The Republic of North Macedonia was, until recently, a little-known corner of Europe. It was only after the recent dispute with Greece over its name—from Macedonia to today’s North Macedonia—that some travellers began taking an interest in this intriguing country in eastern Europe.
Albania and North Macedonia are two of Europe’s least-known countries,
Some time ago, as interest grew in neighbouring Albania, we began making short visits to the country, mainly in the southwest. We now offer a special route from Tirana to Sofia that allows discover North Macedonia in greater depth, visiting some of the country’s most spectacular national parks, its capital, Skopje, and some of its most iconic towns, such as Ohrid.
The truth is, North Macedonia is spectacular in every respect: for its historical role in ancient Greece, the Roman and Ottoman empires and, more recently, Yugoslavia; and for its geography. Largely mountainous, it has a plain between the Šar and Osogovske mountains and three impressive lakes: Ohrid, Prespa and Doiran. Macedonia’s beautiful landscapes, filled with lakes, waterfalls, mountains, caves and national parks, rival the best-known on the European continent.
If you're thinking about travel to North Macedonia, be sure to read our advice.
Things to know before travelling to North Macedonia
What is the main point of entry to North Macedonia?
The main port of entry is the Skopje Airport. It seems to be the best way to enter the country, but infrequent flights from Spain may make it cheaper to fly to neighbouring Tirana (Albania) or Sofia (Bulgaria) and cross North Macedonia By road.
What currency is used in North Macedonia?
The currency in North Macedonia is the Macedonian denar (MKD). 1 MKD is approximately 0.015 €. In some major cities and areas near Greece, it is possible to pay in euros, although change will most likely be given in local currency.
What language is spoken in North Macedonia?
The official language of North Macedonia It is Macedonian, a South Slavic language spoken by just over 2 million people. It shares many similarities with Serbian and Bulgarian and is written in the Cyrillic alphabet.
What are the main cities in North Macedonia?
Skopje is the capital of North Macedonia and also its most populous city, with almost 500,000 inhabitants. Much smaller, with around 75,000 inhabitants, Bitola is one of the country’s main cultural and administrative centres and also contains much of the industry in North Macedonia. Other important cities include Kumanovo, Tetovo, Prilep, Veles, Štip and Ohrid.
What are the main national parks in North Macedonia?
Currently North Macedonia has 3 nature parks protected: Galičica, Pelister and Mavrovo. In the southwest of the country, Galičica National Park lies between Lakes Ohrid and Prespa, with several hiking routes overlooking the lakes. Galičica National Park has more than 800 endemic plant species, making it important for conserving the country’s natural environment. Also in the south, east of Galičica National Park and bordering Greece, we find the Pelister National Park. This park is known for its two glacial lakes, known as "the eyes of Pelister" as well as for containing Mount Baba, the third highest in the country. For its part, the Mavrovo National Park is renowned among skiers for some of the best slopes in the Balkans. It also contains the country's highest peaks, including Mount Korab (2,764 m), and Lake Mavrovo, which gives the park its name.
What to visit in North Macedonia?
If you are planning to travel to North Macedonia you must not miss Ohrid, a small town on the shores of Lake Ohrid which is currently the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Near Ohrid, we find Bitola, a picturesque town with streets that mix Ottoman and European architecture. As for the natural parks, the visit to the Galičica National Park and as Pelister National Park is highly recommended. Other natural attractions include the Vrelo caves and Lake Prespa.
What is the weather like in North Macedonia?
The plains have a Mediterranean climate, while the mountains have a continental climate with greater temperature differences. In general, Spring (April and May) It is usually short, with pleasant temperatures and sporadic rainfall. The summer months (June-August – September) are warm and dry, with July the hottest month. Autumn (September – October) is rainy, with pleasant temperatures. Winters (November to February – March) are cold and rainy, with frequent snowfalls in mountain areas and rain in the plains.
What is the best time to travel to North Macedonia?
The best time to travel to North Macedonia It will depend largely on the interests of the traveller. Generally, the best months for outdoor activities are May, June, August and September. However, if the purpose of the visit is cultural, you can travel to North Macedonia throughout the year.
Travel to Macedonia
Albania and Macedonia✔️ Departures 5, 19 MAY | 9, 23 Jun | 7, 21, 28 Jul | 4, 18, 25 Aug | 8, 22 Sep | 6 Oct 2026
✔️ Price from 1440€
✔️ Departure 28 MAR | 4, 25 Apr 2026
✔️ Price from 1280€
