An ancient Greek kingdom, a vital part of the Ottoman Empire, a former state of the Republic of Yugoslavia.

And now, at last, an independent and thriving republic.

All of this varied and rich history means that this colourful nation has a cuisine, a host of architecture and religious buildings, and a language that has been so influenced by the lands around it.

This means that Skopje, Macedonia’s capital city, is a hotbed of exciting and fascinating historic sights and experiences.

Most of what to do in Skopje is historically engrossing, to say the least.

And here are the best things to do in Skopje when you visit.

1. Skopje Fortress

The grandest sight and experience to be had in Skopje is visiting Skopje Fortress (sometimes referred to as Kale Fortress – ‘Kale’ coming from the Turkish word for fortress).

This fortress is the highest point in Skopje, giving visitors a complete view of the city and the Vardar River flowing out to the horizon.

Skopje Fortress itself is now 1500 years old and was built by Roman emperor Justinian I.

Skopje Fortress has stood almost untouched for all that time, with the most damaged actually dealt by an earthquake in the 1960s.

This fortress, in so many ways, embodies the history of the city and has stood through the rise and fall of so many empires.

2. Old Bazaar

For eight hundred years, since the Ottoman Empire, the Old Bazaar of Skopje has been the centrepoint for trade in Macedonia.

It sits at the edge of the river, from which most of the trade was traditionally done.

Today, the Old Bazaar stands as a shining example of Ottoman architecture in Skopje, and visiting this incredible historic building is certainly one of the best things to do in Skopje.

It might even be your first port of call, so to speak.

The Old Bazaar also exists as the largest bazaar in the Balkans, and today it is still a place where local wares can be bought and sold.

3. Visit Matka Canyon

At first glance, this canyon just outside of Skopje looks like something you’d more likely find in The Philippines, Indonesia, or Jurassic Park.

Naturally, it’s a huge and epic landmark of jagged cliffs, high and dramatic walls, and a wide flowing river that’s hugely popular amongst locals and visitors alike.

But this canyon also hides a few hidden gems that make it a must-visit when considering what to see in Skopje: the monasteries.

While you can hike and take a boat trip along the river of Matka Canyon, you can also visit medieval monasteries like St. Andrews, which sits quietly on the water’s edge.

4. Millennium Cross

This enormous, 66 metre cross stands proud atop a hill just a few miles outside of Skopje.

Built to commemorate two millennia of Christianity at the turn of the 21st century, it has since become one of the great landmarks of Skopje.

Visiting it, to marvel at the intricacies of design that went into it, is one of the best things to do in Skopje.

Up close, you can see the platform it stands on which has twelve columns; one for each apostle.

There’s even an elevator hidden inside which will take you up to one of the best views in the area, making this cross top of the list of what to see in Skopje.

5. Mother Teresa Memorial House

Though she is a world famous and globally celebrated humanitarian, few people know that Mother Teresa was born in Skopje.

The Mother Teresa Memorial House is not her home, however.

It was instead built on the grounds where once stood the church where she was baptized as a child.

Mother Teresa lived in Skopje for the first eighteen years of her life, and so this Memorial House is perhaps the closest link that any country has to her and her legacy, making it an essential place to visit.

6. Plostad Makedonija (Macedonia Square)

The town square of Skopje, Plostad Makedonija, is perhaps most famous for the enormous statue at its heart: that of Alexander the Great.

This towering of him astride a horse stands tall atop a white pillar as the rest of the city spreads out like spokes on a wheel from there.

The square has a host of other statues to photograph and admire, and from here the whole city opens up before you.

7. Church of the Holy Savior

Nestled beneath Skopje Fortress is the city’s most spectacular church.

The church has more in common with a temple than a church, with a tall pagoda-like structure and an enormous hall of grandiose art and Christian artefacts adorning the walls and ceilings.

You won’t find anything else like it in Macedonia, making visiting it one of the major things to do in Skopje.

8. Museum of Illusions

Putting history aside for a moment, if you’re looking for what to see in Skopje that’s modern, turn to the Museum of Illusions, a fun and interactive museum of art that uses shifting perspectives to make you gasp and laugh as you explore with friends.

9. Mustafa Pasha Mosque

Given Skopje’s wealth of history, it’s fitting that the city has both a unique church and an incredible mosque.

Found in the Old Bazaar, Mustafa Pasha Mosque has stood since 1492, during the Ottoman Empire, and has even been recently and lovingly renovated by the city to maintain its original beauty and spectacle.

