North Macedonia is a landlocked nation on the Balkan peninsula of southeastern Europe. On this North Macedonia vacationer information, you’ll be taught all about the perfect locations to go to in North Macedonia from charming previous cities to historical monasteries, wine areas, and nationwide parks.
This small republic continues to be off the crushed path which makes it an thrilling vacation spot for adventurous vacationers on the lookout for a change from the extra well-liked Balkan international locations akin to Croatia. I spent a couple of months residing within the lakeside city of Ohrid, North Macedonia and it shortly grew to become one among my favourite locations in Europe.
North Macedonia has a wealthy historical past courting again millennia and proof of this may be seen throughout the nation from stunning Orthodox monasteries to Ottoman mosques, historical Roman and Illyrian ruins, and way more. There are such a lot of hidden gems in North Macedonia that you just gained’t be bored for a second.
Fast Historical past Lesson
Like most international locations within the Balkans, North Macedonia has a protracted historical past of many alternative empires and cultures; making it one of the vital various within the area. From historical Ilria and Thrace to the Roman Republic, Byzantine Period, and later Ottoman Empire and Yugoslavia, the nation has held many alternative names all through its historical past.
After the bloody breakup of Yugoslavia (from which Macedonia escaped largely unscathed), the nation grew to become the Republic of Macedonia. This angered the Greeks, as there’s a area in Greece with the identical title which has a protracted affiliation with their nationwide hero, Alexander the Nice.
In 2018 Greece and Macedonia got here to an settlement for the latter to alter its title to the Republic of North Macedonia. This determination was met with hostility from many (North) Macedonians (over 60% of them abstained from the vote). Regardless, the Prespa Settlement was ratified in January 2019.
With this in thoughts, North Macedonians nonetheless take into account themselves “Macedonian”. and plenty of are nonetheless sad with the change. Tread rigorously when discussing such matters with locals, or higher but, depart politics out of the dialog solely.
Finest Locations to Go to in North Macedonia
Under, you’ll discover among the greatest locations to go to in North Macedonia from the colourful capital Skopje to the beautiful lakeside city (and my former house) of Ohrid, historical ruins at Heraclea Lyncestic, mountainous nationwide parks, sprawling vineyards, and hilltops dotted with church buildings and monasteries.
1. Skopje
The capital metropolis of Skopje is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in North Macedonia because it’s filled with stunning, neoclassical structure, picturesque bridges crossing the Varder River, museums, parks, cafes, bars, and eating places. It’s additionally situated near points of interest such because the Matka Canyon and Vodno Mountain.
I’ve been to Skopje a couple of instances and it’s one among my favourite Balkan cities. It has an unpretentious air and appears extra laid again than a few of its busier counterparts within the area, and the river is lined with numerous open-air bars and eating places (Outdated Woman Beer Bar and the St. Patrick Irish pub are two of my favorites).
Probably the greatest issues to see in North Macedonia is the Skopje Fortress which overlooks the city and surprisingly, is free to enter and discover. The views throughout the town to the close by mountains are unimaginable, and it’s an awesome place to convey a picnic on a sunny day. It’s only a brief ten-minute stroll from the middle.
Location: The capital is situated within the far north of the nation near the border with Kosovo. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Skopje Worldwide Airport is round 14 miles (22 km) from the town heart. There are flights from London and different main locations round Europe. It’s additionally doable to take a tour of Skopje from close by cities akin to Sofia in Bulgaria. Click on right here for extra info.
Issues To Do: Take a metropolis tour, see the well-known Stone Bridge, and climb Skopje Fortress.
The place to Keep: Skopje isn’t a big metropolis, however the heart is the perfect place to remain if you wish to be near all of the points of interest. The Bushi Resort and Spa is a superb choice because it’s situated within the metropolis heart, has a pool and spa, and is extremely low cost in comparison with related locations in Western Europe. Click on right here to seek out out extra.
2. Kartal Vineyard
One of many prime locations to go to in North Macedonia for wine lovers like myself is the Kartal Vineyard just some miles east of Skopje metropolis heart. North Macedonia has a protracted historical past of viticulture (wine making) that dates again so far as the thirteenth Century BC, and I can guarantee you, they do certainly make a superb drop (Vranac is one among my favorites).
