Struga Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally stunning Struga in North Macedonia. Find out what to see, what to do, where to stay and eat, and how to get there in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Struga

Struga is a town located on the shores of Lake Ohrid in Western North Macedonia, making it a popular tourist attraction overflowing with history, culture, and beauty. Being one of Europe’s most ancient lakes, it’s no wonder why Struga has been known for its beautiful natural scenery, charming locals and cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Struga

Struga is a town filled with numerous spectacular places to visit, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bay of Bones Museum

North of the town, going between the villages of Ploce and Gradište, you’ll find the reconstructed settlement of a pile dwelling’s in the Neolithic period. The Bay of Bones Museum is an archaeological site museum with beautiful lake views and offers an immersive experience into ancient Macedonian civilization.

Struga Poetry Evenings

For the last 50 years, Struga has been hosting the International Struga Poetry Evenings Festival, an event that celebrates the literary culture of the city. Lambasting the scenic beauty of Struga’s shoreline, the event features poetry readings, debates, and live performances.

Natural Attractions of Struga: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ohrid Lake

Ohrid Lake is among the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, and it’s Struga’s most famous natural attraction. It features crystal-clear water, sand beaches, fishing boats, and stunning sunsets behind the hills.

Mavrovo National Park

Take a break from the city and visit the beautiful Mavrovo National Park. The park is a backpacker’s paradise with green forests, deep gorges, high peaks, and ice-cold streams. Located near the town Gostivar, this place is a nature lover’s paradise.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Struga

The Galicica National Park

Struga’s surroundings offer excellent opportunities for mountain biking and hiking, and many routes go through the Galicica National Park. The park is a hub for bikers, and offers beginner to advanced levels of hiking trails to take you through the most excellent natural landscapes on the lake.

Best Things to Do in Struga: Activities and Tours

Boat Ride on Lake Ohrid

One unique way to experience the beauty of Lake Ohrid and Struga is by taking a slow and cozy boat ride. Let a local fisherman take you across the deep blue waters and give you a chance to explore the rich fish and bird wildlife, as well as historical sites and stunning natural landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Struga

Day Activity
1 Bay of Bones Museum
2 Struga Poetry Evenings Festival
3 Ohrid Lake Boat Ride
4 Mavrovo National Park
5 Hiking/Biking in Galicica National Park
6 St. George Monastery
7 Souvenir Shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Struga

Must-Try Dishes

Tavche Gravche

Tavche Gravche is one of the most popular and delicious dishes in Struga, and it’s made from beans and red pepper. It is served with crispy pork or beef.

Pindzur

Pindzur is a local spread made from roasted red peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, onions, and garlic. It’s usually served alongside local bread, and it’s a must-try for vegetarian tourists.

Local Beverages

Traditional rakija or local brandy is the most popular drink in Struga, though wine and beer are also widely available.

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

Struga offers plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to cozy hotels. Some recommended places to check out include Villa Di Angeli, Hotel Drim, and Hotel Izgrev.

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

Local souvenirs and products of Struga include handmade jewelry, traditional Macedonian carpets, and antiques. You can also get your hands on some delicious and exotic sweets or unique local souvenirs in the town marketplace.

Local Culture and Customs of Struga

Struga has a history and culture that is rich with festivals, poetry, music, dance, and traditional costumes. The locals are warm and friendly, and engaging with them in conversation is the perfect way to learn more about the city.

Best Time to Visit Struga

The best time to visit Struga is between May and September when the temperatures are warm, and outdoor activities like hiking and boating can be enjoyed. However, if you’re into winter sports, Mavrovo National Park is perfect from December to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Struga

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for hiking or outdoor activities.
  • Try the local cuisine and drink.
  • Take part in local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Be loud or obnoxious in public places.
  • Take photographs of people without permission.
  • Disrespect religious sites or customs.
  • Litter or leave trash in natural areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Struga

Struga is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always recommended to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially while exploring the town’s natural landscapes or during the offseason when there are fewer tourists in the area.

Health in Struga

Be prepared for the local climate, bring sunscreen, and stay hydrated as the weather can get hot and dry. Make sure to take necessary precautions if you plan on going on a hike. Medical centers and pharmacies are easily accessible in case of emergency.

Getting to Struga: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Struga

The nearest airport to Struga is located in Ohrid and is well-connected with direct flights from multiple European cities all year round.

Bus Stations Near Struga

Struga is easily accessible by bus, and regular bus services operate between cities such as Skopje, Ohrid, and other nearby destinations.

Other Options

You can also reach Struga by taxi, car rental, or train from Skopje. However, driving in the city, especially during summer, can be quite chaotic.

How to Get Around in Struga

Struga is an easily walkable town, while the surrounding natural areas can be explored on foot or by bicycle. Various boat trips around the lake are also available for those looking to explore the picturesque waterfronts.

Where to Go Next from Struga: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ohrid

Ohrid is one of the biggest attractions of North Macedonia, with plenty of cultural and natural attractions that will leave you mesmerized.

Debar

Another nearby town known for its beautiful natural landscape and outdoor adventures is Debar, located a few hours away from Struga.

Conclusion

Struga offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty, cultural richness, and delicious cuisine of North Macedonia. With an array of activities available in and around the town, there’s something to suit everyone’s interests. Pack your bags, book your flight, and enjoy a relaxing stay in one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations.

Struga sits on both sides of the Black Drim River Struga sits on both sides of the Black Drim River The Church of Saint George The Church of Saint George Kališta Monastery sits right on the lake Kališta Monastery sits right on the lake The village of Radožda is situated right on Lake Ohrid, at the Albanian border The village of Radožda is situated right on Lake Ohrid, at the Albanian border The all but abandoned mountain village of Gorna Belica The all but abandoned mountain village of Gorna Belica Gjomzele Gjomzele