Travel Guide Northern Macedonia
At the crossroads of East and West, discover an ancestral land of the Balkans: North Macedonia. The imprint of many civilizations can be felt here, from the Greeks to the Romans, via the Ottomans who occupied the country for over five centuries. Today, the country has several identities, mainly Slavic and Orthodox Christian, but with a strong Albanian and Muslim presence. This is symbolized by the peaceful coexistence of churches and mosques in the cities.
Having become independent in 1991 following the dissolution of the former Yugoslavia, the young Republic is still in search of a clear identity. Its very name has been the subject of heated debate with Greece, culminating in the country's name change to North Macedonia in 2019.
Despite these challenges, North Macedonia aspires to become a popular tourist destination. And with good reason: it has no shortage of charm and points of interest. The landscape is stunning, with natural paradises such as Mavrovo National Park, a haven for hikers and skiers, and Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes. The Šar Mountains add another chapter to this book of natural wonders. Discover the country's most beautiful accommodations .
In terms of culture, the capital Skopje offers a fascinating blend of ancient and modern. The old Skopje bazaar, one of Europe's oldest markets, is a place where cultures meet and mingle. The country's rich and complex history is reflected in its many monasteries, frescoed churches, mosques and archaeological sites.
Mediterranean and Balkan influences come together in tasty, hearty dishes. Discover, for example, tavčegravče, a bean-based specialty to be enjoyed in the best restaurants. Bitola, the country's second-largest city, is a cultural gem, as is Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Northern Macedonia is awakening to international tourism and seems ready to reveal its well-guarded treasures to the world. So, are you ready to go?
What to visit Northern Macedonia?
Suggested addresses Northern Macedonia
When to go to Northern Macedonia?
Wondering when to visit North Macedonia ? Excellent question, because this Balkan destination is full of wonders to discover, from its rich cultural heritage to its breathtaking landscapes! The best time to visit North Macedonia depends mainly on your interests, but don't worry, there's something for every taste and season!
The peak tourist season is during the summer months, from June to August. This is the ideal time for nature lovers to explore the mountains and lakes, especially Lake Ohrid. Beware, however, that accommodation rates are higher during this period.
Do you prefer to avoid the crowds? Then we recommend the spring months, from April to June, and autumn, from September to November. The climate is pleasant, and prices are lower. In April and May, the flowering season transforms the landscape into a veritable palette of colors, a real boon for photographers!
When to visit North Macedonia for events? If you're visiting in July, don't miss the famous Ohrid Summer Festival. Fans of local traditions will be won over by the Vevčani Carnival in January or February.
For winter sports fans, the low season, from December to February, offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities, especially in Mavrovo National Park.
Note, however, that the climate varies from region to region. For example, Skopje tends to be warmer and drier than other parts of the country.
One thing's for sure: this destination has plenty of surprises in store all year round!
Weather at the moment
Northern Macedonia has a moderate continental climate, which means hot summers and cold winters. The summer months of June to August are the most popular for visiting Lake Ohrid and the capital, Skopje. Temperatures rise to 30°C, so don't forget your sun cream! For winter sports enthusiasts, the months of December to February are ideal, especially for skiing in Mavrovo National Park. If you prefer more moderate temperatures, spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) are ideal for hiking and cultural visits.
Skopje
Northern Macedonia is an inexpensive destination. The local currency is the Macedonian denar. We advise you to always carry some cash with you, as although credit cards are accepted in urban areas like Skopje, they may not be in rural areas.
Currency fluctuations are generally not very significant, but it's always a good idea to check exchange rates before you travel. You'll find plenty of exchange offices in Skopje and the larger towns. TheEuro is also quite popular, especially in tourist areas. A tip of around 10% is generally considered appropriate.
If you're traveling on a tight budget, expect simple but clean accommodation and delicious local cuisine at reasonable prices. If you can afford more, you'll have access to 3 or 4-star hotels and a wider range of restaurants. Finally, the luxury segment in North Macedonia is booming, with high-end accommodation, gourmet restaurants and exclusive activities.
