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Searching for the best things to do in Skopje? Then look no further! Situated in the Balkans, many travelers skip Macedonia in favor of more popular countries. Nearby Balkan countries such as Croatia and Greece receive millions of tourists each year, while North Macedonia falls way behind. However, that’s part of its charm.
With fewer tourists crowding the streets, you can explore the top Skopje attractions without large queues and overtourism. In fact, there are many reasons to get off the beaten path in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia.
Boasting a strong cultural heritage, unique buildings, and heaps of history, there’s plenty to keep you busy. If that’s not enough, there are many beautiful landscapes nearby. Spots such as Matka Canyon and Vodno Mountain are a must for nature enthusiasts.
Searching for a completely different vibe altogether? Luckily, Skopje offers great food, fantastic nightlife, and a wealth of shopping opportunities. Simply put, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant European city.
Things to do in Skopje, North Macedonia
Join a Skopje City Tour
Joining a free walking tour of Skopje is an excellent way to discover its rich history, culture, and landmarks. These tours offer guided routes led by knowledgeable guides who provide insight into local attractions and hidden gems. In fact, asking tour guides is one of the best ways to find top bars and restaurants as you explore.
Free Skopje Walking Tours comes highly rated, having won awards for their service four years in a row. It is the tour that I took. Their tours cover historical sights, key attractions, and interesting information over three hours. If you’re short on time but keen to learn as much as possible about the city, this is your best bet!
Explore Skopje Fortress
Overlooking the Vardar River, Skopje Fortress, also known as the Kale Fortress, is no doubt one of the best things to do in Skopje. Dating back to ancient times, the fortress is a symbol of the city’s rich heritage. A must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, it’s no wonder this place is so popular.
Throughout time, the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans have occupied the site, shaping its impressive (and mixed) architectural style and historical significance. With some structures dating back to medieval times, it’s one of the most unique buildings in Europe.
Aside from that, the fortress is a great place to admire views of the city. Locals and tourists alike go here seeking panoramic views of Skopje. You can also explore the fortress’s ruins and enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding areas. What more could you want?
Visit Mother Teresa Memorial House
Mother Teresa Memorial House is a tribute to one of the world’s most beloved heroes. Born in Skopje, Mother Teresa dedicated her life to serving the poor and marginalized, eventually becoming a global symbol of compassion and selflessness.
The house celebrates her legacy and commitment to helping those less fortunate. It’s a great place to learn more about her work and how she helped people across the globe.
You’ll see displays that document key moments and milestones throughout her life all the way up to her death in 1997. Ultimately, it’s a place for reflection, admiration, and inspiration and one of the top things to see in Skopje.
Go shopping in the Old Bazaar
Searching for cobble-stoned streets and old buildings? Then make your way to the Old Bazaar (Stara Čaršija) in Old Town. This part of the city is incredibly charming, reminiscent of something out of a storybook. If you’re looking for an authentic experience in Skopje, this is the place to be.
Dating back to the Ottoman period, Skopje’s Old Bazaar is a bustling marketplace and cultural hub that showcases the city’s rich heritage and diverse influences. It’s also a haven for photographers and artists looking for unique character.
Travelers visit the Old Bazaar to buy a wide range of goods such as handmade crafts, traditional textiles, jewelry, spices, ceramics, and souvenirs.
Lastly, it’s the perfect place to sample delicious local food full of flavor.
Try some Macedonian food
Talking of food, a big part of traveling is trying the local cuisine. Skopje is no different. After wracking up some steps checking out the Old Bazaar, stop at a local restaurant to refuel. Like the country itself, Macedonian cuisine is rich and diverse.
Influenced by Mediterranean, Balkan, and Middle Eastern culinary traditions, some of the best dishes to try include:
● Burek: A savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, spinach, or potatoes. It’s made by layering thin sheets of dough and filling them with the desired ingredients, then baking until golden and crispy.
● Sarma: Sarma is a traditional dish made of cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices. They’re then cooked in a tasty broth until tender and ready to eat.
● Moussaka: Macedonian moussaka is similar to its Greek counterpart but typically includes layers of potatoes, minced meat, and eggplant, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. It’s baked until golden and served as a soothing main course. This makes it ideal if you’re visiting Skopje in winter!
Fancy a dessert instead? Then consider trying Gjomleze, Ravanija, or Štrudla.
Free attractions in Skopje
Stroll across Stone Bridge
As one of the oldest bridges in Europe, you need to check out the Stone Bridge at least once. Dating back to the 15th century during the Ottoman times, the bridge is considered an iconic structure.
During World War Two, the Nazis planned to demolish this unique bridge and covered it in explosives. However, it managed to survive destruction until Skopje was liberated on the 13th of November 1944. Boasting such a unique history, it’s undoubtedly one of the top Skopje tourist attractions.
Check out the city’s striking buildings
When it comes to unique things to do in Skopje, admiring the striking buildings is a must. What’s interesting about the city is its blend of architectural styles. For example, you’ll often find opulent structures next to modern buildings and outdated exteriors. You may think some of these buildings date back to the olden days, but the truth is, they were built in the 21st century.
Once part of Yugoslavia, Skopje has struggled to draw in visitors since North Macedonia gained independence in 1991. Their solution to this was Skopje 2014; a project that gave the capital a huge makeover.
Backed by the government, the city’s buildings were reconstructed with grand exteriors and impressive facades. Some of the most intriguing buildings in the city are situated along the River Vardar. As you wander down the waterway, stop by the National Theatre and the Archaeological Museum to take in their beauty.
