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Tips & Tricks for Exploring Skopje, North Macedonia – How to Spend 72 Hours in the City
- Jun 15
- 15 min read
Skopje is the capital of North Macedonia and is known for its rich history and the unique blend of old and new that defines its atmosphere today.
The city was heavily damaged by a devastating earthquake in 1963, but much of it has been rebuilt — some parts preserving historical architecture, while others were redesigned in a more modern or neoclassical style.
As a result, Skopje offers a fascinating mix of Ottoman, Byzantine, and contemporary influences. You can find the key landmarks include the historic Old Bazaar, the iconic Stone Bridge, grand neoclassical buildings, and quirky statues scattered throughout the city center.
How to Reach Skopje
Skopje is the capital of North Macedonia, and it is well-connected by air, bus, and train.
a. By Air:
Skopje International Airport (SKP) is the main airport and it’s located around 20 km from the city center. There are often direct flights from different major cities in Europe.
You can take a shuttle bus to the Skopje city center or a taxi to reach downtown Skopje.
b. By Bus:
Different bus companies operate within North Macedonia and in neighboring countries.
As we were coming from Tirana, Albania, we took a bus from Tirana, and it was supposed to be 6 hours, but the bus was too slow, and it took us over 8 hours to reach it.
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c. By Train:
The Skopje railway station connects to some cities, but train services are very limited. Especially, in Balkan countries, the train doesn’t connect the neighboring countries.
Where to stay in Skopje:
a. City Center (Macedonia Square & Old Bazaar)
For the first timers, it’s highly suggested to stay in the City Center of Macedonia or near the old bazaar. We stayed at Macedonia Square in the hotel called Hotel Macedonia Square, which was a 4-star hotel with a Sauna and very comfortable, modern, and spacious rooms.
All the main landmarks were within walking distance from the hotel, which made it the best place to stay in Macedonia. There are lots of restaurants and cafes in the area.
b. Debar Maalo
If you want to stay in a relatively quieter location, you can consider Debar Maalo, which is famous for its bohemian vibes, bars, and restaurants.
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It’s still closer to the city center, but most probably you can take a bus or taxi for reaching to main landmarks if you don’t prefer walking.
c. Vodno Mountain Area
If you want to enjoy nature, you can also consider staying in the Vodno Mountain area, but it’s quite far from Skopje city.
How to commute within Skopje:
a. Public Buses
There are red double-decker buses similar to the buses in London that cover different areas in Skopje. You can buy the ticket from a Kiosk or on the bus.
To be very honest, we were a little confused about how to buy the ticket on the bus, but we got help from a local who helped us buy the ticket.
b. Taxis
You can also use taxis in Skopje, but you need to be very careful about taxi scams. Most of the time, drivers overcharge tourists. We used taxis four times, and each time, we ended up paying double the original fare.
Our first taxi ride was from the bus station to our hotel in Macedonia Square (about 2 km). Not knowing about the scams, we paid 600 MKD, while the normal fare was 300 MKD.
Another time, we took a taxi from East Gate Mall and agreed on 300 MKD, but upon arrival, the driver claimed that was the price for one person and charged us double for two.
To avoid scams, always ask the driver to turn on the meter, or better yet, ask your hotel to book a taxi for you.
c. E-Scooters & Bikes (Eco-Friendly):
You can also rent an e-scooter; we have explored the city on e-scooters. It’s suggested to download the local E-Scooter app called binbin, it is similar to Lime or Tier in Western Europe, but I wasn’t impressed with the user experience. I would prefer Lime or Tier over this.
d. Walking (Best for Exploring the Center):
As most of the main attractions are located within walking distance, please keep in mind that you will be walking a lot in the city, especially since the old bazaar is only possible to explore by walking.
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Tips for Exploring Skopje & Safety for Solo Travelers:
Wear comfortable shoes: You will be walking a lot in Skopje from one landmark to another, like Macedonia Square, Stone Bridge, and Old Bazaar. So, be aware of wearing comfortable shoes.
Use public transport: It's economical to use the Bus and avoid using the taxis, as based on our experience, we always ended up getting scammed by the taxi drivers.
Taxi Scam in Skopje: Taxis are a convenient and quicker way to commute in Skopje, but as a tourists, we often faced scams with taxis in Skopje. Common scams are overcharging, refusing to use the meter, claiming fake fixed prices, charging per passenger instead of per ride, and taking longer routes to increase fares.
Based on our experience, it’s suggested to ask the driver to turn on the meter, use official taxis with company logos, and avoid taxis waiting at tourist spots.
