North Macedonia uncovered: top things to do

North Macedonia might be one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. From ancient ruins and vibrant bazaars to breathtaking hikes and peaceful lakes, this small Balkan country punches well above its weight when it comes to unforgettable travel experiences. For travellers who love the outdoors, North Macedonia’s national parks are full of scenic hiking trails and diverse wildlife, including wolves and brown bears. Prefer an urban walk? Wander the cobbled streets of the Old Bazaar or dig into delicious Macedonian cuisine, including local delicacies like rakija (fruit brandy) and fresh baklava. Curious about what’s waiting for you? Dive into our guide to the top things to do in North Macedonia.

Uncover history at Skopje Fortress

Sitting high above the Vardar River, Skopje Fortress (also known as Kale Fortress) is a must-see for history buffs. Dating from the 6th century and built during the Byzantine era, this historic landmark has stood tall throughout centuries of invasions, rulers, and cultural changes. Exploring the fortress is like stepping back in time. Walk along the ancient walls, climb its towers, and snap incredible panoramic photos of Skopje’s skyline, including the Old Bazaar and the iconic Stone Bridge. It’s a top spot for a hands-on glimpse into North Macedonia’s history, and the views alone are worth the visit.

See it for yourself on: Kosovo & Macedonia Adventure: Tirana to Pristina

Wander through Skopje's Old Bazaar

Step into true Skopje culture at the Old Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest marketplaces in the Balkans. Dating back to at least the 15th century, this constantly buzzing hub has been a meeting point for traders, artisans, and shoppers for generations. Today, it’s a lively maze of cobblestone streets lined with colourful shops, traditional tea houses, and centuries-old mosques. Spend your time browsing stalls packed with handmade jewelry, ceramics, and textiles — perfect for grabbing some souvenirs. Don’t miss the Kapan Han and Suli Han, historic Ottoman inns that now house art galleries and cafés. The Old Bazaar is also a great spot for foodies to sample fresh baklava and sip Turkish coffee, as well as Macedonian drinks like rakija.

Experience it for yourself on: Balkans Uncovered: Zagreb to Pristina

Reflect at the Holocaust Museum

The Holocaust Museum in Skopje is a poignant tribute to the 7,148 Macedonian Jews who were deported during World War II. Located in the centre of the city, this museum offers a moving insight into Macedonia’s history, local Jewish life, and the devastating impact of the Holocaust. Take your time to look through photographs, personal artifacts, and a range of multimedia exhibits to learn about North Macedonia's Jewish community. Photography isn't allowed in all parts of the museum, and it's important to be quiet and respectful.

See it for yourself on: Albania, Kosovo, & Macedonia Adventure

Marvel at the Millennium Cross

Perched atop Mt Vodno, the Millennium Cross is one of the most iconic things to do in North Macedonia. At 66m (217 ft) tall, this colossal structure is one of the largest crosses in the world and offers sweeping views of Skopje and beyond. To get there, take the cable car from Sredno Vodno for a quick and scenic ride, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hike up one of the well-marked trails. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds. At a small café at the top, you can grab a coffee and a snack, and the area has plenty of benches for enjoying the views. Got extra time? Combine your trip with a hike to the Church of St Panteleimon for a full-day adventure.

Trek the trails of Galičica

Hiking in North Macedonia doesn’t get much better than this. Galičica National Park sits between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa and is a hiker’s paradise, with trails offering stunning panoramic views of both lakes and beyond. If you're interested in flora and fauna, you'll love the national park's diverse environment, home to rare orchids and the lesser-spotted Balkan lynx. A variety of marked trails suits all abilities, ranging from short walks to full-day treks. Some of the most popular routes include the climb to Magaro Peak at 2,255m (7,348 ft) for breathtaking vistas or the scenic paths through forested valleys. Start your hike early to avoid the midday heat and pack plenty of water.

