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vacationer information, you’ll study all about the very best locations to go to in North Macedonia from charming outdated cities to historical monasteries, wine areas, and nationwide parks.
This small republic remains to be off the crushed path which makes it an thrilling vacation spot for adventurous vacationers searching for a change from the extra widespread Balkan nations equivalent to Croatia. I spent a number of months dwelling within the lakeside city of Ohrid, North Macedonia and it rapidly grew to become 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, historical Roman and Illyrian ruins, and far 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 nations within the Balkans, North Macedonia has an extended historical past of many alternative empires and cultures; making it some of the numerous 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 identify which has an extended affiliation with their nationwide hero, Alexander the Great.
In 2018 Greece and Macedonia got here to an settlement for the latter to vary its identify to the Republic of North Macedonia. This resolution 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 contemplate themselves “Macedonian”. and plenty of are nonetheless sad with the change. Tread fastidiously when discussing such subjects with locals, or higher but, depart politics out of the dialog solely.
Greatest Locations to Go to in North Macedonia
Under, you’ll discover a few of 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 without doubt 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 positioned near points of interest such because the Matka Canyon and Vodno Mountain.
I’ve been to Skopje a number of instances 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 a lot of open-air bars and eating places (Old Lady Beer Bar and the St. Patrick Irish pub are two of my favorites).
Among the best 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 incredible place to convey a picnic on a sunny day. It’s only a brief 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 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 equivalent 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 heart is the very best place to remain if you wish to be near all of the points of interest. The Bushi Resort and Spa is a superb possibility because it’s positioned within the metropolis heart, has a pool and spa, and is extremely low cost in comparison with comparable 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 just some miles east of Skopje metropolis heart. North Macedonia has an extended 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 an excellent 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 greatest locations to go in North Macedonia to replenish on a number of bottles to take house.
You may take a tour of the winery, take pleasure in tasting periods and study all concerning the nation’s lengthy affiliation with this historical 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 heart (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 brief 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 wonderful 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 individuals who are much less cellular. Vodno is without doubt one of the high North Macedonia vacationer points of interest and is properly value a go to.
Mount Vodno is without doubt 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 identical type to the Eiffel Tower that’s thought-about one of many largest such crosses in the world (it may be seen from all around the metropolis).
There are 5 foremost climbing paths on the mountains and 4 of those begin at “Center Vodno” the place the cable automotive departs from. The fifth begins from the outskirts of the town and takes round 40 minutes to stroll from the place to begin to Center Vodno (there are additionally buses right here from the town heart).
Location: Vodno is positioned 8 miles (13 km) southwest of Skopje. Click here for directions.
Getting There: The super-fit can contemplate strolling all the way in which from the town heart, however this may take the very best a part of a day. There are frequent buses (bus 25) that can get you to Center Vodno and you may both hike one of many trails or take the cable automotive 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 condominium with a balcony that gives beautiful views of the mountain. It’s wonderful worth for cash. Click here to find out more.
Entrance Price: 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 stress-free in one of many lakeside eating places.
Discover historical monasteries, and go to underground cave programs 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 greatest 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 achieve by public transport; bus 60 (diminished service in off-season) goes between Skopje and the canyon. Taking a tour is one other wonderful solution 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 perfect 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 here to 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’d return and lately select it as my base for a number 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 without doubt one of the most stunning cities in North Macedonia because of its lakeside location with a nice boardwalk, seashores, and charming outdated city. The middle is filled with attention-grabbing structure from an historical theater to golden-domed monasteries and a big fortress overlooking the city.
Ohrid is unquestionably among the best 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 outdoors of Ohrid with seasonal flights to locations in Europe. There are each day buses from the capital Skopje which take round 4 hours. And there are additionally each 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 very best out of it you must keep in or across the outdated city and lake shore. Villa Sofija is a four-star lodge providing snug 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 wonderful as you look out throughout the water to the mountains of Albania on the alternative shore. You may stroll alongside the boardwalk and seashores to Kaneo, or take the forest path, however among the best 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 Price: 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 unimaginable sights I’ve ever visited and is unquestionably among the best 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 appears to be like 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 historical dwellings and straw homes. There’s additionally a show on land that options a few of 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 best solution 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 may also 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’s greatest. 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 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 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 may 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 good. There’s a seashore 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 here for directions.
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 here to 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 affordable choice of inns and rooms out there round Sveti Naum. Hotel St Naum affords snug rooms with lake or mountain views, free WiFi, a minibar, and a spacious en-suite toilet. Click here to book.
Entrance Price: 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 in the event you’re considering of climbing or tenting).
I spent loads of time climbing in Galicica because it’s simple to get to from Ohrid. As you climb increased and better the views simply maintain getting higher. From the best factors, you’ll be able to see three nations inside your visual view; North Macedonia, Greece, and Albania. That is nonetheless one of many wildest components of Europe and is the right 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 an incredible base for exploring the nationwide park. The four-star Villa Sofija is a superb alternative with air-conditioned rooms overlooking the mountains. Click here to learn more.
Entrance Price: Free
10. Bitola
Bitola is without doubt one of the greatest cities to go to in North Macedonia. It’s house to a lot of streetside cafes and eating places, loads of attention-grabbing structure, and the spectacular Roman ruins at Heraclea Lyncestis (see beneath). 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 dimensions of a small city and is unquestionably off the crushed tracks in North Macedonia. Few overseas vacationers make it this far, however people who do are rewarded with among the best 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 each day buses from each Ohrid and Skopje. You may also 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 sort of small, so anyplace central is an efficient possibility. Magnolija Apartments provide a variety of rooms within the metropolis heart 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 a degree 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 considered one of 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 flooring mosaics.
