Top 6 Best Things To Do in Ohrid

Come and experience the top 6 best things to do in Ohrid, a stunning lakeside town filled with history and charm. Wander through ancient streets, sail across crystal-clear waters, and uncover new adventures at every turn. Start planning your trip now, and let this UNESCO-listed gem captivate you.

Ohrid is a city in southwestern North Macedonia, situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Known as the Jerusalem of the Balkans, it’s home to historic churches, scenic lake views, and a charm that draws visitors. Here, you can enjoy a wide selection of tours in Ohrid and uncover the town’s treasures.

The best part of visiting this place is the ability to personalize your adventure with a diverse range of vacation packages in Ohrid that are designed just for you. This way, you can ensure that every moment of your trip is thoughtfully curated.

To help you make the most of your time, we've put together this guide highlighting the top things to do in Ohrid that will make your journey exciting and memorable. Get inspired by Ohrid’s top itineraries and start reading to plan your trip today!

6. Prepare Ohrid’s Best Cuisine by Joining a Cooking Class

If you enjoy discovering new flavors, joining a cooking class in Ohrid offers an authentic taste of Macedonian cuisine. Learn to prepare traditional dishes like burek, a savory pastry filled with meat or cheese, and komat, a soft, round pie that complements any meal.

Get hands-on experience as you knead the dough and create these specialties from scratch. Once your culinary creations are ready, enjoy a lunch paired with local wine. This experience is a must-do in Ohrid, offering the perfect way to savor authentic flavors while immersing yourself in Macedonia’s rich culinary traditions.

Your experience might include a sample menu of local delights such as tavce gravce (baked beans), sarma (stuffed cabbage), and pindzur, an Ohrid specialty spread. For dessert, indulge in sutlijash, a creamy rice and milk treat. This flavorful experience is one of the top things to do in Ohrid for food lovers.

Tips for a Great Cooking Class Experience in Ohrid

Before joining a cooking class in Ohrid, be ready to roll up your sleeves and get hands-on in the kitchen. Wear comfortable clothing, as you’ll be kneading dough and handling ingredients. Most classes provide everything you need, but bringing an appetite and curiosity will make the experience even more enjoyable.

Be open to learning by asking questions and engaging with the instructor to pick up authentic techniques. Taking notes or photos can help you recreate the recipes later. Joining a cooking class is one of the top things to do in Ohrid, and it offers a fun and interactive way to connect with local cuisine.

5. Enjoy a Boat Trip to St. Naum Monastery From Ohrid

A boat trip from Ohrid to St. Naum Monastery offers stunning views of Lake Ohrid. The route passes historical sites like the Bay of Bones and traditional fishing villages that reflect the region’s way of life. You’ll also see landmarks, such as the former residence of Yugoslav leader Tito, with guides sharing insights into the area.

St. Naum Monastery, built in the 10th century, is known for its colorful frescoes and peaceful setting by Lake Ohrid. Inside, visitors can see Saint Naum’s tomb and follow the tradition of listening to his heartbeat. The monastery is also home to free-roaming peacocks, often seen resting in the gardens or near the church.

After visiting the monastery, enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Take a peaceful rowing boat tour on the clear springs of the Black Drim River, passing through lush greenery and wildlife. You can also explore on foot, have a meal by the lake, or swim in the fresh waters before returning to Ohrid, North Macedonia.

Tips for Visiting St. Naum Monastery

To ensure a smooth visit to St. Naum Monastery, check the boat departure schedules in advance. Planning your visit in the morning or late afternoon helps avoid larger crowds and provides optimal natural light for photography. This timing also enhances the experience of exploring the monastery's serene surroundings.

4. Discover the Beauty of Galicica National Park

If you’re up for some adventure, you won't want to miss a full-day ATV tour through Galicica National Park. This park lies between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa, offering stunning views as you ride through its scenic trails. Ultimately, it delivers a thrilling experience that combines adrenaline with the beauty of nature.

For a slower pace, hiking in Galicica is one of the best things to do in Ohrid, with paths leading through forests and meadows to breathtaking viewpoints. Families can explore the shorter trails, while avid hikers might choose more challenging routes.

Nature lovers will appreciate Galicica National Park's rich biodiversity, from rare birds like the golden eagle to seasonal wildflowers like the Chalcedonian lily. Hiking or simply taking in the views makes this park a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Tips for Your Galicica National Park Adventures

Bring water, snacks, and a trail map to stay prepared. Sturdy boots and a hat are essential for comfort on rugged terrain. Check with local operators for accessible routes, as some areas are protected. For the best experience, hike early or late when the weather is cooler and the light is golden.

