in Europe.
This country boasts a history spanning thousands of years, visible in its beautiful Orthodox monasteries, Ottoman mosques, ancient Roman and Illyrian ruins, and so much more. North Macedonia is packed with hidden treasures, keeping you entertained throughout your stay.
Like many Balkan countries, North Macedonia’s long history is marked by various empires and cultures, making it one of the region’s most diverse countries. From ancient Illyria and Thrace to the Roman Republic, Byzantine Era, Ottoman Empire, and later Yugoslavia, it has had many identities over the years.
After Yugoslavia’s breakup, Macedonia became an independent republic, but it faced a naming dispute with Greece. In 2018, to resolve this, it became the Republic of North Macedonia, a change that still stirs mixed feelings among the locals.
With that in mind, North Macedonians largely prefer to be addressed as “Macedonian,” and avoiding political discussions on this matter is advisable.
Now, let’s explore the must-visit places in North Macedonia—from the vibrant capital, Skopje, to the beautiful lakeside town of Ohrid, ancient Heraclea Lyncestic ruins, sprawling vineyards, and hilltop churches and monasteries.
Skopje:
– Overview: The capital boasts beautiful neoclassical architecture, picturesque bridges over the Vardar River, museums, parks, cafes, bars, and restaurants. Nearby attractions include Matka Canyon and Vodno Mountain.
– Experience: Skopje has a laid-back vibe, with open-air bars and restaurants along the river.
– Highlight: Skopje Fortress offers stunning city views and is free to explore.
– Getting There: Skopje International Airport is 14 miles from the city center. Flights are available from London and other major European cities.
– Stay: Bushi Resort and Spa in the city center is a great option.
Kartal Winery:
– Overview: Just east of Skopje, this winery is known for its excellent wines, with a history of winemaking dating back to the 13th Century BC.
– Experience: Take a tour, enjoy tastings, and learn about the country’s long winemaking tradition.
– Getting There: Best accessed via a tour that includes transport from Skopje.
Vodno Mountain:
– Overview: Just outside Skopje, it offers great hiking trails and a cable car ride to the peak.
– Highlight: Millenium Cross, one of the largest crosses in the world, is located here.
– Getting There: Bus 25 can take you to Middle Vodno, from where you can hike or take a cable car to the peak.
Matka Canyon:
– Overview: A beautiful canyon near Skopje, perfect for hiking, boating, and exploring ancient monasteries and cave systems.
– Getting There: Bus 60 from Skopje or via an organized tour.
Ohrid:
– Overview: A picturesque town by Lake Ohrid with a boardwalk, beaches, old architecture, and a fortress.
– Getting There: Ohrid has a small airport with seasonal flights. Buses from Skopje and other nearby cities are available.
– Stay: Villa Sofija offers excellent views and comfortable accommodations.
Church of St John the Theologian:
– Overview: A beautiful 13th Century monastery on a cliff above Lake Ohrid.
– Getting There: Accessible by foot or boat from Ohrid.
Museum on Water (Bay of Bones):
– Overview: A recreation of a Bronze Age settlement built on platforms above Lake Ohrid.
– Getting There: Best reached via a boat tour.
Sveti Naum:
– Overview: A settlement with a beautiful 9th-century monastery.
– Getting There: Accessible by boat from Ohrid.
Galicica National Park:
– Overview: A vast mountainous forest area between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa.
– Experience: Hiking with the possibility of seeing wildlife like bears, lynx, and wolves.
– Getting There: Easily accessible from Ohrid.
Bitola:
– Overview: A small city known for its cafes, interesting architecture, and Roman ruins at Heraclea Lyncestis.
– Getting There: Buses from Ohrid and Skopje are available.
Heraclea Lyncestis:
– Overview: Well-preserved ancient city ruins with Corinthian columns, an amphitheater, and intricate mosaics.
– Getting There: Near Bitola’s main bus station.
Mavrovo National Park:
– Overview: The largest national park in North Macedonia, ideal for hiking, biking, and camping.
– Getting There: Access by car is recommended.
Lake Prespa:
– Overview: Located at the borders of North Macedonia, Albania, and Greece, it’s known for its natural beauty and wildlife.
– Getting There: Best reached by car.
Berovo:
– Overview: Known as North Macedonia’s “Little Switzerland,” it offers stunning mountain views and Berovo Lake.
– Getting There: Car rental is recommended.
Tetovo:
– Overview: A smaller city with interesting mosques, monasteries, and Tetovo Castle.
– Getting There: Daily buses from Skopje.
Travel Insights:
– Transport: While public transport exists, renting a car offers the flexibility to explore more remote areas.
– Itinerary: Both short and extended stays can be rewarding, with Skopje, Ohrid, and surrounding attractions as key highlights.
Cuisine:
– Highlights: Dishes include sarma (meat-filled cabbage or vine leaves), Polneti Piperki (stuffed peppers), and Ajvar (pepper and eggplant sauce).
– Experiences: Try traditional dishes at local restaurants to get a taste of North Macedonian flavors.
FAQ:
– Location: North Macedonia is in the Balkans, sharing borders with Kosovo, Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, and Albania.
– Best Times to Visit: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
– Must-See Places: Skopje, Ohrid, Sveti Naum, and Lake Ohrid are top destinations.
– Safety: North Macedonia is a safe country with low levels of violent crime.
Conclusion:
North Macedonia is rich with historical sites, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Visit now before it becomes a crowded tourist hotspot and enjoy its unique charm and adventures.