There are many vineyards and wineries to go to throughout the nation, however Kartal is likely one of the best to get to because it’s on the sting of the capital. This family-run vineyard and store is likely one of the greatest locations to go in North Macedonia to fill up on a couple of bottles to take house.
You’ll be able to take a tour of the vineyard, get pleasure from tasting periods and be taught all concerning the nation’s lengthy affiliation with this historical elixir. This was one among my prime locations to go to in North Macedonia and I got here again with a few bottles, (they didn’t final lengthy).
Location: ul.1519 br.7 Skopje MK, 1000, North Macedonia. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Kartal Vineyard is to take a tour which incorporates transport from the town heart (and a tasting). Click on right here for extra particulars and to e book.
Issues To Do: Study North Macedonia’s wine-making, take a tour of the vineyard, and style the totally different wines on supply.
The place to Keep: The three-star Villa Lumiere is only a brief stroll from the vineyard and has an out of doors pool with beautiful metropolis and mountain views. Click on right here to be taught extra.
3. Vodno Mountain
The majestic Vodno Mountain might be seen from throughout Skopje and makes a superb day journey from the town. The height is 3497 toes (1,066 meters) and there are many totally different mountain climbing trails that result in the summit, in addition to a cable for individuals who are much less cell. Vodno is likely one of the prime North Macedonia vacationer points of interest and is properly price a go to.
Mount Vodno is likely one of the greatest locations to see in North Macedonia. It’s well-known for the Millenium Cross, a 217-foot (66-meter) cross constructed in an analogous fashion to the Eiffel Tower that’s thought of one of many largest such crosses on the planet (it may be seen from all around the metropolis).
There are 5 most important mountain climbing paths on the mountains and 4 of those begin at “Center Vodno” the place the cable automobile departs from. The fifth begins from the outskirts of the town and takes round 40 minutes to stroll from the start line to Center Vodno (there are additionally buses right here from the town heart).
Location: Vodno is situated 8 miles (13 km) southwest of Skopje. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: The super-fit can take into account strolling all the best way from the town heart, however this can take the perfect a part of a day. There are frequent buses (bus 25) that may get you to Center Vodno and you’ll both hike one of many trails or take the cable automobile to the height and Millenium Cross. You can too be part of a tour, which additionally consists of close by Matka Canyon. Click on right here to e book.
Issues To Do: Go mountain climbing, see the Millenium Cross, and take a tour.
The place to Keep: There are many good accommodations, hostels, and flats situated on the foot of the mountain a brief stroll from the trailhead. The beautiful Panorama Residence Vodno is a three-bedroom residence with a balcony that gives beautiful views of the mountain. It’s wonderful worth for cash. Click on right here to seek out out extra.
Entrance Price: Free
4. Matka Canyon
The completely beautiful Matka Canyon is likely one of the most stunning locations in North Macedonia and provides a slice of tranquility not removed from the capital (it may be visited as a day journey from Skopje together with Mount Vodno). There’s tons to do right here from mountain climbing alongside the canyon to hiring boats and kayaks or just enjoyable in one of many lakeside eating places.
Discover historical monasteries, and go to underground cave techniques like Vrelo Cave which is likely one of the prime 77 wonders of the pure world. The canyon is likely one of the greatest locations to go in North Macedonia for lovers of the outside and it’s one among my favourite locations to flee from the town.
Location: Matka Canyon is simply 10 miles (16 km) west of the capital Skopje. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: The canyon is simple to achieve by public transport; bus 60 (diminished service in off-season) goes between Skopje and the canyon. Taking a tour is one other wonderful strategy to see the Canyon and permits loads of free time for exploring. Click on right here for extra info.
Issues To Do: Hike alongside the canyon, go to the Church of St. Panteleimon, and take a tour.
The place to Keep: The most effective place to remain close to Matka Canton is in western Skopje, simply as you’d to go to Vodno Mountain. The Panorama Residence Vodno is the most suitable choice on this space. Click on right here to e book.
