Why Macedonia Makes a Perfect Vacation

Macedonia is a hidden gem situated in Eastern Europe. After the fall of Yugoslavia, the country was officially named as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). However, due to the long name, FYROM is not popularly known.  In recent time, Greece and Macedonia came to an agreement and the country will now be called North Macedonia. However, most people would still prefer to call it as Macedonia. She shares border with Kosovo, Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece and Albania. Often overshadow by its neighbouring countries when it comes to tourism, Macedonia is a territory waiting to be undiscover.

Macedonia is indeed a mixture of different parts of Europe as it combines the Islamic feel from Serbia & Kosovo, coupled with the beauty of Albania mountain countryside and glittered by Greece photogenic spots with its lake. Do you know? They love statues to the extent that the capital have a dedicated art bridge that could rival with Czech Republic, buildings designed to perfection that looks as pretty as those in Hungary. The bazaar found in the capital, Skopje could be forgiven if one mistaken it as the Istanbul bazaar in Turkey. In short, it combines both the east and west of Europe culture.

Skopje 

Skopje is the capital of the Republic of Macedonia, in the center of the Balkan Peninsula.

Carsija old town

The Stara Čaršija also known as the Carsija old town is the city’s historic center. Do note that it has roots traced back to the Ottoman empire with it being the largest bazaar  in the Balkans outside Istanbul.  Perfect place to bring back Macedonia souvenirs. Things to buy include traditional costumes & textiles, traditional filigree jewelry, handmade leather shoe. Allocate at least an hour to browse through the shops and this is a cheaper place to have your meals fixed as compare to other parts of the city.

Art bridge

Art Bridge is a pedestrian bridge across the Vardar River in Skopje. It features many statues of Macedonian artists and musicians. You do not need to be at Prague (Czech Republic) to squeeze with hundreds of people vying for photo moments. Here, the entire bridge, one could enjoy taking artistic shots.

Mother Teresa Memorial House

One of the more unique church one will witness in Macedonia, the memorial house is dedicated to Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mother Teresa who is born in her hometown, Skopje. The memorial sits on the site of a much earlier church, where Mother Teresa was baptized. Look out for the Mother Teresa quotations on plaques found in all corners of the the city center.

 Kale Fortress

The Skopje Fortress, or Kale, overlooking the river has defended the city for centuries. One of the nicer viewpoint to capture the essence of the old and new town in Skopje.

Vodno Mountain (Millennium Cross)

This is the highest point, one of the first sights one will notice from most everywhere in Macedonia’s capital city, Skopje. Getting to the Vodno by private transport can be expensive. Here is the way to get to Vodno mountain by taking the public bus. Locate the International Bus Station. Do note the bus is not found in there but rather, one have to walk out to a parking lot which locals call it as the national bus station, where city buses ply their route. Ask for the Millennium Cross line which departs around every 30 minutes. Purchase tickets directly from the driver; the cost is 35 Macedonian denar.

Plostad makedonija

Beautiful monuments can be found in the square of Plostad makedonija. This is also one of the most photographed spot in Skopje, with many more status lining along the streets.

 Top recommendation, allocate 2 days to venture out of Skopje. Visit Lake Ohrid, UNSECO site that is located near to the border of Albania. This can be a good pit stop for those who are heading into Albania from Macedonia.  You will be amazed by the pure beauty of this lake. I would suggest spending at least 2 days to take in a leisure walk around the lake. 

If you are looking for more travel tips in the Balkans region, refer to post found here.

Categories: Europe Region