10. Museum of the Macedonian Struggle

Macedonia’s history has been a struggle for independence under the thumbs of both the Ottman Empire and the Soviet Union.

This new museum commemorates that struggle with some of the most vital history lessons you’ll ever learn about the Balkans.

11. Contemporary Art Museum of Macedonia

Contemporary art museums are everywhere the world over, but what makes Skopje’s so delightful is how postmodern its design and architecture is in the face of the city’s ancient architectural history.

So much of the city is dripping in deep, dark history.

This museum is a symbol of the artistic future of Macedonia, and it is captivating!

Other articles you will love:

• Is Macedonia Safe to Visit?
• 26 Unique Things to do in Macedonia
• 16 Must-see Places to Visit in Macedonia

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Often we arrive at airports and train stations, which tend to be the places where many scams happen, suddenly dealing with various unknown situations.

This can be very unsettling if you’re unsure what you’re letting yourself in for.

There are sorts of things to consider when it comes to safety, from natural disasters to petty crime to major scams.

Don’t be easy prey by knowing everything you can know before you go.

If you’re planning a Balkans trip and wondering ‘is Macedonia safe to visit’ then find out everything you need to know about this exciting country right here.

Safety in Macedonia

Macedonia is one of the safest countries in the world, you’ll be pleased to know.

There’s actually very little to worry about regarding safety in Macedonia.

Troubles of the past are long behind them and what you’ll find is a vibrant and peaceful country just waiting to be explored.

However, just like any country, it’s always good to be aware of any issues and put into practice basic safety tips.

Here are some things to be aware of when it comes to travelling in Macedonia.

Macedonia Saftey Tips

What does safety mean exactly?

This is safety for yourself, as well as for your valuables and belongings.

While some of these tips might be considered common sense, they can be easy to overlook in a country as safe as Macedonia.

In fact, it’s very easy to get a little complacent and overconfident in one of the safest countries in Europe.

But that’s never a good idea, so here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when you travel to Macedonia.

● Pickpocketing – Like many countries in Europe, the biggest problem, when it comes to crime, that you’ll have to deal with is the occasional pickpocketer or bag-snatcher, so be aware of your belongings.

This advice should be particularly and strictly followed in tourist areas like Skopje city centre and the Old Town.

In order to avoid pickpocketing, consider using a theft-proof bag that hides the seams and zips.

Or, simply, keep a tight hold of your handbag at all times and never keep anything in your back pocket.

Keep your phone, wallet, everything in your front pockets and keep a hand on them.

● Avoid the northern border with Kosovo due to cases of civil unrest.

Similarly, avoid large political gatherings and demonstrations.

This is very unlikely to bother you, and you probably have no plans to wander along the border, but breakouts of civil unrest in the form of aggressive protests can happen in Macedonia.

But don’t worry, you’ll know about them and they’re easy to simply ignore.

● If you do need help then you can contact the police (telephone 192) or the ambulance service (telephone 194).

You can also contact your local embassy for advice.

It’s always a good idea to have the local police and ambulance numbers, as well as the embassy phone number and address, saved in your phone before you visit anywhere.

● You can swim in most lakes and rivers in Macedonia, but the rivers Vardar and Treska and Lake Treska are not suitable for swimming.

Avoid those three, and the rest are perfectly safe.

● Watch out for wild animals in Macedonia’s various national parks.

There, you can easily run into bears.

Make sure you keep to the marked paths at all times, and without exception.

Also, keep an eye out for stray animals when driving.

The last thing you’d want ruining your trip to Macedonia is to hit a roaming animal, so have your wits about you if you decide to drive a rental car across the beautiful landscape of Macedonia.

● Water is safe to drink from the tap in Macedonia.

Don’t let anyone scare you into thinking otherwise.

It’s perfectly safe, so save some money on bottled water and fill up your bottle from the tap.

Travel insurance in North Macedonia

Make sure you are always covered when travelling. 

Two companies which are highly recommended are World Nomads and SafetyWing. 

Travel insurance is essential when travelling!

Common Scams 

● If you get swarmed by a group of children asking you for money, hold on to your belongings as this a common distraction technique.