3. Take a Sip of Ohrid’s Best Wines

For wine lovers and food enthusiasts, Ohrid’s immersive food and drink experiences highlight the region’s rich culinary traditions. Nearby wineries provide the perfect setting to sample exquisite wines while soaking in the serene landscapes surrounding the lake.

Among the best things to do in Ohrid is to join the Monastery winery tour and tasting. You’ll get to explore the stunning St. Cosmas and Damian Monastery and sip on some of the region’s finest wines afterward. The peaceful atmosphere and lush vineyards make it a perfect spot to escape the city for a while.

If you’re looking for something equally relaxing, the S&S Winery wine-tasting experience in Ohrid is a great choice. This tour lets you taste unique wines from local grape varieties in a picturesque vineyard. It’s a calm, leisurely way to spend an afternoon surrounded by Ohrid’s natural beauty.

Tips for a Memorable Wine-Tasting Experience in Ohrid

If you’re planning to join one of these fantastic wine tours in Ohrid, it’s a good idea to make your reservation ahead of time. This way, you’ll be sure to secure a spot and experience one of the best things to do in Ohrid. And, if you want to remember the flavors, jot down your tasting notes or favorite wines.

2. Embark on a Scenic Lake Ohrid Cruise

A sunset cruise on Lake Ohrid is the perfect way to experience one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes. The lake is encircled by stunning natural landscapes, including the lush slopes of Mount Galicica, which rises to about 7,398 feet (2,255 meters) and separates Lake Ohrid from Lake Prespa.

Enjoy stunning views as the sun sets below the horizon. A cruise on this pristine lake is one of the best things to do in Ohrid, offering mesmerizing landscapes and rich biodiversity. For a more active experience, try a stand-up paddle tour in Lake Ohrid to explore the serene waters up close.

If you want to admire the scenery from a different angle, you can join the paragliding activity above Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia. It’s an adrenaline-pumping way to experience the stunning landscape, offering a thrilling adventure and unforgettable memories.

Tips for an Enjoyable Lake Ohrid Experience

For the sunset cruise, bring a light jacket, as it can get cooler in the evening. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views, a highlight among the best things to do in Ohrid. If you're paragliding, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and consider bringing an action camera for unforgettable aerial shots.

1. Stroll Through the Ancient Streets of Ohrid

To experience the best of the city, an Ohrid walking tour is a must. As you wander through ancient cobblestone streets, you’ll be surrounded by medieval architecture, cozy cafes, and quaint shops that give the old town its distinct character.

If you want to extend your exploration, one of the top things to do in Ohrid is to visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo. Perched on a cliff, this iconic church offers some of the best views. For the perfect shot, try to visit early in the morning or late afternoon when the light is just right and the crowds are thinner.

Another must-see is the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, which was unearthed in the 1980s. Dating back to the Hellenistic period, it’s still used for cultural events and concerts today. If you happen to be in town during the Ohrid Summer Festival, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a performance in a truly historic setting.

Tips for a Memorable Walking Tour in Ohrid

Wear comfortable shoes for walks around Ohrid’s top attractions and stunning views. Bring your camera to capture the beauty, and consider a guided tour to explore the top things to do in Ohrid.

What to do in Lake Ohrid?

Lake Ohrid offers a variety of activities on and around the water. You can enjoy scenic boat tours, swim at the beaches of Kaneo and Gradiste, or visit historical sites like the Church of St. John at Kaneo. For those who enjoy nature, hiking in Galicica National Park offers panoramic views of the lake.

To experience local culture, one of the best things to do in Ohrid is to dine at lakeside restaurants offering Macedonian specialties and regional wines. You can also explore the nearby Monastery of Saint Naum on the lake’s edge. With cultural events like the Struga Poetry Evenings, the lake area offers something for everyone.

What are the best things to do in Ohrid at night?

Ohrid offers a nightlife that blends cultural experiences with leisurely activities. A stroll along the Old Town waterfront provides stunning views of the illuminated lake and historic landmarks. Many restaurants and bars serve traditional Macedonian dishes and local wines, creating a relaxed evening atmosphere.

For entertainment, visitors can enjoy live music in Ohrid's lively city center or attend seasonal cultural events. During the summer, concerts at the Ancient Theatre showcase local and international performances, adding a unique charm to Ohrid’s nightlife.

What are the best things to do in Ohrid in winter?

While summer is peak season, Ohrid still has plenty to offer in winter. Exploring historic sites like Samuel’s Fortress and the Church of St. John at Kaneo is enjoyable with fewer crowds. Galicica National Park offers stunning lake views, which can be enjoyed from scenic drives and viewpoints.

Enjoying a warm dish like tavce gravce (baked beans) and local wine in a cozy restaurant is a must-do in the city. While boat trips on Lake Ohrid are less common in winter and may be limited, some operators still offer them. These experiences are great additions to the top things to do in Ohrid.