North Macedonia

Welcome to the Republic of North Macedonia, a small country in south eastern Europe.

Our tour begins in Skopje, the country's capital and largest city. Known as the ‘city of statues', Skopje features a large collection of lifeless structures dotting the streets. Built in a bid to boost tourism to the city, there are over 100 statues.

We don't want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don't, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm.

At 6.00pm, join your fellow travellers and tour director for brief introductions and an orientation walk before our welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Get set for a half day walking city tour exploring the fascinating city of Skopje! We begin our day with a visit to the Museum of the City of Skopje. The Museum is located in the old train station building that was partly destroyed in the devastating earthquake struck on 27 July 1963. Our next stop is a visit to Mother Teresa Memorial House dedicated to the renowned Catholic nun who was born in Skopje in 1910.

We'll then see the Stone Bridge, a prominent symbol of the country's capital built in the 15th century, and Daut Pasha Hamam, a historical monument of the Islamic culture. We will uncover Kale Fortress, a beautiful 6th century fortress located at the highest point of the city, before ending our tour in the bustling Old Bazaar in Skopje's old town.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to wander through Skopje at your own pace.

This morning we make our way to the beautiful Matka Canyon, where incredible cliffs hug the emerald waters of the Treska River that winds its way through the canyon centre. Here we'll take a leisurely boat ride along the lake, taking in all the stunning scenery of the canyon along the way.

We'll also explore the Monastery of St. Bogorodica Prečista, translating to ‘Immaculate Mother of God'. Built in the 19th century, this church was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It's located near the charming city of Kičevo and is perched on a tranquil hilltop, providing some phenomenal views.

Later this afternoon we will return to Skopje, where the remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore at your own pace.

Today we make our way to stunning Ohrid, a gorgeous town where history and natural beauty seamlessly intertwine. The city is nestled alongside the vibrant waters of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes, giving Ohrid the prestige of being both a cultural and natural UNESCO Heritage-listed Site. Surrounded by natural landscapes, beautiful churches, cobblestoned streets and medieval architecture, Ohrid is a feast for the senses.

En route, we'll stop in Tetovo, a town built on the foothills of Šar Mountain. Here we'll uncover Šarena Džamija, translating to ‘Decorated Mosque', a beautiful and vibrantly painted Mosque that is a true testament to the region's rich culture. Afterwards, we will drive through the stunning Mavroro National Park for some scenic views.

Next, we visit the ancient St Jovan Bigorski Monastery

before continuing onto Ohrid.

Challenging Day: Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Get set to explore the fascinating city of Ohrid! We begin with a visit to Upper Gate and King Samuel's Fortress in the old town. The epic fortress was built during the rule of Tsar at the turn of the 11th century, and although its prime location overlooking the town and lake was strategic for defence, it also provides some pretty awesome panoramic views of Ohrid and its surroundings. Nowadays, only 18 towers and four gates remain from the original structure.

Our next stop is a visit to the Ancient Theatre, a Greek open-air amphitheatre built in 200 BC at the foot of the eastern slope of Ohrid hill under Samuel's Fortress. We'll then visit St Clement of Ohrid, before exploring the fascinating National Museum.

For our last stop of the day, we travel to the small mountain village of Vevcani and visit the beautiful springs.

On our return to Ohrid, the rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy this beautiful city.

Today we leave behind the lakeside beauty of Ohrid and make our way to the charming city of Bitola. One of the oldest cities in North Macedonia, Bitola is a captivating blend of Ottoman, neoclassical and modern styles. When roaming the city, you'll be met with elegant streets with the region's rich heritage and strong history etched on every wall.

Along the way, we will stop to visit Sveti Naum Monastery, also known as Saint Naum. The scenic monastery is situated on a high cliff over the shore of the most southern point of Ohrid Lake.

Special Experience: Be welcomed into the home of a local family for a delicious lunch in the quaint town of Brajcino. Upon arrival in Bitola, we will take an orientation tour around the city, becoming familiar with our surroundings by walking to the main pedestrian street of Sirok Sokak, the Clock Tower and Bezisten Bazaar.

Our day is dedicated to exploring the delights of Bitola on a full day tour of the city and its surroundings. Our sightseeing begins with a visit to the Heraclea Lyncestis Greek Ruins, located just south of Bitola. Named after the Greek mythological figure Hercules, the city dates back to the 4th century and contains remnants of Roman, Greek and Macedonian history. Here we'll uncover incredibly well-preserved ancient pillars, a large amphitheater and some beautiful floor mosaics in the basilicas.

Next on our agenda is the charming town of Krusevo, where we'll visit the impressive Makadonium Monument. The iconic monument stands proudly, commemorating the Ilinden Uprising of 1903, a significant moment in the town's history. Named after a fictional character, Makadon, it represents the collective spirit of the local people who fought for their rights and independence.

After, we'll enjoy some free time to get immersed in the ambience of the famous Old Town. Stroll along ancient cobblestoned streets lined with rustic architecture, try regional cuisines in cosy cafes and uncover colourful shops oozing with local craftsmanship.

We return to Bitola later this afternoon and savour the rest of the day at leisure.

This morning we depart Bitola and wind our way to Kratovo, a small town with a population of nearly 7,000 residents. Situated in the crater of an extinct volcano and on the western slopes of Mount Osogovo, this unique town is a stunning blend of history and natural beauty.

On our way, we'll explore Stobi Archaeological Site, an incredible site that will take you on a journey twenty centuries into the past. These well-preserved ruins are a rare example of an ancient city where several huge empires have left their mark, including Roman, Byzantine and Slavic eras.

Special Experience: Sample a unique range of wines at Popova Kula Winery, set amongst the rolling hills and vineyards of Demir Kapija. We then continue on to Kratovo, where the rest of the afternoon is at leisure upon arrival.

A wonderful morning awaits us as we take a walking tour around Kratovo, a town truly off the beaten tourist track. Known for its bridges and towers built in the Middle Ages, we'll delight in the authentic and unique architecture found around the city. On this tour, we will also visit a local house to taste delicious regional spirits and see how spiced salt is made.

We will enjoy some free time for lunch in Kratovo, before continuing on to Skopje early this afternoon.

Tonight, we will have a final farewell group dinner.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We say goodbye to our newfound friends and the spectacular North Macedonia.