Private day tour from Skopje to Ohrid and back, + Options
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Private day tour from Skopje to Ohrid and back, + Options

Active
10h - 14h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Guided by an experienced guide, born in Ohrid, you will visit the City of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for being one of Europe's oldest human settlements and for hosting the continent's oldest lake, Ohrid Lake. This journey offers you a rare opportunity to explore the city's wealth of unique historical, cultural, and natural treasures— from the oldest Slav monastery, St. Pantelejmon, and over 800 Byzantine-style icons, to endemic species found only in Lake Ohrid and prehistoric pile dwellings, highlighting the region’s unmatched significance.

We pride ourselves on being punctual, flexible, safe, and responsible, ensuring you enjoy an exceptional and memorable experience.

Available options

Skopje to Ohrid private tour

Duration: 12 hours<br/>Pickup included

To Ohrid with St. Naum and +++

Duration: 13 hours<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Transportation, guide and traditional breakfast at Straza.
The time alows entry into 3 sites maximum.

Detailed itinerary

1

Traditional breakfast (mekica, Yogurt, chees) on a half way toward Ohrid. Mountain Pass 1200 above the sea.

2
Stop 2

Sightseeing tour of the old city of Ohrid which includes
- the city port;
- the Cirillo and Methodius Monuments;
- St Clement & Naum;
- Cross Jumper;
- St Sophia Cathedral Church;
- St John Caneo Church;
- Plaosnic;
- Samuels Fortress;
- St. Mother of God Perivleptos;
- Chinar;
- Corso;
- Boat Tour;

Traditional Breakfast at Straza;
Optional:
- St Naum Monastery and Black Drim Springs;
- Podgradec, Albania and coffee stop;

3
Stop 3

We will start the familiarisation with the Ohrid on a Boat Tour near the old City.
The Lake Ohrid is one of Europe's deepest and oldest lakes, with a unique aquatic ecosystem of worldwide importance, with more than 200 endemic species.

North Macedonia's side of Lake Ohrid was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979, with the site being extended to also include the cultural and historic area of Ohrid in 1980. In 2010, NASA named one of Titan's lakes after it. In 2014, the Ohrid-Prespa Transboundary Reserve between Albania and North Macedonia was added to UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Albania's side of Lake Ohrid was also designated UNESCO world heritage status in 2019. North Macedonia's portion was designated as a protected Ramsar site in 2021, passing all nine criteria for proclamation.
In North Macedonia, a portion of the lakeside is part of the Galičica National Park.

4

The Church of Saint Sophia is a church in Ohrid is one of the most important monuments of North Macedonia, housing architecture and art from the Middle Ages.
The current church was built on the foundations of a metropolitan cathedral demolished in the first decade of the 6th century by the barbarian invasions that brought the early Slavs into the region. It was basically rebuilt in the last decade of the 10th century as a patriarchal cathedral in the form of a dome basilica, during the reign of Tsar Samuil an autocephalous Patriarchate. Later it became a seat of the Archbishopric of Ohrid, under the Patriarchate of Constantinople until the 18th century.

5

Saint John the Theologian, Kaneo is a Macedonian Orthodox church situated on the cliff over Kaneo Beach overlooking Lake Ohrid. The church is dedicated to John of Patmos, the writer of Revelation, who has been by some considered to be the same person as John the Apostle. The construction date of the church remains unknown but documents detailing the church property suggest that it was built before the year 1447. Archaeologists believe that the church was constructed some time before the rise of the Ottoman Empire very likely in the 13th century. Restoration work in 1964 led to the discovery of frescoes in its dome.

6

In the middle ages, the main square of the old city of Ohrid was on Plaosnik.
Here you will see the church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon, built by Saint Clement of Ohrid - a disciple of Saint Cyril and Saint Methodius.
According to archaeologists, the church is situated on the site where the first students of the Glagolitic alphabet were taught between the IX- X century.

7

Samuel's Fortress is a fortress in the old town of Ohrid, North Macedonia. It was the capital during the rule of Tsar Samuel at the turn of the 11th century. Today, this historical monument is a major tourist attraction and was heavily restored in 2003 with the addition of entirely new battlements where none had survived.

According to recent excavations by Macedonian archaeologists, it was contended that this fortress was built on the place of an earlier fortification, dated to the 4th century BC, which was probably built by King Philip II of Macedon. During the late 900s, King Samuil restored the fortress by rebuilding it into a medieval style stronghold which still stands as is today.

