Macedonia-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Skopje

  • Morning: Start your day at the ancient fortress of Kale (Old Bazaar), a historic citadel located in the heart of Skopje’s old town. Admire the beautiful architecture, visit the church of St. Sophia, and explore the narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Museum of the City of Skopje, which showcases the history and culture of Macedonia. The museum is housed in a stunning 19th-century building and features an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Macedonian cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the old town. Be sure to try some local specialties like shopska salad, kebapche (minced meat sausages), or sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls).
  • Things to know:
    • Visa requirements: Citizens of most countries can enter Macedonia without a visa. Check with your country’s embassy or consulate for specific requirements.
    • Language: Macedonian and Albanian are the official languages, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
    • Currency: The Macedonian denar (MKD) is the local currency, although euros are widely accepted.

Day 2: Visit Ohrid

  • Morning: Take a bus or drive to Ohrid (approx. 1 hour journey), one of Macedonia’s most beautiful lakeside towns.
  • Afternoon: Explore the ancient town of Ohrid, which features well-preserved ruins from the Roman and Byzantine periods. Visit the Church of St. John Kaneo, built in the 13th century, and enjoy stunning views of the lake from its picturesque hillside location.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Ohrid or take a stroll along its scenic shoreline.

Day 3: Discover Matka Canyon

  • Morning: Visit the stunning Matka Canyon (approx. 1-hour drive from Skopje), one of Macedonia’s most beautiful natural wonders. Take a short hike through the canyon, which features lush vegetation, waterfalls, and ancient monasteries.
  • Afternoon: Return to Skopje and visit the nearby National Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from Macedonian artists.

Transportation:

  • Bus: Frequent bus services connect major towns in Macedonia. You can book tickets online or at local bus stations.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available but be sure to agree on the price before you start your journey.
  • Car rental: Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore remote areas of the country.

Other tips and information:

  • Weather: Summer (June-August) is the peak tourist season, with hot temperatures and occasional rain showers. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are also pleasant times to visit.
  • Safety: Macedonia is generally a safe country for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Shopping: Try some local handicrafts, such as handmade carpets or ceramics, which make great souvenirs.

Budgeting:

  • Accommodation: Expect to pay around €20-€30 per night for a mid-range hotel in Skopje.
  • Food: Traditional Macedonian cuisine is relatively affordable, with meals starting from €5-€10. Mid-range restaurants can cost up to €15-€25 per person.
  • Transportation: Bus tickets are generally inexpensive (€1-€2), while taxi fares range from €5-€10 depending on the distance.

Enjoy your trip to Macedonia!