Macedonia-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Skopje

  • Arrive at Aleksandar the Great Airport (SKP)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your accommodation
  • Visit the Old Bazaar (Carpets, souvenirs and traditional Macedonian food)
    • Things to know:
      • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive vendors
      • Don’t drink tap water
      • Try some traditional Macedonian cuisine like shopska salad or moussaka
  • Spend the evening exploring the city and getting a feel for the local culture

Day 2: Skopje City Tour

  • Visit Czar’s Complex, the largest archaeological site in Macedonia ( ticket price: 10 MKD, ~$1.60 USD)
    • Things to know:
      • Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and uneven terrain
      • Be respectful of the historical sites and other visitors
  • Explore the Skopje City Museum (free admission) to learn about the city’s history and culture
  • Visit the Mother Teresa Memorial House (free admission), a museum dedicated to the life and work of Mother Teresa

Day 3: Lake Ohrid

  • Take a bus or rent a car from Skopje to Ohrid (~1.5 hours, 200-300 MKD, ~$30-$50 USD)
  • Visit St. Sophia Church, one of the most important medieval churches in Macedonia (ticket price: 20 MKD, ~$3.20 USD)
    • Things to know:
      • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive vendors
      • Don’t drink tap water
      • Try some traditional Macedonian cuisine like shopska salad or moussaka
  • Enjoy the stunning views of Lake Ohrid and take a stroll along its picturesque shoreline

Day 4: Lake Prespa

  • Take a bus or rent a car from Skopje to Struga (~2 hours, 200-300 MKD, ~$30-$50 USD)
  • Visit Lake Prespa, the smallest of Macedonia’s three lakes (free admission)
    • Things to know:
      • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive vendors
      • Don’t drink tap water
      • Try some traditional Macedonian cuisine like shopska salad or moussaka
  • Explore the charming town of Struga, known for its beautiful architecture and friendly locals

Day 5: Matka Canyon

  • Take a bus or rent a car from Skopje to Matka (~30 minutes, 100-200 MKD, ~$15-$25 USD)
  • Visit Matka Canyon, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Macedonia (free admission)
    • Things to know:
      • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive vendors
      • Don’t drink tap water
      • Try some traditional Macedonian cuisine like shopska salad or moussaka
  • Enjoy hiking, swimming, or simply relaxing in the canyon’s serene atmosphere

Day 6: Prilep

  • Take a bus or rent a car from Skopje to Prilep (~1 hour, 150-250 MKD, ~$20-$40 USD)
  • Visit Treska Cave, one of the most famous caves in Macedonia (ticket price: 100 MKD, ~$15.50 USD)
    • Things to know:
      • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive vendors
      • Don’t drink tap water
      • Try some traditional Macedonian cuisine like shopska salad or moussaka
  • Explore the charming town of Prilep, known for its beautiful architecture and friendly locals

Day 7: Departure from Skopje

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Return to Aleksandar the Great Airport (SKP) for your departure flight

Important Information

  • Visa requirements: Citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa to enter Macedonia. However, it’s always best to check with the Macedonian Embassy or Consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.
  • Transportation:
    • Bus tickets cost around 100-200 MKD (~$15-$30 USD) and can be purchased at bus stations or online.
    • Taxi fares are negotiable, but expect to pay around 300-500 MKD (~$45-$75 USD) for a short ride.
  • Currency: The Macedonian Denar (MKD) is the local currency. You can exchange your money at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs.
  • Language: Macedonian and English are widely spoken in tourist areas. However, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Macedonian, such as “zdravo” (hello), “hvala” (thank you), and “do svidanje” (goodbye).
  • Tips:
    • Try some traditional Macedonian cuisine like shopska salad or moussaka.
    • Don’t drink tap water.
    • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive vendors in tourist areas.
    • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting historical sites.