4-Day Family Adventure: Sightseeing and Outdoor Fun in Skopje

Skopje, North Macedonia

4 days

Monument of fallen heroes
Archeology Museum
Monument of the Boatmen of Salonica
Saint Clement Orthodox Church
Byzantine Emperor Justinian Statue and Stone Bridge, behind the Archeology Museum

About Skopje, North Macedonia

Discover the vibrant city of Skopje, North Macedonia's capital, where history and modernity coexist. Explore the Old Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans, or visit the impressive Skopje Fortress, offering panoramic views of the city. Don't miss the iconic Stone Bridge, a symbol of Skopje, connecting the old and new parts of the city. Experience the local culture at the Museum of Macedonia, showcasing the country's rich heritage. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city's many parks and squares, or indulge in local cuisine at a traditional Macedonian restaurant. Skopje is a city that will surprise and delight you with its unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary buzz.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Old Bazaar and Kale Fortress

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Old Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans. This vibrant area is filled with shops selling traditional crafts, food, and clothing. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Macedonian lunch in a local restaurant. Try local dishes like Tavče Gravče, a baked bean dish, and Shopska salad, a fresh vegetable salad topped with white cheese.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Kale Fortress, a historic site offering panoramic views of the city. Then, visit the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle to learn about the country's history.

Dinner

Have dinner at a restaurant offering a view of the Vardar River. Try the local wine and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Stone Bridge, a historic landmark that connects the old and new parts of the city.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Matka Canyon, a beautiful natural area perfect for hiking and boat rides. Don't miss the chance to explore the caves.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake in Matka Canyon. Pack some local cheese, bread, and fresh fruits for a relaxing meal in nature.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Monastery of St. Andrew, located near the canyon. This historic site offers a peaceful retreat and beautiful frescoes.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try the traditional Macedonian dish, Pastrmajlija, a type of pizza topped with meat.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Millennium Cross on Vodno Mountain. The cable car ride offers stunning views of the city at night.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Skopje Zoo and City Park. It's a great place for kids to learn about different animals and enjoy outdoor activities.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near the park. Try the local dish, Pljeskavica, a grilled meat patty.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Museum of Natural History and the Contemporary Art Museum. Both are located near the park and offer interesting exhibits.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in the city center. Try the local dish, Burek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll around Macedonia Square, the main square in Skopje. The area is beautifully lit at night and offers a vibrant atmosphere.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Church of St. Panteleimon in Gorno Nerezi, a historic site with beautiful frescoes. Then, explore the nearby Vodno Mountain for some outdoor activities.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try the traditional dish, Selsko Meso, a meat and vegetable stew.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Archaeological Museum of Macedonia and the Museum of the City of Skopje. Both offer interesting insights into the country's history and culture.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Skopje in a restaurant offering traditional Macedonian cuisine. Don't miss the chance to try Rakija, a local fruit brandy.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Skopje Fortress for a panoramic view of the city at night. It's a perfect way to say goodbye to this beautiful city.

Attractions in Itinerary (16)

Old Bazaar

1
Old Bazaar

One of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans, offering a variety of shops, cafes, and historical buildings.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Shopping
Kale Fortress

2
Kale Fortress

A historic fortress located on the highest hill in the city, offering panoramic views of Skopje.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
Museum of the Macedonian Struggle

3
Museum of the Macedonian Struggle

A museum dedicated to the Macedonian struggle for sovereignty throughout history.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Stone Bridge

4
Stone Bridge

A historic bridge over the Vardar River in the heart of Skopje.

Attractions
Landmarks
Matka Canyon

5
Matka Canyon

A stunning canyon on the outskirts of Skopje, popular for hiking, boating, and rock climbing.

Attractions
Parks
Tours
Monastery of St. Andrew

6
Monastery of St. Andrew

A beautiful monastery dedicated to St. Andrew, located in the Matka Canyon.

Religious Sites
Cultural Experiences
Millennium Cross

7
Millennium Cross

A 66-meter tall cross situated on top of the Vodno Mountain, built to commemorate 2,000 years of Christianity in Macedonia.

Attractions
Landmarks
Religious Sites
Vodno Mountain

8
Vodno Mountain

Vodno Mountain is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking, offering stunning views of Skopje and its surroundings. The Millennium Cross, one of the tallest crosses in the world, stands at its peak.

Attractions
Sports
Nature
Skopje Zoo and City Park

9
Skopje Zoo and City Park

A combination of a zoo and a city park, offering a variety of animals and a large green space for relaxation and recreation.

Attractions
Parks
Museum of Natural History

10
Museum of Natural History

A museum dedicated to the natural history of North Macedonia, featuring a variety of exhibits on the country's flora, fauna, and geological history.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Contemporary Art Museum

11
Contemporary Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary art from North Macedonia and around the world, offering a unique cultural experience.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Macedonia Square

12
Macedonia Square

Macedonia Square is the main square of Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. The square is the biggest in North Macedonia with total 18.500 m2. It is located in the central part of the city, and it crosses the Vardar River. The Christmas festivals are always held there and it is the main location of the city's New Year's Eve celebrations.

