North Macedonia, formerly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), is known for its long and eventful history, stretching back to the Bronze Age. It is known for its strong religious tradition, and there are hundreds of picturesque Orthodox cathedrals and mosques that are each distinctly beautiful. North Macedonia is known as having an underrated food culture, with an emphasis on farm-to-table cuisine and fresh produce. For as small as North Macedonia is compared to its Balkan neighbors, the geography is surprisingly varied here, home to Europe`s two oldest lakes and over 50 mountains higher than 6,000 feet.

The most popular destinations in North Macedonia are the capital, Skopje, and the resort town of Ohrid, situated on the banks of the lake of the same name.

The best times to visit North Macedonia are during the shoulder season and the high season. The shoulder season occurs from April to May, when temperatures are cooler but not too cold, and crowds at attractions are of a more manageable size. The high season is when you will see the best weather, but it is also the busiest time of year for tourist sites. The high season begins in June and runs through early September.

We recommend approximately 3-8 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in Skopje and Ohrid.

We recommend seeing North Macedonia by air. Travel between Skopje and Ohrid by air, and utilize taxis or feel free to rent a car while you are in the country if you want to see more of the countryside.

The currency of North Macedonia is the Macedonian denar (written in shorthand as den). U.S. dollars are not accepted. Be prepared with the correct currency on hand or exchange your dollars (or Euros if you are arriving from the Eurozone) for denars upon arrival in North Macedonia. There are currency exchanges and ATMs at the airport, most high-end hotels, and in many other locations across the country.

The official languages of North Macedonia are Macedonian and Albanian. English is a common foreign language in Skopje and Ohrid, especially among younger people. Away from these areas it may be more difficult to converse with people in a language that is not Macedonian. Be prepared to learn basic Macedonian phrases like hello/goodbye, please/thank you, how much is it?, where is the bathroom, and the numbers from 1-10 and 50, 100, and 1,000. To say `Do you speak English?`, say `Dali zboruvaš angliski?`

Skopje and Tirana with Lake Ohrid (6 nights)

The Balkan countries are often overlooked, but they are a network of historical importance and surprisingly stunning views in every corner! Explore two popular and captivating capital cities, along with an iconic lakefront destination: Start in beautiful Skopje (where surprises wait around every landmark from bustling bazaars and squares to fortress strongholds: the birthplace of Sainted Mother Teresa does not disappoint), next visit Tirana (whose painted facades of street art graffiti and murals give way to serene parks and gardens). Along the way, you will be treated to a stop in beautiful Ohrid, a historic lakefront city.

Includes: Flight into Skopje and out of Tirana, Hotel for 3 nights in Skopje, Transfer: Skopje - Tirana (including a stop in Ohrid), Hotel for 3 nights in Tirana

Transfers may include additional options: To see additional options and add any (if any are available): In the booking process select Change on the Intercity Transfer, read through the transportation details and select the options you wish to add. This may alter the cities featured in this package and change your total cost.

Skopje - Istanbul - Athens by Air (9 nights)

If you're looking for ancient history, look no further than this vacation package which combines two perennial favorite ancient cities with a surprising entry: Start in beautiful Skopje (the birthplace of revered Mother Teresa, Skopje is a haven of culture and history where surprises wait around every landmark from bustling bazaars and squares to fortress strongholds) and then visit Istanbul (whose confluence of European and Asian cultures creates an eclectic heritage). Finally, add the birthplace of modern civilization Athens and you'll have an unforgettable vacation.

Includes: Flight into Skopje and out of Athens, Hotel for 3 nights in Skopje, Intercity flight: Skopje - Istanbul , Hotel for 3 nights in Istanbul, Intercity flight: Istanbul - Athens , Hotel for 3 nights in Athens

Tirana and Skopje with Lake Ohrid (6 nights)

Don't make the mistake of overlooking the historic and surprising Balkans! These criminally underrated countries are often less expensive and less populated than their more popular western cousins. Explore beautiful Tirana (and its famous street art murals and serene parks and gardens) before making a pit stop at the iconic lakefront city of Ohrid en route to spectacular Skopje (where bustling bazaars and squares lead to historic fortress strongholds).

Includes: Flight into Tirana and out of Skopje, Hotel for 3 nights in Tirana, Transfer: Tirana - Skopje (including a stop in Ohrid), Hotel for 3 nights in Skopje

Transfers may include additional options: To see additional options and add any (if any are available): In the booking process select Change on the Intercity Transfer, read through the transportation details and select the options you wish to add. This may alter the cities featured in this package and change your total cost.

Athens - Istanbul - Skopje by Air (9 nights)

A surprising Balkan entry joins two of the world's favorite ancient cities to complete this historical tour de force: Start in the birthplace of modern civilization Athens (which lead the world for centuries in art, philosophy, music, education, and innovation) before heading to Istanbul (whose confluence of European and Asian cultures creates an eclectic heritage). Finally, stay in surprising and beautiful Skopje (the birthplace of revered Mother Teresa, Skopje is a haven of culture and history where surprises wait around every landmark from bustling bazaars and squares to fortress strongholds).

Includes: Flight into Athens and out of Skopje, Hotel for 3 nights in Athens, Intercity flight: Athens - Istanbul , Hotel for 3 nights in Istanbul, Intercity flight: Istanbul - Skopje , Hotel for 3 nights in Skopje

Yes, you can combine with: Turkey | Greece | Albania