Skopje travel guide

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Introduction to Skopje

Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, and Millennium Cross have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Skopje, North Macedonia. This capital city of North Macedonia is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 526.5 thousand people, the city of Skopje is truly one of the main highlights of North Macedonia.

Traveling to Skopje is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions. Dive deeper into the heart of the city's heritage, traditions, and community events by exploring the official website of Skopje.

Easily accessible from Skopje Alexander the Great, Skopje is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in North Macedonia any time of the year.

History of Skopje

Skopje, the capital of the Republic of North Macedonia, boasts a rich and fascinating history that dates back to over 2,000 years ago.

Originally a settlement established by the Dardanians, it was later conquered by the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, each leaving an indelible mark on the city's culture and architecture. The iconic Stone Bridge, a central symbol of Skopje, was built under Ottoman rule in the 15th century.

In the 20th century, Skopje endured dramatic changes. A devastating earthquake in 1963 razed much of the city, but it was rebuilt with the help of international aid, resulting in a blend of architectural styles and periods. After the dissolution of Yugoslavia in 1991, Skopje became the capital of the newly independent Republic of North Macedonia.

Today, Skopje is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its historical past with modern elements, making it a captivating destination for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Top services in Skopje

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Skopje, North Macedonia. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Skopje, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to North Macedonia. Check out the best things to do in Skopje by browsing over 175 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the stays and 11 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Skopje with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Skopje from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Skopje with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Skopje travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Skopje!

Best time to visit Skopje

The best time to explore Skopje, the capital of the Republic of North Macedonia, is during the late spring and early summer months, from May to June, and in the early autumn months of September and October. During these periods, the weather is warm and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 28°C, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months of July and August can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds. The Skopje Summer Festival, which takes place in July and August, attracts a large number of tourists, enriching the city's cultural and nightlife scene with music, theater, and art events. However, if you want to experience Skopje when it's quieter, consider visiting in late autumn or winter. Despite colder weather, the city's architectural landmarks and museums can be enjoyed without the summer crowds. Regardless of when you decide to visit, Skopje offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine that will make your trip memorable.

Local tip for visiting Skopje

When you're visiting Skopje, an insider tip is to explore the city through the eyes of a local by visiting the Old Bazaar. Although it's a popular tourist location, it's worth getting off the beaten track and venturing deeper into the maze of narrow cobblestone streets. Here, you'll find authentic restaurants, bakeries and coffee shops that are loved by locals and offer an authentic experience away from the more tourist-driven parts of the market. You can also discover unique local handicrafts and artworks not available in the main market. It's a chance to see Skopje's rich history and culture come to life, and to engage with friendly local vendors who can share stories that give you a deeper understanding of the city. This insider tip will not only provide a richer cultural experience but also supports local businesses.

Learn more about North Macedonia

With destinations such as Skopje, a trip to North Macedonia needs no further explanation. Spanning over 25,713 square kilometers, North Macedonia is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, North Macedonia has something to enchant every traveler.

In Skopje alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, and Millennium Cross. Thus, a trip to North Macedonia becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, North Macedonia offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in North Macedonia. Click or tap the link below to discover more about North Macedonia and its offers.

What to see in Skopje

Photo of view of beautiful tourist attraction, lake at Matka Canyon in the Skopje surroundings.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Skopje, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Skopje offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Skopje travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Skopje

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Skopje is more than just a wonderful city in North Macedonia. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into North Macedonia's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Skopje is the unforgettable Old Bazaar. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Skopje.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Skopje, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Skopje, including the fascinating Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, Millennium Cross, City Park, and Macedonia Square.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Skopje.

Things to do in Skopje

Photo of flowers on the shore of Vardar river. Exciting spring cityscape of capital of North Macedonia - Skopje with Archaeological Museum.

You've explored Skopje's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Skopje. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Skopje, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Skopje

A visit to Skopje gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Bus Tours, Historical Tours, Guided Day Trips, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Skopje, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Skopje. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Skopje offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Skopje

In Skopje, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 25 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Trips & Excursions.

Trips & Excursions offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Skopje. For example, the fantastic Ohrid Full Day Tour from Skopje.

Skopje also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. 360 Virtual Reality Tour of Macedonia, for example, is the cheapest Walking Tour option in the city. This experience costs around 10 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Skopje adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Skopje right below.

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All Experiences in Skopje

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Search for things to do in Skopje

Discover the best things to do in Skopje. Choose from 175 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Skopje. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Skopje.

