Guía de viaje de Macedonia: consejos imprescindibles

1. What are the top attractions in Skopje?
Top attractions in Skopje include the Old Bazaar, one of the largest in the Balkans, the Stone Bridge, and the Skopje Fortress (Kale). Visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, the Macedonia Square with its massive Alexander the Great statue, and the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle.

2. What is the best time to visit North Macedonia?
The best time to visit North Macedonia is spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) for mild weather, ideal for exploring Skopje and hiking in Mavrovo National Park. Summer (July to August) is great for Lake Ohrid, while winter (December to February) offers skiing in Popova Šapka.

3. Do I need a visa to travel to North Macedonia?
North Macedonia is visa-free for EU, US, Canadian, and Australian citizens for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. You’ll need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your departure date. Check with the Macedonian embassy for other nationalities.

4. What are the best things to do in Lake Ohrid?
At Lake Ohrid, explore the UNESCO-listed town of Ohrid with its ancient churches like St. Sophia and St. John at Kaneo. Take a boat trip to the Bay of Bones Museum, swim in the clear waters, or hike in Galičica National Park for panoramic views of the lake.

5. Is North Macedonia expensive to travel to?
North Macedonia is budget-friendly. Daily costs average $40–$70 per person for accommodation, food, and transport. A mid-range trip can cost $500–$800 for a week. Skopje and Ohrid are slightly pricier, but rural areas like Bitola or Mavrovo offer affordable options.

6. What are traditional Macedonian foods to try?
Try tavče gravče (baked beans), ajvar (roasted red pepper spread), and burek (flaky pastry with cheese or meat). For meat lovers, enjoy kebapi (grilled minced meat) or pljeskavica (Macedonian burger). Pair your meal with rakija (fruit brandy) or a glass of Tikveš wine.

7. What are the best outdoor activities in North Macedonia?
Popular activities include hiking in Mavrovo National Park, skiing in Popova Šapka, and kayaking on Lake Ohrid. Explore the Matka Canyon near Skopje by boat, or hike to the Dautica Waterfall. Paragliding in Kruševo, the highest town in the Balkans, is also a thrill.

8. What are the best historical sites in North Macedonia?
Visit the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis in Bitola, the Roman ruins of Stobi, and the Tetovo Painted Mosque with its intricate designs. The Samuel’s Fortress in Ohrid offers history and views, while the Skopje Aqueduct showcases Roman engineering.

9. What are the best festivals in North Macedonia?
Top festivals include the Ohrid Summer Festival (July to August) with music and theater, the Skopje Jazz Festival (October), and the Strumica Carnival (February). The Galichnik Wedding Festival (July) showcases traditional Macedonian customs, and the Tikveš Vintage Festival (September) celebrates wine.

10. How can I travel around North Macedonia?
Buses are the main mode of transport, connecting Skopje, Ohrid, and Bitola affordably. Trains are limited but run between Skopje and Bitola. Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas like Mavrovo or Matka Canyon, as public transport can be infrequent. Taxis are widely available in cities.