The Millennium Cross stands on Krstovar, the 1,066-metre summit of Mount Vodno, high above Skopje. At 66 metres it is one of the tallest crosses in the world, and at night it glows over the city like a beacon. Getting up there – by cable car or on foot – is one of the best half-day trips from the centre.
Update (October 2026): the Vodno cable car has been closed since spring 2026 for repairs after safety inspections. The City of Skopje expects it to reopen by the end of November 2026. Until then, drive or take a taxi to Sredno Vodno and walk up (about 1–1.5 hours).
Millennium Cross at a glance
| Height | 66 m, on the 1,066 m summit of Vodno (Krstovar) |
| Built | 2002, for 2,000 years of Christianity in Macedonia |
| Entry | Free (the cable car is paid) |
| Getting there | Cable car from Sredno Vodno, or a 1–1.5 hour hike |
| Time needed | 2–4 hours including the trip up |
History of the Millennium Cross
The cross was initiated by the Macedonian Orthodox Church and funded by the church, the government and donations from Macedonians around the world. It was dedicated in 2002 to mark two millennia of Christianity in Macedonia. It stands on the spot where a smaller cross once stood – which is why the summit is called Krstovar, “the place of the cross”. A lift was installed inside the structure in 2018, and at night the cross is covered in thousands of lights.
How to get to the Millennium Cross
By cable car
The Vodno cable car opened in 2011 and runs from the Sredno Vodno station to the summit in a few minutes, with great views on the way. Note: it is currently closed for repairs (see the update above). When it runs, it may also stop in strong wind.
On foot
The classic hike starts at Sredno Vodno (the middle station, reachable by taxi or car from the centre in about 15 minutes). Several marked forest paths lead to the top in about 1–1.5 hours. Fit walkers can start right from the city at the foot of the mountain and make it a half-day hike – see our Mount Vodno hiking guide.
By organised tour
Several day tours from Skopje combine the Millennium Cross with Matka Canyon and the church of St. Panteleimon in Nerezi – a good option if you don’t want to arrange transport. If Matka is your main goal, see our private Matka Canyon tour.
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Mobile data makes day trips much easier – for maps, bus times and translations. A North Macedonia eSIM starts from €2.90, and the Balkans regional plan also covers neighbouring countries if you continue to Albania, Kosovo or Serbia. Use code VISITSKOPJE for 10% off → Get your travel eSIM
Affiliate link – we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. More options in our SIM card & eSIM guide.
What to do at the top
- The view – the whole of Skopje, the Vardar valley and, on clear days, the Šar Mountains.
- The cross – walk around the base and see it up close; it is much bigger than it looks from the city.
- Food and drink – there is a restaurant at the summit, and the mountain hut nearby serves simple food.
- Sunset – come in the late afternoon and watch the city lights switch on.
Tips for visiting
- Go on a clear day – haze and winter smog can hide the view.
- It is several degrees cooler at the top; bring a layer even in summer.
- Wear proper shoes if you hike – the paths are steep in places.
- Combine it with the frescoes of St. Panteleimon in Nerezi or lunch at the Macedonian Village.
Where to Stay Near the Millennium Cross
There are only a few places to stay on Vodno itself. Most visitors sleep in the centre and take a taxi up to Sredno Vodno for the Millennium Cross, or pick a hotel on the hillside for the views.
- Mi Casa Skopje – on higher ground about 2 km from the centre, with views over the city.
- Skopje Marriott Hotel – right on Macedonia Square, the most central upscale choice.
Browse hotels on the Vodno side of the city, compare neighbourhoods in our Where to Stay in Skopje guide, or see our pick of the best hotels in Skopje.
Some links are affiliate links – we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is the Millennium Cross in Skopje?
66 metres, standing on the 1,066-metre summit of Mount Vodno.
Is the Vodno cable car working?
Not at the moment. It closed in spring 2026 for repairs and is expected to reopen by the end of November 2026. You can still hike up from Sredno Vodno.
How long is the hike to the Millennium Cross?
About 1–1.5 hours from Sredno Vodno, or 3–4 hours from the city centre.
Is it worth going up?
Yes – it is the best viewpoint in Skopje and a nice escape from the city heat in summer.
Our private tour
Private Matka Canyon Tour from Skopje
Hotel pickup anywhere in Skopje, a private air-conditioned car and a friendly English-speaking local driver. Boat ride to Vrelo Cave, hiking or a lakeside coffee – at your own pace. From €60 per car (1–4 guests).
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