The Old Bazaar is one of Skopje’s must-see areas, and the good news is that it is easy to visit at almost any time. The streets themselves are open-air and free to walk around 24 hours a day – it is only the individual shops, mosques and museums that keep set hours. Here is what to expect so you can plan your visit.
Shop opening hours
Most of the craft shops, jewellers and stores in the bazaar open in the morning, from around 9:00, and trade until the early evening (roughly 17:00–18:00). Hours vary from shop to shop, and some smaller family-run places may close earlier or take a break during the day. Saturdays are generally busy and lively, while on Sundays a number of shops stay closed or open for shorter hours.
Cafés and restaurants
The bazaar’s cafés, tea houses and restaurants keep longer hours than the shops, staying open into the late evening. This makes the early evening a wonderful time to visit – the shopping crowds thin out, the lights come on, and the area takes on a relaxed, sociable atmosphere.
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Mosques and museums
The historic mosques in the bazaar can usually be visited outside of prayer times, and it is respectful to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Nearby museums and the climb up to Kale Fortress have their own opening hours, so it is worth checking those separately if they are on your list.
Best time to visit
For shopping and browsing the crafts, come in the late morning or early afternoon when everything is open. For atmosphere, food and photos, come in the early evening. Weekday mornings are the quietest if you prefer to avoid the crowds.
Shopping while you’re here? See what to buy in Skopje.
Where to Stay Near the Old Bazaar
Staying inside or right next to the Old Bazaar means you can visit early in the morning, come back for dinner and walk home – Macedonia Square is just five minutes away across the Stone Bridge.
- Hotel Arka – a small hotel in the Old Bazaar, so the cafés and mosques are on your doorstep.
- Bushi Resort & Spa – a spa hotel within walking distance of both the Old Bazaar and Macedonia Square.
- Hotel De Koka – another option within walking distance of the bazaar.
Browse all hotels around the Old Bazaar, read our guide to the best hotels near the Old Bazaar, compare neighbourhoods in our Where to Stay in Skopje guide, or see our pick of the best hotels in Skopje.
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Plan your visit
Read more about what to see in the Old Bazaar itself, or browse the top things to do in Skopje to build it into your day.
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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