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

🌍 Planning a trip to Skopje? Here's what you need to know to make the most of your visit to North Macedonia’s quirky and history-rich capital: 📍 How to Get Here? ✈️ Skopje International Airport (SKP) is well-connected to major European cities, making it an easy gateway into North Macedonia. The airport is located just 20 minutes from the city center. You can take a taxi (reasonably priced) or hop on the airport shuttle bus for a budget-friendly and hassle-free ride into town. 🚌 Organized Private Trip If you're traveling from Albania 🇦🇱, I highly recommend Go As Local – one of the best tour organizers I’ve come across in my travels across continents. My family booked the Tirana–Prizren–Pristina–Skopje–Ohrid–Tirana route, and it was a seamless, enriching experience. Our guide, Engjell, was incredibly knowledgeable, punctual, and professional. He made the journey feel like traveling with a friend — even our 3-year-old toddler had a fantastic time! This is a great option if you’re looking for a well-organized, stress-free, and personalized way to explore the Balkans. Here are the city’s highlight: 🗺️ 1. Embrace the City’s Unique Blend Skopje is a city of contrasts — from ancient Roman ruins and Ottoman bazaars to massive neoclassical facades and modern monuments. Don’t be surprised to see a statue of Alexander the Great just steps from a brutalist-era government building. 🛍️ 2. Stroll Through the Old Bazaar One of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans, Skopje’s Old Bazaar is a must-visit. Explore narrow alleys filled with artisan shops, tea houses, and traditional eateries. 🚖 3. Transportation Tips Skopje’s city center is very walkable. Taxis are inexpensive, but always ensure the meter is running. For trips outside the city (like Matka Canyon), consider hiring a local driver or using a rideshare app. 🍲 4. Savor Local Flavors Don’t leave without trying tavče gravče (baked beans), ajvar (pepper spread), and shopska salad. Most local restaurants serve hearty, delicious meals at budget-friendly prices. 💳 5. Currency & Payments The local currency is the Macedonian denar (MKD). While some central spots accept euros or cards, carry cash for smaller shops, cafes, and taxis. 🌄 6. Take a Day Trip to Matka Canyon Just a short drive from Skopje, Matka Canyon offers crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, boat rides, and hikes. It’s an ideal nature escape from the city buzz. 🏰 7. Don’t Miss Kale Fortress Overlooking the Vardar River, Kale Fortress offers some of the best views of the city—especially at sunset. Entry is free, and it’s an easy walk from the Old Bazaar. ❤️ I hope this review inspires you to discover the charming and often overlooked Skopje for yourself. #myitinerary #familytravel #travel #thingstodo #citydaytours

🗓️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

#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

💞Reasons to Recommend: Lovely trip to Macedonia, amazing cities with the tastiest food and welcoming people. Macedonia is definitely a must visit, especially for those trying not to spend as much but still enjoy themselves.

My trip to Skopje’s **Archaeological Museum** and **Skopje Fortress** felt like time-traveling through Macedonia’s layered history. Both landmarks, though centuries apart, reveal the city’s resilience and cultural richness. **Archaeological Museum: Where Ancient Stories Shine** The museum’s grand columned exterior hints at the wonders inside. I wandered through millennia, from prehistoric tools to Byzantine relics. The **Golden Funeral Mask**, gleaming with artistry, and Roman mosaics depicting mythical scenes left me awestruck. A highlight was the replica of **“Adam from Govrlevo”**, a 6,000-year-old figurine symbolizing early human creativity. Interactive exhibits on ancient trade routes and reconstructed tombs made history tangible. The rooftop café, with views of the Vardar River, offered a serene spot to reflect over Turkish coffee. **Skopje Fortress (Kale): Echoes of Empires** A short walk uphill led me to the imposing **Skopje Fortress**, a 6th-century sentinel overlooking the city. Climbing its rugged walls, I imagined Byzantine soldiers and Ottoman rulers who once stood guard. The panoramic vista—from the Stone Bridge to Mount Vodno—was worth every step. Though partially in ruins, the fortress pulses with life: locals picnicking on its lawns, musicians strumming folk songs, and sunset painting the stones gold. Don’t miss the Ottoman-era clock tower or the quiet corners where history feels almost whispered. **Tips for Travelers** Start at the museum (entry ~300 MKD) to contextualize Skopje’s past, then head to the fortress (free entry) for raw, atmospheric exploration. Wear comfy shoes—the fortress terrain is uneven! End your day at a nearby *kafana* with *tavče gravče* (bean stew) and a glass of *rakija*. Skopje’s history isn’t confined to textbooks—it’s etched in stone, gold, and the spirit of its people. A day here is a journey through time, best savored slowly.

