Full-Day Private Guided Cultural Tour of Ohrid from Skopje

Skopje , North Macedonia

Full-Day Private Guided Cultural Tour of Ohrid from Skopje

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About this experience

From the capital, we are travelling to the main tourist attraction in Macedonia and a UNESCO protected site, the town of Ohrid. Ohrid lies on the shores of one of the oldest lakes in Europe, Lake Ohrid. Everywhere in Ohrid, breathtaking views of the Lake will fill your eyes and cameras. Called the second Jerusalem on The Balkans, Ohrid is the center from where Christianity was spread in these lands.

Available options

Full-Day Private Guided Cultural Tour of Ohrid from Skopje

Pickup included

What's included

Pick-up and drop off at your hotel or any preferred location in Skopje

Experienced English-speaking tour guide/driver

All transfers with comfortable A/C car or minivan

Detailed itinerary

The constructors built this ancient theater between two hills which protected it from winds, and thus the ancient theater has incredible acoustics. Because of its acoustics, it is chosen as one of the main stages where the Ohrid Summer Festival takes place.

Stop 2

The fresco painting in this church represents some of the first works of the most prestigious medieval painters Michael and Eutychios. Their dramatic expressiveness was the basis of the new trend in Byzantine art from this epoch, called “The Renaissance of the Paleologues”, which was the last chapter of the Byzantine art. On the walls of this church, with extraordinary vitality, power, and obvious emotions, they have painted scenes from the life of the Mother of God and Jesus Christ.

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.

There are remains from different periods, from the Age of Bronze to the Middle Ages. The remarkable epoch of the Early Christianity left its traces in form of an Christian basilicas with magnificent floor mosaics revealing the secrets of the spiritual life of the population. At the end of the 9th century the first Slavic Archbishop and creator of the Cyrillic alphabet, St Clement, came to this area where he started a strong educational and literary activity. He opened the first Slavic University and from there the old Slavic culture was spread.

Standing alone on a cliff overlooking the Lake of Ohrid, above the fishing settlement of Kaneo, it is one of the landmarks of the old town of Ohrid and a favorite symbol in the entire city. The architecture is a combination of Byzantine and Armenian elements.

Stop 6

The church served as a cathedral church during Tzar Samoil’s ruling, and it was the central church of the Tzar Samoil patriarchy at that time. The church as it is today was renovated and adorned with frescoes in the time of the archbishop Leo, between 1037 and 1056.

What's not included

Boat ride

Entrance fees

Food and drinks

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The tour operates in various weather conditions, please dress accordingly

Comfortable walking shoes are recomended

Meeting point

Departure time: 8 AM or 9 AM

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

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.