Entrance Price: Free
5. Ohrid
I first visited the charming lakeside city of Ohrid in 2018 and fell in love with it immediately. I promised myself I might return and lately select it as my base for a couple of months whereas working as a digital nomad in North Macedonia. The city sits perched on the shores of Lake Ohrid, surrounded by a beautiful, mountainous nationwide park.
Ohrid is likely one of the most stunning cities in North Macedonia due to its lakeside location with a pleasing boardwalk, seashores, and charming previous city. The middle is filled with fascinating structure from an historical theater to golden-domed monasteries and a big fortress overlooking the city.
Ohrid is unquestionably among the finest cities to go to in North Macedonia and is a must-see place for anybody visiting. I’m pondering of heading again right here for one more month as there’s a lot to see and do, and sipping a espresso on the waterfront is a fond reminiscence I might very very similar to to repeat.
Location: Ohrid is within the south of North Macedonia, very near the borders with Albania and Greece. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: There’s a small airport simply outdoors of Ohrid with seasonal flights to locations in Europe. There are day by day buses from the capital Skopje which take round 4 hours. And there are additionally day by day buses from Tirana in Albania and Sofia in Bulgaria.
Issues To Do: Stroll across the previous city, see the Hellenic theater, and take a ship journey.
The place to Keep: Ohrid is a small city and to get the perfect out of it you need to keep in or across the previous city and lake shore. Villa Sofija is a four-star resort providing comfy rooms with a balcony and beautiful lakeside, metropolis, and mountain views. Click on right here to e book.
6. Church of St John the Theologian
The spectacular Church of St John the Theologian is likely one of the must-see locations in North Macedonia and is an iconic picture of the nation. This beautiful red-bricked monastery dates again to the thirteenth Century and is situated within the small settlement of Kaneo, a ten-minute stroll from Ohrid’s previous city.
The church is situated on a clifftop promontory above the lake and the views from up listed below are wonderful as you look out throughout the water to the mountains of Albania on the other shore. You’ll be able to stroll alongside the boardwalk and seashores to Kaneo, or take the forest path, however among the finest methods to see the church is from the lake by boat.
Location: St John the Theologian is in Kaneo, simply over half a mile from Ohrid. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: The church is just reachable on foot or by boat. There are a number of footpaths from the city to Kaneo.
Issues To Do: Discover the church, stroll alongside the clifftop, and see the church from the lake by boat.
The place to Keep: Maslov Flats is a small complicated of 1 and two-bedroom flats in Kaneo with balconies overlooking the lake. Click on right here to e book.
Entrance Price: 125 MKD (€2 Euros)
7. Museum on Water (The Bay of Bones)
The Museum on Water, often known as the Bay of Bones, is likely one of the most unimaginable sights I’ve ever visited and is unquestionably among the finest locations to see in North Macedonia. Right here, you’ll discover a recreation of a bronze age settlement constructed on platforms above the water; it seems like one thing straight from the Maldives.
In 1977 underwater archaeologists found 1000’s of picket pillars within the lakebed together with stone instruments, ceramics, and fishing supplies. The museum is constructed above the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ohrid and you’ll stroll across the historical dwellings and straw homes. There’s additionally a show on land that options among the reveals found close by.
Location: The Museum on Water is situated midway between Ohrid and Sveti Naum. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: The best strategy to attain the Bay of Bones is by boat tour. The bus between Ohrid and Sveti Naum additionally stops right here, however there doesn’t appear to be a timetable (I waited over an hour earlier than giving up and taking a ship). You can too take a tour.
Issues To Do: Discover the museums, go diving, and luxuriate in a picnic on the lakeshore.
The place to Keep: Ohrid is the closest giant city to the museum, so staying there may be greatest. The four-star SU Lodge is a superb choice. Click on right here to seek out out extra. There’s additionally a campsite subsequent to the Bay of Bones which is ideal for nature lovers in summer season.
Entrance Price: 150 MKD (€2.40 Euros)
8. Sveti Naum
Sveti Naum is a small settlement on the far south of Lake Ohrid simply steps from the Albanian border. It’s recognized for its stunning monastery that dates again to the 12 months 905AD. I visited on a late October afternoon with blue skies and the crystal clear waters of the lake lapping on the shore.
