Spending three days in Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia, offers a wonderful opportunity to explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful surroundings. Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:
Day 1: Explore Skopje City Center
Morning:
Start at Macedonia Square: Begin your day at the heart of Skopje. Admire the impressive statues, fountains, and architecture surrounding the square.
Visit the Stone Bridge: Walk across the historic Stone Bridge, which dates back to the Ottoman period, connecting the old and new parts of the city.
Discover Old Bazaar (Čaršija): Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Bazaar. Explore its many shops, cafes, and Ottoman-era buildings. Don’t miss the Daut Pasha Hammam and Kapan Han.
Afternoon:
Lunch in Old Bazaar: Enjoy a traditional Macedonian lunch at one of the charming restaurants in the Old Bazaar.
Explore Kale Fortress: Climb up to Kale Fortress for panoramic views of the city. Explore the ancient fortress and learn about its history.
Visit Memorial House of Mother Teresa: Learn about the life and work of Mother Teresa at this museum dedicated to her.
Evening:
Dinner by the Vardar River: Head to the riverside area for dinner. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with views of the Vardar River and the city lights.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
Morning:
Skopje City Museum: Start your day with a visit to the Skopje City Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture.
Explore Skopje’s Art Scene: Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art or the National Gallery of Macedonia to explore Macedonian art.
Afternoon:
Matka Canyon: Take a short trip to Matka Canyon, just outside the city. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake, hike along the canyon trails, and visit the Monastery of St. Andrew.
Lunch in Matka: Have lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the canyon.
Evening:
Free Evening: Spend the evening exploring more of Skopje’s nightlife or relax at a cafe in the city center.
Day 3: Day Trip and Nature
Morning:
Day Trip to Ohrid: Take a day trip to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful lake and historic landmarks. Visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo, Ohrid Fortress, and the Ancient Theatre.
Afternoon:
Lunch in Ohrid: Enjoy a leisurely lunch by Lake Ohrid, sampling fresh seafood or traditional Macedonian cuisine.
Explore Ohrid Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of Ohrid Old Town, browsing shops and taking in the atmosphere.
Evening:
Return to Skopje: Head back to Skopje in the late afternoon.
Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Skopje’s top restaurants, savoring Macedonian specialties.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, historical sites, nature, and relaxation, allowing you to experience the best of Skopje in three days. Adjustments can be made based on your interests and preferences.