Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is a city with a rich history and diverse cultural influences. It has rapidly developed into a modern metropolis in recent years, with numerous attractions and activities to offer visitors from all over the world. From the ancient fortress of Kale, to the bustling Old Bazaar and the modern Skopje City Park, there’s something for everyone in Skopje. In this post, we’ll be exploring some of the best attractions and things to do in Skopje, so you can make the most of your visit to this exciting and vibrant city.

The 4 Best Things To Do Around Skopje

1. Full Day Tour of Ohrid With St Naum from Skopje
2. Skopje Ohrid Daily Tour
3. Private Full Day Tour to Beautiful Ohrid from Skopje
4. Private Full Day Trip to Pristina from Skopje

The 4 Best Things To Do Around Skopje

1. Full Day Tour of Ohrid With St Naum from Skopje

Starting with a 2-hour drive from Skopje, the Full Day Tour of Ohrid with St Naum is an excellent opportunity to explore some of the best attractions of Ohrid. The tour includes visits to the church of Saint Sophia, Roman amphitheater and the Icon Gallery. The highlight of this tour is the 13th century Saint Clement’s Church of the Holy Mother of God Most Glorious, the Tsar Samuel’s Fortress, and the Church of Saint Jovan at Kaneo.

After visiting the Bay of Bones Neolithic settlement, the tour continues along the picturesque lakeshore towards the Monastery of Saint Naum, which is situated within a beautiful location. Visitors will have the opportunity to stroll through the old town of Ohrid and be accompanied by a licensed tour guide. The tour enjoys easy transfer in an air-conditioned car or minivan.

2. Skopje Ohrid Daily Tour

Experience the best of Ohrid in a full-day tour from Skopje. Upon arrival in Ohrid, take a visit to the church of St. Sophia which dates back to the 11th century, followed by a visit to the Roman amphitheater dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Continue the tour with a walk to the Icon Gallery, housing some of the most famous and valuable icons in the world. Nearby, visit the Church of St. Clement’s, which has beautiful and valuable frescoes from the 13th century. Visit the Church of St. Jovan at Kaneo and tour the Tsar Samoil’s Fortress. Take a walking tour of Ohrid and learn about its history and culture while exploring the city’s marketplace. This is the perfect tour for those wanting to experience Ohrid’s rich history and beauty in just one day.

3. Private Full Day Tour to Beautiful Ohrid from Skopje

This private full day tour takes you to the beautiful town of Ohrid from Skopje. Your expert driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel/port at 8:00 am and take you on a scenic journey to the famous Lake Ohrid, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Saint Climent of Ohrid.
In Ohrid, you’ll have a local guide to show you the amazing sights and sounds of the town. You’ll visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo and then take a relaxing walk through the old town, stopping by the Roman amphitheater and Upper Gate.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before continuing on to the Bay of Bones Museum, home to an ancient settlement and an excellent archaeological exhibition.
After a fun-filled day, your driver/guide will take you back to your hotel/port, where you can reminisce about your experiences in Ohrid.
Note that this is a private tour/activity, and confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Gratuities, food and drinks, and hotel/port drop-off are included in the package. The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible and suitable for most travelers. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund, and cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.

4. Private Full Day Trip to Pristina from Skopje

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Pristina on this private full-day tour from Skopje. With pickup and drop-off at your hotel, travel in comfort and reach Pristina with ease. With your private guide, visit top attractions including the 14th-century Carshi Mosque, the Cathedral of St. Mother Teresa, and Skanderbeg Square. Admire Byzantine architecture and get a feel for Pristina’s contemporary edge as you soak up the atmosphere in the bustling Old Town. The tour includes an English-speaking guide and all transfers with a comfortable A/C car or minivan. Meals, drinks, and entrance tickets are not included.

Skopje Travel Guide: The Most Frequently Asked Questions

If you are planning a trip to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, there are undoubtedly several questions that come to your mind. Where to stay, what to eat, how to get around – we’ve got you covered. In this Skopje travel guide, we answer the most frequently asked questions by tourists to help you plan your trip to Skopje.

1. How do I get to Skopje?

The easiest way to get to Skopje is by plane. Skopje Alexander the Great Airport connects the city to many international destinations. There are also regular bus connections to neighboring countries such as Serbia, Kosovo, Bulgaria, and Greece. Alternatively, you can travel by train from Belgrade, Serbia, or Thessaloniki, Greece. But keep in mind that the train ride can be a bit slow and not very comfortable.

2. What is the best time to visit Skopje?

The best time to visit Skopje is from April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists than in the summer months. July and August can be extremely hot, with temperatures going up to 40°C, and the city can be crowded with tourists. The winter months are cold, with temperatures below freezing.

3. Where should I stay in Skopje?

There are several neighborhoods to stay in Skopje, depending on your preferences. If you want to be close to the city center and all the main attractions, the Old Bazaar or Debar Maalo are good options. If you prefer a quieter neighborhood, Vodno or Karposh is a great choice. If you’re looking for budget accommodation, the Shuto Orizari neighborhood has several cheap hostels and guesthouses.

4. What are the must-visit attractions in Skopje?

Skopje has many attractions that are worth visiting, but some of the must-visit ones are:

A. The Old Bazaar

The Old Bazaar is the historic center of Skopje and is the oldest and largest bazaar in the Balkans. It’s a maze of narrow streets and alleys, filled with Ottoman-era architecture, shops, and restaurants.

