2025 Skopje Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Leaving Tetovo, it's about a 45-kilometer drive to the capital, Skopje. The roads are in good condition, and there are few cars on the road, so it only takes 35 minutes to arrive. The city architecture of the capital Skopje is very impressive, as if telling visitors about its glorious past. 💥Check-in spots: 1⃣The Old Town of Skopje: The ancient city walls are quite dilapidated, and the outer ring has mostly been newly repaired. Climbing the tower offers a panoramic view of the entire city. The houses in the old town are arranged in order from low to high. The Vardar River meanders through, and the ancient Turkish market Carsija, the Sveti Dimitrija Church, and the towering Mustafa Pasa Mosque all tell the story of the city's sentiments. 2⃣The Stone Bridge: Quietly lying on the Vardar River, built in the 15th century, it is a symbol of Skopje. 3⃣The central city square: The square is dominated by a bronze statue of Philip II. It was he who raised Macedonia from a small country plagued by internal strife and accumulated great potential in the economy and other aspects. They also like to build a triumphal arch to show off their success, so Skopje has its own Arch of Triumph. After lunch, we also took an external view of the Chinese 🇨🇳 Embassy, walked around to visit Skopje's modern city architecture, and experienced the local culture. Then we drove 128 kilometers on mountain roads to the Jueishevo border crossing at an altitude of about 1230 meters, entering Bulgaria. Bulgaria just joined the EU 🇪🇺 in April, and the customs clearance was very slow. They even checked our luggage, delaying us by 2 hours to cross the border. We hurried towards the overnight stay in the snowy mountain town, still 140 kilometers away.

A safe, well-equipped, comfortable park with enough space for activities is very important to people living in the city. Skopje City Park meets the above conditions, which really surprised and delighted me as a traveler. Here I would like to recommend this park to everyone. If you come to Skopje, don’t forget to come here for a walk, to see sports people, dog walkers and fishers, or just to feel the beauty of the woods quietly. There may be windfalls! #2023travelwish #本地遊 #mytripvlog #park

The hotel is a lower priced option near the center of the city, so it's super convenient and easy to get to. Although it's a budget hotel, the price wasn't particularly low and the rooms were basic and in need of some updates or at least some touch ups. Breakfast was included and is in the basement .There were quite a few options which was nice and enough for a breakfast. Finally the staff were also helpful and tried to accommodate requests as much as possible. Overall an alright hotel, although I would probably pay a bit more for something better next time. #hotel

Macedonia Attractions - Vrelo Cave The stalactite cave located in Matka canyon is a very small cave. It only takes about three minutes to reach the bottom. If you have never seen a stalactite cave, you can come and see it. However, we have seen more amazing caves, so this one is okay😅😅 Macedonia Attractions - Vrelo Cave The stalactite cave in Matka canyon is a very small cave. It only takes about three minutes to reach the bottom of the cave. If you have not seen the stalactite cave, you can come and see it, but we have seen more amazing caves, so this one is just so so 😅😅

馬其頓景點-Mayka canyon 搭船導覽Matka canyon 遊河美麗的峽谷，如果不看鐘乳石洞，可以選擇第一個乘船處，船票比較便宜。 船票：600 MKD Take a boat tour to the beautiful Matka canyon. We also got the chance to witness the gorgeous stalactite cave. If you don't wanna visit the stalactite cave, you can choose just the boat ride around the canyon and the ticket is cheaper. Ferry ticket: 600 MKD

