North Macedonia

You could be forgiven for having only a vague notion of Macedonia in mind, perhaps with associations to Alexander the Great. To add a layer of confusion, due to a historical debate with southern neighbour Greece, the country changed its name from Republic of Macedonia to Republic of North Macedonia in 2019. The beauty of all this is that it’s been somewhat preserved from tourism, a landlocked gem of former Yugoslavia in the Balkans. If it’s lakes, mountains, history and tradition you’re after, then you'll find it in North Macedonia. Get packing and start exploring.

Capital: Skopje

Population: 2, 083, 148 (2023)

Language: Macedonian (a South Slavic language that's closely related to Bulgarian and Serbian, written using Cyrillic)

Visa requirements for North Macedonia

Visa requirements for North Macedonia vary depending on the nationality of the traveller. The following information is for travellers with ordinary passports:

Citizens of the European Union (EU) countries, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein can enter North Macedonia with a valid passport or ID card, and do not need a visa.
Citizens of some other countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, can stay in North Macedonia for up to 90 days without a visa. However, they must have a valid passport and may be required to show proof of sufficient funds for their stay and a return ticket.
Citizens of some other countries, including China, India, Russia, and Ukraine, must obtain a visa before entering North Macedonia. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose and duration of the stay.

It's always recommended to check with the North Macedonian embassy or consulate in your country to confirm the current visa requirements and application procedures before you travel.

When to Visit North Macedonia

The best time to visit North Macedonia depends on your preferences and what you plan to do during your trip. Here is some information to help you decide:

Spring (March to May): This is a beautiful time when the flowers are in bloom, and the weather is mild. The temperatures are usually between 15-20°C (59-68°F), making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in North Macedonia, and the temperatures can be hot, with an average high of 30°C (86°F). This is a great time to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Lake Ohrid or attend some of the many festivals that take place during this time.
Fall/Autumn (September to November): The fall season provides mild temperatures and stunning foliage. The temperatures are usually between 10-20°C (50-68°F).
Winter (December to February): It can get cold and snowy during the winter months, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, if you enjoy winter sports, this can be a great time to visit, with ski resorts open from December to March.

Top Things to Do in North Macedonia

Visit Lake Ohrid: It's one of the most picturesque lakes in Europe, surrounded by stunning mountains and beaches.

Explore Skopje: It has a rich history and culture, with the Old Bazaar, museums, galleries, and historic sites.

Hike in the National Parks: Visit Mavrovo, Galichica, and Pelister for stunning mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and hiking trails.

Visit Vevčani: It's a village in the mountains near Lake Ohrid that holds a once yearly festival.

Try Macedonian cuisine: It's a fusion of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences. Some popular dishes include tavche gravche (baked beans), ajvar (roasted red pepper spread), and pastrmajlija (a type of pizza with meat).