B. Skopje Fortress

The Skopje Fortress, also known as Kale Fortress, is an ancient fortress that dates back to the 6th century. It offers stunning views of the city and the Vardar River.

C. Memorial House of Mother Teresa

The Memorial House of Mother Teresa is a museum dedicated to the life and work of Mother Teresa, who was born in Skopje in 1910.

D. Stone Bridge

The Stone Bridge is a landmark in Skopje and connects the old and new parts of the city. It’s a pedestrian bridge and is the oldest remaining Ottoman bridge in the Balkans.

E. Macedonia Square

Macedonia Square is the main square of Skopje and is home to many statues and monuments, including the statue of Alexander the Great on his horse.

5. What should I eat in Skopje?

Skopje has a rich culinary heritage influenced by Ottoman and Balkan cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes are:

A. Tavche Gravche

Tavche Gravche is a traditional Macedonian dish made of beans, onions, and spices. It’s usually served with bread or rice.

B. Ajvar

Ajvar is a spread made of roasted red peppers, garlic, oil, and spices. It’s a popular condiment in the Balkans and is usually served with bread or grilled meat.

C. Kebapi

Kebapi is a type of grilled sausage made of minced beef or lamb, onions, and spices. It’s usually served with bread, onions, and sour cream.

6. How do I get around Skopje?

Skopje has a public transportation system consisting of buses and taxis. The buses are cheap and can take you to most parts of the city. Taxis are also relatively affordable, but make sure to negotiate the price before you get in. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or walk around the city center, which is quite compact.

7. What is the currency in Skopje?

The currency in Skopje is the Macedonian Denar. It’s advisable to exchange your currency at a bank or exchange office, as the exchange rates at airports and hotels can be high.

8. Is Skopje safe for tourists?

Skopje is generally safe for tourists, and violent crime is rare. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded places like the Old Bazaar. It’s advisable to keep your valuables in a safe place and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Skopje

Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is a beautiful city rich with history, culture, and adventure. Known as the “City of Contrasts,” Skopje offers tourists an array of activities to explore and experience. In this guide, we’ll share how to get the most out of your visit to Skopje.

1. Visit the Old Bazaar

The Old Bazaar, located in the heart of Skopje, is a must-visit destination for any tourist. This historic market is one of the oldest marketplaces in the Balkans, dating back to the 12th century. Take a stroll through the charming, narrow streets and admire the Ottoman-era architecture. Here, you’ll find countless shops, restaurants, and cafes, selling everything from traditional Macedonian crafts to delicious local food.

Pro tip:

Make sure to visit the Daut Pasha Hamam, a beautifully preserved Turkish bathhouse, which has been turned into a cultural center. It’s a great place to learn more about the history and traditions of the region.

2. Explore the Fortress of Skopje

Located at the highest point in Skopje, the Fortress dominates the skyline of the city. It’s no wonder that it has been a symbol of Skopje for centuries. The fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Inside the walls, you’ll find several museums and galleries, as well as the historic Church of St. Nicholas.

Pro tip:

Don’t miss the sunset from the fortress. It’s one of the best views in Skopje!

3. Walk Across the Stone Bridge

The Stone Bridge is perhaps the most iconic landmark in Skopje. Built in the 15th century, the bridge spans the Vardar River and connects the old part of the city with the new. Today, it’s a pedestrian-only bridge, and it’s the perfect place to take a walk and soak in the views. It’s especially beautiful at night when the bridge is illuminated.

Pro tip:

Take a walk along the riverbanks after crossing the bridge. You’ll find several cafes, parks, and street performers.

4. Visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa, the world-renowned Catholic nun, was born and raised in Skopje. Her childhood home has been turned into a museum dedicated to her life and work. The Memorial House of Mother Teresa is a beautiful facility with several exhibits and artifacts showcasing her humanitarian efforts.

Pro tip:

Don’t miss the beautiful garden behind the museum. It’s a peaceful retreat in the hustle and bustle of the city.

5. Enjoy Macedonian Cuisine

Macedonian cuisine is something that every tourist should experience. The food in Skopje is a delicious blend of Mediterranean, Balkan, and Turkish influences. Some of the most popular dishes to try include tavche gravce (baked beans), ajvar (a type of relish), and pastrmajlija (a bread topped with meat). There are also several street food vendors selling delicious grilled meats and pastries.

Pro tip:

Visit the “Čaršija” (meaning bazaar in Turkish), which is the main pedestrian shopping and dining street in Skopje. Here, you’ll find many restaurants and cafes serving authentic Macedonian cuisine.

6. Learn about Macedonian History at Museums

Skopje is a city rich in history, and there are many museums and galleries that offer a glimpse into this unique culture. The City Museum of Skopje is a great place to start, with exhibits that cover the city’s history from ancient times to modern-day. The Museum of Macedonian Struggle is another must-visit attraction, showcasing the country’s fight for independence.

Pro tip:

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, which features a vast collection of works by Macedonian artists.

Book Your Tour Now

Skopje is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the Balkans, and the city has plenty to offer to tourists. From historic landmarks to delicious cuisine to cultural experiences, Skopje is a city that you won’t want to miss. So pack your bags and start planning your trip today!