Macedonia Attractions - Bank of Macedonia and Bridge of Arts The Bridge of Arts (Macedonian: Мост на уметноста; Macedonian pronunciation: [mɔst na uˈmɛtnɔsta]) is a pedestrian bridge across the Vardar River, located in the center of Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. The bridge features many statues of famous Macedonian artists and musicians. It was built as part of the larger Skopje 2014 project and had an estimated construction cost of €2.5 million. The bridge includes 29 sculptures, 14 on each side and one in the middle. It is 83 meters (272 feet) long and 9.2 meters (30 feet) wide, while the central section of the bridge is 12 meters (39 feet) wide. The huge building in the back is the National Bank of Macedonia. The Art Bridge (Macedonian: Мост на уметноста; Macedonian pronunciation: [mɔst na uˈmɛtnɔsta]) is a pedestrian bridge across the Vardar River in the centre of Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia. The bridge features many statues of noted Macedonian artists and musicians. It was built as part of the larger Skopje 2014 project, with an estimated construction cost of €2.5 million. The bridge includes 29 sculptures, with 14 at each side and one in the centre. It is 83 metres (272 ft) in length and 9.2 metres (30 ft) in width, while the central part of the bridge is 12 metres (39 ft) wide. The huge building at the rear is the National Bank of Macedonia.

Macedonia Attractions - Macedonia Arch of Triumph Construction began in 2011 and was completed in January 2012. The arch is 21 meters high and cost 4.4 million euros. Its author is the sculptor Valentina Stefanovska, who from the Skopje 2014 project, included a work dedicated to Alexander the Great, officially named "The Horse-riding Warrior". The arch is dedicated to 20 years of Macedonian independence and its outer surface is covered with 193 m2 of reliefs carved in marble depicting scenes from Macedonian history. It also contains interior rooms, one of which functions as a state-owned souvenir shop, as well as an elevator and stairs that allow public access to the rooftop, which is said to be the space where weddings were held. The Arch has been criticized for its high cost. It is designed to rival the almost equally tall "Alexander the Great", which was erected in the capital's central square in the summer of 2011. Both buildings are part of a government-funded project called "Skopje 2014" with an estimated unofficial price tag of 500 million euros. With this in mind, many Macedonians believe that the Macedonian Gate will encourage tourism. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has filed a formal complaint with the authorities of the Republic of Macedonia following the completion of this Greek arch, which includes images of historical figures, including Alexander the Great. Macedonia Attractions - Macedonia Arc de Triomphe Construction began in 2011 and was completed in January 2012. The arch is 21 meters high and cost 4.4 million euros. Its author is the sculptor Valentina Stefanovska, from Skopje's 2014 projects, including a dedication to Alexander the Great's official title "Equestrian Warrior". Dedicated to Macedonian independence for 20 years, the arch is covered with 193 m2 of reliefs carved in marble depicting scenes from Macedonian history. It also contains interior rooms, one of which functions as a state-owned souvenir shop, as well as elevators and stairs that allow the public to access the roof, which is said to be a space for weddings. Arches have been criticized for their high cost. It is intended to be almost as tall as "Alexander the Great", erected in the capital's central square in the summer of 2011. Both buildings are government-funded and named "Skopri 2014" with an estimated unofficial price tag of 500 million euros. With this in mind, many Macedonians believe that the Macedonian Gate will encourage tourism. After the inauguration of this Greek arch, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has lodged a formal complaint with the authorities of the Republic of Macedonia, which includes images of historical figures, including Alexander the Great

Macedonia Attractions - Bridge of Civilization This bridge connects the Archaeological Museum to Macedonia Square There are many ancient Macedonian historical figures on the bridge From Alexander the Great to modern great men, you can find them on this bridge. Macedonia Attractions - Bridge of Civilizations The bridge is the bridge connecting the Archaeological Museum to the Macedonia Square There are many ancient Macedonian people on the bridge From Alexander the Great in BC to modern greats can be found on this bridge

Macedonia - Archaeological Museum The Archaeological Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia presents movable cultural heritage, more precisely more than 7,000 valuable artifacts discovered through archaeological surveys throughout Macedonia. Since 1924, this museum is the most important and oldest museum institution in Macedonia. Visitors can admire artifacts on display in the departments of Prehistoric Archaeology, Antiquity, Medieval Archaeology, Numismatics, Anthropology, and Lapidarym. The Archaeological Museum of Republic of North Macedonia displays movable cultural heritage, more precisely over 7.000 valuable artefacts discovered through archaeological investigations throughout the entire territory of Macedonia. Since 1924 this Museum is the most significant and the oldest museum institution in Macedonia. The visitors can enjoy the artefacts exhibited in the departments of: Prehistoric Archaeology, Antiquity, Medieval Archaeology, Numismatics, Anthropology and the Lapidarium.

