North Macedonia is a landlocked nation on the Balkan peninsula of southeastern Europe. On this North Macedonia vacationer information, you’ll study all about the most effective locations to go to in North Macedonia from charming outdated cities to historic monasteries, wine areas, and nationwide parks.
This small republic remains to be off the overwhelmed path which makes it an thrilling vacation spot for adventurous vacationers in search of a change from the extra well-liked Balkan international locations corresponding to Croatia. I spent a couple of months dwelling within the lakeside city of Ohrid, North Macedonia and it rapidly turned considered one of 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, historic Roman and Illyrian ruins, and rather more. There are such a lot of hidden gems in North Macedonia that you simply received’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 some of the numerous within the area. From historic 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 turned 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 Great.
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 think about themselves “Macedonian”. and lots of are nonetheless sad with the change. Tread fastidiously when discussing such subjects with locals, or higher but, depart politics out of the dialog fully.
Finest Locations to Go to in North Macedonia
Beneath, you’ll discover among the finest locations to go to in North Macedonia from the colourful capital Skopje to the beautiful lakeside city (and my former dwelling) of Ohrid, historic 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 without doubt one of the finest locations to go to in North Macedonia because it’s full of stunning, neoclassical structure, picturesque bridges crossing the Varder River, museums, parks, cafes, bars, and eating places. It’s additionally positioned near sights such because the Matka Canyon and Vodno Mountain.
I’ve been to Skopje a couple of occasions and it’s considered one of 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 (Old Lady 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 unbelievable, and it’s a terrific place to convey a picnic on a sunny day. It’s only a quick ten-minute stroll from the middle.
Location: The capital is positioned within the far north of the nation near the border with Kosovo. Click here for directions.
Getting There: Skopje Worldwide Airport is round 14 miles (22 km) from the town middle. There are flights from London and different main locations round Europe. It’s additionally potential to take a tour of Skopje from close by cities corresponding to Sofia in Bulgaria. Click here for more information.
Issues To Do: Take a city tour, see the well-known Stone Bridge, and climb Skopje Fortress.
The place to Keep: Skopje isn’t a big metropolis, however the middle is the most effective place to remain if you wish to be near all of the sights. The Bushi Resort and Spa is a superb possibility because it’s positioned within the metropolis middle, has a pool and spa, and is extremely low-cost in comparison with related locations in Western Europe. Click here to find out more.
2. Kartal Vineyard
One of many high locations to go to in North Macedonia for wine lovers like myself is the Kartal Winery only a few miles east of Skopje metropolis middle. North Macedonia has a protracted historical past of viticulture (wine making) that dates again so far as the 13th Century BC, and I can guarantee you, they do certainly make a very good drop (Vranac is considered one of my favorites).
There are many vineyards and wineries to go to throughout the nation, however Kartal is without doubt one of the best to get to because it’s on the sting of the capital. This family-run vineyard and store is without doubt one of the finest locations to go in North Macedonia to refill on a couple of bottles to take dwelling.
You possibly can take a tour of the winery, take pleasure in tasting periods and study all concerning the nation’s lengthy affiliation with this historic elixir. This was considered one of my high 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 here for directions.
Getting There: One of the simplest ways to get to Kartal Vineyard is to take a tour which incorporates transport from the town middle (and a tasting). Click here for more details and to book.
Issues To Do: Find out about North Macedonia’s wine-making, take a tour of the winery, and style the totally different wines on provide.
The place to Keep: The three-star Villa Lumiere is only a quick stroll from the vineyard and has an outside pool with beautiful metropolis and mountain views. Click here to learn more.
3. Vodno Mountain
The majestic Vodno Mountain will 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 climbing trails that result in the summit, in addition to a cable for many who are much less cell. Vodno is without doubt one of the high North Macedonia vacationer sights and is properly value a go to.
Mount Vodno is without doubt one of the finest locations to see in North Macedonia. It’s well-known for the Millenium Cross, a 217-foot (66-meter) cross constructed in an identical fashion to the Eiffel Tower that’s thought of one of many largest such crosses in the world (it may be seen from everywhere in the metropolis).
