North Macedonia’s capital city of Skopje is a diamond in the rough. While there are signs of its rich history and heritage dotted throughout the city, it’s been dominated by drab Soviet-era buildings. However, scratch below the surface, and you’ll find a vibrant city emerging both culturally and architecturally from the Soviet era. From the café culture of Debar Maalo to the neo-classical building boom that has transformed the city center, Skopje is a city finding its feet. This guide will give you a flavour for the best things to see and do in Skopje in a day and who knows, you might just decide to stay longer.
The weather largely drives the best time to visit Skopje. Skopje benefits from a relatively unique climate, which results in hot, dry summers and cold winters. During the winter months, temperatures regularly fall below 0°C, and snow isn’t uncommon, while the summers regularly see temperatures over 30°C. This makes the late spring or early autumn an ideal time to visit. The days are typically warm and dry, and this period avoids the main peak tourist season of July and August.
Skopje is absolutely worth visiting. While the city struggled for identity following independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, it’s now a vibrant city rapidly creating its own culture and identity. The central area of the city has been rejuvenated with a host of neo-classical buildings and statues celebrating the likes of Alexander the Great and Mother Teresa. There’s also a host of Ottoman buildings and historical sights within the city center. An increasingly vibrant bar and restaurant scene means you’ll find no shortage of good places to eat and drink.
Skopje’s main sights and attractions are located in the city’s center around the River Vardar. The exception is Mount Vodno and the Millennium Cross, which are 4 kilometers southwest of the center. The beautiful Matka Lake and Canyon is located 15 kilometers outside of Skopje.
As the site of civilizations dating back thousands of years, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty to see in Skopje. We’ve picked out the biggest and the best things that Skopje has to offer.
Old Bazaar – Dating back to the 12th century, this historic area was the main commercial center during Ottoman rule. The cobbled streets are now home to numerous cafes, bars, restaurants, jewelry stores, and fabric stores.
Macedonia Square – At the center of Skopje is Macedonia Square, which features the enormous Warrior on a Horse statue, celebrating North Macedonia’s favorite son, Alexander the Great. It’s also home to many other newly erected statues and fountains, as well as hotels and restaurants.
Stone Bridge – One of the oldest buildings in Skopje, the bridge dates back to the 15th century. The bridge connects the Old Bazaar with Macedonia Square, a vital link across the River Vardar connecting old Skopje with the new.
Skopje Fortress Kale – The Fortress Kale in Skopje is on the city’s highest point. Located opposite the impressive Mustafa Pasa Mosque, the fortress dates back to the 6th century.
Memorial House of Mother Teresa – This recently constructed building was built to honor the life and works of Mother Teresa, who was born in Skopje. Based on the site where she was baptized as a young girl, the building features a small exhibition on her early life.
Archaeological Museum of Macedonia – The recently constructed Archaeological Museum of Macedonia is a sight to behold. Built in a neo-classical style, the building is quite something, and it’s also home to some fascinating exhibits.
Millenium Cross and Mount Vodno – Lying to the southwest of Skopje, Mount Vodno provides far-reaching views across the city. It’s also the site of the Millennium Cross, a 66-meter high cross visible throughout Skopje. At an elevation of 1066 meters, it’s quite a hike to the top of Mount Vodno but well worth the effort. There’s also the option of a cable car if hiking up the mountain isn’t on your agenda.
Matka Lake and Canyon – A 30-minute drive outside of Skopje is the stunning Matka Lake and Canyon. It’s a popular location to climb and hike or to kayak and canoe on the water. It’s also an excellent day trip if you plan to stay in the area a little longer.
We start our day in Skopje with breakfast at the highly-rated Kolektiv or one of the other restaurants around Macedonia Square. After breakfast, take in the statues and fountains of Macedonia Square before visiting the Memorial House of Mother Teresa. We then head across the historic Stone Bridge and see the beautiful Archaeological Museum of Macedonia.
After taking in the museum’s treasures, head to the Old Bazaar to grab some lunch. There’s a whole host of cafes and restaurants in the area serving the best of local and international cuisine. After lunch, explore the cobbled streets and the numerous shops of the Old Bazaar. Next up is Skopje Fortress Kale, which is just a short walk away. Explore the Ottoman-era ramparts and take in the views across the city.
After Fortress Kale, we trade in one view of the city for another. Heading south, take the bus to the cable car that goes to the summit of Mount Vodno and the site of the Millennium Cross. There’s a cafe at the summit, and it’s a wonderful place to have coffee and watch the sunset. Return to the city center via the cable car and bus or taxi.
For dinner, you’ll be returning to the Old Bazaar, where there’s many excellent options. This includes Snoshti Minav, Rio Kebapcilnica, and Kaj Serdarot. After dinner and drinks, go for a walk along the River Vardar and around Macedonia Square to take in the beautifully lit buildings.
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