Dear travelers,
So you’re planning a trip to Macedonia? First of all—YES. Just yes. I might be biased (okay, definitely biased), but this small Balkan gem has a huge heart and way more to offer than most people realize.
I grew up in Macedonia, but I’ve been living in Ljubljana for over 10 years now. At this point, I’m not even sure which one feels more like home. Still, every time I go back to Macedonia, it’s like slipping into something familiar and comforting. You know the feeling.
If you’re spending a week here, I’ve got the perfect 7-day itinerary. We’ll start in Skopje, relax by Lake Ohrid, and then wrap up with a trip to Kruševo and Prilep.
Must-Know Info for First-Time Visitors to Macedonia
Before we jump into the daily plans, here are some basics that’ll help:
Money: The currency is the Macedonian denar (MKD). Cash is still very common, especially in smaller towns.
Language: Macedonian is the official language. But in places like Skopje and Ohrid, lots of people—especially the younger crowd—speak English.
People: Super friendly. Be ready for someone to offer you coffee (and probably rakija) within minutes of meeting.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall (May to September) is warm, sunny, and great for exploring.
Flying In: Most people arrive through Skopje International Airport (SKP). If you want some tips on what to expect there, check out my Skopje Airport Review.
Day 1–3: Skopje
Note: This is a basic 7-day itinerary to get you started on exploring Macedonia. I’ll be sharing more detailed blog posts soon about different places and hidden gems, so stay tuned!
Skopje is a mix of old and new, weird and wonderful. It’s a place where giant statues, Ottoman bazaars, and brutalist buildings all live side by side.
Things to See & Do:
Old Bazaar — Wander through narrow alleys full of shops, mosques, and tea houses.
Kale Fortress — For cool views and a dose of history.
Macedonia Square & Stone Bridge — The city’s center with big statues and even bigger fountains.
Mother Teresa Memorial House — Quiet, small, and worth a look.
Millennium Cross (with cable car) — Go up Mount Vodno and enjoy the views.
Local Tips:
Eat This: Try kebapi at Destan and get a fresh burek or gjevrek with yogurt for breakfast.
Where to Chill: Debar Maalo is full of chill cafes and great people-watching.
Quick Getaway: Head to Matka Canyon for a few hours—rent a kayak or explore caves.
Day 4–6: Ohrid
Ohrid is relaxed, pretty, and full of history. It’s the kind of place that slows you down in the best way.
Don’t Miss:
Church of St. John at Kaneo — Iconic photo spot on a cliff over the lake.
Ancient Theatre — Still used for concerts today.
Samoil’s Fortress — Climb up and take in the whole town.
St. Clement’s Church & Plaošnik — Peaceful and surrounded by ruins.
Boat ride on Lake Ohrid — Bring snacks and enjoy the water.
Food & Drinks:
Lake Trout — A local specialty.
Tavče Gravče — Baked beans done right. Add a cold Skopsko beer and you’re set.
Rakija — Try it slowly. It’s strong but part of the experience.
Optional Extras:
Bay of Bones — A museum on stilts over the lake.
Galičica National Park — Great views between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa.
Day 6-7: Kruševo & Prilep
End your trip with a visit to my hometown, Prilep, and the mountain town of Kruševo. Kruševo feels a bit frozen in time, and that’s what makes it special.
Kruševo:
Makedonium (Ilinden Monument) — Bold and unusual.
Colorful Houses — Walk around and take it all in.
Tose Proeski Memorial — For fans of Macedonian music.
Grab a Coffee: There’s a cozy cafe with amazing views near the top of town.
Prilep (on the way back):
Monument Mound of the Undefeated — A powerful and moving site dedicated to the bravery of the locals.
Old Bazaar & Clock Tower — Wander through the old bazaar and don’t miss the iconic clock that’s been keeping time here for centuries.
Grilled Meat — Prilep is famous across Macedonia for its amazing grilled meat. If you love BBQ, this is a must-try spot!
Getting Around
Car Rental: Best if you want flexibility. The roads can be bumpy but the views are great.
Buses: Cheap and mostly reliable between big towns.
Useful Stuff:
SIM Cards: Very cheap. Grab one at the airport.
Safety: Generally very safe. Just be mindful like you would anywhere else.
Money Tips: Use cash for small shops, bakeries, or cafes.
Estimated Budget:
Stay: €20–€50 per night
Food: Around €10–€20 per day
Transport: Bus tickets are €5–€10. Car rental starts around €30/day
Macedonia doesn’t try to impress you—it just does. It’s warm, real, and full of surprises.
Even though I live in Ljubljana now, I always feel a pull back to Macedonia’s lakes, hills, and food. I hope this guide helps you experience some of the magic I still feel every time I go home.
Enjoy your trip (and don’t skip the tavče gravče)!
Truly yours,
The Creation of Us
P.S.: Some of the links are affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!