There are 5 important 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 middle).
Location: Vodno is positioned 8 miles (13 km) southwest of Skopje. Click here for directions.
Getting There: The super-fit can think about strolling all the way in which from the town middle, however this may take the most effective a part of a day. There are frequent buses (bus 25) that may get you to Center Vodno and you may both hike one of many trails or take the cable automobile to the height and Millenium Cross. You can also join a tour, which additionally consists of close by Matka Canyon. Click here to book.
Issues To Do: Go climbing, see the Millenium Cross, and take a tour.
The place to Keep: There are many good inns, hostels, and residences positioned 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 provides beautiful views of the mountain. It’s glorious worth for cash. Click here to find out more.
Entrance Charge: Free
4. Matka Canyon
The completely beautiful Matka Canyon is without doubt one of the most stunning locations in North Macedonia and affords a slice of tranquility not removed from the capital (it may be visited as a day trip from Skopje together with Mount Vodno). There’s tons to do right here from climbing alongside the canyon to hiring boats and kayaks or just enjoyable in one of many lakeside eating places.
Discover historic monasteries, and go to underground cave techniques like Vrelo Cave which is without doubt one of the top 77 wonders of the natural world. The canyon is without doubt one of the finest locations to go in North Macedonia for lovers of the outside and it’s considered one of my favourite locations to flee from the town.
Location: Matka Canyon is simply 10 miles (16 km) west of the capital Skopje. Click here for directions.
Getting There: The canyon is straightforward to succeed in by public transport; bus 60 (decreased service in off-season) goes between Skopje and the canyon. Taking a tour is one other glorious technique to see the Canyon and permits loads of free time for exploring. Click here for more information.
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’ll to go to Vodno Mountain. The Panorama Residence Vodno is the best choice on this space. Click here to book.
Entrance Charge: 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’d 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 stunning, mountainous nationwide park.
Ohrid is without doubt one of the most stunning cities in North Macedonia because of its lakeside location with a pleasing boardwalk, seashores, and charming outdated city. The middle is full of attention-grabbing structure from an historic theater to golden-domed monasteries and a big fortress overlooking the city.
Ohrid is certainly probably the greatest cities to go to in North Macedonia and is a must-see place for anybody visiting. I’m considering of heading again right here for an additional month as there’s a lot to see and do, and sipping a espresso on the waterfront is a fond reminiscence I’d very very similar to to repeat.
Location: Ohrid is within the south of North Macedonia, very near the borders with Albania and Greece. Click here for directions.
Getting There: There’s a small airport simply exterior 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 outdated city, see the Hellenic theater, and take a boat trip.
The place to Keep: Ohrid is a small city and to get the most effective out of it you must keep in or across the outdated city and lake shore. Villa Sofija is a four-star lodge providing comfy rooms with a balcony and beautiful lakeside, metropolis, and mountain views. Click here to book.
6. Church of St John the Theologian
The spectacular Church of St John the Theologian is without doubt 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 positioned within the small settlement of Kaneo, a ten-minute stroll from Ohrid’s outdated city.
The church is positioned on a clifftop promontory above the lake and the views from up listed here are superb as you look out throughout the water to the mountains of Albania on the other shore. You possibly can stroll alongside the boardwalk and seashores to Kaneo, or take the forest path, however probably the greatest 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 here for directions.
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 Apartments is a small complicated of 1 and two-bedroom residences in Kaneo with balconies overlooking the lake. Click here to book.
Entrance Charge: 125 MKD (€2 Euros)
7. Museum on Water (The Bay of Bones)
The Museum on Water, also called the Bay of Bones, is without doubt one of the most unbelievable sights I’ve ever visited and is certainly probably the greatest 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 discovered thousands of wooden 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 may stroll across the historic 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 positioned midway between Ohrid and Sveti Naum. Click here for directions.
Getting There: The simplest technique 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 even take a tour.