#JanuaryTravelSupportEvent #FebruaryTravelSupportEvent The Archaeological Museum of North Macedonia is a treasure trove of history and culture located in the heart of Skopje, and is the oldest museum in North Macedonia, founded in 1924. Its collection of over 7,000 artifacts spans from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages, with Roman sculptures and Byzantine artifacts particularly notable. Highlights☺️ Prehistoric artifacts: Neolithic pottery and bronze age tools. Non-currency exhibition: A diverse collection of coins from ancient times to the present. Lapidarium: An exhibition of stone monuments and inscriptions. Visit Tips🤓 Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm (closed on Mondays). Admission: Approximately €5 for adults. Guided tours: Recommended to understand the historical context. Travelers say that the exhibits are "well-organized and immersive" and are considered an educational place, especially for families. A must-visit place in Skopje, located in the city center and easily accessible!! #EuropeanTravel #NorthMacedonia

North Macedonia Travel Guide: Explore the Treasures of the Balkans! 🇲🇰 Welcome to North Macedonia! This small Balkan country is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique charm. Are you ready to explore this mysterious land? 🏞️ First, explore the capital city of Skopje, a city filled with ancient streets, rich culture, and modern allure. Don't miss visiting the Skopje Fortress, Stone Bridge, and Macedonia Square to experience the blend of history and modernity! 🏰 Stroll through the streets of Skopje and savor local delicacies, especially traditional Macedonian kebabs and pancakes. Pair them with a glass of Macedonian red wine or Tatar wine for a delightful culinary journey! 🍷 Discover the natural wonders of North Macedonia! Head to Mount Mavrovo to admire the majestic peaks, blue skies, and lush greenery, and experience the beauty and tranquility of nature! 🌲 The ancient towns and villages of North Macedonia are also worth exploring! Visit Ohrid to see Lake Ohrid and the Church of St. Clement, and enjoy the town's serenity and beauty! ⛪ For history enthusiasts, North Macedonia boasts a rich cultural heritage. Visit the National Museum of History in Skopje to learn about the country's history and cultural traditions, and feel the charm of the ancient city! 🏛️ Don't forget to experience North Macedonia's folk activities! Join local traditional festivals, dance performances, or craft markets to immerse yourself in the cultural atmosphere! 💃 North Macedonia is a country full of charm and mystery. Get ready to embark on your journey to North Macedonia and explore the treasures of the Balkans! 🌟

Skopje is not only the capital of the Republic of North Macedonia, Europe, but also the largest city in North Macedonia. On October 2, 2023, we visited the majestic Macedonia Square located in the center of Skopje. Around the square, apart from tall buildings, there are countless sculptures. The most important of the many sculptures is the statue of Philip II (Photo 1). He led the small country of Macedonia, which had been plagued by civil strife, to gradually accumulate strength in economy, military and other aspects, and rise in Europe. He deservedly became the national hero forever revered by the Macedonian people!

#2024wish When I was in Skopje in 2023, just outside of the Grand Bazaar we saw a monument for Phillip II, the 18th king of Macedonia! 🇲🇰👑 The statue stands in the middle of a beautiful water fountain, which makes it a beautiful spot for photos. ⛲️ Lots of people gather to hang out or snap photos, and vendors stand nearby selling souvenirs and gelato. 🍧 Just a few steps away is the entrance to Skopje’s famous Grand Bazaar! 🛍️🤑 I hope in 2024, I can visit this beautiful monument again! 😍 #europe #localguides #tourism

#2024wish In 2023, I got to visit the Macedonia Holocaust Memorial in Skopje, North Macedonia. 📜🇲🇰✡️ The museum includes actual artifacts from the Holocaust, and follows the story of Macedonian Jews who suffered during that period of history. 🏛️ Inside the museum, everything is in multiple languages, including English, so it’s easy to follow along. 🔤 The museum is educational, beautiful, and definitely worth a visit! I hope I can visit again in 2024! ♥️🇲🇰 #museum #europe #localguides