Head into the nearest cafe or shop

● Credit card fraud is becoming more common so try to only use your card for large purchases in reputable businesses and otherwise stick to cash

● You won’t find any unlicensed taxis or huge taxi scams in Macedonia but there are a few things to watch out for:

Overcharging – make sure the meter is on and check online fare estimators before setting off

Tourist spots – avoid jumping in taxis waiting at tourist spots as you’re more likely to get ripped of
Know your route- – just to make sure your driver isn’t taking you around a bit to drive up the fare

License number – if you do encounter any issues, take a picture of the driver’s license
number to report them.

Is Macedonia Safe for Solo Travelers?

Absolutely safe, but take extra care at night in certain areas and stick to well-lit, busier spots as you would in all cities.

The Vardar riverbank is one of the more dodgier areas at night so best to avoid if you’re travelling alone.

Safety Tips for Driving in Macedonia

If you’re embarking on an epic Macedonia road trip, and want to avoid using taxis or public transport, then bear these safety tips in mind.

● Between November – February, there can be extremely thick fog which can dramatically reduce visibility so always check weather conditions before setting off

● People drive on the right in Macedonia

● There are frequent accidents on the road and areas around Skopje can be particularly congested so always keep alert and adhere to speed limits. Limits are: 130 km/h on highways, 110 km/h on roads reserved for motor vehicles, 90 km/h on other roads, and 50 km/h on roads in built-up areas

● Sidelights/Dipped lights must be on at all times including in the day, fines are administered for anyone breaking the rules.

Similarly, passengers who aren’t wearing a seatbelt or are found using a mobile phone while driving will be fined

Other articles you will love:

• 16 Must-see Places to Visit in Macedonia
• 26 Unique Things to do in Macedonia

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It also has an innumerable amount of archaeological sites and museums for tourists who seek a dive into European history.

If you are planning a trip to country, here are twenty-six things to do in Macedonia!

1. Visit Lake Ohrid

Lake Ohrid is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site that can be found in the mountains situated between Albania and Macedonia.

Its UNESCO status is due to the fact that it is arguably Europe’s oldest and deepest lake.

There are many beautiful structures that have been built up around it and it is a popular spot for boating and diving. Take a tour to get the most out of the city!

2. Catch a Performance at the Ancient Theatre

The theatre has great Hellenistic roots and the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid is the only theatre in Macedonia that still exists from its Hellenistic age.

Not much is known about it as it has crumbled over the centuries.

However, it is known to have been a central place of entertainment in Ohrid.

It was used for gladiator fights and Christian executions and is now used for dance, concerts, and other performances.

3. Visit the Bay of Bones

If you are able to catch a performance at the Ancient Theatre and have time to spare, then another historical attraction awaits at the Bay of Bones.

The Bay of Bones is a floating archaeological complex found along the Ohrid coast, at the excavation site of Ploca Micov Kamen.

The complex is a deliberate and accurate reconstruction of the prehistoric settlement that was once there and is one of the most popular historical places to visit in Macedonia.

4. Take an Easy Walk Through Peshna Cave

Peshna Cave is a very secluded and relatively unknown cave situated about 7km of Makedonski Brod town.

A Macedonian cultural monument, the entrance to the cave is the largest in the Balkans.

The complex inside the cave has been typified to the caves in the Lord of the Rings and right in character, there is a Middle-Ages fortress at the entrance to the cave.

The cave is large and well maintained. It is also very easy to walk through in the daytime.

5. Go to the Contemporary Art Museum of Macedonia

In the capital city of Skopje sits one Macedonia’s largest and most comprehensive national institutions – the Contemporary Art Museum of Macedonia.

The building was constructed in a classical “fortress on a hill” style.

It holds artwork by local and international artists and focuses on art that was created between 1950 – 1980.

Some of the artists that have been displayed at the Museum include Emilio Vedova, Hans Hartung, Pablo Picasso, and Alberto Burri.

6. Visit the Macedonian Saint-Tropez

Trpejca is a former fishing village on Lake Ohrid which has turned into a destination town due to the influx of tourists that have discovered the beauties of what is commonly referred to as the Macedonian Saint-Tropez.

This glorious little town has a lot of small but comfortable hotels and tourists can get up to a variety of fun activities like swimming, diving, boating, and some simple beach relaxation.

7. Relax at Dojran Lake

Lake Dojran is the smallest of the three largest lakes in Macedonia.

It is situated on the border that separates Macedonia from Greece and regularly attracts tourists visiting both countries.

The Lake is deeply steeped in folklore and mythology and many locals are often glad to share intriguing tales about how the Lake came to being.