You’ll be able to go contained in the monastery for a charge, or select to go strolling within the forest to see the spring accountable for filling Lake Ohrid (I did the latter). I used to be the one one on the path and the tranquility was good. There’s a seaside at Sveti Naum that’s good for sunbathing and swimming, some kiosks promoting souvenirs and snacks, and a few eating places.
Location: Sveti Naum is eighteen miles (12 km) south of Ohrid. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Taking a ship is the easiest way to achieve Sveti Naum and there are additionally some (rare) buses from Ohrid. This tour from Skopje consists of each the Bay of Bons and Sveti Naum in its itinerary. Click on right here to e book.
Issues To Do: See the monastery, dine in one of many lakeside eating places (I ate in Restaurant Ostrovo which was wonderful), hike to the freshwater spring.
The place to Keep: There’s an inexpensive number of accommodations and rooms accessible round Sveti Naum. Lodge St Naum provides comfy rooms with lake or mountain views, free WiFi, a minibar, and a spacious en-suite toilet. Click on right here to e book.
Entrance Price: 125 MKD (€2 Euros)
9. Galicica Nationwide Park
The beautiful Galicica Nationwide Park is likely one of the most stunning locations in North Macedonia and covers a big space of mountainous forest between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. This pristine wilderness has modified little in centuries and you’ll nonetheless discover bears, lynx, and wolves roaming the hills (so “bear” this in thoughts when you’re pondering of mountain climbing or tenting).
I spent numerous time mountain climbing in Galicica because it’s straightforward to get to from Ohrid. As you climb increased and better the views simply preserve getting higher. From the very best factors, you’ll be able to see three international locations inside your field of regard; North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania. That is nonetheless one of many wildest elements of Europe and is the proper place to flee civilization.
Location: Galicica Nationwide Park is situated within the far south of the nation near the Grek and Albanian borders. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Ohrid is the closest main settlement to the nationwide park and you’ll be part of the paths from the city.
Issues To Do: Go mountain climbing, biking, picnicking, and tenting.
The place to Keep: Ohrid makes an awesome base for exploring the nationwide park. The four-star Villa Sofija is a superb selection with air-conditioned rooms overlooking the mountains. Click on right here to be taught extra.
Entrance Price: Free
10. Bitola
Bitola is likely one of the greatest cities to go to in North Macedonia. It’s house to numerous streetside cafes and eating places, loads of fascinating structure, and the spectacular Roman ruins at Heraclea Lyncestis (see under). I spent a few days right here lately and cherished strolling across the previous city and alongside the river.
Though a metropolis, Bitola is the dimensions of a small city and is unquestionably off the crushed tracks in North Macedonia. Few overseas vacationers make it this far, however those who do are rewarded with among the finest cities to go to in North Macedonia for its cafe tradition.
Location: Bitola is situated within the very south of the nation simply 9 miles (14 km) from the border with Greece. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: There are day by day buses from each Ohrid and Skopje. You can too be part of a tour from Skopje to Bitola. Click on right here for extra info.
Issues To Do: Stroll across the previous city, sip espresso or chilly beer in one of many cafes, and go to Heralclea Lyncestic.
The place to Keep: Bitola is sort of small, so wherever central is an effective choice. Magnolija Flats supply a variety of rooms within the metropolis heart with free WiFi, air-con, and metropolis or mountain views. Click on right here to e book.
11. Heraclea Lyncestis
I’m an enormous fan of Roman historical past and make some extent to go to Roman ruins wherever I’m going. I’ve visited websites in Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, and my homeland, Britain, however Heraclea Lyncestis is one among my absolute favorites. This beautiful historical metropolis was first constructed by the traditional Macedonians and is remarkably properly preserved with Corinthian columns, an enormous amphitheater, and complicated ground mosaics.
That is positively one of many prime locations to go to in North Macedonia for lovers of historical past, artwork, and structure (and even when not, the setting is really spectacular no matter your pursuits). I visited early on a Sunday morning and had your complete website to myself for the primary hour. Enable at the least two hours to comfortably discover the ruins, museum, and amphitheater.
