Macedonia Square

Start with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Sofia at 8:00 AM. Travel for approximately 3.5 hours to the first destination of the two-day excursion, the city of Skopje, which is the capital of North Macedonia. During the drive, learn the political history of the region.  Upon arrival in Skopje, enjoy a 2-hour city tour with a Macedonian guide. Explore both the old and the new parts of the city, seeing its major landmarks. After the walking tour, enjoy some free time (discuss this with your guide) during which you will have the chance to rest and taste the local cuisine. Afterward, continue the journey to Pristina, the capital of Kosovo, which will take approximately 2 hours. When you reach Pristina enjoy some free time to explore the highlights of the city after which you will travel to the cultural capital of the country, Prizen. Stay overnight in a wonderful hotel in the heart of the city.  On the second day, have breakfast in the hotel followed by a walking tour of Prizen at 8:30 AM. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets and authentic Ottoman buildings. Visit Mehmet Pasha Hamam, the 15th-century stone bridge and the fortress situated high above the city. From here, get a fantastic view of the whole city. This is the last site that we will visit in Prizren. Then we will go back to Skopje (which will take approx. 2.5 hours drive) where we will have some time to relax and have lunch. At 15:00 we will head back to Sofia, where you will be dropped off at the location you want.

Cross the border from Bulgaria and enjoy a day trip in Macedonia. Dive into the past as you explore Skopje's historic neighborhoods and see its attractions. Learn about the history of the Macedonians as you walk through the new part of the city, rebuilt during the Skopje 2013 project. After your visit to Skopje, head to Matka Canyon to take a break in nature. Your day trip begins with an 8:00 AM pickup from your centrally located accommodation in Sofia. Drive for approximately 3.5 hours and reach Skopje. During your drive learn about the history of the region from the Bulgarian point of view. Arrive in Skopje and have a 2-hour guided tour of the city from a local Macedonian guide. Learn about Yugoslavia and have the chance to compare the two historic perspectives of the region provided to you on this trip. During your guided tour of Skopje visit Skopje Fortress, Sultan Murat Mosque, and the Old Bazaar. Have the chance to see the caravanserais from the Ottoman period when Skopje was one of the main trade centers in the Balkans. Visit the new neo-classical Macedonia Square and be impressed by the statue of Alexander the Great and his father Phillip II. Continue on to the Mother Teresa Memorial House. In the house museum, learn about Mother Teresa's life story. Afterward, conclude your walking tour of Skopje at Macedonia Gate. Head to Matka Canyon where you will have approximately 1.5-hours to admire the beauty of nature. Have the chance to enjoy a boat trip inside the canyon and pass by one of the deepest underwater caves in the world. At about 4:00 PM, meet with the rest of the group and depart back to Sofia. On the drive back, discuss your day's impressions and ask your guide any remaining questions you may have. Unfortunately, the day trip's itinerary will not allow you to have free time for lunch in Skopje. It is recommended to take some fast food during the walking tour or bring some sandwiches with you. You can buy food from a petrol station before arriving in the city.

When people describe Skopje, they frequently use the term open-air museum. And it’s not without a reason. Skopje is ornated with historical buildings, old remaining’s, bridges, statues, churches, mosques and many more. When arriving in Skopje our tour guide will enlighten you with the rich stories about the city, while walking through the beautiful landmarks. Experience Skopje from top to bottom, beginning at the Kale fortress and ending at the old train station. Moreover, you will see the famous square Macedonian square, the stone bridge, the old bazaar, mosques and the church St. Spas known for her particular iconostasis and remarkable fresco paintings. Afterwards, you will have free time to roam the vibrant city by yourself, where you can visit the scars of the earthquake of 1963 and enter the forged house of non-other than holy Mother Teresa. Interesting fact: Did you know that Roman emperor Justinian l, was born in Tauresium, which is located in the region of Skopje. He was the only byzantine emperor that succeeded reconquering Rome.