The mud at the lake is also said to be therapeutic and there are spas located on the Lake that offer professional services.

Image by Julian Hacker from Pixabay 

8. Visit Skopje Fortress

Skopje Fortress is located at the city’s highest point, on a hill overlooking the Vardar River.

Although it is known to have been built in the middle of the 6th century and then reconstructed during the 10th and 11th centuries, not much else is known about it.

This is why even though it is open to the public for exploration it is sometimes closed to allow for further academic research.

9. Visit the Ancient Heraclea Lyncestis

Of all the cities built during the age of the Macedonian Empire, the only one that still survives with a reasonable level of preservation is Heraclea Lyncestis.

A true reflection of what ancient Macedonia was like, tourists come to this ancient city to marvel at the mosaics, the baths, and all the other artefacts that carry that classical Roman design.

Heraclea Lycestis also hosts a small museum that preserves artefacts recovered in excavations of the city.

Image by schteck from Pixabay 

10. Check Out the Kokino Observatory

The Kokino Observatory is an ancient archaeological site that is believed to have existed in the Bronze Age and to have been used for scientific and ritualistic purposes.

Its ruins were recently discovered between the Serbian border and Kokino town at a seaside spot 3300 feet.

The observatory is an arrangement of multiple giant stones in mysterious but interesting patterns, similar to those of Angkor Wat, Abu Simbel, and Stonehenge.

11. Go See the Kuklica Rock Formation

Kuklica is an astounding formation of 120 gigantic stones standing end to end for about 74 acres.

Many myths surround the existence of this formation.

Some claim they are the wedding guests of a man who was cursed by a woman after attempting to marry her and someone else simultaneously, while others believe it is simply the result of erosion and unevenly sized volcanic rocks.

Regardless, the site is held in high regard, although it can be difficult to find.

12. Explore Matka Canyon

Located near the capital city of Skopje, Matka Canyon is a fantastic destination for those who wish to visit Macedonia for its enthralling landscape, natural and artificial wonders, as its old religious structures.

The oldest artificial lake in Macedonia can be found in Matka Canyon as well as ten deep caves, some of which are available to the public for exploration.

The Canyon is a popular spot for hiking and climbing and also for water activities like fishing and swimming in the Treska River below.

13. Go See The Mechkin Kamen Monument

The Mechkin Kamen Monument is a memorial that was constructed in 1973 to honor the Ilinden Uprising.

A space-age styled monument, it is made to look like a white sphere, with skylights made of stained glass surrounding its surface.

Not many people really understand what the artist was trying to communicate, but it has come to be seen as a beacon of hope and freedom for the people of Macedonia.

14. Visit The Memorial House of Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa is a humanitarian figure of legend who was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize for her life-changing work.

She also happens to have been born and baptized in Skopje, Macedonia.

In Skopje, a memorial house was constructed in her honor at the former church where she was baptized.

The house hosts a museum that has several documents relating to Mother Teresa as well as sculptures of her along with family members.

Image by DiscoveringMacedonia from Pixabay 

15. Explore Mavrovo National Park

Mavrovo National Park was opened in 1949 and is the largest of Northern Macedonia’s three national parks.

While it is not as popular as other places in Macedonia, visitors to the park always have things to do such as a climb up Mount Korab, skiing at Zare Ski Resort, or going on a culinary exploration of Janče and Galičnik, the twin villages located inside the National Park.

16. Visit the Museum of Bitola

The Museum of Bitola was created in the 1980s and housed in a building with its own historical value.

It had, first of all, served as a military academy and high-school that trained many great military leaders, including Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the progenitor of modern-day Turkey.

The Museum of Bitola houses historical pieces from the entire Bitola area, from different time periods and along with different themes.

17. Learn about Skopje at the City’s Museum

The capital city of Skopje has a long-standing history, with settlers known to have reached the land around 3000 BC.

Much of the city’s history is properly preserved at the Museum of the City of Skopje and even the building it is housed in is of significant historical import.

A variety of exhibits are housed at the city’s museum and it holds other pieces apart from historical ones.

Image by ExplorerBob from Pixabay 

18. Visit the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle

If you are intrigued by history and are wondering where to go in Macedonia, you can take the time to learn about the different sufferings the country has had to go through by visiting the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle for Statehood and Independence.

It is a part of a three-part museum which is owned and run by the Macedonian government.

The museum tells the story of Macedonia and their contention against the Ottomans to secure their freedom.