Location: Heraclear Lyncestis is situated close to the primary Bitola bus station. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: It’s a fifteen-minute stroll from the town heart to the ruins. You can too take a tour from Skopje.
Issues To Do: Stroll among the many ruins, see the shows within the museum, and climb the amphitheater.
The place to Keep: As above, among the finest locations to remain in Bitola is the Magnolija Flats. Click on right here for extra info.
Entrance Price: 300 MKD (€5.20 Euros)
12. Mavrovo Nationwide Park
Mavrovo is the biggest of North Macedonia’s 4 nationwide parks. It covers an space of 300 sq. miles (780 km2) and is made up of enormous areas of mountainous forest with deep canyons, rivers, and lakes. If you happen to’re on the lookout for locations to go in North Macedonia for unspoiled pure magnificence, then Mavrovo is the spot.
That is the proper place for mountain climbing, biking, tenting, and picnicking in among the most stunning surroundings in Europe. See the Lokuv glacial lake, cross the stone Elen Skok bridge constructed by the Ottomans, and witness the spectacular Duf Waterfalls. Contained in the park, you’ll additionally discover monasteries akin to St. Nicholas and St. Jovan Bigorski.
Location: The nationwide park is situated within the west of the nation close to the borders of Albania and Kosovo. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Renting a automobile is the easiest way to get to and discover the nationwide park as public transport choices are few and much between within the area. You can too take a tour with pickup in Skopje. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Issues To Do: Go mountain climbing, go to monasteries, and take a tour of the park.
The place to Keep: There are some good lodging choices contained in the park from accommodations to flats and campsites. Tetka Viki is a beautiful lakeside two-bedroom residence with mountain views. Click on right here for extra info.
Entrance Price: Free
13. Lake Prespa
If you happen to thought Ohrid was the one spectacular lake within the nation you’d be mistaken. Lake Prespa (really a collection of two lakes) within the far south has waters that fall inside North Macedonia, Albania, and Greece. The lakes listed below are the very best within the Balkans and it’s doable to see all three international locations from right here.
Whereas Ohrid is geared for tourism, Prespa stays properly off the crushed path so when you’re trying to expertise a wilder aspect of North Macedonia that few vacationers see, head to beautiful Prespa (although you’ll want your personal transport). The world is a vital habitat for birds and wildlife together with the uncommon Dalmatian pelicans.
Location: Lake Prepa is situated within the southwest of the nation on the borders of Greece and Albania. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: As Prespa is off the primary vacationer path hiring a automobile is the easiest way to get there.
Issues To Do: Mountain climbing, swimming, and escaping into nature.
The place to Keep: Accommodations are few and much between, nonetheless, there are a few choices. The Lakeview Lodge and Resort provides clear and comfy rooms with a balcony and lakeside view. Click on right here to seek out out extra.
14. Berovo (Little Switzerland)
The alpine city of Berovo, generally often known as North Macedoni’s “Little Switzerland”, is nestled within the Malesevski Mountains within the east of the nation. It’s thought of one of many prettiest cities in North Macedonia and is a haven for outside adventures year-round.
Berovo Lake is a excessive alpine lake the place you’ll be able to lease boats and kayaks, picnic on the shores, and even swim when you’re courageous sufficient (because of its altitude, the water is chilly year-round). This can be a incredible place to soak up the contemporary mountain air and escape the crowds of extra well-liked locations like Ohrid and Skopje.
Location: Berovo is 100 miles (160 km) east of Skopje very near the border with Bulgaria. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: As public transport is proscribed, renting a automobile is the easiest way to get to Berovo and discover the mountains right here. There are additionally excursions direct from Skopje. Click on right here for particulars.
Issues To Do: See Berovo Lake, go mountain climbing, and take a tour of the realm.
The place to Keep: There are many incredible lodging choices in and round Berovo. The Aurora Resort is a luxurious eco-resort with swimming swimming pools and a spa situated within the mountains a couple of miles from the city. Click on right here to be taught extra.
15. Tetovo
Tetovo is likely one of the greatest cities in North Macedonia for getting off the crushed path. It’s the third-largest metropolis in Macedonia, however is small by Western European and world requirements (the inhabitants is simply 85,000); making it really feel extra like a provincial city.