Skopje, North Macedonia You can ask your hotel to book a taxi or agree on a price in advance if the driver refuses to use a meter.
Estimated fares include 200-300 MKD from the city center to the bus station, 700-1000 MKD to Matka Canyon, and 1,200 MKD to Skopje Airport. We ended up getting scammed, but we would like to help you in our blog by sharing the experience and tips so you can avoid getting scammed.
Visit Matka Canyon: The Matka Canyon gets very crowded during the day. The boat tour opens at 9:00 AM, so it’s suggested to take the early morning boat ride so it doesn’t get too crowded.
Try local food: You should visit and try out the local food like ćevapi, ajvar, and tavče gravče at Old Bazaar restaurants. The prices of the restaurants and cafes are much more economical in the Old Bazaar as compared to other parts of the city.
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Carry Cash: Some of the restaurants and cafes may only accept cash, so it’s advisable to carry cash. You can also only pay the taxi drivers in Cash.
Currency exchange: It's best to exchange money at official exchange offices or banks and avoid street exchangers to prevent scams. Always count your money before leaving the counter. Instead of exchanging cash, we used ATMs to withdraw local currency, while slightly more expensive, it felt safer.
Is Skopje Safe for Solo Travelers?
We found Skopje to be very safe for solo travelers and women. However, you should be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places and on public transport. Some children may beg for money or ask you to buy them food, so be mindful of such situations.
It’s best to stick to the main tourist areas at night and avoid unregistered taxis to prevent overcharging. While locals are generally friendly, staying vigilant is always advisable.
Things to do in Skopje:
1. Explore Macedonia Square:
Macedonia Square is the heart of Skopje, and we would highly suggest exploring the city from the Square. It’s the largest square in North Macedonia, and one of the most significant and iconic things is the “Warrior on a Horse” statue.
This massive statue is a statue of Alexander the Great. The statue is around 72 feet tall, and it's surrounded by fountains and bronze warriors. You will be surprised to see that the city has so many statues.
The square is also adorned with numerous statues, including those of national heroes such as Goce Delčev, Dame Gruev, and Tsar Samuil. These statues highlight Macedonia’s historical and cultural legacy.
Macedonia Square is also famous for hosting public gatherings, political protests, and celebrations.
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The square is surrounded by various restaurants, hotels, and cafés. You can also find high-end restaurants within the square. Additionally, there are many hotels offering a great experience in the heart of the city.
There is also a triumphal arch (Tall gate) which was built in 2011 and is an entrance to Macedonia. It depicts the key moments in Macedonian history and is a symbol of national pride.
It serves as a symbol of national pride and is often used as a backdrop for celebrations, protests, and official events.
Located near Pella Square, it stands at the entrance to Macedonia Street, a major pedestrian walkway. If you are there in summer, there are small stalls selling corn - we would also suggest trying out sweet corn.
2. Walk Across the Stone Bridge:
The Stone Bridge was built in the 15th century during Ottoman times, and it connects the modern city center with the Old Bazaar.
It’s over the Vardar River. You can find the modern architecture on one side of the river and the old historic center on the other side. The view looks very beautiful before the sunset and in the blue hour.
3. Wander through the Old Bazaar of Skopje:
The Old Bazaar of Skopje will take you back into the Ottoman times, and we literally felt that we were roaming around in bazaars in Istanbul. The narrow streets of the Old Bazaar of Skopje reflect the historical blend of Ottoman, Byzantine, and Macedonian. The old bazaar is the largest bazaar in the Balkans.
We started exploring the narrow streets where it has different shops selling handmade crafts, jewelry, carpets, and souvenirs. There are also beautiful cafes and historical buildings.
Some of the cobblestone streets are decorated with hanging umbrellas and lanterns.
While exploring the bazaars, we were quite surprised that there are so many mosques in the Old Bazaar and they also have Azaan (call to Prayer).
Things to do in Old Bazaar Skopje:
a. Visit the historical Mosque:
Mustafa Pasha Mosque: The Mustafa Pasha Mosque used to be a significant mosque in the Ottoman Era. It was built by Mustafa Pasha in 1492 and is the finest Islamic architecture in the Balkans.
The Mosque has a large single dome, a tall minaret, and beautiful and elegant arabesque patterns and calligraphy. The courtyard of the mosque has a marble fountain and the tomb of Mustafa Pasha.