Macedonia Attractions - Macedonia Square Macedonia Square is the main square in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. The square is the largest in North Macedonia with a total area of ​​18,500 square meters. It is located in the central part of the city, straddling the Vardar River. Christmas is always celebrated there and it often serves as a venue for cultural, political and other events. It was here that Macedonia's first president, Kiro Gligorov, declared independence from Yugoslavia. 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 commonly serves as the site of cultural, political and other events. The independence from Yugoslavia was declared here by the first president of Macedonia, Kiro Gligorov.

Macedonia Attractions - Old Bazaar The commercial and cultural historical part of Skopje and one of the city's biggest attractions. It is located in the area from Stone Bridge to Bitpazar and from Kale to Selava River. The first recorded data about the existence of shopping centers in today's bazaars date back to the twelfth century. During the Ottoman rule of Skopje, the site quickly developed into the city’s largest commercial district, with approximately 30 mosques, numerous palaces and hotels, and other Turkish monuments. The Agora is the only cultural monument in Macedonia, which acknowledges the heritage of many cultures and civilizations that participated in its creation. Ottoman architecture prevails in the bazaar, although vestiges of Byzantine architecture are evident and more recently applications of modernist architecture have gained attention. On October 13, 2008, the bazaar was declared a cultural heritage site of particular importance and has since been under permanent protection by the state. Old Skopje Bazaar a commercial and cultural-historical part of Skopje and one of the biggest sights of the city. It is located in the area from the Stone Bridge to Bit-pazar and from the Kale to the Serava River . The first documented data on the existence of a shopping center on the site of today's bazaar date back to the XII century . [2] During the Ottoman rule of Skopje, the place rapidly grew into the largest commercial part of the city, with about 30 mosques , numerous palaces and inns , as well as other Turkish monuments. The bazaar is the only cultural monument in Macedonia, which recognizes the heritage of many cultures and civilizations that participated in its creation. Ottoman architecture prevails in the bazaar , although remnants of Byzantine architecture are noticeable , and recently the application of modernist architecture has been noticed . On October 13, 2008, the bazaar was declared a cultural heritage of special importance and has since been under the permanent protection of the state.

Macedonia Attractions - Kursumli An Kursumli An is an Ottoman caravanserai located in the old town of Skopje. It is located near the Macedonian Museum. It served as a hotel and a prison. Kursumli An was built in the 15th or 16th century. There are stables for 100 horses. The walls form a square, but the roof consists of a pyramidal dome. The dome was originally covered with lead, which is why the serai is called the “Lead Bazaar”. The rooms on the ground floor are used for storage and the upper floors are used for sleeping areas. Kursumli An is an Ottoman caravanserai located in the Old Town of Skopje. It is in the area of ​​Museum of Macedonia. It has served as an inn and as a prison. Kursumli An was built in the 15th or 16th century. There were stables for 100 horses. The walls form a square but the roof consists of pyramid-shaped domes. The domes were originally covered in lead, and this is why the serai is called "Lead Bazaar." Ground floor rooms were used for storage, upper floor for sleeping quarters. The building also featured rooms for livestock.

