Hello, we are here with the Macedonia Travel Guide. As Mikos Store, we love to examine the history, food and characteristics of each region and present them to you. Now it's Macedonia's turn. Enjoy reading.
North Macedonia is a small, mountainous country located in the heart of the Balkans, full of historical riches. Its capital, Skopje, is the cultural and economic center of the country, attracting attention with its streets where old and new architecture are blended, historical buildings and lively atmosphere. Ohrid is famous for Lake Ohrid, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and its historic city center. Macedonia offers its visitors its rich history, natural beauty and friendly people.
The country has been home to various civilizations, which is reflected in its rich cultural heritage. Macedonia is known for its architectural structures, archaeological sites, and museums that reflect a blend of Ottoman, Byzantine, Roman, and Slavic influences.
How to Get to Macedonia?
There are various options for getting to Macedonia, including air, road and rail. Here are the ways to get to Macedonia:
Transportation by Air
Skopje International Airport, located in Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, is the country's main air transportation hub. There are direct flights to Skopje from many major European cities. Ohrid International Airport in Ohrid hosts charter flights from some European cities, especially during the summer months.
Transportation by Road
Macedonia has good road connections with surrounding countries. Road connections to Macedonia are possible via Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, Greece and Bulgaria. Bus services are frequent and regular, especially from neighbouring countries in the Balkans.
Transportation by Rail
Macedonia's railway network offers connections between major cities, particularly Skopje and Bitola. There are also international train services, such as the Belgrade-Skopje-Thessaloniki line.
Car rental
Renting a car to travel within Macedonia is a good option, especially for those who want to visit less accessible areas. There are many car rental companies in cities like Skopje and Ohrid.
Places to Visit in Macedonia
Macedonia offers its visitors a wide range of exploration opportunities with its historical and natural beauties. Here are some important places to visit in Macedonia:
Skopje
The capital of Macedonia, Skopje, is notable for its mix of modern and historical elements. The city includes the Ottoman-era Fortress, the Stone Bridge and the Old Bazaar. Also worth seeing in the modern part of the city are Macedonia Square and the imposing Macedonian Victory Monument.
Ohrid
Ohrid is famous for its historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the magnificent Lake Ohrid. In the city, you can explore historical sites such as the ancient theater, St. Jovan Kaneo Church and Ohrid Fortress.
Matka Canyon
Located about 15 km from Skopje, Matka Canyon is a popular destination for hiking, canoeing and boat tours. The canyon also contains many caves and offers stunning views.
Bitola
Bitola, the second largest city in Macedonia, offers visitors a unique experience with its buildings bearing traces of Ottoman architecture, its historical bazaar and the ancient city of Heraklea Lynkestis.
Mavrovo National Park
Mavrovo, Macedonia's largest national park, is the perfect getaway for nature lovers with its stunning mountain scenery, rich vegetation and wildlife. In winter, it is also a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Ancient City of Stobi
Stobi, one of the most important archaeological sites in Macedonia, is very attractive to history enthusiasts with its ruins from the Roman and Byzantine periods.
What to Eat in Macedonia?
Macedonian cuisine is rich and diverse, reflecting the influences of the Balkan and Mediterranean cuisines. Meat, vegetables and dairy products are used extensively. Here are some local delicacies to try in Macedonia:
Tavce Gravce
Tavče Gravče, the national dish of Macedonia, is a spicy baked bean dish, usually served with red peppers and onions.
Ajvar
This vegetable paste made with red pepper, eggplant and garlic is a very popular appetizer in Macedonia, consumed as a spread on bread or as a side dish with main dishes.
Selsko Meso
A traditional Macedonian dish, Selsko Meso is a mixture of meat and vegetables cooked in the oven. Often lamb or pork is used and enriched with yoghurt, cheese or mushrooms.
Burek
Burek, a popular dish from the Balkans, is also common in Macedonia. This flaky pastry, prepared with various fillings, is consumed for breakfast or as a snack.
Ohrid Trout
Ohrid trout, a species native to Lake Ohrid, is one of the most famous delicacies of the region. It is served grilled, steamed or baked.
Macedonian Salad
Prepared with fresh vegetables, cheese and sometimes mustard or olives, this salad is a light and delicious option.
Baklava and Tulumba
Baklava and Tulumba, which are frequently consumed as desserts in Macedonia, are among the flavors that show the influence of Ottoman cuisine.
Macedonia Festivals
Macedonia hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, ranging from music to cinema, traditional arts to food festivals. Here are some of the major festivals you should attend in Macedonia:
Ohrid Summer Festival
The Ohrid Summer Festival is held annually in July and August and hosts international musicians, theatre groups and dancers. The festival offers a cultural feast with concerts, theatre plays and other performances held in historical venues of Ohrid.
Skopje Jazz Festival
Held every October, the Skopje Jazz Festival brings world-famous jazz musicians and bands to the Macedonian capital. The festival is one of the most important events in the Balkans for jazz music lovers.
Galicnik Wedding Festival
The Galicnik Wedding Festival takes place every year in July in the village of Galicnik and showcases traditional Macedonian wedding customs. This festival recreates a traditional Macedonian wedding with local costumes, music, dancing and food.
Manaki Brothers International Film Festival
The Manaki Brothers International Film Festival is held every September in Bitola and honors pioneers of cinematography. The festival hosts screenings of international and local films, workshops and panels on cinema.
Struga Poetry Nights
Held at the end of August, Struga Poetry Evenings brings together poets from all over the world in Macedonia. The festival is filled with poetry readings, workshops and cultural events.
Macedonia Nightlife
Macedonia offers visitors a vibrant and diverse nightlife, especially in the capital city of Skopje and the tourist city of Ohrid. Here are the highlights of Macedonia's nightlife:
Skopje Nightlife
Skopje is the center of Macedonia's nightlife. The city has many bars, clubs and nightclubs. The Debar Maalo neighborhood is full of bars and restaurants and is mostly preferred by locals. There are also many lively nightlife venues along the Vardar River and in the Old Bazaar area.
Ohrid Nightlife
Ohrid is known for its nightlife, which is especially vibrant during the summer months. Bars, nightclubs and open-air venues on the shores of Lake Ohrid and in the Old Town are popular with locals and tourists alike. Beach bars and clubs by the lake host parties and events that brighten up summer nights.
Bitola and Struga
Other major cities such as Bitola and Struga also have a rich nightlife with a variety of bars, cafes and nightclubs. The Şirok Sokak area of Bitola is a popular place to socialise and have fun in the evenings.
Things You Need to Know Before Going to Macedonia
If you are planning to travel to Macedonia, there are some important things to know that will make your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free:
Visa and Entry Procedures
Before entering Macedonia, it is important to check visa requirements. While visa-free travel is available to many nationalities, it is best to contact Macedonian foreign missions for up-to-date information.
Currency
The official currency of Macedonia is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, cash may be more important in smaller towns and villages.
Language
The official language is Macedonian, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among the younger generation. Learning basic Macedonian phrases can be useful when communicating with locals.
Transport
Buses are widely used for intercity transportation in the country. There are public transport options available in Skopje and other major cities, but if you want to explore the countryside, renting a car may be a good option.
Local Culture and Customs
As Macedonia is a country with a rich cultural heritage, it is important to respect local traditions and customs. Locals are generally hospitable and friendly towards tourists.
Climate
Macedonia has a continental climate; summers are hot and dry, and winters can be cold and snowy. It is important to bring appropriate clothing depending on your travel dates.
We hope you liked our Macedonia Travel Guide article. Our Skopje Travel Guide article has already taken its place on the blog. We recommend you to read it as well.