Attractions
Landmarks
Church of St. Panteleimon

13
Church of St. Panteleimon

A historic church featuring beautiful frescoes and architecture.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Archaeological Museum of Macedonia

14
Archaeological Museum of Macedonia

A museum showcasing Macedonia's rich archaeological heritage, with exhibits ranging from prehistoric artifacts to medieval treasures.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Museum of the City of Skopje

15
Museum of the City of Skopje

A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Skopje, housed in an old railway station damaged in the 1963 earthquake.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Skopje Fortress

16
Skopje Fortress

A historic fortress located on a hill overlooking Skopje, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Landmarks
Monuments

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Tavče Gravče

Tavče Gravče

This is North Macedonia's national dish. It's a traditional bean stew, baked in a clay pot with various spices and often served with sausage.

Shopska Salata

Shopska Salata

A popular salad in Skopje, made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and sirene (a local white cheese).

Rakija

Rakija

A traditional fruit brandy that is very popular in North Macedonia. It can be made from various fruits, but grape rakija is the most common.

Pljeskavica

Pljeskavica

A traditional Balkan dish, it's a spiced meat patty mixture of pork, beef and lamb, served with onions and ajvar (a red pepper spread).

Ajvar

Ajvar

A type of relish, made primarily from red bell peppers, with garlic. It's often served with bread or meat dishes.

Kebapi

These are small, grilled minced meat sausages, a specialty of Skopje. They're usually served with flatbread and onions.

Turli Tava

Turli Tava

A hearty stew made with various vegetables, meat, and spices. It's a traditional Macedonian dish, often served with bread.

Zelnik

Zelnik

A traditional Macedonian pastry, filled with cheese, leeks, or spinach. It's often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Trileçe

Trileçe

A popular dessert in Skopje, it's a sponge cake made with three types of milk: cow's milk, condensed milk, and cream.

Boza

Boza

A traditional fermented beverage, made from maize and wheat. It's sweet, thick, and slightly acidic.

Makalo

Makalo

A traditional Macedonian dish, it's a type of garlic sauce often served with meat dishes.

Kifli

Kifli

A type of bread roll, often served for breakfast. It's soft, fluffy, and can be filled with various ingredients like cheese or jam.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Skopje, North Macedonia is during the late spring and early fall, specifically from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded as well, allowing tourists to explore at a leisurely pace. However, if you're interested in winter sports, you might want to consider visiting between December and February when the nearby ski resorts are in full swing.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 7

Sun

Orthodox Christmas Day

January 8

Mon

Day off for Orthodox Christmas Day

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 6

Mon

Easter Monday (Orthodox)

May 24

Fri

Saints Cyril and Methodius' Day

August 2

Fri

Republic Day

September 8

Sun

Independence Day

September 9

Mon

Day off for Independence Day

October 11

Fri

Day of People’s Uprising

October 23

Wed

Day of the Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle

December 8

Sun

Saint Kliment Ohridski's Day

December 9

Mon

Day off for Saint Kliment Ohridski's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Public buses are a common way to get around Skopje. The city has an extensive bus network that covers most areas of the city. Tickets can be purchased from kiosks or directly from the bus driver.

Taxis are readily available in Skopje and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They are metered and relatively affordable. It's important to ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.

Renting a car can be a convenient way to explore Skopje and the surrounding areas at your own pace. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and throughout the city.

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Bolt are available in Skopje. These can be a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local public transportation system.

Skopje has a number of bicycle rental services, offering a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. There are also several bike paths and trails throughout the city.

Many of Skopje's main attractions are located within walking distance of each other in the city center. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, particularly in the pedestrian-friendly Old Bazaar area.

While not as commonly used for local travel within Skopje, trains can be a good option for day trips to nearby towns and cities. Skopje's main train station is centrally located and offers connections to a number of destinations.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency MKD

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 94; Fire: 93; Police: 92

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Skopje, North Macedonia as a first time visitor

1

The official language is Macedonian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.

2

The local currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.

3

Skopje has a continental climate. Summers (June to September) can be hot with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 95°F (21°C to 35°C), while winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures from 20°F to 45°F (-6°C to 7°C).

4

Tipping is customary in Skopje. It's usual to leave around 10% of the bill in restaurants and cafes.

5

Public transportation in Skopje includes buses and taxis. The city also has a bike-sharing system.

6

Skopje is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

7

The local cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Don't miss trying traditional dishes like Tavče Gravče (baked beans) and Ajvar (red pepper spread).

8

Tap water is safe to drink in Skopje, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

9

Smoking is very common in North Macedonia and is allowed in many public places, including some restaurants and cafes.