Macedonia Attractions - Skopje Fortress Skopje Fortress - A fortress located on a high hill called Gradishte, above the city of Skopje and overlooking the Vardar River, which has been strategically important to this important city for centuries. As the highest point in the city, the fort has always been loved by local residents. Even before the wall was built, there was a settlement in that place. The earliest known inhabitants of the area lived during the Neolithic and Early Bronze Ages around 4000 BC. The fortress we see today was built during the Byzantine era (VI century) and has a stone wall 121 meters long. According to archaeologists, the stones used to build the fort were taken from the ruined city of Skopje below. In summer, concerts and theatrical performances are held here. Skopje Fortress Kale - a fortress located on a high hill called Gradishte, above the city of Skopje overlooking the river Vardar and has been of strategic importance for this important city for centuries. As the highest point in the city, the fortress has always been appreciated by the local population. Settlements existed at that place even before walls were built . The earliest known inhabitants of the place lived in the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age , 4,000 years BC. The fortress we see today was first built in Byzantine times ( VI century ), with stone walls 121 meters long. According to archaeologists, the stone blocks from which the fortress was built were taken from the ruined city of Skupi below. In summer, concerts and theatrical performances are held here.

There are some calling Skopje the City of Statues, if you take a look at Skopje, you will see what I mean. There are debates that argue about this which revolves around: 1) Why even build so much statues when the funds could be used for other more critical areas such as infrastructure etc.? 2) Why does it costs so much to have statues all around, where is the money actually going into? Allegations of corruptions are rife. But if u now go to macedonia square which is once a carpark, dont you think it is an upgrade and put to much better use. Also this has generated alot of buzz, controversy and debates are good marketking for the country's tourism!

When I first reach North Macedonia I didn't go with alot of expectations. But boy they surprise me greatly. There are loads of statues in Skopje like insane amount of them. Alexandra the great is one monstrosity of a statue, go there and see it for yourself and you will know what I mean. Fun facts about the statues: 1) Nope almost all of them are installed after 2000 which means they are historical at all. 2) The most disputed statue is the one with Alexandra, the Great because both Greece and North Macedonia claims to be their natives. Please dont throw stones at me, I am a tourist not a historian. 3) The budget to install this statues are considerable and there are allegations of corruption. Like them or hate them, if you think in a positive manner, it has created a nice space for locals and tourists alike seeing how kids and family running around the area.

I came with very little expectations of North Macedonia based on the economic statistics I heard about the country. Sometimes don't listen to yourself or the numbers, visit the place for yourself because every place have something special to offer. For example visiting a place at night and in the morning offers a different perspective of view of a place. This is Skopje at night which is verh beautiful. You can seat the the square listening to buskers playing music and people watching and let the time goes by.

Millennium Cross is the highest attraction in North Macedonia The frame is 66 meters, located on the highest peak of the capital Skopje, is clearly visible from a distance in the city~ Although Brother and I have always had nothing to say to each other, this attraction feels genuinely magnificent and genuinely cold. 。 。 。 ----North Macedonia.斯科普里．千禧十字架（2018年12月） 。 。 。 。 。 #EuropeTravel #Europe #EuropeTravel #EuropeFreeTravel #NorthMacedonia #northmacedonia #macedonia🇲🇰 #macedonia #skopje #scopje #Balkans #Fenggarcia

#skopje is the capital of republic of North Macedonia located in the Balkan peninsula. #macedonia itself is a region across Bulgaria, Greece and North Macedonia, so they are different things. Here on the pictures you can see the central square, the newly built sights and the arch wich is also new. The river that passes through the town is alao very beautiful. #happynewyear

You can't miss me ah Just a billboard. The capital of Macedonia, Skopje, is the most comfortable I have seen in these Eastern European countries. The main body of white is very sunny, actually has Arc de Triomphe, a bit Great. In fact, the name of the Republic of Macedonia has now been changed to the Republic of Northern Macedonia, The reason is because Greece does not recognize, the ancient Macedonians are part of Greek culture, but today the North Macedonia is partly Slavic culture. This made Greece very uncomfortable. It has always voted for Macedonia to enter NATO. The Macedonians are also very embarrassed. If they cant enter the EU, they will not be able to enter the EU. So its not too poor, so they changed their name to the Northern Macedonia. It is. Ok, I have to continue to play rough, Gu Nai!

