Skopje is kitschy. Skopje is fake. Balkan Disneyland. Cheap Las Vegas dupe. These were some of the comments I got when I told people that I was travelling to the capital of North Macedonia. But guess what: I couldn't have been more pleasantly surprised. Because Skopje was very different to what the comments made me believe: The city has a fascinating, extensive history, really good restaurants, a cool vibe and yes, there's a bit of kitsch too - but you know what: I didn't think it was that bad.
I've been living in the Balkans since 2021 and have already explored a few cities here. And I would definitely recommend Skopje for a city break. I had an absolutely marvellous time in the Macedonian capital.
So here are my best tips and sights in Skopjethe capital of North Macedonia.
The most important facts about Skopje
We start with a superlative: With around 2,000 years of history, Skopje is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in south-east Europe. It was founded under the name Scupi from the Romans.
Situated in an earthquake zone, large parts of Skopje were destroyed in a devastating earthquake in 1963 - the cityscape has not been the same since.
Today, however, the capital of the young state of North Macedonia is a lively hub that combines ancient history, modern life and everything in between in an exciting way.
Why is a visit to Skopje worthwhile?
- Cultural diversity: The city is a fascinating mixture of antiquity, the Ottoman Empire, the reclamation of Macedonian history and modernity
- Hospitality: The Macedonians are definitely some of the most hospitable people I have ever met. We were invited to dinner by strangers on the very first evening.
- Excellent cuisine: North Macedonia is known for its excellent fruit and vegetables, which thrive in the mild climate. The city's restaurants bear witness to the quality and are excellent.
- Varied cityscape: Walking through Skopje sometimes feels like jumping through the space-time continuum: One minute you're in the old bazaar, the next you're in a baroque-inspired modern Marriott hotel. The contrasts are exciting.
How many days should I plan to spend in Skopje?
For Skopje itself, two days are enough to explore the most important sights. If you also want to see the surrounding area, for example the Matka Canyon or the wineries nearby, then you can stay three to four days.
Places of interest in Skopje
Skopje is easy to explore on foot, many of the sights are close together and stretch along both sides of the Vardar River. These were my highlights.
Kale Fortress
At first glance, it doesn't look like much of a sight when you enter it through the battered entrance gate, but from Kale Fortress you have a great view over the city. The fact that the fortress walls alone date back to the 6th century and have survived time and conquerors is pretty impressive in addition to the view of the city.
Admission is free, so it's best to go up at sunset or for the Golden Hour, when Skopje is bathed in golden light.
Debar Maalo
The hipster neighbourhood of Skopje reminded me directly of the Dorćol district in Belgrade remembers. Here you will find the hippest cafés and restaurants in the city, but you can also enjoy traditional Macedonian cuisine - an experience in Skopje that you shouldn't miss. Especially as the local restaurants often hire live musicians to create a unique atmosphere. We went to Skopski Merak and I can highly recommend it.
Mother Teresa Memorial House
This memorial and museum dedicated to the life and work of Mother Teresa, who was born here in Macedonia, is located in the centre of Skopje. Please note: this is not the house where she was born, as many people think. This is located on Macedonia Square, but no longer stands, only a small memorial plaque still points to it. I didn't go inside the museum, the sight of the eclectic building from the outside was enough for me. But admission is free.
Place of Macedonia
The statue of Alexander the Great can hardly be overlooked, the The statue of Macedonia's national hero covers the entire square and is the city's landmark. The square itself, which in addition to the huge statue of the Macedonian ruler also has a triumphal arch and numerous other statues and monuments, was part of the Skopje 2014 project.
The aim of the project, which was launched in 2010, was to transform Skopje into a baroque city. The whole endeavour was halted in 2017 - there were even discussions about dismantling it. You can think what you like, but I found the view of our tour guide Zoran, who told us that the square was hardly used in the past, fascinating. Nowadays, Macedonians come here in the evenings with their children, spend time in the city and with each other - the fact that the square is used today is a good thing in itself.
