Attractions
Ohrid
The former capital Ohrid is probably the most attractive city in the country. The small town is located on Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and only 10 km from Ohrid International Airport. Medieval monasteries, churches and mosques characterize the cityscape alongside the countless red-tiled roofs of the white, modern houses. The remains of the Samuil Fortress are enthroned on the city hill. The most important medieval building in North Macedonia is the St. Sophia Church in Ohrid on Lake Ohrid.
- Top-engineering-schools: Provides detailed population data for major cities of Macedonia. Also covers geography information including rivers, mountains, lakes, and national borders.
Bitola
Bitola is one of the larger cities in North Macedonia. In Bitola there are mosques and an old market hall from the Ottoman era, as well as orthodox and catholic churches and other historical buildings. Bitola is only 17 km from the border with Greece and 10 km from the eastern edge of Pelister National Park. Pelister National Park is a popular local recreation area with biking and hiking trails through large pine forests and lakes. In the south of Bitola is the excavation site of the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis with well-preserved mosaics and an ancient theater.
Skopje
The capital Skopje was almost completely destroyed in an earthquake in 1963. The most important sights are the medieval bridge over the Vardar, the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, the Daut Pasha Turkish bath (15th century) and the Church of St. Panteleimon. The frescoes in the Church of St. Clement of Ohrid are also worth seeing. In the city center stands the memorial house for Mother Teresa. Other important museums in Skopje are the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Shopping
Overview
embroidery, woodcarving and pottery.
Opening hours
Mon-Fri 08.00-20.00 and Sat 08.00-15.00.
Culinary
Overview
Kebabs and moussaka are available on every street corner. Gravce na Tavce is a North Macedonian specialty made from fried beans, and you should also try the tasty Ohrid trout.
Culture
Religion
The majority of the population belongs to the North Macedonian Orthodox Church (64.7%), which has its own leader but is not internationally recognised. In addition, 33.3% Muslims (Albanians and Turks), a Serbian-Orthodox minority and Catholics.
Social Rules of Conduct
Manners: When greeting someone shakes hands. The atmosphere is informal and you take your time with business negotiations. Photography: Airports, dams and military installations are not allowed to be photographed. Appropriate warning signs have been put up. Smoking: Smoking is prohibited on public transport, in all public buildings and offices, and in restaurants and pubs. Tipping: It is customary to tip 10% in hotels, restaurants and taxis.
Climate
Best travel time
Continental climate, cold winters and hot summers.
Country data
Phone prefix
+389
Area (sq km)
25713
Population
2,083,374 (Source: homosociety)
Population density (per square km)
82
Population statistics year
2020
Member of the EU
No
Main emergency number
112