Issues To Do: Discover the museums, go diving, and revel in a picnic on the lakeshore.
The place to Keep: Ohrid is the closest giant city to the museum, so staying there may be finest. The four-star SU Hotel is a superb possibility. Click here to find out more. There’s additionally a campsite subsequent to the Bay of Bones which is ideal for nature lovers in summer time.
Entrance Charge: 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 yr 905AD. I visited on a late October afternoon with blue skies and the crystal clear waters of the lake lapping on the shore.
You possibly can go contained in the monastery for a price, or select to go strolling within the forest to see the spring liable for filling Lake Ohrid (I did the latter). I used to be the one one on the path and the tranquility was excellent. There’s a seaside at Sveti Naum that’s excellent 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 here for directions.
Getting There: Taking a ship is one of the simplest ways to succeed in 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 here to book.
Issues To Do: See the monastery, dine in one of many lakeside eating places (I ate in Restaurant Ostrovo which was glorious), hike to the freshwater spring.
The place to Keep: There’s an affordable collection of inns and rooms accessible round Sveti Naum. Hotel St Naum affords comfy rooms with lake or mountain views, free WiFi, a minibar, and a spacious en-suite toilet. Click here to book.
Entrance Charge: 125 MKD (€2 Euros)
9. Galicica Nationwide Park
The beautiful Galicica Nationwide Park is without doubt 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 may nonetheless discover bears, lynx, and wolves roaming the hills (so “bear” this in thoughts should you’re considering of climbing or tenting).
I spent quite a lot of time climbing in Galicica because it’s straightforward to get to from Ohrid. As you climb greater and better the views simply maintain getting higher. From the best factors, you may see three international locations inside your visual view; 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 positioned within the far south of the nation near the Grek and Albanian borders. Click here for directions.
Getting There: Ohrid is the closest main settlement to the nationwide park and you may be a part of the paths from the city.
Issues To Do: Go climbing, biking, picnicking, and tenting.
The place to Keep: Ohrid makes a terrific base for exploring the nationwide park. The four-star Villa Sofija is a superb selection with air-conditioned rooms overlooking the mountains. Click here to learn more.
Entrance Charge: Free
10. Bitola
Bitola is without doubt one of the finest cities to go to in North Macedonia. It’s dwelling to numerous streetside cafes and eating places, loads of attention-grabbing structure, and the spectacular Roman ruins at Heraclea Lyncestis (see under). I spent a few days right here lately and beloved strolling across the outdated city and alongside the river.
Though a metropolis, Bitola is the scale of a small city and is certainly off the overwhelmed tracks in North Macedonia. Few international vacationers make it this far, however those who do are rewarded with probably the greatest cities to go to in North Macedonia for its cafe tradition.
Location: Bitola is positioned within the very south of the nation simply 9 miles (14 km) from the border with Greece. Click here for directions.
Getting There: There are day by day buses from each Ohrid and Skopje. You can even be a part of a tour from Skopje to Bitola. Click here for more information.
Issues To Do: Stroll across the outdated city, sip espresso or chilly beer in one of many cafes, and go to Heralclea Lyncestic.
The place to Keep: Bitola is kind of small, so wherever central is an efficient possibility. Magnolija Apartments provide a variety of rooms within the metropolis middle with free WiFi, air-con, and metropolis or mountain views. Click here to book.
11. Heraclea Lyncestis
I’m an enormous fan of Roman historical past and make some extent to go to Roman ruins wherever I am going. I’ve visited websites in Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, and my homeland, Britain, however Heraclea Lyncestis is considered one of my absolute favorites. This beautiful historic metropolis was first constructed by the traditional Macedonians and is remarkably properly preserved with Corinthian columns, an enormous amphitheater, and complex flooring mosaics.
That is positively one of many high 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 the whole web site to myself for the primary hour. Permit at the least two hours to comfortably discover the ruins, museum, and amphitheater.
Location: Heraclear Lyncestis is positioned close to the principle Bitola bus station. Click here for directions.