What to eat in Skopje

Skopje, the capital city of the Republic of North Macedonia, is a gastronomic paradise with an eclectic mix of Ottoman, Mediterranean and Balkan cuisines. The Old Bazaar is a food lover's haven, bustling with traditional eateries, street food stalls and bakeries. Here, you'll find Tavče Gravče, a tasty baked beans dish, and Pastrmajlija, a spiced meat pie - both quintessential Macedonian delicacies. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Debar Maalo district, home to some of the best places to eat in Skopje, serving gourmet interpretations of local dishes. Make sure to try Ajvar, a delicious red pepper spread, and Shopska Salad, a fresh tomato, cucumber, and cheese salad. Wash it all down with a glass of Vranec, Macedonia's signature red wine. Bear in mind, Macedonian meals are often slow and social affairs, so take your time to truly savour the flavours. Also, tipping is customary in Skopje, so remember to leave 10-15% of your bill for the service.

Best Shopping in Skopje

Skopje, the capital of the Republic of North Macedonia, offers a diverse shopping experience combining traditional markets with modern malls. A must-visit is the Old Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the Balkans. It's a labyrinth of small streets filled with shops selling traditional Macedonian crafts, jewelry, and antique items. Here, you can find handmade copperware, intricate embroidery, and locally produced wines, making it the best place to go shopping in Skopje for souvenirs.

For a more contemporary shopping experience, head to the City Mall or Skopje City Centre, both home to a mix of international and local brands. Skopje's fashion scene is a blend of Eastern and Western influences, offering a unique style that's worth exploring.

Remember, bargaining is common in the markets, but not in malls or branded stores. Most places accept credit cards, but carrying some local currency is advisable for smaller shops and stalls. Shopping in Skopje offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a memorable part of your Macedonian adventure.

Best free things to do in Skopje

Exploring Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, need not be expensive. One of the best free things to do in Skopje is a visit to the Old Bazaar. An emblem of the city's rich cultural tapestry, this vibrant market is filled with historic mosques, caravanserais, and hamams. Stroll through the maze of cobbled streets, soak up the atmosphere, and marvel at Ottoman architecture. Another must-see is the Macedonia Square. Home to the impressive 'Warrior on a Horse' statue and surrounded by neoclassical buildings, this bustling square is a testament to the city's history and resilience. For nature enthusiasts, the City Park offers a serene escape. This lush green space houses a lake, monuments, and a zoo, making for a perfect day out. Lastly, a hike up to the Kale Fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the Vardar River. This medieval fortress, standing since the 6th century, provides a glimpse into Skopje's military past. These experiences promise a fulfilling exploration of Skopje's charm without spending a dime.

How to get to Skopje

International travelers can fly to Skopje by booking flights with Wizz Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Wizz Air UK, Pegasus, and Chair Airlines, offering flights to Skopje Alexander the Great. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Skopje.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Skopje, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Skopje. Go to this page to compare all flights to Skopje.

Find cheap flights to Skopje

Photo of Skopje Fortress is a historic fortress located in the old town of Skopje city.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Skopje is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Skopje. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Skopje, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Skopje even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Skopje both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Skopje

Travelers visiting Skopje can easily access the city via Skopje Alexander the Great, offering direct connection to 1302 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Skopje below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Skopje and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Car rentals in Skopje

Photo of the Art bridge leading towards the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Financial Police in skopje

To navigate Skopje effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 11 car rental companies in Skopje, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Skopje start at 35 EUR per day or 243 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Suzuki Swift. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Skopje, starting at 25 EUR per day or 177 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Volkswagen Polo.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Skopje, North Macedonia below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Skopje

Renting a car in Skopje is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Skopje, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Skopje for your upcoming adventures in North Macedonia below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Skopje

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Skopje. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Skopje, North Macedonia, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Skopje

Photo of View of Macedonian Archaeological Museum in Skopje.

The city of Skopje is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in North Macedonia. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that North Macedonia has it all.

Each destination in North Macedonia offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in North Macedonia that are as magical as the city of Skopje. The most popular travel destinations in North Macedonia are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in North Macedonia

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in North Macedonia. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Skopje

Photo of wonderful summer cityscape of Skopje.

Experience the authentic charm of North Macedonia by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Skopje. Explore other destinations around North Macedonia with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Skopje to other amazing locations in North Macedonia, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in North Macedonia for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Skopje.

Search domestic flights from Skopje

Traveling to another city or region in North Macedonia? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Skopje to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in North Macedonia on the selected dates.

Transportation in Skopje

Getting around Skopje, the capital city of the Republic of North Macedonia, is easy and convenient thanks to its diverse transportation options.

Public buses are the primary mode of transportation, with routes covering the entire city and suburbs. The bus service is efficient, reliable, and affordable, making it an ideal choice for both locals and tourists. Tickets can be purchased at bus stations or from the driver.

Taxis are readily available and provide a more private and faster alternative. Major service providers include Ekonomi Taxi and Nova Taxi. Rental car services are also available, with numerous companies offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs.

For a unique local transportation experience, consider taking a ride on the Skopje Cable Car. The cable car provides a stunning view of the city, making it a must-try experience for visitors. Remember to also explore the city on foot to truly immerse yourself in its charm and character.

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