Citizens of the European Union and several other countries, including the USA and Canada, generally don 't need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, if you come from a country that requires a visa, be sure to apply well in advance of your departure date. You can check visa requirements specific to your country at the nearest North Macedonian embassy or consulate.
Next, it's strongly recommended that you take out travel insurance to cover both medical care and any emergencies.
If you plan to drive in North Macedonia, make sure your driving license is valid and accepted. An international driving license is generally recommended in addition to your national license.
It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local customs and laws regarding driving, alcohol consumption and restrictions on photographing government or military buildings, to avoid any misunderstandings or diplomatic incidents.
For long-term trips or for specific reasons such as work or study, additional formalities may be required, including residence or work permits. In such cases, we recommend that you contact your embassy or consulate.
In addition to its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, North Macedonia offers a relatively safe environment in terms of health. However, take a few precautions:
There are no compulsory vaccinations to enter the country, unless you come from a region where diseases such as yellow fever are endemic. However, the usual vaccinations (tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, etc.) must be up to date. Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B are also recommended for more adventurous or longer trips.
Drinking water in North Macedonia is considered safe to drink. Nevertheless, it may be preferable to drink bottled water, especially if you are traveling in rural areas. Water from lakes and rivers should not be consumed untreated, even if it may appear crystal-clear.
Should you require medical care, health facilities are of good quality in major cities, but may be less well-equipped in rural areas. It is therefore advisable to take out travel insurance with adequate health cover.
Practical information
- When to travel?
- Weather forecast
- Budget
- Formalities
- Health
- How to travel by yourself?
- How to get organized?
- Getting around
Media
How to go to Northern Macedonia? Our advice & tips
Participating in a tour package to North Macedonia allows you to enjoy a carefully planned itinerary. Most are designed by local experts to give you a complete overview of the country, its culture, history and breathtaking natural sites.
Organized tours often feature experienced tour guides who provide historical and cultural context and juicy anecdotes.
These tours usually cover entrance fees to national parks, museums and other attractions. What's more, transportation and accommodation are sometimes included, eliminating the stress of having to book hotels or a car in a foreign country. Some organized tours also include meals, activities or even exclusive cultural demonstrations!
Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destinationTravelling alone in Northern Macedonia offers incomparable freedom to explore this rich Balkan country. Would you like to spend whole days hiking in the mountains of Mavrovo National Park? Or soak up the atmosphere of Skopje's old bazaar? One of the first things you need to do is plan your itinerary carefully. Northern Macedonia is well served by public transport, but for greater flexibility, perhaps consider renting a car. Also make sure you have a local SIM card or a good data plan to facilitate navigation and communications.
Accommodation varies from youth hostels to more luxurious hotels, so whatever your budget, you'll find something to suit you. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in local guesthouses.
Safety-wise, the country is generally safe, but it's always a good idea to take some basic precautions, especially if you're traveling alone. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. And make your trip an unforgettable experience!
Getting around in Northern Macedonia is a fairly straightforward experience, with several options to suit your needs and budget. The country has a well-developed public transport network, with buses and trains connecting major cities such as Skopje, Bitola and Ohrid.
If you're looking for more independence, renting a car is an excellent solution. For short distances in town , cabs are inexpensive, but make sure the meter is working to avoid any surprises. Finally, for a more local experience, try car-sharing or local minibuses and immerse yourself further in Macedonian culture!
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Wondering when to visit North Macedonia ? Excellent question, because this Balkan destination is full of wonde...
Read more about it
Northern Macedonia has a moderate continental climate, which means hot summers and cold winters. The su...
Read more about it
Northern Macedonia is an inexpensive destination. The local currency is the Macedonian denar. We advise you to...
Read more about it
Citizens of the European Union and several other countries, including the USA and Canada, generally don 't need a...
Read more about it
In addition to its breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, North Macedonia offers a relatively saf...
Read more about it
Travelling alone in Northern Macedonia offers incomparable freedom to explore this rich Balkan country. Would...
Read more about it
Participating in a tour package to North Macedonia allows you to enjoy a carefully planned itinerary. Most are...
Read more about it
Getting around in Northern Macedonia is a fairly straightforward experience, with several options to suit your...
Read more about it
