North Macedonia is the cultural hotspot of the Balkan region, even Europe. Through years of settlement by different empires, Macedonia is brimming with diversity. The country displays an interesting blend of Balkan, Serbian, Persian, Turkish, and Greek cultures. North Macedonia, shortly named Macedonia, is perfect for everyone who is a fan of history and culture. Then, we will show you the best things to do in Macedonia. Check it out and start planning your awesome Macedonia vacation!
10 Best Things to Do in Macedonia – Summary
- Wander Around Skopje
- Try Outdoor Activities at Canyon Matka
- Hike Mount Ljuboten
- Explore the Beauty of Ohrid
- Recall the Memories of Mother Teresa
- Embark on a Cave Adventure
- Hop on a Cable Car to Mount Vodno
- See the Bay of Bones
- Feast on Macedonian Dishes
- Enjoy Sumptuous Macedonian Wine
1. Wander Around Skopje
One of the best things to do in Macedonia as you arrive in the country is explore Skopje. The charming capital city features an explosive blend of different cultures and periods of time. Magnificent European-styled buildings lined the streets, as well as Ottoman-influenced mosques and eccentric churches.
Some of the things to do in Skopje include strolling through the Old Bazaar, which displays beautiful medieval-style structures and streets. You can also see Macedonia Square and its famous statue of Alexander the Great. Moreover, Skopje is a relatively tranquil city. It is a great place to spend your day off and go for a weekend trip, especially if you are looking for something relaxing and slow.
2. Try Outdoor Activities at Matka Canyon
Do you know what a big deal the Balkan region is? Yes, its outstanding nature! North Macedonia is no exception. Then, get a glance at Macedonia’s exquisite landscapes in Matka Canyon. It is a famous canyon located on the outskirts of Skopje. The landscape features an array of rugged canyons with a vast lake in the middle.
Matka Canyon also offers an enthralling hiking trail where you can walk through steep cliffs and reach a gorgeous viewpoint. Matka Canyon will be a perfect place to head to for nature lovers who are visiting Skopje. You can spend the entire day admiring the scenery, canoeing on the lake, and hiking. Therefore, a day trip to Matka Canyon is one of the best things to do in Skopje.
3. Hike Mount Ljuboten
Looking for a calorie-burning activity in Macedonia? Then, head to Mount Ljuboten. The pyramid-like mountain stands in the northwestern part of Macedonia. It has an 8,000 feet-tall peak and requires around five hours to reach the peak.
During the hike, you will be spoiled by the lovely scenery of rugged cliffs and flower-dotted meadows. The hiking trail is relatively gentle, with some rocky roads as you go closer to the peak. Therefore, Mount Ljuboten is an awesome place to hike for all levels.
4. Explore the Beauty of Ohrid
Offering gorgeous landscapes and remarkable historical sites, Ohrid is one of the loveliest places to visit in Macedonia. The centuries-old city is nestled on the banks of a lake with the same name, Lake Ohrid. At first glance, Ohrid will remind you of Positano or Lake Como in Italy. It is one of the major cities in Macedonia that is well-known for its stunning lake scenery.
There are so many interesting things in Ohrid, as the city is home to thousands of years of history. Head to the Church of Saint John in Kaneo, located on the edge of the lake. The lake offers the best sunset view you can find in Macedonia. Moreover, you can also see other sites like the Church of St. Sophia, the Ancient Amphitheatre of Ohrid, and St. Clement Square in Ohrid.
5. Recall the Memories of Mother Teresa
See the early footsteps of Mother Teresa, the Noble Peace Prize winner, in her birthplace. The famous nun was born in Skopje and spent her childhood there. Thus, one of the best things to do in Skopje is to visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa.
The landmark was constructed on the site where she was baptized. Memorial House of Mother Teresa is a monument and chapel open to the public. Interestingly, the memorial house has quirky architecture with a futuristic sense to it.
Find more information in the Memorial House of Mother Teresa here!
6. Embark on a Cave Adventure
Looking for an out-of-the-box thing to do in Macedonia? Then, cave adventures are for you! With its abundance of limestone structures, the Republic of North Macedonia is home to Europe’s spectacular caves. There are around 300 caves that have been explored in Macedonia. Exploring a cave is one of the best things to do in Macedonia.
Some of the caves you must visit are Peshna, Vrelo, and Gjovonica Caves. All of these caves feature stunning scenery and mysterious vibes. The stone structures, stalactites, and stalagmites will take your breath away. Thus, there are caving communities and guides in Macedonia that will guide you through an awesome cave adventure safely.
7. Hop on a Cable Car to Mount Vodno
The phenomenal natural landscapes of North Macedonia make this country worth visiting. Another natural attraction you must see in Macedonia is Mount Vodno. The gorgeous mountain acts as the highest peak of Skopje, reaching to 1066 meters high. On Mount Vodno’s peak, you can see the renowned Millennium Cross, the biggest cross in the world.
There are two main ways to reach the peak of Mount Vodno. You can hike along the hiking trail to reach the top of the mountain. Alternatively, you can hop on a cable car to save time and sweat. However, going to the top of the mountain will be absolutely worth it as the scenery is awesome!
8. See the Bay of Bones
Picturesque scenes and impressive structures are what you can find in this enchanting attraction. Bay of Bones, or specifically Museum on Water, features a series of wooden huts floating above the crystal-clear Ohrid lake. It is an archeological site that shows travelers the fascinating history of Brydges, a prehistoric tribe that lived in the Balkan region.
Travelers are heading to the Bay of Bones as it looks gorgeous. The crystal-clear waters, brilliant scenery, and floating houses will make you feel like you are in Hawaii or the Maldives. Moreover, the Bay of Bones is a great place to learn about the far-older history of Macedonia.
9. Feast on Macedonian Dishes
After you get a bite of a Macedonian dish, you will find it challenging to get over it. Macedonian dishes are exquisite, and it is one of the best things about the country. Macedonian dishes have rich flavors as they are a mixture of several different cultures, like Turkish, Greek, Mediterranean, and Balkan.
Some of the famous dishes you must try are musaka, burek (cheese-filled dough), Pastrmajlija (pizza-like dish), and kebapi. Additionally, make sure to taste the tangy ajvar, a legendary Macedonian pepper spread. Moreover, food in Macedonia is affordable. Get ready to have an amazing feast during your trip!
10. Enjoy Sumptuous Macedonian Wine
Travel to Macedonia and have an exquisite wine that will blow your mind. One of the best things about Macedonia is wine. Through thousands of years of winemaking traditions, Macedonia yields one of the most impressive wines in the world. Not to mention, Macedonia has an all-year sunshine that makes it the perfect place for wine to grow.
Head to Povardarie and Pelagonia-Pelog to spoil your tastebuds with fine wines. You can also walk through vineyards and see grapes grow perfectly under the sun. So, if you are dreaming of a high-quality Chardonnay, Macedonia is your place.
Find more information about Macedonian wine here.
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