Skopje Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Skopje, North Macedonia with our comprehensive travel guide featuring attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Skopje

Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is a vibrant city that has a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The city is situated on the Vardar River and surrounded by beautiful mountains, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Skopje has a fascinating history that dates back to the ancient times, and it boasts a unique blend of Ottoman, Byzantine, and Western European architecture.

List of Places to Visit in Skopje

There are many great places to visit in Skopje. Below is a list of some of the must-see attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Skopje Fortress
  • Museum of Macedonia
  • Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Skopje City Museum
  • Memorial House of Mother Teresa

Natural Attractions of Skopje: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Vodno
  • Matka Canyon
  • Millennium Cross
  • Macedonian Square
  • Stone Bridge

Hiking/Biking Routes of Skopje

If you are looking for outdoor adventure, hiking or biking in Skopje is a great way to explore the city’s beautiful surroundings. Some popular routes include Mount Vodno, Matka Canyon and the trails around Millennium Cross.

Best Things to Do in Skopje: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Skopje Old Bazaar
  • Take a boat tour of Matka Canyon
  • Enjoy a traditional Macedonian meal
  • Explore the street art scene in Skopje
  • Visit the new Skopje tourist attraction, the Skopje Eye Ferris Wheel
  • Take a walking tour of Skopje

Week-Long Itinerary for Skopje

Below is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Skopje:

Weeklong itinerary for Skopje

Food and Drink Scene of Skopje

Macedonian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Eastern European flavors, with a focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tavche Gravche (a bean stew)
  • Ajvar (red pepper and eggplant spread)
  • Shopska Salad (a refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and feta cheese)

Local Beverages

  • Rakija (a fruit brandy)
  • Skopsko Pivo (a local beer)

Where to Stay in Skopje: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Skopje offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some great options include:

  • Marriott Skopje
  • Hotel Arka
  • Urban Hostel and Apartments
  • Shanti Hostel

What to Buy in Skopje: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for souvenirs or local products, Skopje has plenty to offer. Some popular items include:

  • Macedonian wine and spirits
  • Hand-woven textiles
  • Traditional costumes
  • Handmade jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Skopje

The people of Skopje are friendly and welcoming to travelers. Local customs include shaking hands when greeting someone and removing shoes when entering someone’s home. The dominant religion is Orthodox Christianity, and visitors are expected to be respectful of religious customs and practices.

Best Time to Visit Skopje

The best time to visit Skopje is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Skopje

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Skopje:

Do:

  • Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites
  • Try local cuisine and beverages
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water without boiling it first
  • Take photographs without permission in religious sites

Safety and Health

Skopje is a safe city for tourists, but visitors should take the usual precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Medical care is readily available and there are no major health concerns for travelers to this destination.

Safety in Skopje

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • Keep your belongings secure and watch out for pickpockets
  • Use licensed taxis

Health in Skopje

  • Make sure your vaccinations are up to date
  • Drink bottled water
  • Use insect repellant to prevent insect-borne diseases

Getting to Skopje: Transportation Options and Logistics

Skopje is well-connected to major European cities by air and road. Below are some options for getting to and around Skopje:

Airports Near Skopje

  • Skopje International Airport

Bus Stations Near Skopje

  • Skopje Bus Station

Other Options

  • Rent a car
  • Take the train

How to Get Around in Skopje

Skopje is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. Taxis and buses are also available for getting around the city.

Where to Go Next from Skopje: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time to explore outside of Skopje, there are many great nearby destinations to check out.

  • Ohrid, a stunning lakeside town
  • Bitola, a charming historic town
  • Popova Shapka, a popular ski resort

Conclusion

Skopje is a fascinating city that offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or outdoor adventure. This guide should help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful destination.

Skopje city panorama, with Mount Vodno in the background Skopje city panorama, with Mount Vodno in the background Towers of the Skopje Fortress Towers of the Skopje Fortress The Millennium Cross stands atop Mount Vodno The Millennium Cross stands atop Mount Vodno Open gallery “Beautiful city” in the Gradski Trgovski Centar. Open gallery “Beautiful city” in the Gradski Trgovski Centar. Scenery at Matka Canyon Scenery at Matka Canyon Markets in the Old Bazaar Markets in the Old Bazaar


    Matka Canyon
    Stara Čaršija