That being stated, there’s a lot to see and do from exploring the attractive Tetovo Mosque, historical monasteries, and Tetovo Fort. Town is filled with charming cafes and eating places, and close by Tetovo Hill is the proper place for mountain climbing in summer season or snowboarding in winter.
Location: Tetovo is simply 32 miles (52 km) east of Skopje. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: There are day by day buses from the capital Skopje to Tetovo and the journey time is simply 45 minutes. Click on right here for extra info.
Issues To Do: Mountain climbing in summer season, snowboarding in winter, exploring the previous city.
The place to Keep: There are many nice locations to remain in Tetovo. The five-star Mercure Tetovo provides comfy rooms with mountain views, air-conditioning, and free WiFi at a fraction of the price of related accommodations in Western Europe. Click on right here to e book.
Getting Round North Macedonia
Journey to North Macedonia continues to be one thing of an journey and though a vacationer infrastructure does exist in locations like Skopje and Ohrid, to essentially get essentially the most overseas renting a automobile is greatest. Even touring between main cities and cities by public transport might be onerous work with rare companies that get busy shortly (I discuss from expertise).
If basing your self in one of many main vacationer cities or cities, getting round on foot is simple as you gained’t discover any bustling metropolises right here. In actual fact, Skopje is likely one of the few capitals in Europe to not have a subway system.
Fast Itineraries for North Macedonia
Listed below are a couple of easy itineraries to observe when visiting North Macedonia:
3 Days in North Macedonia
With three days to spend in North Macedonia sightseeing, I extremely suggest basing your self in stunning Ohrid. There’s a lot to see and do round this charming lakeside city, and I spent three days right here on my first go to in 2019.
Spend your first day exploring the previous city and its many monasteries, the historic fortress overlooking the city and lake, and enjoyable on the many lakeside cafes, bars, and eating places.
On day two, take a ship journey to the Bay of Bones (critically, this is likely one of the points of interest that shouldn’t be missed in North Macedonia) and Sveti Naum. I did this in October final 12 months and it was among the finest day journeys I’ve ever taken.
If the climate is nice (summers are lengthy and sizzling) then spend your third day at one of many seashores across the city. The water is crystal-clear and is ideal for swimming. You’ll discover some nice seaside bars alongside the shore too.
One Week in North Macedonia
With every week to spend exploring the locations to see in North Macedonia, you need to begin within the capital Skopje and discover all the things this laid-back metropolis has to supply. Climb the fortress, chill out at one of many riverside eating places, and gaze in awe on the spectacular neoclassical structure and stone bridges.
Take a day journey as much as Vodno Mountain for unimaginable views of the town and go to Matka Canyon for a day of mountain climbing, swimming, or boating on this picturesque gorge. Take the bus to Ohrid and spend at the least three days exploring the previous city, lake, and close by points of interest just like the Bay of Bones, Sveti Naum, and Galicica Nationwide Park.
Return to Skopje through Bitola the place you’ll be able to spend the day exploring the previous city and visiting the ruins at Heraclea Lyncestic. There are day by day buses from Ohrid to Bitola (three hours) and Bitola to Skopje (4 hours). Tickets have to be bought on the bus station, and it’s a good suggestion to do that upfront (although not needed outdoors of summer season).
10+ Days in North Macedonia
10 days is a superb period of time to remain in North Macedonia because it gives you the chance to essentially discover this excellent and extremely underrated vacation spot.
Begin your journey within the capital Skopje and spend at the least three days exploring the town and its charming previous city, fortress, and among the bars and cafes alongside the river. You should definitely make a journey as much as Vodno Mountain overlooking the town, both by mountain climbing to the highest, or taking the cable automobile. Add in a day journey to the beautiful Matka Canyon.
When you’ve got your personal transport (it’s greatest to lease a automobile) then head to the attractive Mavrovo Nationwide Park to discover one of many wildest elements of the nation. If counting on public transport, skip the park and take the bus (three hours) to Ohrid. Ohrid deserves at the least three days to discover the previous city and close by locations of curiosity on the lake.