Getting There: It’s a fifteen-minute stroll from the town middle to the ruins. You can also 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, probably the greatest locations to remain in Bitola is the Magnolija Apartments. Click here for more information.
Entrance Charge: 300 MKD (€5.20 Euros)
12. Mavrovo Nationwide Park
Mavrovo is the most important of North Macedonia’s 4 nationwide parks. It covers an space of 300 sq. miles (780 km2) and is made up of huge areas of mountainous forest with deep canyons, rivers, and lakes. Should you’re in search of locations to go in North Macedonia for unspoiled pure magnificence, then Mavrovo is the spot.
That is the proper place for 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 corresponding to St. Nicholas and St. Jovan Bigorski.
Location: The nationwide park is positioned within the west of the nation close to the borders of Albania and Kosovo. Click here for directions.
Getting There: Renting a automobile is one of the simplest ways to get to and discover the nationwide park as public transport choices are few and much between within the area. You can even take a tour with pickup in Skopje. Click here for more details.
Issues To Do: Go 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 inns to residences and campsites. Tetka Viki is a beautiful lakeside two-bedroom residence with mountain views. Click here for more information.
Entrance Charge: Free
13. Lake Prespa
Should you thought Ohrid was the one spectacular lake within the nation you’d be mistaken. Lake Prespa (really a sequence of two lakes) within the far south has waters that fall inside North Macedonia, Albania, and Greece. The lakes listed here are the best within the Balkans and it’s potential to see all three international locations from right here.
Whereas Ohrid is geared for tourism, Prespa stays properly off the overwhelmed path so should you’re seeking to expertise a wilder aspect of North Macedonia that few vacationers see, head to beautiful Prespa (although you’ll want your personal transport). The realm is a crucial habitat for birds and wildlife together with the uncommon Dalmatian pelicans.
Location: Lake Prepa is positioned within the southwest of the nation on the borders of Greece and Albania. Click here for directions.
Getting There: As Prespa is off the principle vacationer path hiring a automobile is one of the simplest ways to get there.
Issues To Do: Mountaineering, swimming, and escaping into nature.
The place to Keep: Lodges are few and much between, nonetheless, there are a few choices. The Lakeview Hotel and Resort affords clear and comfy rooms with a balcony and lakeside view. Click here to find out more.
14. Berovo (Little Switzerland)
The alpine city of Berovo, typically 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 may hire boats and kayaks, picnic on the shores, and even swim should you’re courageous sufficient (attributable to its altitude, the water is chilly year-round). This can be a implausible place to absorb 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 here for directions.
Getting There: As public transport is restricted, renting a automobile is one of the simplest ways to get to Berovo and discover the mountains right here. There are additionally excursions direct from Skopje. Click here for details.
Issues To Do: See Berovo Lake, go climbing, and take a tour of the realm.
The place to Keep: There are many implausible lodging choices in and round Berovo. The Aurora Resort is a luxurious eco-resort with swimming swimming pools and a spa positioned within the mountains a couple of miles from the city. Click here to learn more.
15. Tetovo
Tetovo is without doubt one of the finest cities in North Macedonia for getting off the overwhelmed 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 mentioned, there’s loads to see and do from exploring the attractive Tetovo Mosque, historic monasteries, and Tetovo Fort. The town is full of charming cafes and eating places, and close by Tetovo Hill is the proper place for climbing in summer time or snowboarding in winter.
Location: Tetovo is simply 32 miles (52 km) east of Skopje. Click here for directions.
Getting There: There are day by day buses from the capital Skopje to Tetovo and the journey time is simply 45 minutes. Click here for more information.
Issues To Do: Mountaineering in summer time, snowboarding in winter, exploring the outdated city.
The place to Keep: There are many nice locations to remain in Tetovo. The five-star Mercure Tetovo affords comfy rooms with mountain views, air-conditioning, and free WiFi at a fraction of the price of related inns in Western Europe. Click here to book.