Go hunting for statues
Another thing you’ll notice about Skopje is the many statues. In fact, you’ll find them all over the city. It’s a city of statues. Many of these statues are dedicated to well-known figures such as musicians, artists, and literary writers in the city of Skopje.
Aside from that, you’ll find statues of animals (mainly lions and horses). If you’re searching for free things to do in the North Macedonian capital, hunting for statues is a great way to kill some time. While you’re at it, you can learn more about famous figures in the city.
Chill out in Macedonia Square
One of Skopje’s most iconic landmarks has to be Macedonia Square. Adorned with multiple statues, the stand-out point in Macedonia Square just has to be the Alexander the Great Fountain. As one of the focus points of Skopje 2014, it’s perhaps the most impressive part of the square. Once ruler of the country, his statue now stands proudly in the heart of the capital.
Located nearby, the Fountain of the Mothers of Macedonia highlights several female figures representing the mothers of the country. It’s a tribute to motherhood and the role of women in Macedonian society. Aside from unique statues, the square is often used as a meeting point.
Take a walk through City Park
Skopje City Park is a green oasis situated in the heart of Skopje. As one of the oldest parks in North Macedonia, it serves as a popular space for locals and tourists to relax.
Close to Macedonia Square and the Vardar River, its central location makes the park easily accessible. Boasting lush greenery, trees, and flower beds, it offers a serene escape away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
With a peaceful environment for relaxation and leisure activities, the park becomes an entertainment hub during spring and summer when the weather is warm.
With lots of walking paths, monuments, and playgrounds, there’s something for everyone. Throughout the year, the park hosts various events, festivals, and cultural activities. These events range from outdoor concerts and performances to art exhibitions and community gatherings. Ultimately, it’s well worth checking out during your time in Skopje.
Visit the Macedonian Holocaust Museum
Although it’s sad, the Macedonian Holocaust Museum is one of the best museums in Skopje. It showcases the tragic events of the Holocaust and honors the memory of the victims. The museum aims to educate visitors about the violent crimes committed during World War Two. Discovering the heartbreaking yet essential insight into the Holocaust’s impact on Macedonia should be a key part of your trip to the capital.
One of the museum’s main goals is to preserve the memory of the thousands of Macedonian Jews who perished during the Holocaust. By sharing their stories and highlighting the courage of those who resisted, the museum creates a legacy for the victims.
The museum is free, which allows you to delve into this important part of history, even if you’re traveling on a budget.
Day trips from Skopje, North Macedonia
While there is plenty to see and do in the city itself, there are many great day trip options from Skopje. If you’re spending more than a few days in the city, you may want to consider:
Get out in nature at Matka Canyon
Situated a short 30-minute drive from central Skopje, Matka Canyon is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. This breathtaking natural attraction offers a stunning landscape of towering cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters.
Not only does this make it great for nature lovers and photographers, but adventure seekers will be in their element. For those looking for a bit of thrill, you can spend some time hiking trails, rock climbing, or discovering the local history.
As if that wasn’t enough, boat rides through the canyon showcase some of the best views in North Macedonia. Guided boat tours navigate through the narrow canyon passages, offering panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and natural beauty. Along the way, you can spot diverse wildlife and hidden caves.
Head to the top of Vodno Mountain and admire the Millennium Cross
Also nearby, Mount Vodno is one of the best places to visit near Skopje. Offering great panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, it’s a popular destination for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and relaxation.
Millennium Cross stands at the very top of the mountain. Known to be one of the largest crosses in the world, it’s one of the top things to see in the country. Visitors can reach the cross by hiking, taking a cable car ride from the mountain’s base, or taking public transport.
If you’d prefer, other hiking trails boast beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and beautiful botany. The choice is yours!
Take a day trip to neighboring Kosovo
Skopje’s main bus station features several options for taking a day trip to Kosovo. I recommend taking a morning bus and returning by the latest bus available to enjoy a full experience in Kosovo.
Kosovo’s capital, Pristina, can easily be discovered on a self-guided walking tour. Plus you get to cross off another country from your bucket list!
Explore Lake Ohrid
Lake Ohrid sits on the border of North Macedonia and Albania. It is considered to be one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. It is home to 200 unique species, resulting in its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors should enjoy a boat trip where they get a unique perspective on Old Town Ohrid and a local summertime pastime. While in the area, visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo, a Macedonian Orthodox church consecrated around the 13th century. One of the most popular destinations in the area is the Monastery of Saint Naum, established in 905.
With so much to see in the Lake Ohrid area, plan on driving yourself, hiring a tour guide or booking a tour to get the most out of your experience.
Is Skopje worth visiting?
The North Macedonian city of Skopje is well worth visiting, especially if you love getting off the beaten path. Since many tourists tend to skip this city, you’ll have it to yourself.
A European gem, you can take a more relaxed approach to sightseeing without the crowds. Fewer tourists also mean you’ll get a more authentic experience.
For example, you’ll be surrounded by locals instead of tourists hopping from one attraction to the next. The locals are friendly so feel free to strike up a conversation. You never know what you may learn!
You should absolutely add the capital city of North Macedonia to your Balkan itinerary!
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Skopje
To conclude, there are many amazing Skopje landmarks to discover during your time in the city. From checking out striking architecture and cultural hotspots to exploring the best museums, there’s plenty to keep you occupied.
Aside from that, the unique mismatch of architectural styles (as well as weird and wonderful objects) makes Skopje stand out as a European gem. Although many people tend to skip North Macedonia in favor of Croatia or Greece, it’s worth adding this intriguing destination to your bucket list.
Check out these related posts:
- Self-Guided Walking Tour of Prishtina, Kosovo
- Free Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria
- Cool Things to Do in Bucharest, Romania
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.