North Macedonia 9 Day

DAY 1, Tuesday – Depart for North Macedonia

Depart for North Macedonia

DAY 2, Wednesday – Arrive in Skopje

Arrive in Skopje, the vibrant capital of North Macedonia, and transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by a reception. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 4 PM
Overnight: Skopje

DAY 3, Thursday – Skopje Walking Tour

This morning , take a walking tour of Skopje, and discover its rich history. Explore the historic streets of this eclectic capital’s Old Town. Begin at Macedonia Square, dominated by the statue of Alexander the Great atop his rearing horse. Next, stroll to Porta Macedonia, a grand triumphal arch that commemorated 20 years of Macedonian independence. Continue to the 15th century Turkish Stone Bridge and the 6th century Byzantine Fortress, that dominates the skyline of the city. End the tour with a stroll through the Old Turkish Bazaar, lined with traditional shops, cafes, and artisans’ workshops offering a glimpse into the city’s Ottoman past. Spend the rest of the day at leisure
Overnight: Skopje
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Friday – Explore Ohrid, Boat Cruise on Ohrid Lake

Your day of discovery begins with a drive to the city of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled along the shores of the pristine Lake Ohrid. Upon arrival, tour the Old Town named the “Jerusalem of the Balkans.” The town is steeped in history and culture, boasting breathtaking scenery and stunning architecture. Stop at the statue of St. Clement, before continuing to the lower gate, the National Museum, Church of St. Sophia, and the Roman Amphitheater. View St. Clement’s Church and the imposing Tsar Samoil’s Fortress. Later, experience the serene beauty of Lake Ohrid with a relaxing boat cruise. Free time to explore and savor lunch at one of the lakeside restaurants. Afternoon arrival in Skopje
Overnight: Skopje
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Saturday – Full Day in Skopje or Optional Ancient City of Stobi with Wine Tasting & Lunch

Today is free to explore Skopje or participate in the optional Ancient City of Stobi with Wine Tasting & Lunch. Explore the ancient city of Stobi, located in a fertile valley, and get a glimpse into Macedonia’s rich history. Walk through ruins that include a Roman theater, palace, and intricate mosaics, while you learn about the city’s past from your knowledge guide. Next, head to a nearby winery for a tour of the vineyard, and a delightful wine tasting experience. Sample a selection of local wines, paired with appetizers such as local Galichnik cheese and smoked meats. Afterward, savor lunch, featuring regional cuisine. Return to Skopje in the afternoon
Optional: Ancient City of Stobi with Wine Tasting & Lunch
Overnight: Skopje
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Sunday – Matka Canyon, Boat Ride to Vrelo Cave

Head outside Skopje, to explore Matka Canyon, a breathtaking gorge carved by the Treska River. The canyon is characterized by steep, towering cliffs that rise dramatically above the emerald-green waters of the river. Embark on a boat ride to Vrelo Cave, admiring the spectacular views of the canyon along the way. Upon reaching the cave*, one of the deepest underwater caves in the world, you’ll be awed by the impressive stalactites and stalagmites that adorn its chambers. The cave is illuminated to highlight these natural formations, creating a magical atmosphere. Free time for lunch, before driving back to Skopje
*Visiting the cave requires sturdy walking shoes and is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking.
Overnight: Skopje
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Monday – Full Day in Skopje or Optional Full Day Pristina & Prizren Tour

Spend the day at leisure or join the optional Full Day Pristina & Prizren Tour. Depart Skopje this morning, and travel to Kosovo. After crossing the border, stop at Pristina, the capital city. Begin the sightseeing tour that includes views of the striking building of the National Library, Newborn Monument, Clock Tower, and Imperial Mosque. Next, head to Prizren, a multiracial city situated in the south of Kosovo, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. On arrival, free time for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, gain insight into the city’s ancient history and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Old Town and walk across the 16th century Stone Bridge, which spans the Lumbardhi River. View Sinan Pasha Mosque, the Orthodox Church of St. George, Archaeological Museum, and Prizren Fortress that dates to Roman times. Free time for exploration before heading to Skopje. Arrive at the hotel in the evening
Optional: Full Day Pristina & Prizren Tour
Overnight: Skopje
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8, Tuesday – Full Day in Skopje or Optional Bigorski Monastery & Mavrovo National Park with Lunch

On your last day at leisure, choose the optional Bigorski Monastery & Mavrovo National Park with lunch. Begin the day with a drive to the beautiful Mavrovo National Park, one of North Macedonia’s most picturesque nature reserves. Here, visit Bigorski Monastery, a revered Byzantine site nestled in the mountains. The monastery, dating from the 11th century, is dedicated to St. John the Baptist and is renowned for its awe-inspiring wood-carved iconostasis. Admire the elaborate frescoes and absorb the spiritual tranquility. Free time to explore on your own, before lunch at a local restaurant. Savor traditional regional dishes featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Conclude the day with a drive back to Skopje. Tonight, at dinner bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Optional: Bigorski Monastery & Mavrovo National Park with lunch
Overnight: Skopje
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9, Wednesday – Depart North Macedonia

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast