Skopje travel guide

Photo of Beautiful view of the Skopje Fortress (Kale Fortress) in Skopje.
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Introduction to Skopje

Skopje is a destination known for attractions like Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, and Millennium Cross. Travelers who visit this capital city of North Macedonia are often fascinated by the rich history and interesting culture it offers. We recommend taking the time to explore this city in North Macedonia on foot and walk alongside the over 526.5 thousand locals who live in Skopje. You’ll quickly discover you’re surrounded by endless numbers of things to see and do.

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

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Skopje as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Skopje is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Skopje below!

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

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Skopje, North Macedonia. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 400 airlines that fly to North Macedonia. Browse the 156 top-rated tours available to you in Skopje. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay in Skopje and the 9 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Skopje.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Skopje, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Skopje on your vacation in North Macedonia.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Skopje from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading 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

There are many reasons to visit the city of Skopje, but a trip to North Macedonia needs no explanation.

Exploring North Macedonia, which spans 25,713 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. North Macedonia offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, and the Millennium Cross, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in North Macedonia.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about North Macedonia.

What to see in Skopje

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

Skopje has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Skopje.

Top attractions in Skopje

Home to plenty of top attractions, Skopje is more than just a wonderful city in North Macedonia. Skopje is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of North Macedonia.

One fascinating sight 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 North Macedonia, check out our list of top attractions in Skopje below. Discover the best places to visit in Skopje, including the fascinating Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, Millennium Cross, City Park, and Mother Theresa Memorial House.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all 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.

Enrich your travel experience in Skopje by joining tours and activities. Skopje offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Skopje below.

Most popular experiences in Skopje

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Skopje.

Skopje offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Bus Tours, Historical Tours, and Private Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in North Macedonia.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Skopje by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Skopje

Travelers in Skopje can choose from 23 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Skopje is the fantastic Ohrid Full Day Tour from Skopje. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Skopje one of the best travel destinations in North Macedonia.

Skopje also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable 360 Virtual Reality Tour of Macedonia is the cheapest tour in the city. This experience costs around 10 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Skopje. Around 1 traveler have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Skopje and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Skopje below.

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Search for things to do in Skopje

Discover the best things to do in Skopje. Choose from 156 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.

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.

Vacation packages in Skopje

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

The best and easiest way to visit Skopje is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in North Macedonia.

Booking a vacation package to Skopje means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Skopje to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Skopje is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 35 unique vacation packages to Skopje, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Skopje.

Popular types of vacations in Skopje

The most popular way to experience Skopje is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in North Macedonia. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Skopje on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in North Macedonia, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across North Macedonia, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Skopje, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Skopje below.

Top vacation packages in Skopje

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in North Macedonia. In fact, you can choose from as many as 35 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Skopje, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of North Macedonia.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Skopje, book the popular Cheap 3-Day North Macedonia City Break in Skopje and spend as little as 158 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Skopje, including the fantastic Old Bazaar, Memorial House „Mother Theresa“, City Park, Square „Macedonia“, and Church of Saint Clement of Ohrid.

Get more Skopje vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in North Macedonia that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Skopje

Discover and compare 35 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Skopje.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Skopje get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in North Macedonia. Your customized holiday package to Skopje is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Skopje

To get to the city of Skopje the fastest way possible, travelers from outside North Macedonia can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Skopje by booking flights with any of the 44 airlines that offer direct flights to Skopje Alexander the Great airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Skopje Alexander the Great airport are United Airlines, Lufthansa, Ryanair, British Airways, and Delta Air Lines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Skopje.

To reach the city of Skopje, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Skopje Alexander the Great airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Skopje, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Skopje Alexander the Great airport and Skopje below.

Find cheap flights to Skopje

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

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Skopje, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in North Macedonia. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Skopje, North Macedonia, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Skopje costs around 15 EUR and is offered by the airline Wizz Air.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Skopje cost approximately 116 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on June 1 and the return flight is scheduled on June 3. The flight time is around 8 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Skopje Alexander the Great.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to North Macedonia and the city of Skopje from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Skopje

Travelers visiting Skopje in North Macedonia can fly to Skopje Alexander the Great airport directly from 2273 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Skopje Alexander the Great airport and the city of Skopje in North Macedonia depart from Albany airport in Albany, Australia, Santa Rosa airport in Santa Rosa, Argentina, and Mid Delta Regional airport in Greenville, the United States.

Travelers can fly to North Macedonia by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Albany; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Santa Rosa; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Greenville.

The airline that operates most flights to North Macedonia is Emirates. Emirates offers 749 scheduled flight routes to North Macedonia.

Discover the most popular flights to Skopje below. Click to view flights to Skopje, North Macedonia from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Skopje

Photo of View of Macedonian Archaeological Museum in Skopje.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Skopje is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Skopje usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Skopje offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Skopje and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Skopje planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Skopje, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in North Macedonia can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Skopje. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Skopje.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Skopje in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Skopje

A trip to the fascinating Skopje, North Macedonia, means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 175 hotels, 37 vacation rental apartments, 3 hostels, 1 guesthouse and 1 bed & breakfast. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Skopje provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Hotel De KOKA is one of the top picks of travelers in Skopje.

The hotel is located at Goce Delchev 5 and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, Air conditioning, and Airport shuttle.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Skopje. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Skopje, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose The Comfy Hostel. For approximately 11 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Skopje. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Skopje

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Skopje for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 218 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Skopje provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Skopje are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Skopje.

DoubleTree by Hilton Skopje offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Skopje. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hotel Ibis Skopje City Center, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Skopje, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hotel De KOKA, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Skopje. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Skopje on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Skopje that match the information provided.

Car rental in Skopje

Photo of wonderful summer cityscape of Skopje.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Skopje. Skopje has 9 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Skopje start from 34.5 EUR per day or 241.47 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is an Opel Corsa 1.2 Auto.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Skopje, starting from 16.19 EUR per day or 113.34 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Volkswagen Up 1.0.

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

Popular types of car rental in Skopje

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Skopje to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Skopje can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore North Macedonia at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Skopje is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Skopje is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Skopje.

Check out all options available in Skopje and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in North Macedonia below.

Search for car rental 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.

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.

Popular destinations to visit after Skopje

Photo of Porta Macedonia is a triumphal arch located on Pella Square in the centre of Skopje city.

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.

North Macedonia is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! 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 of 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 Vrelo underwater cave near Skopje.

A taste of North Macedonia through a visit to Skopje can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Skopje to another remarkable destination in North Macedonia.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Skopje to other spectacular locations in North Macedonia, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

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.

Popular domestic flights from Skopje

Travelers in North Macedonia can catch flights to domestic airports in Ohrid. Domestic flights in North Macedonia are operated by 7 airlines: Wizz Air, Wizz Air UK, Pegasus, Chair Airlines, and LOT Polish Airlines. There are around 7 scheduled flight routes operating to Skopje on a weekly basis.

From Skopje, travelers can book scheduled flights to 1 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Skopje depart to many top-rated destinations in North Macedonia and are offered by Wizz Air, Wizz Air UK, and Pegasus.

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