Find solace at the Monastery of St Naum

Located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, the Monastery of St Naum is a gorgeously serene spot and a highlight of any trip to the Balkans. Founded in AD 905 by its namesake saint, the monastery is famous for its stunning Byzantine architecture, vibrant frescoes, and peaceful setting. To get here, take a boat ride from Ohrid for breathtaking lake views, or drive through Galičica National Park. The springs nearby are also worth a visit, and you can rent a rowboat for an even closer look. Add this to your list of things to do in North Macedonia on a sunny day.

Experience it for yourself on: Balkans Discovery: Montenegro to Kosovo

Explore Kokino Observatory

Another opportunity for North Macedonia to boast about its history: Kokino Observatory is a Bronze Age archaeological site and one of the world’s oldest observatories. Located 1,030m (3,379 ft) above sea level, this UNESCO-recognized site was used more than 3,800 years ago to track celestial events. Visiting Kokino Observatory is an easy day trip from Skopje by car. Once you've arrived, follow the short, well-marked trail up the rocky hill to explore ancient stone markers. The panoramic views at the top are magical, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Admire St John’s Church

On a cliff above Lake Ohrid, the Church of St John at Kaneo is one of North Macedonia’s most photographed landmarks, and it's easy to see why. This 13th-century Macedonian Orthodox church is well-loved for its unique blend of Byzantine and Armenian architectural styles, as well as its breathtaking setting overlooking the water. While the views are great throughout the day, a sunset visit promises unbeatable views with a golden glow across the church and the lake.

See it for yourself on: Albania, Kosovo, & Macedonia Adventure

Sail across Lake Ohrid

A place of superlatives, Lake Ohrid is one of Europe’s most ancient (1.3 million years old) and deepest lakes and is a must-visit destination on your list of things to do in North Macedonia. Sailing across its crystal-clear waters is the best way to soak up its beauty and explore its lesser-seen parts. Boat tours from Ohrid visit the most iconic landmarks, including the Bay of Bones, the Monastery of St Naum, and the picturesque villages dotting the shoreline. Visiting in the summer months? Pack swimwear to take a dip and bring some cash to buy treats from the small villages along the way.

Experience it for yourself on: Classic Balkan Adventure: Trebinje to Pristina

Discover Bigorski Monastery

On Bistra Mountain, Bigorski Monastery is one of North Macedonia’s most significant spiritual sites. Built in the 11th century and dedicated to St John the Baptist, the monastery is renowned for its intricate wooden iconostasis, which is widely considered a masterpiece of Macedonian craftsmanship. Explore the peaceful grounds, admire the frescoes, and sit back and relax amid the natural scenery. The monks welcome guests, and you can even plan your visit during a service for a more immersive experience. Have extra time? Pair your trip with a hike in nearby Mavrovo National Park to make the most of the area’s natural beauty.

Get into nature at Pelister National Park

Mountainous Pelister National Park is a beautiful place for nature lovers and travellers who enjoy the great outdoors. Famous for its ancient Molika pine trees, unique to the Balkans, this park is home to a great range of hiking trails, clear glacial lakes, and plenty of wildlife. Trek to the Pelister Eyes Lakes or climb to the summit of Pelister Peak at 2,601m (8,355 ft) for sweeping views of North Macedonia and Greece. If you're lucky, you might spot a Balkan lynx or soaring golden eagle.

On your way back to civilization, stop in the nearby town of Bitola for a meal. It has some excellent restaurants for budget-friendly Macedonian food. We love Jagoda Meze Bar for the best tres leches in town. GT Caffe has a great atmosphere with tables overlooking the streets.

Trace ancient life at Stobi

Stobi is one of North Macedonia’s most important archaeological sites and offers a great glimpse into ancient life. A thriving city in the Roman and early Christian eras, it features a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, intricate mosaic floors, and early Christian basilicas. Located just off the E75 highway, Stobi is an easy day trip from Skopje or Bitola. Some of the signs are in English, but you can book a guided tour for the full experience. Don’t miss the House of Peristeria, which has vibrant mosaics, or the baptistery, with its intricate design. Visit in the morning to avoid the heat and bring a hat and water — there’s limited shade.