Macedonia-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Beauty of North Macedonia

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of most countries can enter North Macedonia visa-free for up to 90 days. Check your specific country’s requirements with the Macedonian embassy or consulate.

Transportation:

  • Buses: Affordable and widely available, connecting major cities and towns.
  • Taxis: Readily available in urban areas, but negotiate fares beforehand.
  • Rental Cars: Convenient for exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, but roads can be challenging in rural areas.

Day 1: Arrival in Skopje & City Exploration (Skopje)

  • Morning: Arrive at Skopje International Airport (SKP). Take a taxi or bus to your accommodation in the city center.
  • Afternoon: Explore Skopje’s Old Bazaar, a vibrant labyrinth of shops and Ottoman-era architecture. Visit the Mustafa Pasha Mosque and the Kuršumli An complex.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Macedonian restaurant, savoring dishes like tavče gravče (baked beans) and ajvar (roasted red pepper spread).

Day 2: Historical Wonders & Scenic Views (Skopje)

  • Morning: Visit the Kale Fortress overlooking Skopje, offering panoramic city views.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Macedonian Archaeological Museum, showcasing artifacts from ancient civilizations.
  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the Vardar River and enjoy the illuminated Stone Bridge.

Day 3: Journey to Ohrid - The Pearl of the Balkans (Ohrid)

  • Morning: Take a bus from Skopje to Ohrid (~3 hours). Check into your accommodation near Lake Ohrid.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming old town of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched on a cliff overlooking the lake.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a lakeside restaurant while enjoying stunning sunset views over Lake Ohrid.

Day 4: Monastery Hopping & Lake Adventures (Ohrid)

  • Morning: Visit the Monastery of Sveti Naum, a serene monastery complex situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid.
  • Afternoon: Rent a kayak or boat and explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ohrid. Discover hidden coves and swim in the refreshing lake.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Macedonian music and dance at a local tavern.

Day 5: Exploring the Mountains - Mavrovo National Park (Mavrovo)

  • Morning: Take a bus from Ohrid to Mavrovo (~2 hours). Visit Mavrovo National Park, known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and diverse wildlife.
  • Afternoon: Hike through scenic trails, admire cascading waterfalls, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
  • Evening: Stay in a cozy guesthouse in Mavrovo and savor local specialties like kaymak (clotted cream) and burek (savory pastry).

Day 6: Return to Skopje & Shopping Spree (Skopje)

  • Morning: Take a bus from Mavrovo back to Skopje.
  • Afternoon: Explore Skopje’s modern shopping malls and boutiques, offering a variety of local and international brands.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with traditional Macedonian music and dancing.

Day 7: Departure (Skopje)

  • Depart from Skopje International Airport (SKP).

Things to Know:

  • The official currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). ATMs are widely available.

  • Macedonian is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.

  • Tipping is appreciated, around 10% of the bill.

  • Embrace the local culture by trying traditional Macedonian dishes and beverages like rakija (fruit brandy) and boza (fermented millet drink).

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes and rich history of North Macedonia!