19. Shop at the Old Bazaar

The Old Bazaar of Skopje is situated on the banks of River Vardar.

The bazaar has existed since before the 12th century and is one of the oldest and biggest markets in Macedonia.

It is built in a style that blends Byzantine and Ottoman architecture flawlessly and holds scores of shops, mosques, and churches, as well as the Museum of Modern art and the Museum of Macedonia.

Image by DiscoveringMacedonia from Pixabay 

20. Explore Pelister National Park

Located in the massif known as Baba Mountain, Pelister National Park is a nature lover’s haven.

Filled with multiple species of flora and fauna, visitors come to the park to find rare plant species or to observe animals like deer, falcons, bears, wild boars, and eagles in their natural habitat.

The oldest of Macedonia’s national parks, Pelister National Park is popular among tourists looking for what to do in Macedonia.

21. Take a Tour of Golem Grad

If you are exploring Lake Prespa, you might want to give some attention to Golem Grad, otherwise known as “the Snake Island”.

Accessible via boat, the island is a protected home of extremely rare plants and is regularly visited by botanists and other researchers.

Golem Grad also holds nine archeological sites, some of which are temples and homes dating as far back as 1000 years ago.

22. Visit the Roman Baths in Bansko

The village of Bansko is responsible for feeding water to one of the largest hot water springs in the country.

The Bansko Springs is located near the base of Mont Belasitza, about 12km from Strumica Town.

During the 2nd century, the Romans who were occupying Macedonia built baths on the site to cater to all types of people.

Those baths were excellently preserved and are still used to this day.

23. Go to the Sarai Ahmet Niyazi

Constructed during the era of the Young Turk Revolution, the Sarai Ahmet Niyazi represents the very best in Macedonian neoclassical architecture.

It is said to have been built for and by Niyazi Bey, the inglorious Ottoman overlord. He lived in the building, but after his death, it was converted to a museum.

24. Chase the Smolare Waterfall

Those who chase waterfalls will be pleased to find Macedonia’s tallest waterfall close to Smolare Village.

Smolare Waterfall cascades 40 meters down the side of Mount Belasica and is accessible by a 300-stone-step nature trail.

Visitors to the waterfall can watch it and take awesome pictures by a bridge that is located in front of the waterfall.

Photo by Ed Robertson on Unsplash

25. Read a Book at the Library Goce Delchev

If you are a devout lover of books, then a trip to the Library Goce Delchev will definitely be worth your time.

Opened in 1912, the library houses a collection of more than 70000 super-rare books that were written between the 1800s and the early 1900s.

Beyond its extensive collection, the building which houses the library is a magnificently designed two-story home that showcases the brilliance of Macedonian architecture.

26. Make a Trip to Stobi Archaeological Site

Stobi is an archaeological site that is found right at the centre of Macedonia.

It played a key role during the Roman era, serving as the capital to Macedonia Secunda – a Roman Provence.

Visitors to the site can take a look at the theatre with its beautiful and detailed mosaics.

Macedonia is a beautiful country full of amazing ancient artifacts and awe-inspiring natural attractions.

Make a to-see list using this guide, the next time you make a trip to visit this amazing Balkan nation.

Other articles you will love:

• 16 Must-see Places to Visit in Macedonia
• The Most Delicious Balkan Food You Must Try

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It’s a place that doesn’t get half as much tourism as it should.

And, while that’s a shame for those who ignore these beautiful places to visit in Macedonia, it’s certainly not a shame for you!

You get to discover all the wonderful places to see in Macedonia for yourself, free from most of the tourist traps and density of tourists found in European cities like Rome and Paris.

You’ll get to discover Mavrovo National Park, Snake Island, Pelister National Park, and discover so many amazing things to do in Macedonia for yourself!

Macedonia is, after all, a place with as much cultural history as neighbouring Greece and as much natural beauty as Croatia and Slovenia.

Snow-capped mountains, endless green landscapes, a bustling modern capital, and ancient ruins are just some of the treasures that await when you visit Macedonia.

So, let’s take a look at eighteen of the very best places to see in Macedonia!

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

1. Skopje

It may be the capital but Skopje has a lot to offer and shouldn’t be left off your places to visit in Macedonia.

A city with over thousands of years of history to explore in the form of monuments, fortresses, and statues, so many statues!

Many of the buildings in downtown Skopje are relatively new but built in a classical style giving the city a quirky and colourful feel that’s fun to wander around in.

