Macedonia Square – quick facts
- What it is: the main square of Skopje and the largest in North Macedonia, on the south bank of the Vardar.
- Don’t miss: the Warrior on a Horse monument and fountain, the nearby Porta Macedonia arch and the view across the Stone Bridge.
- Entry: free, open 24/7. The fountain show and lights are best in the evening.
- Next stop: walk over the bridge to the Old Bazaar (about 5 minutes).
Macedonia Square (Plostad Makedonija) is the main square of Skopje and the true heart of the city. Set on the south bank of the Vardar River, it is the largest square in North Macedonia and the place where locals meet, celebrations take place and almost every walk through the centre begins or ends.
The centre of the city
The square is dominated by the enormous central fountain and monument known as the Warrior on a Horse, a towering bronze figure that has become one of Skopje’s most photographed sights. Around it stand a cluster of statues, columns and grand buildings, many of them added during the city’s large-scale redevelopment project, giving the square its distinctive, monumental look.
What to see and do
Macedonia Square is a place to slow down and take in the atmosphere. By day it is busy with shoppers and street performers; in the evening the fountains are lit and the cafés around the edges fill up. From here you can walk straight across the Stone Bridge into the Old Bazaar, making the square the perfect starting point for exploring old and new Skopje in a single stroll.
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How to get there
The square sits in the very centre of Skopje and is easily reached on foot from most hotels and city-centre apartments. Taxis are inexpensive, and many local bus lines stop nearby. There is no charge, of course, and it is open and lively at all hours.
Tips for visiting
Come once during the day to see the statues and buildings clearly, and again after dark when the monuments and fountains are floodlit – the square looks completely different at night. It is also a great spot for people-watching over a coffee.
Nearby attractions
Right beside the square you will find the Stone Bridge and, just across the river, the Old Bazaar. It fits perfectly into a wider one day in Skopje itinerary or the top things to do in the city.
Curious about all the statues? Read Skopje 2014 explained.
Where to Stay Near Macedonia Square
For Macedonia Square, the best base is the city centre: most sights, restaurants and bus stops are within walking distance, and you won’t need a taxi in the evening.
- Skopje Marriott Hotel – right on Macedonia Square, the most central upscale choice.
- Hotel Senigallia – rooms on a rebuilt sailing ship moored on the Vardar, in the middle of the city.
- Solun Hotel & Spa – a central hotel with a spa, a short walk from the main square.
Browse all hotels in Skopje city centre, compare neighbourhoods in our Where to Stay in Skopje guide, or see our pick of the best hotels in Skopje.
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Our private tour
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