Mustafa Pasha Mosque Murad Pasha Mosque: The Murad Pasha Mosque is also an Ottoman mosque, which was built in 1436 by Murad Pasha. The Mosque has a single dome and a tall minaret.
Murad Pasha Mosque It has a traditional-style prayer hall, and it has an interior with calligraphy. The courtyard of the mosque has a small cemetery, and it’s situated near the Old Bazaar in Skopje.
The mosque serves the local Muslim community and attracts visitors interested in Skopje’s Islamic heritage.
Tips for visiting the Mosque:
Visiting a mosque, especially a historic one like the Mustafa Pasha Mosque or the Murad Pasha Mosque in Skopje, requires some cultural and religious awareness. Here are some tips to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit:
Dress Modestly: Men should wear long pants and avoid wearing sleeveless and women should wear long skirts or pants and cover their shoulders and cover their hair. You can also get the clothes from the mosque to visit the mosque.
Remove Your Shoes: You have to take off your shoes before entering the prayer area.
Visit During Non-Prayer Times: The best time to visit is between prayer times, and avoid the noon Friday prayer as it has a large congregation.
Follow Gender-Specific Areas: There are different sections for men and women. Check the sign or ask the staff.
Be Open and Respectful: You are welcome to visit the mosque even if you aren’t Muslim. You can greet with "As-salaam alaykum" when you enter the mosque.
b. Caravanserais:
a. Kursumli An: Kursumli An used to be Caravanserai, located in Skopje Old Town, and it was built in the 16th century and served as an inn for merchants and travelers in the Balkans.
The Inn has a large courtyard with thick stone walls for accommodation and storage. In the late 19th and 20th centuries, it turned into a prison. Nowadays, the Kursumli An is part of the Museum of Macedonia and is used for exhibitions and cultural events.
b. Kapan Han: Kapan Han is another Ottoman-era caravanserai, and it’s located in the Old Bazaar of Skopje, North Macedonia. This caravanserai was built in the mid-15th century to serve the merchants traveling in the Balkans.
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The Inn has a rectangular layout with an open courtyard, galleries, and rooms. Nowadays, there are restaurants and cafes with lively environments.
c. Enjoy Traditional Balkan & Turkish Food:
Different restaurants are offering traditional Macedonian food, which includes ćevapi, which are Skopje-style kebabs, Macedonian meatballs, Baklava, and Turkish Coffee.
Cafe Melody:
Café Melody is a small, cozy cafe with a warm ambiance. The cafe offers amazing non-alcoholic cocktails.
Lokmades:
If you’re a dessert lover, Lokmades in North Macedonia is a must. We also enjoyed their cocktails.
Cuba Coffee:
Cuba Coffee is a cozy, specialty coffee spot located in Skopje’s vibrant Old Bazaar area. We absolutely love their fresh orange juice and non-alcoholic cocktails — refreshing, flavorful, and perfect for any time of day.
4. Širok Sokak (Bohemian Street):
Širok Sokak is a Bohemian street in the center of Skopje. It’s a pedestrian-friendly street with cafes, bars, and restaurants.
There are outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy food in a lively atmosphere. Many of the bars also offer live performances of traditional Macedonian music.
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We visited at night for dinner and enjoyed the food at a traditional restaurant. One thing to keep in mind is that the prices here are higher than those in the Old Bazaar.
5. Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia:
The Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia focuses on the culture and history of North Macedonia. It showcases the country’s rich history, archaeology, ethnography, and art.
The museum has different sections presenting artifacts, medieval relics, and exhibits related to the country’s struggle for independence.
You can explore the various cultural influences that have shaped modern North Macedonia.
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6. National Gallery of Macedonia (Daut Pasha Hamam):
The National Gallery of Macedonia is located in Daut Pasha Hamam, which used to be a bathhouse during Ottoman times. It was built in the 15th century with beautiful domed ceilings and stone architecture. Nowadays, it serves as a gallery that exhibits Macedonian art, including paintings and sculptures.
7. Archaeological Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia:
The Archaeological Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia is dedicated to showcasing North Macedonia’s rich historical and cultural heritage. The museum is located on the bank of the Vardar River, and it has an extensive collection of artifacts from prehistory and medieval times.
You can also find the exhibition of ancient statues, coins, jewelry, ceramics, and weapons from different civilizations.
8. Museum of the Macedonian Struggle for Independence:
The Museum of the Macedonian Struggle for Independence depicts the dedication and sacrifices made in the fight for freedom from Ottoman rule and the struggle for national recognition. The museum showcases key moments in Macedonian history from the 19th century to the country's independence in 1991.
