3-day itinerary for Skopje, Macedonia that you'd want to steal
When to Visit
While the Balkans are generally quite well-equipped to deal with heat, summers in Skopje can soar up to 40 degrees Celsius. I would recommend opting for shoulder season (i.e. spring or autumn( for a more pleasant experience.
Getting Around
You can definitely explore Skopje on foot, given most attractions lie within a 30-minute walk from the city center. Public buses offer a convenient alternative, with easily identifiable stops and onboard ticket purchase options. For excursions beyond the city, like the breathtaking Matka Canyon, consider renting a car or joining a guided tour (see below for more information).
Itinerary
Day 1: City Exploration
For the first day, I would recommend exploring the city center. Start your morning off at the Old Bazaar, where its cobblestone streets and Ottoman architecture transport you back in time. The bazaar is a treasure trove of artisans, offering everything from traditional crafts to modern trinkets, making it the perfect place to find unique souvenirs. And when hunger strikes, indulge in the flavors of Macedonia at one of the many charming cafes and restaurants tucked away in its allies. It is also lined with various pubs with live music and nice vibes if you fancy a drink in the evenings!
After exploring the Old Bazaar, walk towards the main street where you will pass by Skanderbeg Square, and another 5 minutes walk will bring you to the stone bridge. As the name suggests, its massive stone arches connect the old and new parts of the city. It offers a stunning view of the Vardar River and the many iconic statues and buildings lining its banks. As you cross from one side to the other, it will be hard to miss the Archaeological museum and Museum of Macedonian Struggle flanking its banks, both of which has unique and beautiful architecture.
Continuing your stroll will bring you to Macedonia Square, which is another bustling area of Skopje. Here you will find yourself surrounded by more modern and corporate buildings, but most notably in its center is the Monument of Alexander III of Macedonia. A fun fact about the statue is the controversy surrounding its construction and the divisive opinions it elicits among locals and visitors alike. Some see it as a symbol of national pride and heritage, while others view it as a controversial political statement. To the left of the square you will come across the Triumph Arch Macedonia, which pays homage to Macedonia's rich history and cultural heritage. Direct your attention to its intricate design, adorned with intricate reliefs and symbolic motifs that narrate the country's story.
A 15 minute walk will bring you to the Church of Saint Clement of Ohrid, which is a must-see attraction due to its stunning Byzantine architecture, adorned with intricate frescoes and ornate decorations that showcase centuries of artistic craftsmanship. Moreover, the church holds significant religious importance for Orthodox Christians, making it a sacred pilgrimage site for many. We had the fortune of chancing upon a wedding taking place within the church when we visited, allowing us to have a true glimpse into the significance of the church within the daily lives of the locals.
Day 2: Day Trip
Embark on a day trip to Mount Vodno and Matka Canyon, just an hour's drive from central Skopje. If you don’t fancy driving, you can easily find a tour online as we did for c.£15 per person (or about 18 euros) which includes transport to and fro both places and a tour guide to bring a little more colour throughout the trip. Ride the cable car to the summit of Mount Vodno for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, crowned by the iconic Millennium Cross. The cross stands over 66 meters tall and is a symbol of Macedonia’s rich Orthodox Christian tradition and a symbol of hope and unity of the nation. You can also spot the Telecom tower in the background, its sleek design contrasting with the rugged beauty of the mountain. There is also a restaurant at the summit if you wish to enjoy a refreshing drink amidst the hot Skopje weather.
An alternative for a day trip would be Kozjak Lake, which was recommended to me by a local Macedonian friend. It is a less touristy experience, ideal for a leisurely hike or lakeside relaxation.
Day 3: Leisurely Farewell
Spend your final day leisurely exploring City Park and Skopje Fortress. Adjacent lies Skopje Fortress, and on your way you can admire landmarks such as pausing to admire landmarks like the Art Bridge and Holocaust Memorial Sculpture. The Fortress offers panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into its ancient past through well-preserved ruins. I’d recommend visiting at sunset to catch a 360 degree panoramic view of Skopje baked in golden hues as you walk around the top of the fortress.
Skopje beckons with its seamless blend of history and nature, making it a must-visit destination in the Balkans especially given its convenient location and accessibility to the rest of Europe. Alongside Skopje, I also visited Albania and Lake Ohrid - see my other blog posts here if you’re considering those locations for your Spring / Summer holiday!
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