Getting Round North Macedonia
Journey to North Macedonia remains to be one thing of an journey and though a vacationer infrastructure does exist in locations like Skopje and Ohrid, to essentially get probably the most in a foreign country renting a automobile is finest. Even touring between main cities and cities by public transport will be arduous work with rare companies that get busy rapidly (I speak from expertise).
If basing your self in one of many main vacationer cities or cities, getting round on foot is straightforward as you received’t discover any bustling metropolises right here. In actual fact, Skopje is without doubt 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 comply with when visiting North Macedonia:
3 Days in North Macedonia
With three days to spend in North Macedonia sightseeing, I extremely advocate basing your self in stunning Ohrid. There’s loads 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 outdated 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 boat trip to the Bay of Bones (severely, this is without doubt one of the sights that shouldn’t be missed in North Macedonia) and Sveti Naum. I did this in October final yr and it was probably the greatest day journeys I’ve ever taken.
If the climate is sweet (summers are lengthy and scorching) 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 must begin within the capital Skopje and discover the whole lot this laid-back metropolis has to supply. Climb the fortress, loosen up at one of many riverside eating places, and gaze in awe on the spectacular neoclassical structure and stone bridges.
Take a day trip up to Vodno Mountain for unbelievable views of the town and go to Matka Canyon for a day of hiking, swimming, or boating on this picturesque gorge. Take the bus to Ohrid and spend at the least three days exploring the outdated city, lake, and close by sights just like the Bay of Bones, Sveti Naum, and Galicica Nationwide Park.
Return to Skopje by way of Bitola the place you may spend the day exploring the outdated 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 should be bought on the bus station, and it’s a good suggestion to do that prematurely (although not vital exterior of summer time).
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 outdated city, fortress, and among the bars and cafes alongside the river. Be sure you make a journey as much as Vodno Mountain overlooking the town, both by climbing to the highest, or taking the cable automobile. Add in a day journey to the beautiful Matka Canyon.
In case you have your personal transport (it’s finest to hire 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 outdated city and close by locations of curiosity on the lake.
From Ohrid, you may simply attain Galicica Nationwide Park both on foot or by taxi. You possibly can 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. Be sure you 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-Attempt 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 even take pleasure in Turkish-style espresso and native wine; two specialty drinks of the area.
Sarma
My favourite dish in North Macedonia needs to be the scrumptious meat-filled parcels wrapped in both cabbage or vine leaves known 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 fantastic place to eat conventional Macedonian meals because it overlooks the lake and the meals is nice. Click here for directions.
Polneti Piperki
This dish of stuffed peppers is one other of my favorites and is made with minced meat, often lamb, and combined 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 here for directions.
Ajvar
Ajvar is a pepper and aubergine (eggplant) sauce that folks within the Balkans like to smother on the whole lot (a bit like Balkan ketchup). It varies in coloration from pink to vibrant orange and will be present in each restaurant. You can even 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 regularly requested questions on the most effective 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 certainly value visiting and is an actual hidden gem of Europe. From historic cities filled with historical past to scenic nationwide parks, and beautiful Lake Ohrid with its crystal clear waters and seashores, it is 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 value a go to.
Spring and fall are the most effective occasions to go to North Macedonia because the climate is heat and there are fewer vacationers (even in summer time the nation sees far fewer vacationers than different areas within the Balkans like Croatia and Greece).
The realm round Lake Ohrid, and the city of Ohrid itself are arguably the prettiest locations in North Macedonia. Berovo, also called 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 occasions, its glorious wine (Vranec is a must-try), and its charming lakeside city of Ohrid.
North Macedonia is a really safe country to visit 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 about the most effective locations to go to in North Macedonia; from the colourful capital Skopje to the beautiful lakeside city of Ohrid, the beautiful nationwide parks, historic ruins, and among the most interesting surroundings in Europe. North Macedonia received’t keep a secret ceaselessly, so go to now earlier than the crowds arrive and costs improve.
With so many fantastic issues to do, North Macedonia makes a superb vacation spot for adventurous travellers and it makes a terrific 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 considered one of my favourite spots in Europe.