The marionette is a kind of ancient traditional puppet show. During the performance, the artist uses the line to pull the puppet show. When we wandered around Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, we met the folk art of puppets on the streets. This is a line puppet specially prepared for children. One puppet becomes another vivid toy in the hands of the artist, attracting a lot of audience, especially children.

🗓️Itinerary Scheduling: Morning: - Macedonia Square+stone bridge - Old Bazaar Lunch: Gastilnica Palas-Jr for tavce gravce Must try dessert: trichele for 100 MKD Afternoon - National Gallery – Čifte Hammam 100MKD - Mother Theresa Memorial House FREE - Macedonian Orthodox Church of St. Clement of Ohrid - Skopje Fortress FREE 8-18 Tip: never say north macedonia, say Macedonia 🇲🇰 #skopje #macedonia

My first meal in Skopje was at the popular restaurant "Destan" in the Old Bazaar in the old town. This restaurant is loved by tourists and locals alike, and was always full when I visited in the evening. ⸻ 🥩【Specialty: Juicy Kebab (Kofte)】 ・A set of 10 grilled minced meat with plenty of volume ・The surface is fragrant, and the inside is soft and juicy ・When eaten with freshly baked bread, it creates an exquisite harmony✨ 🧅【Exquisite Side Dish】 ・The spicy and sour raw onions bring out the umami of the fat while neutralizing it well ・The grilled eggplant is also refreshing and a nice accent ⸻ 🌇【Atmosphere】 ・Mainly open terrace seating. The setting sun in the evening is dazzling, but that is also a moment that will be engraved in your memory of the trip. ・The staff are friendly (they guided you with a smile even when it was crowded) ⸻ 📍【Store Information】 Salih Asim, Skopje 1000 North Macedonia Located in the Old Bazaar area of ​​the old town, it is an easy place to stop by between sightseeing. ⸻ 🍴【Summary】 ・Eating in a new place is a special moment that symbolizes the trip. ・The kebab at "Destan" had a simple and powerful taste that was perfect for such an important first meal! ⸻ #Destan #SkopjeGourmet #NorthMacedonia #OldTownFood #Kebab #FirstMealOfTheTrip #EuropeTour #CityWalkingGourmet #AbsolutelyFreeTrip

The capital of North Macedonia, a city with ties to Japan. Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, has a unique and distinctive atmosphere. The city center is adorned with numerous large statues, creating a landscape that can aptly be described as "theme park-like." ⸻ 🏛【Impressions of the City】 ・The central area, redeveloped under the "Skopje 2014" project, features many historical monuments and massive structures. ・The well-maintained riverside areas and large bridges blend modern vibes with traditional architecture. ⸻ 🇯🇵【Connections to Japan】 ・Skopje Central Station is said to have been designed with involvement from Japanese architect Kenzo Tange (though there are differing accounts). ・After the devastating earthquake in 1963, Japan provided significant aid for reconstruction, fostering a sense of familiarity and goodwill towards Japan among locals. ⸻ 🌞【Travel Tips】 ・Summers in this region are extremely hot, making daytime walks challenging due to high temperatures. ・Touring in the morning or evening is more comfortable. Hats and hydration are essential! ⸻ 📍【Summary】 ・The city feels like one large art museum, offering endless sights to explore. ・A fascinating and quirky capital where history, politics, and culture intertwine. ⸻

