Taking a Skopje Matka Canyon Sightseeing Tour

Skopje is a city in the southwestern region of North Macedonia that serves as the capital and largest city. With its long and rich history, Skopje offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the charming city, its culture and its natural wonders. One such example is Matka Canyon, an incredible sightseeing experience situated just outside the city limits. Here, you’ll find breathtaking scenery as well as historic churches, monasteries and caves that can be enjoyed on a Skopje sightseeing tour.

What Is Matka Canyon?

Matka Canyon is located in southwestern North Macedonia, just 15 kilometers from the center of Skopje. The canyon is part of the Mount Vodno Nature Park, which is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The canyon is one of the deepest artificial gorges in the world, with its origins dating back to 25 million years ago. It is home to various flora and fauna as well as 13 medieval monasteries and 13 churches.

Skopje Sightseeing Tours

If you’re looking to explore the beauty of Matka Canyon and get the most out of your visit to Skopje, then there’s no better option than to take a canal sightseeing tour. Taking a Skopje sightseeing tour will allow you to explore the canyon and its many wonders in all its glory. As part of the tour, you’ll be able to visit each of the monasteries and churches as well as explore some of the local caves and take part in many other activities along the way.

The Highlights of Matka Canyon

The Monastery of Saint Nikola – One of the most iconic structures that can be seen on a sightseeing tour of Matka Canyon is the Monastery of Saint Nikola, which was erected in the 13th century and remains one of the most notable landmarks. Not only does it provide an insight into Macedonian culture and religion, but it also gives visitors a stunning view of the canyon and surrounding areas.

The Vrelo Cave – This is one of the largest largest systems of caves in Macedonia, with its massive chambers and limestone formations. Here, visitors can find a variety of speleological features to explore, including underground streams, huge galleries and ancient formations.

The Church of St. Andrew – This incredible church was constructed in the 4th century and is one of the oldest churches in Macedonia. Its ancient architecture is stunning, with a huge stone fa?ade complimented by several frescoes. It’s an important symbol for residents of Matka Canyon and is highly revered by many.

The St. Ivan Rilski Monastery – Located at the edge of the Matka Canyon, this monastery serves as a fitting tribute to one of Macedonia’s greatest icons, St. Ivan Rilski. Those taking part in a Skopje sightseeing tour should make sure to visit this beautiful and historic place.

Things To Do On A Sightseeing Tour

There are plenty of activities available to those taking part in a Skopje sightseeing tour of Matka Canyon. Here are some of the most popular things to do while exploring this beautiful region:

• Take part in numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, rafting and rock climbing.
• Visit some of the picturesque small villages that have grown up around Matka Canyon.
• Explore the various monasteries and churches in the area.
• Spend some time fishing on one of the several lakes that are located within the canyon.
• Visit some of the local SPA resorts that offer relaxing treatments.
• Enjoy some nature walks along the various trails in the canyon.

Book Your Sightseeing Tour Now

Taking part in a Skopje sightseeing tour is an absolute must do if you’re planning on visiting this stunning region of North Macedonia. There’s no better way to take in all that Matka Canyon has to offer than by joining a guided tour. This will ensure that your trip to Skopje is one to remember, filled with amazing sights and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. To book your sightseeing tour today, please click here.

An Insider’s Guide to Skopje, North Macedonia

Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. While tourists may flock to the famous Old Bazaar or Skopje Fortress, this city has much more to offer in terms of local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Here’s an insider’s guide:

Local Attractions

Apart from the famous tourist attractions, Skopje is filled with hidden gems that only locals know about. One such place is the ‘Bit Pazar’ market, located downtown, where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, spices and herbs, and traditional handmade items such as carpets and souvenirs. Another must-visit spot is the ‘Bohemian Quarter,’ where you can wander through charming narrow streets and find traditional Macedonian houses, restaurants, and galleries.

If you want to immerse yourself in nature, a visit to the ‘Matka Canyon’ is a must. Take a boat ride on the river, and you’ll see stunning waterfalls, caves, and rock formations. For a unique experience, visit the ‘Stobi Winery,’ the largest and most famous wine region in North Macedonia. You can taste traditional wines while enjoying the scenic beauty of the countryside.

Dining Spots

Macedonian cuisine is a mix of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern flavors. One of the best places to try traditional Macedonian food is ‘Destan,’ a restaurant located in the Old Bazaar that serves mouth-watering dishes such as ‘Tavche Gravche’ (baked beans), ‘Ajvar’ (red pepper spread), and ‘Kebapi’ (grilled sausages). If you’re in the mood for some quick bites, then try ‘Burek Jana,’ a small bakery in the Bohemian Quarter, which is famous for its ‘Burek’ (a baked pastry with fillings such as cheese, meat, or spinach).

Cultural Experiences

Skopje has a rich cultural heritage, and you can witness it in every corner of the city. If you visit Skopje during August, then you must attend the ‘Ohrid Summer Festival’ held in the historic city of Ohrid, featuring opera, theatre, and traditional music performances. For art lovers, a visit to the ‘National Gallery of Macedonia’ is a must, where you’ll find contemporary Macedonian art, including sculptures, paintings, and installations.

Local History

Skopje has seen many wars, occupations, and hardships, but its resilience always shines through. One such example is the ‘Kale Fortress,’ a symbol of Skopje’s historical significance and an iconic landmark of the city. Another fascinating historical site to visit is the ‘Museum of the Macedonian Struggle,’ which tells the story of the Macedonian revolutionaries who fought for the country’s independence.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to get off the beaten tourist track, then try ‘Urbana Gondola,’ an urban cable car that will take you on a scenic ride across Skopje’s cityscape. For a unique outdoor adventure, try ‘Duf’ a company that offers outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. You can also check out ‘Mystical Macedonia,’ a group that offers unique tours to undiscovered and mystical locations in North Macedonia.

In conclusion, Skopje is a city that is full of surprises, where you can discover new things around every corner. This insider’s guide offers a peek into the heart and soul of Skopje, waiting to be discovered by travelers.