The best souvenirs from Skopje are things you can eat, drink or wear: handmade silver filigree, Ohrid pearls, ajvar, rakija and local wine. Most of them are easy to find in the Old Bazaar, where craftsmen still work in tiny workshops. Here is what to buy in Skopje and where to find it.
Best souvenirs from Skopje
1. Silver filigree jewellery
Fine silver wire twisted into delicate patterns is one of the oldest crafts in the Old Bazaar. Look for earrings, pendants and brooches in the small workshops around the Bezisten – and buy directly from the makers if you can.
2. Ohrid pearls
Famous “Ohrid pearls” are not real pearls but handmade beads coated with a secret lacquer traditionally made from fish scales of Lake Ohrid. They are sold in Ohrid and in jewellery shops in Skopje – ask for the maker’s certificate.
3. Ajvar
The roasted pepper spread is the taste of Macedonia. Homemade-style jars are sold in markets and supermarkets – pack them in checked luggage. Read more in our traditional food guide.
4. Rakija, mastika and wine
Grape rakija, anise-flavoured mastika and wines made from the local Vranec grape make great gifts. For tastings at the source, visit the Tikveš wine region.
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5. Turkish delight and sweets
Lokum, halva and baklava from the traditional sweet shops of the Old Bazaar travel well and make an easy gift.
6. Copper coffee sets
A copper džezva (Turkish coffee pot) with small cups lets you make Turkish coffee at home – look for them in the bazaar’s metalwork shops.
7. Mountain tea and honey
Dried mountain tea (planinski čaj) and local honey from Macedonian villages are sold at markets like Bit Pazar.
8. Embroidery and icons
Hand-embroidered textiles with traditional motifs and painted Orthodox icons are beautiful, longer-lasting souvenirs.
Where to shop for souvenirs in Skopje
- Old Bazaar – filigree, copperware, sweets and crafts. Check the opening hours; many shops close on Sundays.
- Bit Pazar – the big market next to the bazaar for tea, honey, spices and ajvar.
- Malls – supermarkets in East Gate and City Mall sell wine, rakija and ajvar at local prices.
- Skopje Airport – a last-minute option, but more expensive.
Tips for buying souvenirs
- Carry cash in denars for small workshops – see where to exchange money.
- Gentle bargaining is normal in the bazaar for crafts, not for food.
- Liquids over 100 ml must go in checked luggage.
- Flying to the EU? Duty-free limits from non-EU countries are usually 1 litre of spirits and 4 litres of wine per adult.
Where to Stay for Shopping in the Old Bazaar
Shoppers is in the old part of town, so the most convenient base is a hotel in or next to the Old Bazaar – or around Macedonia Square, 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, compare neighbourhoods in our Where to Stay in Skopje guide, or see our pick of the best hotels in Skopje.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Skopje famous for buying?
Silver filigree jewellery, Ohrid pearls, ajvar, rakija and local wine.
Where can I buy traditional souvenirs in Skopje?
In the Old Bazaar workshops and at Bit Pazar market.
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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