As part of the former Yugoslavia and the great kingdom of Macedonia, the Republic of Macedonia is a fusion of different cultures: Greek, Serbian, Bulgarian and Albanian all characterize the country, and have created a fascinating historical heritage and culture which is very much worth a visit. In Macedonia you can find anything from Turkish bazaars to Greek orthodox churches, quite aside from some truly beautiful natural wonders. Macedonians are an hospitable people, who will make you feel very welcome in their country. Find your travel arrangement to Macedonia here
Region and City Guides
Region:
City:
Facts
Local name
Republika Makedonija
Capital
Skopje (600.000)
Size
25.713 square km
Principal Languages
Macedonian
Principal Religion
Macedonian orthodox
Inhabitants
2.041.467 (2000)
Government
Republic
Geography
Most of Macedonia is situated on a plateau at an altitude of 600 to 900 meters above sea level. The River Vardar crosses the country and passes through Skopje. In the southwestern part of the country you can find the lakes Ohrid and Prespa, which are among the biggest in the Balkans.
Travel preparation
Best time to visit
Macedonia can be visited all year. However, the summer months are from June to August.
Literature
Europe on a shoestring
Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe
Local conditions
Weight and Measures
Length: metre
Weight: kilograms
Weight: kilograms
Photography
There are no particular rules, although if you wish to take a picture of a person, you should ask for permission.
Drinking water
The tap-water usually contains chlorine so can be used, though you could get a bad stomach. Bottled water can be purchased all over the country.
Electricity
The following voltage is used in Macedonia:
220 volts AC, 50Hz.
220 volts AC, 50Hz.
Behaviour
You should show great respect for the religious rituals and sites. Otherwise there are no particular rules.
Business Hours
Offices are open from 7 AM to 3 PM (Monday to Friday)
Banks are open from 8 AM to 6 PM (Monday to Friday) and 8 AM to 1 PM on Saturdays.
Shops are open from 8 AM to 8 PM (Monday to Friday) and 8 AM to 1 PM on Saturdays.
Banks are open from 8 AM to 6 PM (Monday to Friday) and 8 AM to 1 PM on Saturdays.
Shops are open from 8 AM to 8 PM (Monday to Friday) and 8 AM to 1 PM on Saturdays.
Food and drink
The Macedonian kitchen is very similar to Turkish, and they have a wide variety of kebabs. One of the national specialities are beans and trout from Ohrid
Disabled travellers
Very few buildings possess facilities for disabled people.
Holidays
New Years day, January 1st
Orthodox Christmas eve, January 6th
Orthodox Christmas day, January 7th
Old New Year, January 14th (it is an unofficial holiday, but celebrated anyhow)
The International Day of Women, March 8th
May day, May 1st
St. Cyrilus and Methodius day, May 24th
Ilinden day, August 2nd
Independence day, September 8th
Orthodox Christmas eve, January 6th
Orthodox Christmas day, January 7th
Old New Year, January 14th (it is an unofficial holiday, but celebrated anyhow)
The International Day of Women, March 8th
May day, May 1st
St. Cyrilus and Methodius day, May 24th
Ilinden day, August 2nd
Independence day, September 8th
Accommodation / Hotel
The possibilities for accommodation in Macedonia are certainly limited. There are a few very expensive high-class hotels. There are some cheaper hotels, camping grounds and hostels as alternatives.
Book your Hotel in Macedonia here
Book your Hotel in Macedonia here
Camping
Camping grounds are found in Ohrid and Skopje with fine facilities
There are a few luxury hotels in Skopje and Ohrid. hotels in the rest of the country are cheaper and less comfortable, but are primarily situated around the bigger cities.
Bed og breakfast or guesthouse
There are very few guesthouses in Macedonia. They are all situated in the major cities, but are rather expensive.
Hostels
There are hostels in Skopje and Ohrid, although the hostel in Ohrid only opens in the summer period.
Other Accommodation
In the summer period you may sleep in student sleeping halls.
Local transport
Buses and trains are the best options for transport in Macedonia. They leave on time and are generally very reliable. There are very few domestic Flights.
Planes
There are some airports in Macedonia, but domestic Flights are not common. Therefore, you must ask at a local travel agency.
Bus
There are buses between the bigger towns, in particular between Skopje, Ohrid and Bitola. It is a good idea to buy a ticket beforehand.
Trains
The railroad system in Macedonia covers most of the country, and is a good way to get around.
Taxi
There are taxis in all the major towns - it is easiest to hail them in the street.
car rental
There are car rental firms in Skopje, Ohrid and Bitola.
