Best things to do in Skopje
The country’s capital, Skopje, is something of a Yugoslav symphony in grey, though one whose brutal architecture is softened by an appealing Ottoman centre, as well as by friendly locals, great food and quirky bars.
Viewpoints and panoramas
The best districts
Čaršija: Lively district north of the river containing the bulk of Skopje’s sights, but Turkish times linger on here most prominently in the shape of several mosques.
Šutka: Home to Europe’s largest Roma community, the area is impoverished and dilapidated, but a visit can be quite fascinating – colourful buildings, litter-lined streets and a bustling daily market make it feel something like a town in India transported to the Balkans.
Museums
Museum of the Macedonian Struggle: This engaging museum provides insight into the history of Macedonia's fight for independence, through interactive exhibits, paintings and sculptures.
Museum of Contemporary Art: Not only does the museum offer fantastic views of the city, but it’s also a fabulous introduction to North Macedonian art.
Parks and gardens
City Park: Originally laid out at the end of the 19th century, this large public space is good for walking, cycling or picnicking. There’s also a small stage, plus bars and restaurants, while it also plays host to at least one outdoor nightclub during the summer.
Historical monuments
Stone Bridge: This relatively small bridge has connected Plostad Makedonija with the Old Bazaar since its original construction over 550 years ago, which is why it remains such a much-loved monument.
Sveti Spas: A secluded 14th-century monastery, its church was built mostly underground – under Ottoman rule churches were not allowed to be higher than mosques – and its carved-walnut iconostasis is jaw-dropping.
Alexander the Great statue: You won’t be able to miss this gigantic equestrian statue (although, owing to political sensitivities with Greece, its official name is Warrior on a Horse) – it’s by far the largest of the truly bewildering number of statues in the area.
Day trips in the area
Lake Matka: An easy break from the capital, this artificial lake is surrounded by richly forested peaks, and its edges are dotted with restaurants, many of which can only be accessed by boat.
Mavrovo National Park: Spreading its wings over one of North Macedonia’s most beautiful corners, this is a rich and rugged land where rushing streams tumble down slopes cloaked with pine and birch.
Stobi Archaeological Site: Located about an hour's drive from Skopje, this ancient city site features fine Roman ruins, including a theatre, basilica and some impressive mosaics.
Activities for families in Skopje
Skopje offers a range of family-friendly activities, making it an excellent destination for a holiday with kids.
Interactive museums: Fascinating and informative, the Museum of Illusions is a great way to spend an afternoon exploring its three floors of optical illusions and mind-bending installations.
Aquariums and zoos: It may not be the largest in the world, but Skopje Zoo is a family favourite and an affordable, fun way to spend a few hours, especially if you’re travelling with little ones.
Free things to do in Skopje
Skopje is one of Europe's cheapest cities, so you don’t really need to penny pinch, but still, there are plenty of free things to see and do on your Skopje holidays.
Old Bazaar: Skopje’s Old Bazaar is one of the largest and best-preserved in the Balkans. It’s a lively area full of shops, cafés and small artisan workshops, where you can find everything from handcrafted jewellery to traditional Macedonian textiles.
Festivals: Throughout the year, Skopje hosts a variety of festivals and open-air concerts, many of which are free; one of the most enjoyable, and unusual, is Buskerfest, a week of eclectic street performances, usually taking place in May or June.
Nature and outdoor activities in Skopje
Skopje’s location near mountains and rivers makes it an ideal base for exploring North Macedonia’s stunning natural landscapes.
Hiking and trekking: Look south from any vantage point in Skopje and you’ll see Mount Vodno, within walking distance of the city and topped with a huge cross. The mountain is great for hiking – and the 1066m peak is only a couple of hours’ walk from central Skopje. For a more challenging trek, head to the Shar Mountains or the Mavrovo National Park, both within a few hours' drive of the city.
Water sports: Matka Canyon, just a short drive from Skopje, offers kayaking along the Treska River, paddle boarding and even exploration of the local caves by boat.