10

Skopje has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

11

The city is very walkable, especially the city center and the Old Bazaar area.

12

Skopje is a mix of old and new, with modern buildings standing next to Ottoman-era architecture.

13

The city is known for its many statues, including a giant statue of Alexander the Great in the city center.

14

Skopje is located in a seismic zone, and although major earthquakes are rare, smaller tremors do occur occasionally.

15

North Macedonia uses the Central European Time Zone (CET) and observes daylight saving time.

16

The country's electrical supply is 220 volts and uses Type C and Type F plugs, so you may need a converter or adapter.

17

Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, and most medicines can be purchased without a prescription.

18

Public restrooms are not as common as in some other European cities, so it's a good idea to use the restroom at restaurants or cafes when available.

19

Skopje has a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters.

20

The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Skopje Summer Festival and the Skopje Jazz Festival.

Basic Macedonian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Здраво

Zdravo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Довиѓање

Doviđanje

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Ве молам

Ve molam

Making a request

Thank you

Ви благодарам

Vi blagodaram

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Да

Da

Agreeing or confirming

No

Не

Ne

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Извинете

Izvinete

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Жал ми е

Žal mi e

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Зборувате ли англиски?

Zboruvate li angliski?

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

Не разбирам

Ne razbiram

Having trouble understanding

Where is the bathroom?

Каде е тоалетот?

Kade e toaletot?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

Колку чини ова?

Kolku čini ova?

Shopping or dining

I would like to order

Сакам да нарачам

Sakam da naračam

Ordering food or drink

Water

Вода

Voda

Ordering water

Beer

Пиво

Pivo

Ordering beer

Wine

Вино

Vino

Ordering wine

Help

Помош

Pomoš

In need of assistance

Call the police

Повикајте полиција

Povikajte policija

In an emergency

I'm lost

Се изгубив

Se izgubiv

Needing directions

Can you help me?

Можете ли да ми помогнете?

Možete li da mi pomognete?

Asking for help

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (4 pairs)

  • Socks (4 pairs)

  • T-shirts (4)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Sweater or Jacket (1)

  • Sleepwear (1 set)

  • Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)

  • Swimsuit (1)

  • Hat/Cap for sun protection (1)

  • Sunglasses (1 pair)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush (1)

  • Toothpaste (1 small tube)

  • Deodorant (1)

  • Shampoo and Conditioner (travel size)

  • Body wash or soap (travel size)

  • Razor and Shaving cream

  • Sunscreen (1 bottle)

  • Lip balm with SPF (1)

  • Hand sanitizer (1 small bottle)

  • Prescription medications (if any)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit/Debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Emergency contact list

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks for travel

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • First aid kit

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Travel-sized wet wipes

  • Travel-sized tissues

  • Notebook and pen

  • Books or e-books for leisure reading

Weather Conditions

Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia, experiences a mix of Mediterranean and continental climates. This means that the weather can vary quite a bit depending on the time of year you visit. In the summer months, from June to August, Skopje can get quite hot with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). It's a great time for outdoor activities, but remember to stay hydrated and wear sun protection. The evenings are usually cooler, so it's a good idea to carry a light jacket or sweater. The winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures often dropping to around 32°F (0°C). Snowfall is common during this period, making it a picturesque time to visit. However, it's essential to pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally mild with temperatures ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C). These seasons are ideal for sightseeing as the weather is comfortable and the city is less crowded. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Also, keep in mind that weather can change quickly, so it's wise to pack layers and be prepared for a variety of conditions.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

6° / -2°

January is the coldest month in Skopje, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience a Macedonian winter.

February

8° / -1°

February is still quite cold in Skopje, but temperatures start to rise slightly. You might experience some snowfall during this month.

March

14° / 2°

March sees the beginning of spring in Skopje. The weather starts to warm up, but there can still be some chilly days.

April

18° / 6°

April is a pleasant month to visit Skopje, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.

May

22° / 10°

May is a beautiful month in Skopje, with warm temperatures and lots of sun. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

June

26° / 14°

June marks the beginning of summer in Skopje. The weather is hot, making it a great time to visit the city's many outdoor attractions.

July

28° / 16°

July is the hottest month in Skopje, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather.

August

28° / 16°

August is another hot month in Skopje. It's a great time to visit the city's outdoor attractions, but be prepared for the heat.

September

24° / 12°

September is a pleasant month in Skopje, with mild temperatures and less crowds. It's a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter travel experience.

October

19° / 7°

October sees the arrival of autumn in Skopje. The weather is cooler, but still comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

November

11° / 3°

November is a cool month in Skopje, with temperatures dropping and less sunshine. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

December

6° / 0°

December is a cold month in Skopje, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience a Macedonian winter.

Did you know?

Did you know that Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, with settlements dating back to at least 4000 BC?

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