It features documents, photographs, weapons, and personal belongings of revolutionaries. The museum also includes wax statues of key historical figures, providing a lifelike representation of significant events.
9. Macedonian Holocaust Museum:
The Macedonian Holocaust Museum reflects the history of the Jewish community of North Macedonia, who were deported to the Treblinka extermination camp in 1943 during World War II.
The museum has photographs, personal belongings, and documents from the Jewish community, and it has a wall with the names of Macedonian Jews who perished.
10. Skopje Fortress (Kale Fortress):
The Skopje Fortress, also known as Kale Fortress, dates back to the 6th century during the Byzantine era. The fortress was built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I using stones from the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Scupi.
During the Ottoman period, the fortress was expanded, and numerous wars were witnessed, playing a significant role in the region's defense.
The fortress is made of massive stone walls and features several watchtowers that offer stunning views of the city and the Vardar River. The fortress is free to visit, and the panoramic view of Skopje is truly breathtaking.
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Finding the entrance to the fortress can be a bit tricky. It took us some time to locate the correct entrance, and we had to take a half-circle tour around the castle.
To avoid any confusion, check the signboards or ask the locals for directions. It's highly recommended to visit the fortress around sunset, but during the summer, the castle closes at 6:00 PM, while the sun sets at 9:00 PM.
11. The Isak Beg:
Aladža Mosque was built in 1438, and it’s one of the oldest Ottoman-era mosques. The mosque was commissioned by Isak Beg, an Ottoman nobleman and military commander.
The mosque is known for its elegant Ottoman design with calligraphy and geometric patterns on the walls and ceilings. The mosque has a minaret and a spacious prayer hall.
12. Mother Teresa Memorial House:
The Mother Teresa Memorial House reflects the life and legacy of Mother Teresa, who is known for her humanitarian efforts in the 20th century. Mother Teresa was born in Skopje in 1910 (not 1019) and spent her life contributing to humanity.
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The memorial house displays photographs, documents, and personal items related to her. The house also serves as an educational center for teaching her philosophy of kindness, charity, and love for humanity.
13. Stroll Along the Vardar River and See the Art Bridge:
Some people explore the historic district and cross the Stone Bridge, but miss the opportunity to walk along the Vardar River. The Vardar River flows through the heart of the city and offers a picturesque view of the architecture of Skopje.
You can stroll along the riverbank and enjoy views of the Skopje Fortress, Stone Bridge, and the Old Bazaar. There are also green parks, along with numerous cafes and restaurants, scattered along the river.
You can also cross the Art Bridge, also known as the Bridge of Warriors, which is adorned with numerous statues of notable figures from North Macedonia. It’s a great spot to take a picture with the Stone Bridge as the backdrop. We also rented an E-Scooter and rode along the river.
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14. Archbishop's Cathedral of St. Clement of Ohrid:
The Archbishop Cathedral of St. Clement of Ohrid is an Orthodox Church named after St. Clement of Ohrid, who spread Christianity in the Slavic regions during the 9th and 10th centuries.
The cathedral blends traditional Byzantine architecture and features a large dome. It also has spacious courtyards and serves as an active place of worship.
15. Matka Canyon:
Matka Canyon is one of the most beautiful natural spots, which is located on a short drive (30 km) from Skopje City in the southwest. This is famous for its cliffs, caves, crystal clear water, and greenery, and it's formed by the Treska River.
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You can enjoy boating, Kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and enjoy the food on the River:
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16. Millennium Cross
The Millennium Cross is one of the main landmarks of Skopje. It’s located on Mount Vodno, and you can see this from all over the city. This mark was built as a sign of faith and unity.
You can either hike through the trails or take a cable car to reach the Millennium Cross. The view of the cable car ride is very charming, and from the Millennium Cross, you can enjoy the view of Skopje.
17. Skopje City Mall
Skopje City Mall is the largest mall in Skopje, located in the eastern part of the city. It offers a variety of local and international brands, covering a wide range of products.
The mall also features numerous dining options, offering both Macedonian and international cuisine.
In addition, the mall has a cinema and arcades, making it a great place for family entertainment and fun for children.
18. East Gate Mall
East Gate Mall is located in the eastern part of Skopje and opened its doors in 2017. On a particularly hot day, we decided to visit the mall to explore and experience shopping in Skopje.
The mall hosts a variety of local and international brands, as well as several restaurants and cafes. Additionally, the mall features a cinema and a VR experience. We tried the VR ride, which was incredibly fun.
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