Macedonia-Albania

North Macedonia

The Republic of North Macedonia, formerly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, was tussling for autonomy long before the Balkan Peninsula got carved up into its latest iteration. The history of this tiny nation reaches all the way back to the time of Alexander the Great. Perhaps it’s there you can find the roots of the fiery Macedonian spirit that has bore this country through hard times, from city-shattering earthquakes to political turmoil.

Built on the fault lines of a fragile independence, North Macedonia celebrates its cultural identity and religion with a special kind of ferocity. Still, after spending a couple of weeks in the country, I think I came away with more questions than answers.

It’s worth visiting just to experience Skopje, the kookiest capital in Europe. Split by the Vardar River, one side of the city is a highly stylised outdoor museum of statues, colonnades, manicured gardens and squares. The other bank is the total opposite – a maze of bowed streets and shadowy shops that make up the Skopje Old Bazaar (the second-largest in the region after Istanbul). The Ottoman influence is everywhere, from the food to the hamams that have been turned into contemporary art spaces. Just outside Skopje, the painted mosque in Tetovo is the most beautiful in all of the Balkans.

In the centre of the country, North Macedonia’s jewel, Lake Ohrid, sparkles. Cruise to the St. Naum Monastery near the border with Albania or hire a bicycle and circumnavigate the entire lake in a day, passing through the two border crossings. Soak up the green glory of Mavrovo National Park and Matka Canyon, a popular day trip from the capital, or hike Baba Mountain in the south. Navigate the steep streets of my favourite town in North Macedonia, Krusevo, and in Bitola, see the Roman amphitheatre and incredible mosaics at the Heraclea Lyncestis archaeological complex.

Albania
Emerging in the early 90s from nearly 50 years of isolationist Communist rule, this wild and picturesque land still feels suspended in time. Although gaining popularity with European travelers, it remains largely untouched by mass-tourism. You’ll find all the natural enticements of its popular neighbors—Croatia to the north and Greece to the south—without the disadvantages of being a “destination.” Albania’s Ionian coastline offers long stretches of white-sand beaches, clear waters, and charming Mediterranean villages. Inland, unspoiled forests, lakes, valleys, and rugged mountains harbor historic towns and traces of cultures long past. The country’s pristine beauty and old-style hospitality easily make up for its occasional lack of up-to-the-minute conveniences.

Welcome to Tirana
The colourful and charming capital of Albania, Tirana, nestles on the edge of Europe. A vibrant and dynamic city, Tirana has a rich history that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. Known for its Ottoman and Soviet-era architecture and monuments, its modernised buildings and infrastructures embody an impressive metamorphosis. There are bustling markets and delicious food to enjoy, and for those who like nature, there are opportunities to go hiking and enjoy the outdoors.

Top things to see and do in Tirana

Visit Skanderbeg Square, the city’s main square, and admire the impressive National History Museum and Ethem Bey Mosque.
Discover the city’s rich history at the Bunk’Art museum, a former nuclear bunker turned museum, and take a different perspective of Tirana’s past.

Visit the iconic Clock Tower, a historic tower that dates back to the Ottoman period, 1822 and was brought to life by the court poet Haxhi Et’hem Bey.
Marvel at the colourful architecture of the Pyramid of Tirana, a pyramid-shaped building that was once a museum and is now used for events and exhibitions.

Take a walk in the lush Grand Park, the city’s largest park, and enjoy the fresh air and greenery.
Explore the vibrant Blloku neighbourhood, an upscale and trendy area with shops, cafes, and restaurants and enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine.

Browse the bustling Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar) market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.

Tips for travellers
Take a day trip to the town of Ohrid and visit the site of one of the oldest human settlements in Europe. You can take a dip in one of the oldest lakes in the world and learn about the iconic sights while listening to stories of different cultures, traditions, and invasions throughout the years. You can also visit churches from the 11th century and learn about the spread of Slavic Orthodoxy. Discover why the place was known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans”.