From Ohrid, you’ll be able to simply attain Galicica Nationwide Park both on foot or by taxi. You’ll be able to take a day hike into the mountains from the city or select to remain within the nationwide park earlier than returning to Ohrid. From there, take a bus to Bitola and go to this charming metropolis well-known for its cafe tradition. You should definitely go to the ruins at Heraclea Lyncestic.
Lastly, make your means again north to the cities of Berovo and Tetovo earlier than returning to the capital.
Should-Strive Meals in North Macedonia
North Macedonian meals is typical of the Balkans and consists of dishes with influences from its wealthy historical past. You can too get pleasure from Turkish-style espresso and native wine; two specialty drinks of the area.
Sarma
My favourite dish in North Macedonia must be the scrumptious meat-filled parcels wrapped in both cabbage or vine leaves referred to as sarma. It’s broadly accessible in eating places, and even the microwave model offered at supermarkets is scrumptious (I lived on it when in Ohrid).
The most effective sarma I had in North Macedonia was at Restaurant Cun in Ohrid (although I simply want the serving to was greater). This can be a great place to eat conventional Macedonian meals because it overlooks the lake and the meals is nice. Click on right here for instructions.
Polneti Piperki
This dish of stuffed peppers is one other of my favorites and is made with minced meat, often lamb, and blended with rice earlier than being baked within the oven. The most effective Polneti Piperki I had was on the rustic Restaurant Antico in Ohrid. Click on right here for instructions.
Ajvar
Ajvar is a pepper and aubergine (eggplant) sauce that individuals within the Balkans like to smother on all the things (a bit like Balkan ketchup). It varies in shade from purple to shiny orange and might be present in each restaurant. You can too discover it on the cabinets of all supermarkets, and my buddies even had me convey them some bottles again as they picked up a style for it in Croatia.
Finest Locations to See in North Macedonia: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to often requested questions on the perfect locations to see in North Macedonia:
North Macedonia is within the Balkans in southern Europe. It shares borders with Kosovo to the north, Serbia and Bulgaria to the east, Greece to the south, and Albania to the west.
North Macedonia is unquestionably price visiting and is an actual hidden gem of Europe. From historical cities stuffed with historical past to scenic nationwide parks, and beautiful Lake Ohrid with its crystal clear waters and seashores, this can be a nation that deserves to be explored.
The capital Skopje and the lakeside city of Ohrid are two of the preferred locations to go to in North Macedonia. The monastery at Sveti Naum is one other well-liked place in North Macedonia and is properly price a go to.
Spring and fall are the perfect instances to go to North Macedonia because the climate is heat and there are fewer vacationers (even in summer season the nation sees far fewer vacationers than different areas within the Balkans like Croatia and Greece).
The world round Lake Ohrid, and the city of Ohrid itself are arguably the prettiest locations in North Macedonia. Berovo, often known as Little Switzerland, can also be one other extremely stunning place in North Macedonia.
The capital of Ohrid and the city of Ohrid make nice bases for exploring North Macedonia. I base myself in Ohrid every time I go to (and lived there for a few months) and it’s straightforward to discover close by locations just like the Bay of Bones, Sveti Naum, Bitola, and the Roman ruins at Heraclea Lyncestis.
North Macedonia is legendary for its wealthy historical past that dates again to pre-Roman instances, its wonderful wine (Vranec is a must-try), and its charming lakeside city of Ohrid.
North Macedonia is a really secure nation to go to with low ranges of violent crime. I lived within the nation for 2 months and by no means felt unsafe or skilled any issues.
In Conclusion
Now you recognize about the perfect locations to go to in North Macedonia; from the colourful capital Skopje to the beautiful lakeside city of Ohrid, the beautiful nationwide parks, historical ruins, and among the most interesting surroundings in Europe. North Macedonia gained’t keep a secret endlessly, so go to now earlier than the crowds arrive and costs enhance.
With so many great issues to do, North Macedonia makes a superb vacation spot for adventurous travellers and it makes an awesome base for exploring the Balkan peninsula with Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, and Kosovo all inside straightforward attain. I’ll be going again to North Macedonia very quickly – it’s one among my favourite spots in Europe.
