Lake Ohrid

North Macedonia

Explore the hidden gem of North Macedonia, a captivating destination in the Balkans known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes. Discover the capital city, Skopje, where ancient history meets modern architecture, and admire the grandeur of the Skopje Fortress and the iconic Stone Bridge over the Vardar River.

Delve into the ancient past as you visit the archaeological site of Heraclea Lyncestis and explore the well-preserved ruins of this ancient city. Experience the enchanting beauty of Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and historical landmarks like the Church of St. John at Kaneo.

Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Macedonian people as you engage in traditional cultural activities and embrace the local way of life. Savour the delectable flavours of Macedonian cuisine, featuring dishes like tavce gravce, ajvar, and traditional Macedonian pastries.

Whether you’re discovering the historical treasures, relishing the serene natural landscapes, or immersing yourself in the local culture, holidays in North Macedonia promise a unique and unforgettable Balkan adventure.

Essential Information

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Just like nearby landlocked Kosovo, it’s best to visit in the summer season (although even better if you’re travelling in the late spring or autumn).

FLIGHT TIME

Just under three hours from the UK

TIME ZONE

GMT/BST +1

CURRENCY

Macedonian Denar

IDEAL FOR

Fasntastic scenery

HOW TO GET THERE

Direct flights to Skopje are available for most of the year, although only seasonally to Lake Ohrid.

LANGUAGE

Macedonian and Albanian

IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH

Like many other coutnries in the region, you can stay in Tirana to start with as an alternative entry point, as well as getting the train to Thessaloniki in Northern Greece.

Our Favourite Places in North Macedonia

Suggested Itineraries

Skopje, North Macedonia

Discover North Macedonia – Fly Drive

10 day holiday

Ohrid, Struga, Mavrovo, Galicica National Park, Bitola, Demir Kapija, Skopje

This 10-day self-drive holiday through North Macedonia offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, taking in a mix of natural wonders, Ottoman heritage and ancient archaeological sites. Beginning in the capital Skopje, highlights include the iconic Stone Bridge, Ottoman-era Old Bazaar and panoramic views from Kale Fortress. From there, drive through the scenic Vardar River Canyon to the ancient city of Stobi before enjoying an overnight stay and wine tasting at Popova Kula Winery. The route continues to Bitola via Prilep, with visits to Roman ruins and charming town centres, before reaching the lakeside city of Ohrid, known for its historic churches, cobbled streets and views over one of Europe’s oldest lakes.

The itinerary includes time to explore the Galicica National Park, the dramatic peaks and lakes of Pelister, and the remote Monastery of St. Naum, nestled near the springs of the Black Drim River. Additional stops include Struga’s natural water features and the alpine scenery of Mavrovo National Park, with its fairytale-like villages and the Monastery of St. John Bigorski. The tour concludes in Skopje after a loop through some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes and culturally rich towns. As a tailor-made trip, the route and car type can be adjusted to suit your travel preferences.

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Wine Tour of North Macedonia

8 day holiday

Demir Kapija, Skopje, Stobi, Ohrid, Struger, Vevcani

This 8-day private wine tour through North Macedonia offers a rich combination of cultural discovery and indulgent tastings across the country’s premier wine regions. Beginning in Skopje, you’ll explore the capital’s historical highlights, including the Old Bazaar and Kale Fortress, before visiting Kartal Winery for your first tasting of local varietals like Vranec and Riesling. From there, travel through dramatic scenery to Lake Ohrid, with stops at Matka Canyon and Mount Vodno. Explore Ohrid’s churches and monuments, then venture to the quirky village of Vevcani and the riverside town of Struga. Wine tasting at the lakeside Villa Mal Sveti Kliment is another highlight.

The second half of the tour is centred around the heart of North Macedonia’s wine country. Travel via the historic consular city of Bitola to Demir Kapija for two nights at Popova Kula Winery, sampling indigenous grape varieties like Stanushina and Temjanika. Explore the Roman ruins of Stobi before lunch and wine tasting at Queen Maria Winery. The tour continues to Tikves, one of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in the region, before returning to Skopje via the historic town of Veles. With vineyard visits almost every day and a focus on local culture and cuisine, this tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to discover the character of the Balkans.

Ohrid, North Macedonia

Cultural Landscapes of North Macedonia

10 day holiday

Skopje, Ohrid, Galicica National Park, Bitola

This 10-day tailor-made tour of North Macedonia, led by a private driver-guide, showcases the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Starting in the capital, Skopje, you’ll explore historical landmarks such as the Old Bazaar, Kale Fortress, and medieval monasteries adorned with vivid frescoes. From there, journey through the Vardar River canyon to the Roman ruins of Stobi before continuing to Bitola, a former Ottoman consular city. Enjoy wine tasting at the Popova Kula Winery and explore Heraclea’s impressive mosaics and Roman baths.

The tour then moves to Ohrid, a UNESCO-listed town on the edge of the lake, with visits to important churches and the cliffside Church of St. John at Kaneo. You’ll also explore Galicica and Mavrovo national parks, visiting serene monasteries like St. Naum and St. John Bigorski, and stopping in the charming town of Struga. The final days offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, with time to relax in Skopje and reflect on the diverse influences that have shaped this fascinating Balkan nation.

CALL US

We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).

01442 879787

SEND A MESSAGE

If you wish to send us your requirements by email using the link below, we’ll get back to you. Outside of office hours, we’ll reply to you as soon as we can.

VISIT US

Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.

254 HIGH STREET, BERKHAMSTED

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