Day 1 Tirana – Struga – Oher - Skopje Start our day early in the capital of Albania, Tirana, and head toward Struga, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid. On the way we can do a stop for a coffee/cold drink at a cafe. Struga, a city in North Macedonia located on the shore of Lake Ohrid and along the Black Drin River. The river is known for its clear, fast-flowing waters and picturesque landscapes, making it a vital natural resource and a popular destination. The city of Struga is renowned for its traditional architecture, historic landmarks and natural beauty. We continue the road to Ohrid. First we stop near the Port , Boat Trip (Optional). After that a walk in the main pedestrian area, in Ohrid is known as the Old Bazaar, which is lined with charming cobblestone streets, traditional shops. Take time for lunch at the Old Chinar Tree. After the Lunch we climb to the Castle of Ohrid and the Saint Holy Mary Church. Both are integral parts of the city’s rich cultural, offering insight into its historical depth and architecture splendor. Than visit Old Amphitheatre, you can walk through its ancient stands and imagine the vibrant public life of the past. After that we arrive in Skopje. Accommodation in Skopje. Day 2 Skopje - Castle of Skopje – Prishtine Begin your day tour in Skopje. Skopje the capital of North Macedonia, is known for the numerous and large statues that adorn the city. Here are some of the most important statues in Skopje: Alexander the Great; Philip II of Macedonia; Mother Teresa; etc. After that visiting the Skopje Fortress, offering panoramic views of the city and glimpse into its historical significance. Continue exploring Skopje’s landmarks such as the Stone Bridge, Macedonia Square and the Memorial House of Mother Teresa. Wander through the Old Bazaar, the largest in Balkans, and admire the diverse architecture, including the Mustafa Pasha Mosque. After immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of Skopje, drive to Pristina for an overnight stay. In Pristina, experience the vibrant nightlife and local cuisine. Accommodation in Pristina. Day 3 Prishtina – Prizen – Tirana After breakfast, we will visit Kosovo. In Pristina city, the first attraction it is the Newborn monument, symbol of the independence and being a young new country. We will walk towards the main boulevard in the capital. Delve into the city’s past at the Ethnological Museum and learn about its diverse heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the architectural wonder of the Mother Teresa Cathedral and Striking National Library. After lunch we head to Prizren, considered as the cultural capital of Kosovo, mixing its rich history, incredible nature and gastronomic delights. The river flows through the heart of the old town and under the many bridges that crisscross the city. The view from the fortress on the hill above the town offers a great panorama of this astonishing town. Back to Tirana, end of our tour!

Experience the charm and diversity of Skopje on a 3-hour walking tour led by a knowledgeable guide. Begin at the iconic Stone Bridge, symbolizing the connection between Skopje’s ancient and modern parts. Next, visit Macedonia Square to admire the Alexander the Great statue and learn about the area's vibrant renovations. Explore the lively Old Bazaar, one of the largest and best-preserved marketplaces in the Balkans, filled with traditional shops, cafés, and historic buildings. Continue to Kale Fortress for panoramic city views and insights into its strategic importance. Visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa to honor Skopje’s most famous resident and her humanitarian legacy. Conclude the tour at the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, marveling at its Ottoman architecture and significance to the local Muslim community. This tour offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and architectural beauty in Skopje.

Skopje is one of the most practical towns on the Balkans to explore with a bicycle. Not only it is flat, but all the surroundings, the Old Town Bit Bazaar, the New Town with the Statues, the Vodno Cross, the Matka Canyon, the villages, the Monasteries, the Shutka Commune - the Capitol Of the Roma are all very reachable with a bicycle. Take your self on an adventure and explore the town. Places you can visit: 1. The Old Town of Skopje and the Bit Bazaar 2. The Center with the Statues 3. The communist Architecture 4. Vodno Mountain and/or the Vodno Cross 5. The Matka Canyon 6. SHUTKA - The Gypsies Capitol of the World 7. SCUPI - the Antique Findings 8. Aqueduct of Skopje and much more.