That is undoubtedly 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 all the website to myself for the primary hour. Permit not less than two hours to comfortably discover the ruins, museum, and amphitheater.
Location: Heraclear Lyncestis is positioned close to the primary Bitola bus station. Click here for directions.
Getting There: It’s a fifteen-minute stroll from the town heart 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, among the best locations to remain in Bitola is the Magnolija Apartments. Click here for more information.
Entrance Price: 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. In case you’re searching for locations to go in North Macedonia for unspoiled pure magnificence, then Mavrovo is the spot.
That is the right place for climbing, biking, tenting, and picnicking in a few of 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 equivalent 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 automotive 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 may also 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 condominium with mountain views. Click here for more information.
Entrance Price: Free
13. Lake Prespa
In case you thought Ohrid was the one spectacular lake within the nation you’d be mistaken. Lake Prespa (truly a collection 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 doable to see all three nations from right here.
Whereas Ohrid is geared for tourism, Prespa stays properly off the crushed path so in the event you’re seeking to expertise a wilder aspect of North Macedonia that few vacationers see, head to beautiful Prespa (although you’ll want your individual transport). The world is a vital 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 primary vacationer path hiring a automotive is the easiest way to get there.
Issues To Do: Mountaineering, swimming, and escaping into nature.
The place to Keep: Inns are few and much between, nevertheless, there are a few choices. The Lakeview Hotel and Resort affords clear and cozy rooms with a balcony and lakeside view. Click here to find out more.
14. Berovo (Little Switzerland)
The alpine city of Berovo, typically generally known as North Macedoni’s “Little Switzerland”, is nestled within the Malesevski Mountains within the east of the nation. It’s thought-about one of many prettiest cities in North Macedonia and is a haven for out of doors 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 in the event you’re courageous sufficient (as a result of its altitude, the water is chilly year-round). It is a incredible place to absorb the recent mountain air and escape the crowds of extra widespread 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 proscribed, renting a automotive is the easiest way 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 world.
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 positioned within the mountains a number of miles from the city. Click here to learn more.
15. Tetovo
Tetovo is without doubt 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 mentioned, there’s loads to see and do from exploring the gorgeous Tetovo Mosque, historical monasteries, and Tetovo Fortress. The town is filled with charming cafes and eating places, and close by Tetovo Hill is the right place for climbing in summer season or snowboarding in winter.
Location: Tetovo is simply 32 miles (52 km) east of Skopje. Click here for directions.
Getting There: There are each 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 season, 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 snug rooms with mountain views, air-conditioning, and free WiFi at a fraction of the price of comparable 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 actually get essentially the most in a foreign country renting a automotive is greatest. Even touring between main cities and cities by public transport will be onerous 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 here are a number 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 suggest 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 stress-free 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 points of interest that shouldn’t be missed in North Macedonia) and Sveti Naum. I did this in October final yr and it was among the best day journeys I’ve ever taken.
If the climate is nice (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 seashore bars alongside the shore too.
One Week in North Macedonia
With per week to spend exploring the locations to see in North Macedonia, you must begin within the capital Skopje and discover all the pieces 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 trip up to Vodno Mountain for unimaginable 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 not less than three days exploring the outdated city, lake, and close by points of interest just like the Bay of Bones, Sveti Naum, and Galicica Nationwide Park.
Return to Skopje by way of Bitola the place you’ll be able to spend the day exploring the outdated city and visiting the ruins at Heraclea Lyncestic. There are each 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 prematurely (although not mandatory outdoors of summer season).
10+ Days in North Macedonia
10 days is a superb period of time to remain in North Macedonia because it will provide you with the chance to actually discover this excellent and extremely underrated vacation spot.
Begin your journey within the capital Skopje and spend not less than three days exploring the town and its charming outdated city, fortress, and a few of the bars and cafes alongside the river. You should definitely make a journey as much as Vodno Mountain overlooking the town, both by climbing to the highest, or taking the cable automotive. Add in a day journey to the beautiful Matka Canyon.
You probably have your individual transport (it’s greatest to lease a automotive) then head to the gorgeous Mavrovo Nationwide Park to discover one of many wildest components of the nation. If counting on public transport, skip the park and take the bus (three hours) to Ohrid. Ohrid deserves not less than three days to discover the outdated 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 may 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 method 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 may also 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 out there in eating places, and even the microwave model bought at supermarkets is scrumptious (I lived on it when in Ohrid).
The perfect sarma I had in North Macedonia was at Restaurant Cun in Ohrid (although I simply want the serving to was larger). It is a great 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, normally lamb, and combined with rice earlier than being baked within the oven. The perfect 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 individuals within the Balkans like to smother on all the pieces (a bit like Balkan ketchup). It varies in shade from crimson to vivid orange and will be present in each restaurant. You may also discover it on the cabinets of all supermarkets, and my associates even had me convey them some bottles again as they picked up a style for it in Croatia.
Greatest Locations to See in North Macedonia: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to ceaselessly requested questions on the very best 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 value visiting and is an actual hidden gem of Europe. From historical 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 most well-liked locations to go to in North Macedonia. The monastery at Sveti Naum is one other widespread place in North Macedonia and is properly value a go to.
Spring and fall are the very best 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, 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 simple 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 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 you already know about the very best 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 a few of the most interesting surroundings in Europe. North Macedonia received’t keep a secret perpetually, so go to now earlier than the crowds arrive and costs enhance.
With so many great issues to do, North Macedonia makes a wonderful vacation spot for adventurous travellers and it makes an incredible base for exploring the Balkan peninsula with Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, and Kosovo all inside simple attain. I’ll be going again to North Macedonia very quickly – it’s considered one of my favourite spots in Europe.
