Macedonia still remains a secret as a touristic destination in the Balkans yet this country has a lot to show to the rest of the world in terms of history, culture, and beauty. However, Macedonia cannot be compared to other famous European countries, but people willing to visit this country will not be disappointed with the wonders of Macedonia. In this country, one can observe the nature – lakes, forests as well as visit the sculptures and historical monuments within the frames of a three-day journey. Welcome and let me take you, on this brief tour, to give you an itinerary as rich as possible with all the most interesting sites you can see in Macedonia.
Macedonia: An Unexplored Place
Macedonia is located in the Balkans in the south part of Europe and is surrounded by; Albania, Kosovo, Greece, Bulgaria, and Serbia. This has placed this location at the center of many civilization eras such as the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and the Ottomans. Housing, painting, and even festivals represent the multiculturalism of the state. Other than the historical part, the natural beauty of the country consists of forests, mountains, and four major lakes, rivers, beautiful panoramic views.
The specific nature of this combination of landscapes viewed as attractive and varying is the thing that makes Macedonia a special place. The area is particularly best for tourists who prefer to explore Europe’s famous destinations but do not have to offer adequate accommodations.
Day One: Discover Statues of Skopje
Begin your trek in Skopje the capital city of the Republic of Macedonia. Although it cannot be regarded as a large city and attracts a small number of tourists, Skopje is teeming with sites to start your exploration. The most significant symbol of Skopje, in fact, one cannot help but notice a plethora of statues; there are around 136 of them in Skopje. These sculptures are found in distinct forms and aspects bearing some of the best-known regional personalities including the Bulgarian emperor Samuil and Tatarchev, Hristo, an expert in political activism of the region.
Also noteworthy are niches of historical personalities exemplified by Alexander the Great and the Indian Missionary Mother Teresa of Calcutta. There are thus more statues today than people in Skopje, a remark locals have often made because it is almost true.
As tourists, there are several attractions you should not miss once in Skopje these include Macedonia Square and there is the statue of Alexander the Great. Adjacent to it, there is Stone Bridge that unites historic and modern districts of Skopje. The old bazaar which is one of the largest and probably the most well-preserved in the Balkans is also recommended to visit. Stroll around the small lanes that are packed with local souvenirs, household items, and gastronomic delights as well as animated atmosphere.
As has already been mentioned Skopje does have several key historical and cultural attractions. The Skopje Fortress or Kale Fortress situates atop the city and gives the bird’s eye view of the city. The structure of the fortress is from the sixth century and is the historic facility of the city. Another important place is the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, the Nobel Peace Prize winner, born in Skopje. The museum gives an impression of her life, and her humanitarian activities.
Skopje’s Cultural Scene
Skopje hosts many galleries, operating theaters, and cultural centers and all of them will open their doors for the audience and visitors. The Museum of the Macedonian struggle for independence is a fascinating place for the fans of history which tells about the struggle for independence of Macedonia from Ottoman Empire to present days. The Contemporary Art Museum located up on the hill is one of the best museums in town featuring the collection of the artworks by Macedonian as well as foreign artists.
To get a glimpse of the local people go to the City Park, a beautiful park in the middle of Skopje Macedonia. There are avenues for walking, lakes for boating and sightseeing, and cafes for a cup of coffee and food. A newly established Skopje Zoo prominently placed within the park is also a favored place for families to visit.
Day Two: Here is the list of tips on what you must check in this stunning city, Ohrid being one of the European oldest cities.
On the second day, get to Ohrid which is one of the most fascinating cities of the Balkan area. The city rests along the gorgeous Lake Ohrid and there are many forests and paths around the city. People in Ohrid have been from Neolithic or Bronze Age to the great powers resulting from the historical sequence of the Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans.
It must be profoundly said that Ohrid is one of the foremost religious centers. In Byzantine time more than 300 churches were recorded to have existed in the city being referred to as the ‘Jerusalem of the Balkans’ although some of these Churches are still existing. Kaneo church is one of the oldest churches situated hill top, on the bank of the lake providing the most scenic beauty.
Ohrid has been officially protected by UNESCO since 1980 because of its historical significance and beautiful geographical features. Its attractions are many; you could for instance catch sight of the Ohrid Fortress that provide panoramic view of the lake and the city area, as well as other historical sites. Go to the theatre, which was built at the participating Hellenistic ages and the Plaošnik architectural site with the restored Church of St. Clement and Panteleimon.
First of all, it is necessary to make some comments with regard to the geographical setting of the study area, the Lake Ohrid itself is a marvel, one of Europe’s deepest and old hills that were shaped as lakes. One can take a boat ride, go swimming in the clean waters of the sea, or enjoy the beach. The packed pavement exhibits beautiful landscape walking by of which there are various canteens around the shores where you can savor local/basic meals.
Ohrid’s Cultural Heritage
In this cultural treasure of Macedonia many festivals and events are celebrated all over the year. The Ohrid Summer Festival is one of the oldest and most recognized cultural establishments that are characteristic of Macedonia and includes music, theater, and dance performances. That is why the festival draws artists and spectators from different countries and contributes to the organizations of remarkable cultural events.
Ohrid city hosts the National Museum which is located in the Robev Family House building; it displays the archaeological and ethnographic collections of the city. The museum shows the visitors the old coins and silver ornaments, earthen vessels and religious paintings, and original costumes of the locals and illustrates their historical pathway.
Do not miss the chance to explore the BAM site on the Water – the open-air Museum of ancient people’s life styled according to the Bronze age on Lake Ohrid. The wooden museum is an exhibit of a copy of the houses and relics from the Bronze Age to give an insight of the lake dwellers’ way of life.