You’ll also still be able to see buildings in the brutalist style although they are disappearing quickly.

Make sure you don’t miss the old bazaar, it’s the second-largest in the Balkans after Istanbul and has a real old-world charm about it, there are plenty of bars and cafes there to get lost in the atmosphere for a while.

You’ll also be able to visit the Kale fortress nearby which offers a lovely (and free!) view of the city.

best accommodation in skopje

2. Mavrovo National Park

Ready for some rugged mountain ranges and the best skiing in the country?

Mavrovo National Park, in the western part of Macedonia, contains the highest peaks in the country including the Great Korab Mountain (2,746 meters high) and it’s one of the oldest national parks in Europe.

Within you’ll find Macedonia’s biggest ski resort offers tracks for beginners through to advance and ski lift to take you up to some stunning views but if you’d rather get lost in nature then this is a perfect place to do so.

The extensive forests in the park contain hundreds of species of trees and wild herbs and tea which can be gathered and an impressive number of animal species including otters and wolves and the endangered Eurasian Lynx.

While there make sure you pay a visit to one of the country’s most important monasteries Sveti Jovan Bigorski and two traditional villages Galičnik and Janče.

best accommodation in Mavrovo

3. Pelister National Park

Created in 1948, this is Macedonia’s first national park and is one of the best things to do in Macedonia.

One of the biggest draws to the park are ‘Pelister’s Eyes, two huge glacial lakes at the top of Mount Pelister.

Surrounded by eight other peaks, Mount Pelister is the crowning glory of this diverse mountain range that’s been drawing hikers to the area for decades.

You can catch views of Bitola and Lake Prespa from the summits and encounter a huge range of flora and fauna including deer, eagles, and even bears and wolves.

The national park sits on the southern border with Greece and is only 15km away from Bitola making a nice urban escape for those that live there.

4. Ohrid

As far as things to do in Macedonia go, Ohrid is often at the top of people’s bucket list and with good reason.

Historical Ohrid is one of the oldest settlements in Europe, once the centre of Slavic culture and an absolutely one fo the most charming places to visit in Macedonia.

It’s like stepping into a medieval world so it’s no wonder it was named as a UNESCO World Heritage site partly down to the stunning Lake Ohrid, a three million-year-old lake and one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe.

There’s plenty to do in Ohrid from hiking and cycling to delving into Macedonian cuisine with some amazing restaurants situated here or wandering churches that date back to 200BC.

It’s a wonderfully varied place and perfect for a city break that’s yet to be flooded with tourism.

Ohrid is one of the most popular places to visit in Macedonia due to its beauty!

best accommodation in ohrid

5. Kokino Observatory

If your interests lie in ancient history or astronomy then this long undiscovered marvel in the far north of Macedonia (about 19 kilometres northeast of Kumanovo) can’t be missed.

Alongside the likes of Stone Henge, Angkor Wat and Abu Simbel this group of stones, at an elevation of 3,300 feet, were discovered alongside a settlement in 2001.

It’s an impressive sight that features seven markers that were used to follow the sun and moon across the sky, the observatory is thought to be over 3,800 years old.

Many visitors choose to camp at the observatory with telescopes watching the sky themselves like those before but simply visiting to enjoy the impressive day time view is a must.

6. The Bay of Bones

Found 16km south of Ohrid, this archaeological complex has been dubbed ‘a museum on water’ and features an authentic recreation of an ancient settlement, the original dating back to 700BC.

The settlement sits on a wooden platform supported by wooden piles reaching down to the lake bed – it makes for an impressive sight and a spectacular lake view from within the museum.

The pirate-like name ‘Bay of Bones’ is due to the many animals and ship remains that they found here while excavating.

People who love to dive will be pleased to know that you can actually go down and view the remains of the original settlement with Diving Center Amfora.

This is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Macedonia!

Check out this great tour that leaves from Ohrid and visit the Bay of Bones.

7. Snake Island

Macedonia is landlocked but the one island you can visit, in the south of Lake Prespa, is actually not inhabited by humans at all but a large snake population (although you’re most likely to see these in the water around the island).

It’s not just snakes though, you’ll find other animals and many rare plant species on this beautiful island.

Also known as Golem Grad, the Island is part of Galičica National Park and features nine archaeological sites which range from the 4th century to the 9th century including remnants of buildings, churches, and a monastery complex.

You can reach the island by organizing a boat from one of the villages surrounding Lake Prespa.