The country rich with history and heritage like you have never seen before. Heroes and personalities from the times of the Antique up until the era of the post - communistic people. But this won't be as fun if there is no beer. During the tour we will try the flavors of Skopje, through the most favorite drink of the locals - the beer. At 3 different stops we shall taste the most popular types of beer in the country. A mix of epochs between the Ancient Macedonian Kingdom and the Roman Empire, the Christianity and the Slav oncoming to the Balkans. A huge heritage of the Byzantine Empire and the first Slav Kingdom. The 500 years under the Ottomans. The new chapter of the Balkans in the 20th century and the Yugoslavian Social- Communism. A walking tour with many Monuments, deep history and the spirit of Skopje - Of course, fortified with beer. *Skopje is well known for the beer, it's history with this very special drink dates back to the beginning of the last century,when random guys from the Czech Republic decided to invest in a small brewery in the town. Known for the good water, Skopje and Skopsko beer immediately became a fan favorite and the brewery started to develop instantly. Today SKOPSKO is one of the most delicious Beer sorts in the region with yearly production of 3.2 million hectoliters. The younger Brother, SKOPSKO SMOOTH became already the choice for the ones who love cold filtered sorts.

This 4-hour walking tour of Skopje usually starts on the plateau where the Museum of Contemporary Art is located. This offers a wonderful view of the central part of Skopje and here the story about the city begins. Afterwards, you will visit the Fortress Kale before visiting the Mustapha Pasha Mosque, the Church of the Holy Savior, and the small museum of Goce Delchev. Another optional visit is to the Museum of Macedonia which consists of 3 parts: an icon gallery, an ethnological department, and a historical department. Then you will continue your stroll through the Old Bazaar, where 2 more caravanserais can be seen as well as 2 Turkish baths: Chifte Hammam and Daut Pasha Hammam. The tour continues towards the modern part of the city. Before you cross the Stone Bridge, one of the oldest landmarks of Skopje, you can see the Holocaust Memorial Center for the Jews of Macedonia and the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle for Independence, IMRO and the Victims of Communism. On the other bank of the river is the main square, Macedonia Square, with a lot of new statues and monuments. You will walk along the main street, Macedonia Street, which connects the square to the old railway station. You will stay for a short visit to the Memorial House of Mother Teresa and end the tour in front of the Museum of the City of Skopje, situated in the building of the old railway station.

Together with a professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. Do you know Skopje is a country of the colorful revolution? Do you want to see the city from another viewpoint? The Kale Fortress is a good option for that. Are you familiar with brutalism architecture? Skopje is the perfect place to discover that. The Old bazaar area or Debar Maalo, a bohemian-like part of Skopje will offer you real balkanian coffee. You will be surprised how many stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, and corners of Skopje. A local charismatic guide will reveal the secrets and interesting facts about the monument of Alexander the Great, the old fortress Kale, and the monastery St.Pentelejmon. You will also get to experience the following attractions: - Skopje Fortress - Mustafa Pasha - Old Bazaar Skopje - Macedonia Square - Stone Bridge

Embark on a journey through the heart of the Balkans, where every stop is a story waiting to be told. In 12 days, you’ll explore 6 unique countries and 22 unforgettable cities, each filled with history, culture, and beauty. • Skopje, Macedonia: Begin your adventure in Skopje, where ancient history and modern life meet. Wander Macedonia Square, explore the lively Old Bazaar, and marvel at the beautiful Mustafa Pasha Mosque. • Lake Ohrid: Discover the serenity of Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site shared by Macedonia and Albania. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking a touch of timeless beauty. • Tirana, Albania: In Tirana, visit Skanderbeg Square and the stunning Ethem Bey Mosque. Feel the vibrant energy of a city that’s always alive with culture. • Montenegro & Croatia: Head to Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica, then venture to coastal gems like Budva, Kotor, and Dubrovnik, where the Adriatic Sea meets ancient town walls and beautiful islands. • Bosnia and Herzegovina: In Mostar, cross the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a symbol of resilience and unity. In Sarajevo, stroll through Baščaršija, the old bazaar, and feel the city’s rich history and charm. • Slovenia & Croatia: Wander through the fairy-tale landscape of Lake Bled, with its castle and island church, then head to Ljubljana to see the stunning Triple and Dragon Bridges. Wrap up your journey in Zagreb, Croatia’s charming capital, with its grand cathedral and vibrant squares. Throughout the trip, relax in comfortable 4-star hotels, travel in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, and enjoy guided tours that bring each destination’s story to life. This all-inclusive tour is more than a trip; it’s a memory waiting to be made.