Day Three: Encounter with Bitola and Heraclea
On the last day, go to a culturally and historically significant city called Bitola which is near the Greek border. Bitola is still cherishing the past as one of the primary centers of connecting Europe and Asia. The tourist main attraction of the city is Heraclea Lyncestis, which is described as an ancient Greek city that was established by Philip II of Macedon, the father to Alexander the Great.
Heraclea Lyncestis is today an archeological site for tourists which has architectural structures left in form of theaters and temples. The site also has a museum of sorts which displays different relics and items that have been discovered on the site. There is a way that one feels when traversing through the allowed areas of the ruins and this creates an image of the rather majestic and important city.
Bitola as a city has a pleasant look and one can find different types of architecture as a reference to the city’s history. The main walkway is the Shirok Sokak that is a commercial, architectural, cafes, and restaurants’ area with neoclassical houses. The best thing is to just enjoy the walk and the vibes of the place. It is also recognized for several places of worship especially mosques that put into evidence the diverse culture of the area.
Do not miss the beauty of the Pelister National Park and recreation time after the sightseeing of the city. Among those landscapes, forests, river, and mountains are commonly associated with the park. This is because they are potential recommendation points for outdoor activities and beautiful sceneries. It is also a home of the endemic Molika pine tree species found in this area only.
Bitola’s Cultural Scene
Cultural lives of the city are active, there are many fests, theatres, and cultural complexes in Bitola. The Manaki Brothers Film Festival taking place every year in the city of Bitola honors the memory of the Manaki brothers, throwers of Balkan cinematography. The primary event of the festival is the viewing of movies which can be of different genres and from different countries; people who create the movies and those who are interested in movies also come to the festival.
The Museum of Bitola situated in the Cultural Center of the historic Army Barracks is a center for the exhibition of historical and ethnological pieces that represent the past and present of the city. Displays consist of parts of the archaeological collection, ethnographic objects, as well as historical annals, which give an insight into the history of the city.
To get a feel of the true national culture, receive a tour to Bitola Bazaar; a lively marketplace with foodstuffs and handmade items. Certainly, the strongest advantage of a bazaar is that it contributes to the understanding of the atmosphere of the city and communication with the locals.
Additional Attractions in Macedonia
Stobi
In case of availability of time, it is recommended that visitors have a taste at Stobi, perhaps one of the most significant ancient places that was in Macedonia. Situated at the junction of Crna and Vardar rivers, one finds Stobi an ancient town that was indicative of Roman as well as early Christian civilizations. These are several features such as floor mosaics and a theatre and remains of the early Christian basilicas. Stobi gives one a glimpse of what Macedonia looked like at one time in the ancient world.
Mavrovo National Park
Blessed in natural endowment, Mavrovo National Park is one of the places every lover of nature should visit. It extends even to mountain climbing and winter skiing and includes riding on horseback or in jeeps, visiting caves, subterranean, waterfalls, etc. The park has beautiful terrains, for instance, Mavrovo Lake, which offers a befitting atmosphere for relevant activities.
Macedonia: A Different Destination
Macedonia as a country is a perfect example which can provide a vast variation of experiences to any tourist. Fascinating for the history lovers are cities of Skopje, Ohrid, and Bitola, while the nature enthusiasts will be enchanted by parks and lakes. There are many temples and statues as well as various ancient ruins that tell the country’s history; there are beaches and ideal spots for hiking and exploring.
It can be quite daunting to attempt to cover as much of Macedonia as possible within a mere three days: however, with proper scheduling, a tourist receives the best of what Macedonia was able to offer. I am sure that there is no tourist that would not find Macedonia interesting whether they are historical lovers, culture lovers, or nature lovers.
Practical Information for Visitors
Transportation
General transportation within Macedonia is also convenient because of the rather well-developed road systems and the availability of local means of transport. Inter-city transport is mainly by buses that have a frequent network between the big cities and towns. If you seek more freedom, it is wiser to rent a car because you can move around as you wish and go to more offbeat places.
Language and Communication
The language of Macedonia is Macedonian but the majority of the people, especially those in the urban centers and tourist areas, speak English. Knowing several words of Macedonian can be also enriching and arrange your interaction with many individuals.
Currency and Costs
The makeup in regard to money and Macedonia is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). Credit cards are likely to be quite commonly accepted in the metropolitan areas and some tourist destinations, but it is recommended to have some cash with people when traveling outside big cities or to rural areas. In comparison with Western European countries, Macedonia is moderately cheap, which makes it a perfect choice for those who like to travel on a shoestring.
Best Time to Visit
Another European country that has climatic variations is Macedonia that experiences hot summers and cold winters. The good time to go there depends on the activity and interest in the area that one has. The best seasons that one can visit are during spring – April, May, and June and autumn, specifically September and October. If you fancy skiing or other kinds of winter sport, come during the winter when the mountains are white.
Conclusion
Macedonia is one of those destinations that regardless of what type of traveler one is, they will definitely not be disappointed. Beginning with the historical city of Skopje, Ohrid, and Bitola to natural sites such as park and lake tours, there is no shortage. Temples, statues, and other relics of history are scattered throughout the country as are manifestations of natural splendors within the country for sightseeing and recreational purposes.
Although you may consider visiting Macedonia in the course of three days as being pretty overcrowded, you are wrong and can see the beauty of Macedonia if you plan your day well. This point can be explained by the fact that Macedonian attractions will appeal to people with various interests – history, culture, and untouched nature.
Therefore, it is time to open your suitcase and go discover this rather off-beat destination in the very heart of the Balkans. Macedonia is waiting with its winds of history, culture, and nature and wonders to be explored by those who are willing to step out of the conventional.