North Macedonia is a landlocked country on the Balkan peninsula of southeastern Europe. In this North Macedonia tourist guide, you’ll learn all about the best places to visit in North Macedonia from charming old towns to ancient monasteries, wine regions, and national parks.
This small republic is still off the beaten path which makes it an exciting destination for adventurous travelers looking for a change from the more popular Balkan countries such as Croatia. I spent a few months living in the lakeside town of Ohrid, North Macedonia and it quickly became one of my favorite places in Europe.
North Macedonia has a rich history dating back millennia and evidence of this can be seen across the country from beautiful Orthodox monasteries to Ottoman mosques, ancient Roman and Illyrian ruins, and much more. There are so many hidden gems in North Macedonia that you won’t be bored for a moment.
Quick History Lesson
Like most countries in the Balkans, North Macedonia has a long history of many different empires and cultures; making it one of the most diverse in the region. From ancient Ilria and Thrace to the Roman Republic, Byzantine Era, and later Ottoman Empire and Yugoslavia, the country has held many different names throughout its history.
After the bloody breakup of Yugoslavia (from which Macedonia escaped largely unscathed), the country became the Republic of Macedonia. This angered the Greeks, as there’s a region in Greece with the same name which has a long association with their national hero, Alexander the Great.
In 2018 Greece and Macedonia came to an agreement for the latter to change its name to the Republic of North Macedonia. This decision was met with hostility from many (North) Macedonians (over 60% of them abstained from the vote). Regardless, the Prespa Agreement was ratified in January 2019.
With this in mind, North Macedonians still consider themselves “Macedonian”. and many are still unhappy with the change. Tread carefully when discussing such topics with locals, or better yet, leave politics out of the conversation entirely.
Best Places to Visit in North Macedonia
Below, you’ll find some of the best places to visit in North Macedonia from the vibrant capital Skopje to the stunning lakeside town (and my former home) of Ohrid, ancient ruins at Heraclea Lyncestic, mountainous national parks, sprawling vineyards, and hilltops dotted with churches and monasteries.
1. Skopje
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