North Macedonia travel guide
North Macedonia Tourism | North Macedonia Guide
You're Going to Love North Macedonia
A country rich in history, North Macedonia has inherited a mix of culture and identity, making it a unique place to visit and explore.
What to do in North Macedonia
1. Explore Skopje
The capital of North Macedonia is a wonderful mix of old, such as with the Kale Fortress, and new, such as the statue of Alexander The Great that was unveiled in 2011. While there, don't forget to check out Macedonia Square and the Old Bazaar.
2. Visit Ohrid
Ohrid is one of the most striking destinations in North Macedonia. Walk along the old quarter, visit its magical churches, and don't forget to check out the medieval castle.
3. See Tetovo's Painted Mosque
For those that love art and colors, this mosque is a must-see. Originally built in the 15th century and then rebuilt in 1833 after it had been destroyed, the whole mosque has been beautifully and meticulously decorated with floral designs.
4. Discover Local Wildlife at Pelister National Park
Located around the Baba massif, a quartz filled mountain range, which is the third highest in the country, hosts over 85 tree species and animals, such as chamois, wolves, deer and wild boar. One of the park's main attractions are two glacial lakes that are located on top of Mount Pelister.
5. Go Kayaking in the Matka Canyon
Adventurous travelers will love seeing the Matka Canyon from the water, going through majestic cliffs and exploring the cave and its underground lakes.
When to visit North Macedonia
North Macedonia's weather is pleasant from April through to October, with its busiest and peak touristic season being from June to September. If you want to avoid the crowds, head there in April, May or October.
How to Get to North Macedonia
Entry requirements
Citizens of over 50 countries, including EU countries, the USA, Australia and the UAE, can enter North Macedonia without a visa for a limited number of days. Citizens of most other countries need to organize a visa prior to traveling, and in some cases, need approval to enter from the Ministry of Interior of North Macedonia.
Plane
Flights to North Macedonia are available with a large number of airlines, including Aegean Airlines, Air Serbia and Qatar Airways. Budget airline Wizz Air offers more economical flights to destinations throughout Europe.
Train
Train travel to North Macedonia is available from Thessaloniki in Greece and from Belgrade in Serbia.
Car
If planning to drive to North Macedonia, pick up a valid international insurance for driving in the country. In some cases, the original paperwork of the car is also required.
Bus
Eurobus offers bus services from Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and Slovenia, stopping in the major North Macedonian cities, such as Skopje, Ohrid and Tetovo. Buses from Drity Tours also connect Skopje with Serbia, Bulgaria, Kosovo, Slovenia and Turkey.
Popular airlines serving North Macedonia
Where to stay in North Macedonia
Hotels are available throughout the country and cover a wide range of budgets. For more economical accommodation, look for a private stay in someone's apartment.
Where to stay in popular areas of North Macedonia
Most booked hotels in North Macedonia
How to Get Around North Macedonia
Public Transportation
Buses are available for local travel and are the main mode of public transport. In order to use them, buy a bus pass and add credit to it. A bus pass will cost around 150 MKD (2.70 USD), and a short distance bus trip will cost around 30 MKD (0.50 USD).
Trains
There are 3 train lines in North Macedonia, all starting from Skopje and going to Negotino, Bitola, and Kicevo.
Bus
Buses are the main mode of transport in North Macedonia. They are comfortable and modern and travel all around the country. To buy a bus ticket, go to the station and buy it in person.
Car
To rent a car, present your local driver's license, your passport and a credit card. Please note that the majority of the available cars have a manual transmission.
Best car rental deals in North Macedonia
Compact
4 adults, 2 Bags
C$ 32/day
Compact
4 adults, 2 Bags
C$ 39/day
The Cost of Living in North Macedonia
Eating a cheap meal out in North Macedonia costs around 250 MKD (4.50 USD) per person, while a mid-range meal costs around 500 MKD (9 USD). A local one-way bus ticket costs about 35 MKD (0.60 USD). Credit cards are accepted in the main cities and in larger establishments, but cash is necessary in the smaller and less touristy places.