Macedonia is one of the most scenic destinations in the Balkans, offering a wealth of attractions for visitors. Tucked between Bulgaria, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, and Greece, this small mountainous country has plenty to offer.
From historical towns and the unique capital city, Skopje, to the snowy slopes of Mavrovo and the serene waters of Lake Ohrid, there’s something for everyone.
Travel Budget
Traveling in Macedonia is surprisingly affordable. You can find nice double rooms for under $25 per night, and meals in restaurants often cost less than $7. Transportation, including taxis, is also very cheap. For couples, rooms rarely exceed $30 and often include breakfast. During the off-season, there are even more discounts available, and you can often negotiate $5 to $10 off nightly rates. Dorm beds are around $10 per night and usually include breakfast.
If you visit a bakery or small cafe, you can get Burek (a pastry filled with meat, cheese, or veggies) for under $1. Restaurant meals typically cost no more than $6, with many options for vegetarians like stuffed peppers, grilled vegetables, soups, and dips.
Cultural Sites and Museums
If you love museums, Skopje is the place to be. The archeological museum, Museum of Macedonia, and the Museum of the City of Skopje all charge 300 MKD for adults. Check for free admission days. Some sights like the Mother Teresa House in Skopje and the Sveti Naum Monastery on Lake Ohrid are free to visit.
Dining and Tipping
Beers in restaurants range from $1.50 to $2 per bottle, wine is about $10 per bottle or $2 per glass, and spirits and cocktails are around $3 to $5. In grocery stores, these prices can be even lower. Macedonians usually leave a small tip by rounding up the bill, typically between 5-10%.
Currency and Payments
The official currency is the Macedonian Dinar (MKD), with $1 USD equaling 55 MKD. Bills come in various denominations, as do coins. While Euros and sometimes USD are accepted, credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, bars, bus stations, and hotels, though not in smaller shops or cafes.
Things to Do
Despite its size, Macedonia is packed with things to do. In Skopje, explore the unusual cityscape shaped by recent nationalistic developments. The old bazaar offers an authentic Ottoman feel, and the Skopje Fort provides stunning views over the city.
Lake Ohrid is Macedonia’s gem, featuring beautiful hostels, hotels, and bed-and-breakfasts with stunning lake views. Spend time wandering the old town, visiting Samuel’s Fortress, exploring monasteries, beaches, and cathedrals, or even jumping into the lake from rock cliffs. Consider renting a car to drive around the lake, stopping at key attractions like the Sveti Naum Monastery and the Bay of Bones.
In the winter, Mavrovo offers stunning snowy landscapes and excellent ski facilities. We recommend staying at the Radika Ski Resort & Spa, where you can rent all necessary equipment. Beyond skiing, you can visit local villages and the partially submerged St. Nicholas Church. In summer, Mavrovo is perfect for hiking and enjoying the quiet trails.
Bitola is another major attraction, an Ottoman-era town rich with historical sites, including mosques, cathedrals, and a 16th-century clock tower. It’s perfect for a day trip or extended stay.
Food and Drink
Macedonian cuisine includes delicious dishes like butter beans in a clay pot, Ćevapi (grilled minced meat), Tava (a vegetable and meat stew), and Sarma (cabbage rolls). The food can be hit or miss, but it’s usually delicious when prepared well.
Getting Off the Beaten Path
For unique experiences, take a bike ride around Lake Ohrid or explore lesser-known sites like Golemo Gradište and Šutka.
Pros and Cons
On the positive side, Macedonia offers cheap wine and beer, a sense of safety, good road conditions for car rentals, and excellent value for money. Tap water is safe to drink, adding to convenience and reducing waste.
However, smoking is common, occasionally affecting the dining experience. While food is generally good, it can sometimes be inconsistent. The country’s name is also a point of contention, and discussing it could offend some people.
Local Interaction and Language
Macedonians are generally kind and welcoming to tourists. The main religion is Orthodox Christianity, while nearly a third of the population practices Islam. The primary language is Macedonian, with many locals also speaking English. Learning a few phrases in Macedonian can enhance your experience.
Transport and Accessibility
Public transport is reliable for reaching major destinations, except for Mavrovo. Renting a car is the best way to explore. Macedonia has two international airports in Skopje and Ohrid, with Skopje being the better connected.
Visa and Health
Most visitors can enter Macedonia without a visa for up to 90 days. Health standards are good, and the tap water is safe to drink. Internet connectivity is excellent, with affordable SIM cards available.
Best Time to Visit
Macedonia can be visited at any time. We visited in winter, and it was beautiful despite the cold. Summer is lively, especially in Ohrid, although spring and fall offer the best weather. Skopje can get very hot in the summer, but Mavrovo and Ohrid provide cooler escapes.
Macedonia is a hidden European gem worth exploring. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, affordability, and welcoming people, it offers an enjoyable and memorable travel experience.