Tip: Skopje is a multi-layered city and North Macedonia is a multi-layered, exciting country with a turbulent history. To better understand the city, country and people, I would definitely recommend a city tour. We were with Free Skopje Walking Tours very satisfied.
The bridge of art
Just a few steps from Macedonia Square, this magnificently decorated bridge crosses the River Vardar. Kitschy, you might think, but I personally thought it stood out from the mass of buildings and monuments, almost sublime. A photo here is definitely a must - after all, it is one of the best sights in Skopje.
Stone bridge
The stone bridge connects the old centre of Skopje, the bazaar, with Macedonia Square. Next to the particularly magnificent Bridge of Art, it seems almost too simple, although it is historically more important, dating back to the Ottoman period around the 15th century. In the evening, you will find fishermen trying their luck in the Vardar.
Old bazaar
Welcome to the Byzantine part of Skopje. The old town of Skopje is a stark contrast to Skopje 2014 - time seems to stand still here, an Ottoman could turn the corner at any time in the small, winding alleyways, it seems, and mosques rise above the low roofs.
To discover not only the Goldschmiedgasse in the winding streets, but also old hostels or hamams, I would recommend a city tour. We were with Free Skopkje Walking Tours super satisfied, our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and made the tour entertaining.
In the Old Bazaar, you also have to try the Macedonian national dish Tavče gravče (baked beans) try.
Skenderbeg Square
At the entrance to Čaršija, the old bazaar, is Skenderbeg Square, where you can see the challenges and struggles of the Macedonian people on a mural. Skenderbeg was an Albanian warrior who led a rebellion against the Ottomans in the region and is recognised as a folk hero in many Balkan countries.
Skopje City Museum
When large parts of the city of Skopje were destroyed by an earthquake in 1962 and 200,000 people were left homeless, much of the city's original architecture was unfortunately lost. In order to accommodate the people quickly, blocks of flats were erected without any consideration for the historical architecture of North Macedonia.
Of all the sights in Skopje, the City Museum is perhaps the most depressing. On the façade you can still see the time when the earthquake struck - the hands of the clock simply stopped.
Vodno Mountain
You can simply take the cable car to the top of Skopje's local mountain. Alternatively, you can hike or take bus number 25. You will find the stations here. The BUs is even free at weekends.
From the top, you have a great view of the city and are spoilt for choice between different hiking routes. Unfortunately, we didn't have time for the mountain, but a friend who lives in Skopje said it's definitely worth a visit.
Bonus: Matka Canyon
Matka Canyon is only half an hour away from Skopje and is really impressive. If you have more time, I would recommend a visit. If you're on a road trip through North Macedonia, you can simply drive there in a hire car. Otherwise, our tour guide recommended bus number 60, you can find more information on how to get there by bus here here.
You can go hiking in the canyon (we only walked just under 2 kilometres as the weather wasn't good), hire a kayak or explore the canyon and its caves on a guided kayak tour. A tip from our guide: don't choose the first, but the last provider in the canyon. It may be a little more expensive, but it is the only one authorised to paddle into the caves.
You should definitely plan half a day for the canyon - and if you don't want to drive yourself or plan your trip by public transport, then a guided tour is a great alternative.
Travelling to Skopje
Several airlines fly to Skopje from Germany. I always check my flights on Kiwi to get the best deals and compare flight times and prices from different airports.
Hotel tip for Skopje
We didn't stay in a hotel, but in this one Flatthat I can recommend. The location was central enough, we had a gated car park (important if you're on a road trip!) and although it's right on the road, it was quiet at night.
Tip: I always use Booking.com for all my hotel and flat bookings. As a regular user, I am now a Genius user there and get up to 20 % discount on accommodation or free upgrade or breakfast. Here you can view accommodation in Skopje directly on booking.com.
Other activities in North Macedonia & the region
My conclusion about Skopje
I have to say, the city really surprised me in a positive way. The mix of old and modern, Ottoman and Western was interesting and diverse. In addition, the friendly and warm people and a lively and dynamic atmosphere made me want to learn more about the city, country and people. North Macedonia is a country with a rich history and Skopje reflects this well. I would even travel there again to soak up the city a little more!
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