8

The oldest tree in Macedonia is the Platanus Orientalis in Ohrid. Whether a coincidence or not, the tree is growing since St. Clement of Ohrid period, in the 9th century.
Oriental plane, is a large, deciduous tree of the Platanaceae family, growing to 30 m and known for its longevity and spreading crown.The name derives from its historical distribution eastward from the Balkans, where it was recognized in ancient Greek history and literature. Following Greek usage it is called platane or related names in continental Europe. It was equally famous to the Iranian-speaking world and from Turkey to India is called chinar.

9

On the south-east side of Lake Ohrid, past the village Lubanishta and close to the border with Albania, you will find the Monastery of St Naum. It is a really stunning site, on a cliff high above the lake. Saints Clement (840-916) and Naum (835-910) were native Macedonians. Both had been disciples of the brothers Kiril and Metodi, the inventors of the Glagolitic and Cyrillic scripts. Clement founded the Monastery of St Clement in Ohrid, and invited his former fellow disciple Naum to help him teach the scriptures. Many pupils passed through the monastery and the numbers became so demanding that Naum set up the Monastery of St Naum in 900, at the other end of Lake Ohrid. In 1799 the tiny chapel over St Naums underground tomb was built. If you listen very well above the tomb, they say that you still can hear the heartbeat of St Naum. Touching the stone above the tomb should make a wish come true.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN HR SR

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The transportation time of the tour takes 6 hours & 30 minutes
In most of the restorants you can pay by card, or macedonian denar in kesh
Take your ID/passports with you just in case

About Skopje

Skopje, the vibrant capital of North Macedonia, is a city where ancient history and modern architecture collide. Known for its Ottoman-era bazaars, Roman ruins, and an abundance of statues, Skopje offers a unique blend of cultures and eras. The city's dynamic atmosphere and rich heritage make it an intriguing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Skopje Fortress (Kale)

The Skopje Fortress, also known as Kale, is an ancient fortress located in the heart of the city. It offers panoramic views of Skopje and a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Macedonian Square (Makedonija Square)

Macedonian Square is the main square in Skopje, surrounded by notable landmarks such as the statue of Alexander the Great and the Portico. It's a bustling hub of activity and a great place to people-watch.

Historical 30 minutes to a few hours Free

Old Bazaar (Čaršija)

The Old Bazaar is a historic market area that dates back to the Ottoman period. It's a maze of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and mosques, offering a glimpse into Skopje's rich cultural heritage.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, prices vary for shopping

Matka Canyon

Matka Canyon is a stunning natural area located just outside of Skopje. It offers beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and a variety of water activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore, prices vary for tours and activities

Stone Bridge

The Stone Bridge is an iconic landmark in Skopje, connecting the Old Bazaar with the modern city center. It's a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture and offers great views of the Vardar River.

Historical 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavče Gravče

A traditional Macedonian dish made with baked beans, onions, and various spices, cooked in a clay pot.

Dinner Vegetarian

Ajvar

A popular relish made from roasted red peppers, eggplants, and various spices.

Side Dish Vegetarian, Vegan

Shopska Salata

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated cheese.

Starter Vegetarian

Kebapi

Grilled minced meat sausages, typically served with ajvar, kaymak, and fresh bread.

Dinner Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Matka Canyon Caving in Vodno Mountain Boat tours on Matka Lake Spa and wellness treatments Exploring the Old Bazaar Visiting museums and galleries Boating on Matka Lake Swimming in local pools and spas

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather and plenty of sunshine, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and festivals.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Macedonian
  • Widely spoken: Albanian, English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Macedonian Denar (MKD)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Skopje is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
  • • Avoid exchanging money on the street.

Getting there

By air
  • Skopje International Airport • 17 km from city center
By train

Skopje Railway Station

By bus

Skopje Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Skopje, with an extensive network covering the city and its suburbs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi 24, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Bazaar (Čaršija) City Center Debar Maalo

Day trips

Matka Canyon
15 km from Skopje • Half day to full day

Matka Canyon offers stunning natural landscapes, hiking trails, and water activities, making it a perfect day trip from Skopje.

Vodno Mountain
5 km from Skopje • Half day

Vodno Mountain offers beautiful views of Skopje and the surrounding area, as well as hiking trails and a historic church.

Potočari Memorial Cemetery
200 km from Skopje • Full day

A solemn and moving memorial dedicated to the victims of the Srebrenica massacre, offering a poignant historical experience.

Festivals

Skopje Summer Festival • July Skopje Jazz Festival • October

Pro tips

  • Visit the Old Bazaar early in the morning to avoid the crowds and heat.
  • Try the local coffee and pastries at one of the many cafes in Debar Maalo.
  • Take a boat tour on Matka Lake for a unique and scenic experience.
  • Explore the underground caves of Matka Canyon for a thrilling adventure.
  • Visit the Millennium Cross on Vodno Mountain for a breathtaking view of the city.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 7
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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