Full Day Tour From Tirana-North Macedonia ,Lake Ohrid

Discover Europe's second oldest Lake Ohrid which inspired NASA in 2010 to name Titan's lakes after it. One of Balkan's best kept secrets maintains its picturesque identity thanks to being declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979, with its Albanian side also being designated world heritage status in 2019.

We will depart from your Tirana hotel early in the morning with an air-conditioned vehicle, tracing the same itinerary as the Romans did, when they traveled towards Constantinople.

We will have a quick coffee break by the Shkumbin River (15 minutes), prior to reaching the Albanian-North Macedonia border - two hours and a half after leaving the capital of Tirana.

Ohrid city once known as "Jerusalem of the Balkans" for having 365 churches - one for each day of the year, is one of only 28 sites worldwide that is part of UNESCO's World Heritage as both a Cultural and Natural site.

First mention of Ohrid was 2,400 years BC, when the town was called Lychnidos, meaning "city of light" or literally "a precious stone that emits light".

We will walk were Via Egnatia road once passed and there will also be a chance to find among the well preserved cable stones, windy roads, original freshwater pearls jewellery that are locally made - a perfect gift for your loved ones. In those three hours, there will be plenty of time to explore the Old Town and take in its breathtaking panoramas.

A testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of North Macedonia, the Church of Saint Sophia is a symbol of the country's medieval past and continues to inspire awe in all who visit it. Recognised for its architectural and artistic significance, the Church of Saint Sophia dates back to the 11th century and is believed to have been built during the reign of Tsar Samuel of Bulgaria, who made Ohrid the capital of his empire.

Built on the site of an earlier Paleochristian basilica it features a central nave with two side aisles and a dome. The exterior is adorned with intricate stonework and decorative elements and the interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes of the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries depicting scenes from the Bible, saints, and other religious motifs.

The artwork inside the church is considered some of the finest examples of medieval Macedonian art. The Church of Saint Sophia remains an active place of worship, hosting regular religious services and ceremonies.

The Church of Saint John the Theologian in Ohrid is another gem of Byzantine architecture and a significant cultural landmark in North Macedonia. Its picturesque setting by Lake Ohrid adds to its charm, providing a perfect backdrop for exploration, relaxation and fantastic photography.

Situated in the heart of the old city of Ohrid, this ancient theater dates back to the Hellenistic period, around the 3rd century BCE.

It is one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in Macedonia and is still used for performances and cultural events today.

The Chinar Tree is a famous and iconic natural landmark located on the promenade along the shores of Lake Ohrid. With its broad canopy with lush green foliage, this large and majestic oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis) stands out for its size and beauty, providing shade in the nearby picturesque cafes and local restaurants.

Often depicted in paintings, photographs, and postcards representing the city's charm and tranquility, the Chinar Tree is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Ohrid and is cherished by locals and visitors alike, offering a peaceful oasis amid the bustling city and serving as a gathering spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, and social gatherings.

This remarkable natural landmark is also a cherished symbol of the city's identity and heritage, a testament to the enduring beauty of nature and the timeless allure of Lake Ohrid and its surroundings.