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MACEDONIA
DESTINATION GUIDE
As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real Macedonia in a way like no other. Wedged between the Balkans and the Mediterranean, Macedonia has an intriguing cultural tapestry, with a vibrant blend of Greek, Roman, Ottoman and Byzantine history. Our Macedonia holidays take you from the colossal faux-neoclassical buildings of Skopje to the alluring markets of the Old Bazaar. You’ll find beautiful mosques dating back centuries to the Ottoman Empire, while the ancient Kale Fortress harks back to the 6th century A.D. Perched on the highest point in the city, you’ll get a spectacular view of the Vardar River from the fortress, or you can cross the river on one of the city’s four famous bridges. Beyond the capital, Macedonia is filled with natural beauty. See the towering gorges, ancient caves and medieval monasteries of Matka Canyon, or get off grid in the national parks, with glacial lakes, green meadows, snowy mountains and peaceful walking trails. Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Triploves Highlights.
"North Macedonia has come into the spotlight in recent years and for good reason. With an intriguing culture, beautiful architecture and beautiful nature, you'll discover one of Europe's true hidden treasures."
Travel Director
Macedonia
at a glance
Currency
Macedoniandenar
Winter avg temp
-1°C
Summer avg temp
34°C
Time Zone
GMT +2
Capital City
Skopje
Language
Macedonian
Good Morning
Dobro utro
Good evening
Dobro popladne
North Macedonia has an intriguing cultural tapestry, with beautiful mosques, ancient fortresses and alluring bazaars. Venture beyond the capital of Skopje with your expert Trafalgar Travel Director and discover North Macedonia's natural beauty with towering gorges, glacial lakes and green meadows.
Our top 3 things to do in Macedonia
We’ll show you where to go in North Macedonia, from Skopje to Kale Fortress, as well as the best things to do in Macedonia, from sipping rakija to hiking Matka Canyon.
See the legacy of the Ottomans in the mosques and bazaars
Macedonia was part of the Ottoman Empire for over 500 years, and their history lives on in the architecture of Skopje. We’ll take you to the Old Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest markets in the Balkans, where we’ll discover Ottoman mosques, monuments and caravanserais (old roadside inns).
Walk across the bridges of Skopje
Skopje has four bridges spanning the Vardar River, all with a different theme. They feature statues of Macedonian rulers, warriors, artists, musicians and Alexander the Great’s father. They also pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for independence in Macedonia, and we’ll explore all four bridges.
Enjoy some local rakija
A strong fruit brandy made from white or red grapes or plums, rakija is a beloved beverage in Macedonia. Typically served with salad or white cheese, Macedonians often make rakija at home, adding anise for sweetness. Our Local Specialists will show you where to sample the best rakija and toast to your Macedonia holiday.
Best museums in Macedonia
Our Macedonia trips take you to all the top museums in the country, from the Holocaust Memorial Centre for the Jews of Macedonia, to the Memorial House of Mother Teresa.
Museum of Macedonia
Located in the Old Bazaar in Skopje, the Museum of Macedonia is one of the oldest museums in the country. It houses an extensive collection of historical, archaeological and ethnological artefacts, with items spanning from the Neolithic Age to the Roman, Turkish and Byzantine Periods.
Memorial House of Mother Teresa
The Memorial House of Mother Teresa commemorates the Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mother Teresa and can be found in Skopje, where Mother Teresa lived from 1910 to 1928. It’s located on the site of the former church where Mother Teresa was baptised.
Holocaust Memorial Centre for the Jews of Macedonia
Set in the location of the old Jewish Quarter in Skopje, the Holocaust Memorial Centre pays tribute to the 7,144 Macedonia Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust of WWII. The exhibits also display the history and culture of Jewish life in the Balkans over several hundred years.
Best food in Macedonia
The cuisine is a highlight of any Macedonia travel experience, and our Local Specialists will show you all the best places to indulge in Macedonian food.
Musaka
Musaka is a dish made with layers of sliced potatoes, ground meat, eggplant, onion, vegetables, spices. The top layer is glazed with egg-yolk and baked until golden. Our Local Specialists will show you the best traditional restaurants to try this tasty dish.
Pastrmajlija
Pastrmajlija is Macedonia’s tasty answer to pizza. It’s made from dough shaped into an oval, with sliced meat and egg cooked on top. The dish is so well-loved that the city of Štip organizes an annual festival to celebrate it.
Ajvar
Macedonians traditionally prepare for winter by making homemade jars of ajvar. It’s a delicious relish made with garlic, paprika, red bell peppers and sunflower oil. The best way to eat ajvar is with feta cheese served on warm bread.
Macedonian phrasebook
Macedonian is the official language of Macedonia, and you’ll find it easier to connect with the locals if you learn a few phrases in their language.
Layered clothing
Macedonia’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to bring versatile clothing. You’ll also need to dress modestly, with knees and shoulders covered when visiting churches and rural areas.
Macedonian denar
The official currency of Macedonia is the Macedonian denar. While there are ATMs available in the cities, you can also come prepared with some local cash.
Comfortable shoes
The best way to explore Macedonia’s mountains and Skopje’s cobbled lanes, markets and bridges is on foot, so bring a sturdy pair of walking shoes.
Adaptor plug
In Macedonia, the power plugs and sockets are of type F, with standard European 2-pin plugs. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
What to pack for Macedonia
Other things to know before you go
Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.
Road Trip Adventures
Slide into your seat, grip the wheel, start the engine, and hit the open road. From Norway to South Africa, the tundra to the rainforest, there is no limit to what you can reach with four wheels and an adventurous spirit. The road trip is no longer a means to get from point A to point B in your country; it crosses borders into new places, allowing for pure freedom in exciting destinations. Measure your next journey in viewpoints, road signs, and the people you'll meet along the way!
Guide to Macedonia Visa Application
Learn about the types of visas and the step by step process of obtaining a visa for Macedonia and quarantine regulations in this comprehensive guide.
This includes types of visa applications, what to declare, and what is prohibited.
Keep in mind these handy tips for a smart, stress-free, and on-time visa application experience!