A hidden gem right in the heart of the Balkans, North Macedonia is famous for its impressive landscapes, tasty cuisine, warm locals, and rich and varied history. It’s also a cultural melting pot and is both part Balkan and part Mediterranean — which makes it wholly unique. Explore UNESCO-listed monasteries and 15th century bazaars, hike through picturesque mountains prowled by lynxes and bears, or sample delicious local food and wines too.
Visa requirements may change, so for the most up to date information we recommend using our Entry Requirements tool. Alternatively, check the North Macedonian embassy website in your country of departure.
Recommended vaccinations for North Macedonia include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, and tetanus. However, as advice often changes, you can check out our Entry Requirements tool for the most up-to-date details on vaccination requirements.
North Macedonia has a continental climate, with distinct seasons that vary depending on the region. Generally though, Summers (June to September) are hot and dry, with temperatures typically ranging from 25 to 35°C (77 to 95°F). Winters (December to February) can be harsh and cold, especially in the mountainous regions, where snow and ice are common. Temperatures tend to range from -1 to 5°C (30 to 41°F), but it can feel colder with wind chill.
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) both offer mild temperatures with occasional rain showers — expect average temperatures of around 10°C (50°F) in March to 20°C (68°F) in May. Rainfall tends to be at its highest between the months of November and February.
The best time to visit North Macedonia really depends on the type of experience you're looking for, but generally, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are considered the most ideal times. Temperatures are pleasant and there’s plenty of sunshine, meaning that this is the ideal time to go hiking or sightseeing. Autumn is also the harvest season, so you can experience local food festivals and wine tastings — especially in regions like Tikveš.
Summer (June to August) is good if you want to visit the lakes and don’t mind hot weather and crowds. Winter (December to January) sees plenty of snowfall — ideal if you’re wanting to hit the slopes.
Tipping is not required in North Macedonia, but it is appreciated for good service. While service charges are typically included in bills at restaurants and cafes, leaving a tip is a common practice if you're happy with the service. 5 to 10% is a good ballpark figure.
There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.
At the end of each trip, if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €30-€40 per person, per week can be used as a guideline.
Internet access in North Macedonia is generally good, especially in towns and cities, with widespread availability of both Wi-Fi and mobile data. Public Wi-Fi is available in some places like libraries, malls, and transportation hubs, though the quality may vary. Most cafes, bars, restaurants, and hotels offer decent Wi-Fi.
Yes — ATMs are widely available in major cities such as Skopje, Ohrid, Bitola, and Tetovo. Most will accept international cards like Visa, Mastercard, and occasionally American Express.
Please note that you may be charged a transaction fee for withdrawals — check with your bank before you travel. If you’re heading out into rural areas, it’s a good idea to carry cash with you in case you can’t locate an ATM.
North Macedonia has made some progress regarding LGBTQ+ rights in recent years, but it remains a relatively conservative society, and LGBTQ+ individuals may still face social stigma and discrimination. It therefore pays to be discreet.
As part of their commitment, all CEOs receive LGBTQ+ inclusion training so every traveller feels respected and welcomed on all of our tours. We commit to making our tours a safe and inclusive place for people to express their authentic selves without judgement, free from any discriminatory language or harassment.
While travelling with G Adventures, all travellers must treat each other with dignity and respect to create an environment that is positive, safe, and where everyone feels welcome. You can find out more via our LGBTQ+ travel page.
In North Macedonia, the official language is Macedonian, which is spoken by the majority of the population. Other languages spoken here include Albanian, Turkish, Roma, Serbian, and Vlach. English is also widely understood and increasingly spoken.
Yes — tap water is safe to drink in North Macedonia as a general rule. However, due to its high mineral content, it may not be pleasant to drink for everyone. Bottled water is widely available and relatively inexpensive.
In a word, yes — North Macedonia is considered to be incredibly safe, though as with everywhere in the world, petty crime does exist. Use common sense and you should run into no issues.
G Adventures takes all reasonable measures to ensure your safety and enjoyment while travelling with us. All of the included activities are properly vetted and regularly checked by us, and we take great care in choosing the right transportation, stays throughout your trip, and guides leading your tour. However, there are always inherent risks when travelling — you can find out more via our Travel Safety page.