#cityplaybook #localguides Location: Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia Hashtags: #SkopjeCity #DiscoverMacedonia #BalkanVibes #SkopjeOldTown #VardarViews #CulturalCrossroads #StatueCity #HiddenEurope #SkopjeStreets #ModernAndMedieval Skopje is a city that surprises you at every corner. Straddling the Vardar River, it’s a place where Ottoman charm, Byzantine echoes, and modern ambition collide in the most unexpected ways. From the ancient Stone Bridge to the bold neoclassical facades of Macedonia Square, Skopje tells its story in layers. Start your walk in the Old Bazaar, one of the oldest marketplaces in the Balkans, where cobblestone alleys lead to mosques, hammams, and artisan shops. Cross the river, and you’re in a different world: massive statues, grand buildings, and wide boulevards that reflect the city’s recent urban reinvention. Don’t miss the Mother Teresa Memorial House—a tribute to one of Skopje’s most famous daughters—or the Kale Fortress, offering panoramic views of the city. For a breath of nature, take the cable car up to Mount Vodno and visit the Millennium Cross, one of the largest crosses in the world. Skopje is vibrant, eclectic, and deeply Balkan—where every building, market stall, and street mural reveals a city constantly redefining itself. Whether you're drawn by its history, its evolving identity, or its fusion of east and west, Skopje offers an unforgettable cultural mosaic in the heart of Southeastern Europe.

🏰 Fortress View Point - A panoramic view of Skopje city! A hidden gem for stunning views✨ A must-visit viewpoint in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia! Located atop ancient fortress ruins, it offers a breathtaking view of the cityscape. Especially magical during sunset, the scenery is truly mesmerizing🌇. The uphill path is not too challenging, making it perfect for a leisurely walk. Highly recommended for those looking to relax and enjoy the scenery in peace📸

My Macedonia trip with PLL LOT and i bought the tickets very cheap via trip.com❤️😉#travel

#cityplaybook #localguides #familytrip #postandearn Skopje was nothing like I expected—and that’s what made it unforgettable. The capital of North Macedonia is a city of contrasts: neoclassical facades line the riverbank, while ancient fortresses overlook futuristic statues and bustling streets. It’s both bold and historic, quirky and soulful. My journey started at Macedonia Square, where the towering statue of Alexander the Great dominates the skyline. From there, I strolled across the iconic Stone Bridge, connecting the modern city center to the Old Bazaar—one of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans. The shift in atmosphere was immediate. Narrow alleys buzzed with the scent of grilled kebabs, Turkish coffee, and the hum of local artisans selling everything from carpets to copperware. What truly captured my heart was Kale Fortress, perched high above the city. From its ancient walls, I soaked in panoramic views of the Vardar River and the city stretching below. It felt like standing at the crossroads of centuries. Skopje’s creative spirit was also on display. Quirky monuments, abstract sculptures, and freshly painted buildings made the city feel like an open-air gallery. I visited the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, a humble tribute to one of Skopje’s most inspiring natives, and paused to reflect in the serene City Park. Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds—perfect for exploring on foot. Helpful Tips: Local buses are cheap, but walking is the best way to discover Skopje’s surprises. Try Tavče Gravče (baked beans) and Ajvar—flavor-packed local dishes. Don’t miss a nighttime stroll along the riverbank—the city lights are magical. Location: Skopje, North Macedonia #SkopjeVibes #DiscoverMacedonia #SkopjeOldBazaar #BalkanAdventures #SkopjeSunset #TravelBalkans #HiddenGemsEurope #SkopjeStreets #MotherTeresaLegacy #StoneBridgeMagic

🎂 How to treat yourself on your birthday? I planned a trip to celebrate in style! 🌅 Morning: Kicked off with breakfast in Tirana, Albania 🇦🇱 ☀️ Afternoon: Enjoyed lunch in Prizren, Kosovo 🇽🇰, followed by afternoon tea in Pristina, Kosovo 🇽🇰 🌙 Evening: Ended the day with dinner in Skopje, North Macedonia 🇲🇰 If you're thinking of celebrating your birthday with an epic trip and want to learn more, don't hesitate to reach out—I'd be glad to share my full itinerary with you! #familytravel #travel #birthday #thingstodo #myitinerary