Planning a road trip and wondering what there is to see in North Macedonia? This small country, tucked away in the heart of the Balkans, is unknown to many but well worth visiting.
North Macedonia is steeped in history, with its Slavic, Ottoman and Balkan influences still overwhelmingly evident today. You will find lively cities, mountain scenery and crystal-clear lakes that you won’t see anywhere else in the world. It nestles nicely between Albania, Bulgaria and Serbia.
Its continental Mediterranean climate, quite similar to the climate you find in Spain, offers warm summers and mild winters. And we can’t ignore its gastronomy, with traditional dishes such as ajvar (a bell pepper puree) and tavče gravče (stewed beans). This country is famous for its wines, which are grown in the vineyards of the Tikveš valley.
Beyond its culture and culinary traditions, North Macedonia has a lot to offer if you want to travel around it by car. These are the must-see cities:
Skopje, a city of contrast
Skopje, the North Macedonian capital, is the perfect city to start your adventure. It offers a blend of modern and ancient, as you will find great monuments and also a historical area where the passage of the Ottomans can still be seen.
These are some of the top attractions to see in North Macedonia:
- Take a stroll across the stone bridge that spans the Vardar River and visit the Kale Fortress to take in breathtaking views of the entire city.
- The bazaar is a maze of narrow streets with traditional shops, cafes and mosques.
- Visit the Memorial of Mother Teresa, who was born in Skopje.
Lake Ohrid, a natural gem in North Macedonia
If you head southwest from Skopje, you will get to Ohrid, a hidden gem in the mountains. This lake is one of the oldest and deepest in Europe, with crystal-clear waters and surrounded by nature. It is an essential stop on any trip to the country.
Besides the lake, visiting Ohrid itself is also worth your while. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and full of medieval churches. The most famous is St. John at Kaneo, on a cliff overlooking the lake. What else is there to do in the city?
- Take a boat trip on the lake.
- Visit the Roman amphitheater.
- Stroll through its streets.
- If you are traveling in summer, visit the beaches of the lake.
- It is a great place to buy jewelry, because Ohrid is known for its pearl production.
Bitola, history and nature in North Macedonia
After Ohrid, continue the drive through North Macedonia to Bitola. It is one of the country’s oldest cities and an important cultural and historical center. It is often referred to as the city of consuls because of its diplomatic past.
We recommend a walk along the famous Širok Sokak street, which is lined with cafes and historic buildings. And don't miss the ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis, an ancient city founded by Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, with impressive mosaics and archaeological remains.
From Bitola it is also possible to make many excursions to the Pelister National Park, where the highest peaks of the Baba Mountain are found.
Matka Canyon, a jewel very close to Skopje
On the way back to Skopje (if you decide to finish your route where you started it), you have to make a stop at the Matka Gorge, just 9 miles from the capital. It is one of the top things to see in North Macedonia and something to put on your must-see list.
It is a canyon with a turquoise blue lake and steep walls where it is not uncommon to find locals and tourists kayaking or just enjoying a walk. Here there are also some of the deepest caves in the Balkans, such as the Vrelo cave.
Kratovo, a journey into the past
Our final recommendation for places to see in North Macedonia is Kratovo, a small town in the northwest of the country that looks like something out of a fairy tale. It is famous for its medieval towers and stone bridges. It also offers great insight into traditional Balkan life.
The best way to travel around North Macedonia is by car, because you can make as many stops as you like. Rent a car in Skopje and visit the country at your own pace - it's an experience you won't forget!
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