8. Stobi

This excavation site in the middle of Macedonia (80km from Skopje) is an incredible place to see the long history of Macedonia.

There’s so much to discover by just wandering the ruins which date back to the 2nd century when it fell under the Romans and became the capital of the Macedonia Salutaris province.

Beautiful mosaics, 26 buildings, a theatre, and baths can be explored and you can just picture the civilizations that have lived here through the ages.

This is one of the best places to visit in Macedonia if you love history.

9. Radožda

This charming lakeside fishing village sits near the border of Albania and offers a real mix of Macedonian and Albanian culture and some wonderful food!

Built into the mountainside is the 14th-century Saint Archangel Micheal Church which sits above the village proudly and adds to the atmosphere.

There are actually seven churches you can visit which makes for a nice walking tour of the village.

Although Radožda is small, it has a lot to offer, not least a serene and tranquil environment which will make you never want to leave.

best accommodation in Radozda

10. Kuklica

Although not the easiest place to get to, it’s one of the most impressive and unique things to do in Macedonia.

These towering stone structures have some interesting folklore behind them, the 120 stones represent a full wedding party turned to stone by a woman when the husband, unable to make up his mind between two women, married a second bride at the same time.

The stones have stood for over 100,000 years in the village of Kuklica 8km northwest of Kratovo.

If you love photography or just want to take some really impressive pictures then this is one of the best places to visit in Macedonia.

Photo by Mike Tinnion on Unsplash

11. Kratovo

This postcard-perfect town is full of winding streets, bridges and romantic stone towers – it also happens to be situated in the crater of an extinct volcano.

Quaint stone buildings line the cobbled streets and although modernized in some respects, Kratovo very much retains its charm and is often described as a ‘living museum’.

There are even underground tunnels to explore and the famous Kuklica stones (mentioned) are an easy day trip away making for a diverse Macedonia getaway.

best accommodation in kratovo

12. Galicica National Park

If you’re ready for some panoramic views of both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa then head over to Galicica National Park on the border of Macedonia and Albania.

The park is situated on Galicica mountain, the largest mountain of the Sara-Pind mountain range.

The hike is so worth it for the unparalleled views but you’ll also find many species of rare flora and fauna within the park.

13. Bitola

Tucked within the Baba, Nitze, and Kajmakčalan mountain ranges is another beautiful Macedonian city to discover.

There’s a wonderful coffee culture here so you could easily spend a day just wandering in and out of cafes on Sirok Sokak, the city’s main pedestrian area.

Shopping in the Old Bazaar is also an excellent way to while away a few hours.

With neo-classical buildings, galleries and museums, this is a real walking city with a relaxed laid-back vibe that you’re sure to fall in love with.

Make sure you catch the prehistoric rock monument Veluška Tumba for an impressive sight in the city.

best accommodation in bitola

14. Canyon Matka

One of the most amazing things to do in Macedonia and an easy day trip from Skopje, visit Canyon Matka.

The popular thing to do is take a boat trip around the canyon but there’s so much more to do there including swimming, hiking, visiting medieval monasteries and even cave exploring.

Although it’s a popular day trip, you can actually stay in the area and spend more time exploring the canyon which is definitely worth it if you have time.

Canyon Matka is a wonderful spot for photography and nature lovers so don’t miss out.

15. Tetovo

Another spot that makes for an easy day trip from Skopje but can easily be extended is the city of Tetovo which actually has an Albanian majority population.

The Pena River flows through the centre of the city and right on the bank, you’ll find one of the city’s most famous landmarks the Hamam of Tetovo which dates back to the 16th-century.

Inside you’ll find Tetovo Art Gallery which is a fascinating visit.

There are also some interesting mosques and museums in the city with the most famous being the stunningly painted Sarena Mosque.

Make sure to set aside some time just to wander the back streets, walk the stone bridges and generally enjoy the unique style of this city.

best accommodation in tetovo

Image by Josef Kotarba from Pixabay

16. Monastery of St. Naum

Set within the lush landscape above the lake and an easy day trip from Ohrid, this captivating Byzantine monument represents one of the first examples of Slavic church architecture.

The monastery itself is incredibly well-preserved and you can spend hours wandering the church, admiring the art and famous wood carvings which date back to the 16th-century.

The grounds, which contain peacocks and fountains, are also lovely to walk around and offer spectacular views over the lake.

This is one of the most beautiful and religiously important places to visit in Macedonia.

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