From Sofia: Skopje and Matka Canyon Day Trip

4.5666666 out of 5 stars
4.6
4.5666666 out of 5 stars
30 reviews
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From Sofia: Skopje and Matka Canyon Day Trip
4.5666666 out of 5 stars
4.6
4.5666666 out of 5 stars
30 reviews

Take a day trip to Northern Macedonia and visit two of the country's most important sites, its capital, Skopje, and the breathtaking Matka Canyon.

About this activity

Free cancellation
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Duration 12 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English
Pickup included
Pickup from your centrally located accommodation in Sofia.
Small group
Limited to 8 participants

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

A
Anirudh – Poland

The trip was awesome. Matka canyon was totally worth it. Pristine greenish blue waters, beautiful views and the cave was cool too. Both our driver(evan) and guide Veljanoski were amazing, very nice and friendly. Skopje center is amazing but i would say if u like nature, its worth adding matka canyon in the list.

D
Danielle – United Kingdom

I have travelled the world and this experience (tour) was one of my favourites to date! Veljanoski was incredibly insightful answering any questions thrown his way but what impressed me the most was how kind, warm and friendly he was. This truly made me fall in love with the city. If you have the time I would highly recommend going to the Matka Canyon also.

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Discover the vibrant city of Skopje, both old and new
  • Learn more about the history and culture of Skopje from your professional guide
  • Visit one of the breathtaking natural wonders in North Macedonia, Matka Canyon
  • Enjoy a comfortable transfer with a modern vehicle

Full description

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.

Includes

  • Pick up and drop off at a central location
  • Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • English-speaking Bulgarian guide/driver
  • English-speaking Macedonian guide
  • All taxes and fees
  • Food and drinks

Not suitable for

  • People with mobility impairments

Important information

What to bring

  • Passport or ID card

Know before you go

  • Please check if you need a visa to enter Macedonia
  • 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 food with you

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 30 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    5/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.3/5

Customer photos

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A
Anirudh – PolandApril 16, 2025 – Verified booking
The trip was awesome. Matka canyon was totally worth it. Pristine greenish blue waters, beautiful views and the cave was cool too. Both our driver(evan) and guide Veljanoski were amazing, very nice and friendly. Skopje center is amazing but i would say if u like nature, its worth adding matka canyon in the list.
D
Danielle – United KingdomFebruary 11, 2024 – Verified booking
I have travelled the world and this experience (tour) was one of my favourites to date! Veljanoski was incredibly insightful answering any questions thrown his way but what impressed me the most was how kind, warm and friendly he was. This truly made me fall in love with the city. If you have the time I would highly recommend going to the Matka Canyon also.
C
Castro – IrelandApril 13, 2023 – Verified booking
Excelente trip. The driver was very nice, it was telling us loads of history about bulgaria and macedonia. Also, I was very impressive with the city in North Macedonia. Really worthy.

Product ID: 402969

Activity provider:Bultrips

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