North Macedonia Travel Guide

Overview

North Macedonia is one of the Balkan hidden gems, packed with history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. The country’s biggest draw is Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO listed wonder with crystal clear waters and medieval churches making it a must for any North Macedonia travel itinerary.The capital, Skopje, is a fascinating mix of Ottoman bazaars, grand neo-classical monuments, and lively cafés. Beyond the cities, you’ll find rugged mountains, charming villages, and some of Europe’s most underrated wine regions. If you love off the beaten path destinations with rich culture and affordability, North Macedonia should be on your list!

Quick Facts About North Macedonia

Flights Information for North Macedonia

Most international travelers fly into Skopje International Airport (SKP), the country’s main hub. There are also some flights to Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport (OHD), especially during summer. Skopje has direct connections from major European cities like Vienna, Istanbul, London, and Frankfurt. Budget airlines like Wizz Air offer affordable routes. If you’re coming from outside Europe, you may need to connect through a hub like Istanbul or Belgrade. You can search for flights on Skyscanner or Google Flights.

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting North Macedonia

Is North Macedonia safe? Yes, but petty theft can occur in busy areas like Skopje’s Old Bazaar. The country is politically stable, but occasional protests can occur to avoid large gatherings if they happen. Road conditions can be uneven outside cities, so drive cautiously if renting a car. North Macedonia is conservative in rural areas, so dress modestly when visiting churches or small villages.

Climate

For the best time to visit North Macedonia, aim for spring or fall. Summers at Lake Ohrid are hot but crowded.

• Best time to visit: May-June & September-October (pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds)
• Summer (July-August): Hot and dry, great for Lake Ohrid but crowded.
• Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold, with skiing opportunities in Mavrovo National Park.

I visited in September, and the weather was perfect: warm days and cool evenings, ideal for exploring.

Budget

North Macedonia is very budget friendly, cheaper than most of Europe but not as dirt-cheap as Southeast Asia.

• Hostels: From Approx 600 MKD ($10 USD) per night
• Mid-range hotels: Approx 1,500–3,000 MKD ($25–50 USD)
• Meals: 200–500 MKD Approx ($3.50–9 USD) for local restaurants
• Transport: Buses between cities cost Approx 300–600 MKD ($5–10 USD)
• Taxis: Affordable, but always agree on a price first or use TaxiMe

Other Essential Information:

• Transport: Buses are the best way to travel between cities. Renting a car gives more flexibility for rural areas.
• Food & Drink: Must-try dishes include tavče gravče (baked beans), ajvar (pepper spread), and local wines.
• Cultural Etiquette: A small gift (like chocolates) if invited to a local’s home is appreciated.
• Internet & SIM Cards: Buy a VIP or A1 SIM card for cheap data. Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés.

Final Thoughts

North Macedonia is an underrated, affordable, and incredibly scenic destination. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just relaxing by a stunning lake, this country delivers. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure without the crowds!

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions