Best Things To Do in Skopje, North Macedonia

Skopje, North Macedonia might not be one of the world’s top destinations, but it is certainly unique. The city bears a long and fascinating history and the landscape has been marked by ancient civilizations, a devastating earthquake and a quirky revitalization project. The top things to do in Skopje, North Macedonia cover a spectrum of unusual sights and historic attractions. 

Before visiting Skopje, we heard a variety of adjectives used to describe the capital city: interesting, zany, nonsensical, inspiring, weird and wacky, to name just a few! After traveling to Skopje, we completely agree…with all of them. 

 

Top Things To Do in Skopje

During our trip, we were intent on discovering the best places to visit in Skopje – from the most celebrated tourist attractions to the newest marvels. Fellow travelers can use our list of what to see in Skopje, North Macedonia to plan their fun trip itinerary. In addition to outlining the best Skopje attractions, we include a helpful map and honest travel tips. 

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Skopje Travel Guide to plan your trip to North Macedonia!

 

#1 Marvel at Skopje Monuments and Statues

The statues and monuments in Skopje, Macedonia are mind-boggling. It’s not just the sheer number and size of the statues, but the seemingly random subjects, the borrowed icons and the peculiar placement of them that seem to puzzle the brain.

 

Must See Skopje Statues

The Warrior on a Horse monument can’t be missed – quite literally. Standing 80-feet-tall in the center of Macedonia Square, the statue is the spitting image of Alexander the Great, but is named Warrior on a Horse to ‘normalize relations’ with Greece. We will wade into the history behind this later in the article. Standing across the Vardar River, visitors can also see the enormous statue of Philip II of Macedon.

 

More City Centre Statues

While the gigantic statues that nod to the past can’t be missed when you visit Skopje, we think the smaller and even more bizarre creations are equally intriguing. Trying to make sense of some of them is useless.

Nevertheless, one of the unusual things to do in Skopje is to seek out these odd sculptures and works of art. We often felt like we were walking through a closet of stage props; the objects obviously manufactured simply to create a scene.

Try to find the “Charging Bull,” something often spotted in financial districts around the world, that is placed on a side street in front of a shoe shop. Search for the statue of a vagrant and the eerie woman playing a decaying harp along with one portraying a ‘down-and-out man’.

 

#2 Take a Skopje Walking Tour

Joining a walking tour of Skopje, where a local travel guide shares the fascinating history of Macedonia, is an excellent way to get acquainted with the city. Guided tours help visitors to understand some of the complexities that many tourists grapple to comprehend. 

On an incredibly affordable private tour, participants can choose what to see to based on their specific interests, while the knowledgeable guide leads the way. Check price and availability!

 

Free Skopje Tour

Alternatively, join a 3-hour group tour of the city center with Skopje Walks. The free tour (which is tip-based) hits all the highlights of Skopje with time to spare for a round of our tour guide’s homemade rakija!

 

#3 Wander through Old Bazaar Skopje

While much of the city has been renovated and transformed, the Skopje Old Bazaar remains an untouched piece of the historic past. We think it is one of the best places in Skopje to visit. The twisting cobblestone lanes are each dedicated to a specific trade. For example, one lane is known for jewelry stores, while another is the place to buy textiles. 

The unique street plan features short lanes. The design style was intentional in order to create a multitude of corner shops for better customer appeal. In addition to the many stores, there are a plethora of atmospheric cafes, bars and restaurants nestled into the Old Lanes of Skopje.

 

#4 Shop at the Bit Pazar 

One of the top Skopje things to do is to shop at the Bit Pazar. Whether you are looking for in-season vegetables or fresh ground spices, a shower head or fishing tackle, Bit Pazar is the place to go. Not only is it a shopping extravaganza, but it’s also where locals go for a barber, a game of chess and a hot cup of tea. 

Skopje’s Bit Pazar, the largest market in Macedonia, has it all. Beans overflow from burlap sacks. Loose-leaf tea is scooped into paper bags and sold by weight. Toiletries, canned good and hardware items are all jammed into compact vendor stalls. 

The market is an absolute feast for the senses. We recommend that travelers slow down and take it all in. Wander the labyrinth of hodge-podge merchandise, then find a table at a makeshift cafe to sip a hot tea and soak in the marketplace vibe.

 

#5 Relax in Skopje City Park

The massive City Park sits northwest of the center. The lush and sprawling space is the top place to go for a breath of fresh air. Paths crisscross the green area and playgrounds provides fun for families traveling with kids.

In the vicinity of the park, visitors will no likely notice the massive Todor Proeski National Arena, which is used for football (soccer) matches and concerts. The Skopje Zoo and Dinosaur Park are also nearby. Tickets are required to enter both the zoo and Dino Park, but they are inexpensive. 

 

#6 Visit the Old Skopje Railway Station

The Old Railway Station, an architectural masterpiece built in 1938, ranks as one of the top Skopje tourist attractions. Once a lively hub of activity, serving as the main entry and departure point in the heart of the city, it now stands as a relic frozen in time. 

On July 26, 1963 at 5:17 in the morning, a massive earthquake shook Skopje. The quake crumbled half of the station and crushed the city. Since then, time has stood still at Skopje’s Old Railway Station; the large dial clock still reads 5:17.

Today, the Museum of the City of Skopje occupies the interior of the old train station. The highlight is the gripping display detailing the day of the earthquake and the aftermath.

 

#7 Tour the Skopje Memorial House of Mother Teresa

Here’s a little known fact: Mother Teresa was born and raised in Skopje. She lived in the city until the age of 18 when she left to become a nun. Memorials dedicated to Mother Teresa are some of the top things to see in Skopje. Not to be missed is the Memorial House of Mother Teresa. 

Located at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Roman Catholic Church, where she was baptized when she was just one day old, the Memorial House exhibits artifacts from her life, as well as a small chapel and gift shop. Additionally, visitors can see where Mother Teresa grew up. Her childhood home sits just steps from Macedonia Square and is marked with a plaque.

 

#8 Walk Across Skopje Bridges

One of the fun things to do in Skopje is wander along the Vardar River, crossing over the numerous bridges. Stone Bridge, Art Bridge and Civilizations Bridge are three of the best. 

Stone Bridge, which connects Macedonia Square to the Old Bazaar, is an icon of city. The image is incorporated in its coat of arms and flag. The pedestrian bridge dates to the middle of the 15th century, but has seen several bouts of reconstruction over the many years.

Two relatively new bridges are Art Bridge and Civilizations Bridge. These lavish bridges are, naturally, ornately designed and incorporate some 57 statues.

 

#9 Step Inside the Church of The Holy Savior

Eastern Orthodox Christianity is the main religion in Skopje – and churches old and new are found throughout the city center. Visiting churches is one of the interesting things to do in Skopje. While the Macedonian Orthodox Church of Saint Clement of Ohrid ranks as the most important church in the city, we think Holy Savior is the most fascinating.

The Eastern Orthodox Holy Savior Church is hidden within a complex in the Old Bazaar. Tucked inside is a 30-foot-long wooden iconostasis. The floral details and bible depictions were hand carved by two brothers in the mid-1800s.

As one of the historic tourist attractions in Skopje, a small entry fee is required to go inside Holy Savior. Although the entrance ticket does not include a brochure of information, the caretaker happily shares intriguing bits of history and stories about the church and complex. 

 

#10 Explore Skopje Kale Fortress

The 6th century Skopje Fortress has long been a prime city sight. Referred to as ‘Kale’ – the Turkish word for ‘fortress’ – the once-exquisite stronghold is showing its age. All the same, trekking up to the fort is a must-do Skopje activity. 

Sitting high on a hill overlooking the city, views extend over rooftops to the surrounding mountains. Note that while the fortress walls have been reconstructed, parts of the interior are still in the process of restoration. Visitors can explore the fortress freely, just be sure to watch your step!

 

#11 Ride the Skopje Cable Car to Millennium Cross

Standing as one of the largest crosses in the world, the Millennium Cross is a top attraction in Skopje. The 217-foot-tall cross marks the highest point on Vodno Mountain and was built to honor 2,000 years of Christianity. 

For an up-close look of the famous cross – and the sensational views from the summit – visitors can either hike up the hillside or ride the cable car. The cable car station can be reached by car or bus; the roundtrip fare is about $2 USD.

In addition to the cross and viewpoints, there is a cafe at the top of Vodno Mountain. Hiking on the trails is another top activity. To make the most of the trip, we recommend packing a picnic lunch (and a jacket) and enjoying a full day outside of the city center!

 

#12 Discover Matka Canyon

For a real taste of the outdoors, locals and tourists alike head to picturesque Matka Canyon. Surrounded in stunning nature, the Treska River runs through the bottom of the cave-ridden gorge. To best discover the scenic region, visitors can hop aboard one of the boats that carry passengers on sightseeing journeys. 

The top destination is Vrelo Cave. It is notable for its two interior lakes and large ‘Pine Cone’ stalactite. Other interesting sights at Matka Canyon is St. Andrew’s Monastery, which was built in 1389. To really get a dose of nature and some exercise, take a hike on one of the many trails at Matka Canyon!

 

#13 Visit Museums in Skopje

Skopje museums are also interesting places for travelers to visit. Most lack good English translations, so have your translate app ready!

That said, the top city museums are clustered together near the east end of the Bridge of Civilizations. Tickets are required to enter each museum; the cost of entry is around $5 USD. 

• The Archaeological Museum of Macedonia features ancient artifacts.
• The Museum of the Macedonian Struggle for Independence uses detailed wax figures to share the history of Macedonia becoming a nation.
• The National Gallery of Macedonia Daut Pasha Hammam is a modern art gallery housed in former Ottoman baths. 
• The National Gallery Chifte Amam – located in the Old Skopje Bazaar near the Murat Pasha Mosque – displays artwork that spans centuries. 
• The Museum of the Republic of Macedonia showcases the ever evolving history of the country.

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Day Trips from Skopje, North Macedonia

Skopje is well-positioned so that travelers can discover tour more of the region. The best Skopje day trips take participants to scenic sights and across borders. 

 

Skopje Half Day Tour of Top Sights

Make the most of your time and join a half day adventure to two top sights in Skopje: Millennium Cross and Matka Canyon. With transportation and routes already organized, participants can sit back and enjoy the experience. Find out more!

 

Full Day Trip from Skopje to Lake Ohrid

We spent 2 weeks in Lake Ohrid, and can say without a doubt, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Macedonia. Those short on time can see the lakeside town on an organized Skopje day trip. Get the details!

 

Skopje Day Tour to Kosovo

Alternatively, grab your passport and spend a full day discovering two of the best cities in Kosovo: Pristina and Prizren. Learn about the history and culture of Kosovo and tour the top sights with a knowledgeable guide. Check prices!

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Skopje Food and Drink

We have highlighted our top picks for what to see and do in Skopje to get acquainted with the city. However, we think one of the great ways to get to know a place is to sample the local cuisine.

 

What To Eat in Skopje: Local Macedonian Fare

The food in Skopje tends to be rich and the portions are hearty. Most main dishes are meat-based, but there are some vegetarian options, like bean casseroles. Meals are typically balanced with fresh salads (covered with cheese) or accompanied by deep-fried, cheese-stuffed peppers.

Fast food in Skopje is similar to favorites found throughout the Balkans: Burek (flaky, meat- or cheese-filled rolled pastries) and Kebapi (minced-meat sausages). Sweet shops and bakeries sell syrupy tulumba (fried donuts) and other desserts. Regional and international fare can also be found in Skopje; Turkish fare is quite popular in the Old Bazaar.

 

Skopje Restaurants

During our stay we dined at an array of delicious local restaurants. We are sharing a few of our favorite places to eat in Skopje: one suggestion each for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

 

Gostilnica La Tana – Dinner

MAP. A top Skopje restaurant serving traditional cuisine, Gostilnica la Tana welcomes guests with an inviting atmosphere and a tantalizing menu. Prices are fair and they often have live music at night. Popular with both tourists and locals, it’s best to make reservations in advance. 

What to Order: Shopska Salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, cheese) and Selsko Meso (meat and vegetable casserole cooked in a clay pot). 

Top Tip: If there is no availability at La Tana, try Debar Maalo (called DM by many), where they are known for grilled meats. 

 

Galerija 7 Turkish Food – Lunch 

MAP. A hidden gem in the depths of the Old Bazaar, Galerija 7 makes exceptional classic, Turkish fare. They only serve two dishes – Lahmacun and Pide – and tea, of course. What to Order: Lahmacun (Turkish pizza topped with minced meat) and hot tea.

 

House of The Burek – Breakfast

MAP. Burek is a popular breakfast choice, but we eat it anytime! Burek shops are found throughout the city, but Burek House – or Куќа на бурекот – dishes out some of the best fresh-made burek we’ve eaten (and we’ve eaten a lot).

 

Where To Drink in Skopje

After a long day of sightseeing in Skopje, travelers can retreat to one of the many cafes or bars to sit back, relax and drink it all in. Turkish tea and coffee are very popular amongst the locals. When it comes to beer in Skopje, the choices are fairly limited. The two most popular Macedonian beers are Skopsko and Zlaten Dab. 

Rakija is the potent local spirit in North Macedonia and also found throughout the Balkans. The fruit-based brandy is produced in a variety of flavors – and can be sweet or strong. When ordering rakija, remember to sip – not shoot – it! 

 

Best Skopje Bars

There are three streets in Skopje that are teeming with cafes and bars: Jorgandziska (in the Old Bazaar), the Riverwalk (on the south bank of the river between Stone Bridge and Civilizations Bridge) and Macedonia Street (between Dame Gruev and Dimitrie Chupovski).

 

Star Grad Pivnica

The local craft brewery, Star Grad Pivnica, brews in the heart of Old Town and features a nice IPA along with a smokey Porter. A fun spot you can count on for a lively crowd, they also have a beer garden and live music. 

 

Rakija Bar Kaldrma

Offering more than 30 kinds of Macedonian rakija, Bar Kaldrma is a popular spot by day or late at night. Let the server know your taste and they will happily make a recommendation! 

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Skopje, North Macedonia Map

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Map of Skopje below. 

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Skopje Travel Tips

A lot more goes into planning a trip to Skopje than deciding which sights to see and tours to take. We are sharing some of our advice so that you can plan your best vacation!  

 

Making Sense of Skopje

On a first visit to Skopje, making sense of the city can be difficult, so it helps to have a little background. The city underwent a complete overhaul in the 2010s. The ambitious, lingering and costly plan was called the Skopje 2014 Project. The government initiative aimed to reinvent the city with a classical appearance in order to boost nationalism and attract tourists.

With a price tag of more than $700 million – an incredibly lofty amount for one of Europe’s poorest countries – not all residents were on board. Even those who agreed with the facelift were not pleased with the project itself, as the general opinion was that the government was corrupt and being wasteful.

Ornate facades now conceal socialist-era blocks, massive (and controversial) monuments were erected to recognize the great Macedonians of the past and a smattering of statues were recklessly strewn about to honor…well, just about everyone else. 

 

History of Skopje, Macedonia

That’s not to say that Skopje, Macedonia doesn’t have a story. Quite the opposite, actually. Evidence proves that civilizations thrived in the land of Macedonia as far back at 7,000 BC.

In the 4th century BC, conqueror Alexander the Great, King of Macedonia, created the world’s largest empire. Since that time, however, the land that was known as Macedonia has had its boundaries shifted and divided. Present day North Macedonia only officially became a nation in 1991, born from the collapse of Yugoslavia.

 

History of North Macedonia and Greece

In its short history as a country, Macedonia has already had its fair share of squabbles – mostly with neighboring Greece. Under contention has been the name, the flag and the claim of Alexander the Great, all of which Greece believes Macedonia has no right to use.

The original country flag, designed with the Vergina Sun, was replaced with a flag bearing the Sun of Liberty in 1995 after Greece disputed that Vergina is a symbol that belongs to them. In 2018, the two countries finally came to an accord and the official name was changed to the Republic of North Macedonia.

 

Where To Stay in Skopje

The best place to stay in Skopje, North Macedonia is in the city center, where sights, attractions and eateries are just steps away. There are ample hotels in Skopje that will fit a range of budgets. Before starting your search, read our Money-Saving Tips for Booking Hotels. 

 

Alexander Square Boutique Hotel

Offering an exceptional location in the heart of the city, the stylish Alexander Square Boutique Hotel warmly welcomes guests. Rooms are clean and comfortable – and the breakfast is on point! Check rates and availability!

 

Hotel Senigallia

Perhaps the most unique hotel in Skopje, Senigallia guests sleep in rooms on a classic ship docked along the riverside. Yet, the hotel offers affordable rooms and top-notch service. Check current rates!

 

Skopje Hostel

Rated as one of the top hostels in Skopje, the highly-rated Skopje Hostel offers dorm beds at budget prices. Check availability!

 

What To Pack for Skopje

Our final travel tips are all about what to stuff in your backpack or suitcase. Go on a grab you FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you on your way!

 

Versatile Shoes

When touring Skopje, you will want to wear a good pair of comfortable shoes. Use our Guide to the Best Travel Shoes to pick the right style for your trip! 

 

Travel Camera

We suggest upgrading to an actual camera for your trip to Macedonia. We use a Canon Rebel – which is a top-rated camera for budget travelers. 

 

Durable Day Pack

When sightseeing Skopje, it’s a good idea to carry a zippered day pack to organize your everyday travel items. We wear these small backpacks, but share advice on what makes a Good Day Bag for Traveling. 

 

European Travel Insurance

Trip insurance can help when things go awry – like lost luggage or getting sick abroad. If you haven’t already obtained coverage, check the affordable rates at World Nomads. 

 

Trip Planner for Europe

As you make plans and reservations, staying organized is key. Use our Travel Planning Printables to stay on top of all the specifics of your trip to the Balkans.

 

Start planning your trip to North Macedonia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

 

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