If you’re looking for the best Instagram spots in Ohrid, Macedonia, look no further!
The beautiful city of Ohrid is a popular destination among travelers from all over Europe and the world, and it’s home to some truly awe-inspiring views.
From Lake Ohrid and Galicica National Park to the Old Town, with its ancient churches, cobblestone streets, and countless other attractions, there are plenty of amazing photo opportunities around every corner that will make your Instagram come to life.
Having visited Ohrid in September of 2022, let me show you some of our favorite places where we think taking pictures can be especially rewarding, These are the best Instagram spots in Ohrid, Macedonia!
Old Town Ohrid
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The Old Town of Ohrid is a charming maze of cobblestone streets teeming with history and culture and offering stunning views and great photo opportunities.
It’s a perfect blend of ancient and modern, with medieval churches, traditional houses, quaint cafes, and stunning lake views, making it an ideal spot for Instagram enthusiasts.
Cost
The Old Town is free to explore and walk around, but you may need to pay a small fee if you want to enter some popular tourist attractions, such as the Robevci House, a beautiful 19th-century home turned museum and protected cultural monument.
However, even if you choose not to spend any money, there are still plenty of photo opportunities to be found in the streets and squares of Ohrid’s old town, including the Varosh Old Town Ohrid, a historical landmark that offers a glimpse of the town’s past.
Opening Hours
The shops and restaurants in Old Town Ohrid each have their own operating hours, but a majority are open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Facilities
When it comes to facilities, you’re well-covered.
The Old Town boasts numerous eateries offering a range of cuisines, from traditional Macedonian food to the city’s authentic specialties, such as fish soups and grilled trout.
Parking
Parking in Old Town Ohrid can be a bit tricky.
Most of the streets are pedestrian-only, so it’s best to park somewhere around the square and explore on foot.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Old Town Ohrid is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays cast a beautiful golden glow over the buildings and lake.
During these times, you can also capture stunning photos of the town’s colorful rooftops and picturesque waterfront.
If you want to avoid the crowd, early morning would be the best time to visit, but if you really want to catch the beautiful sunset, you may have to navigate through the crowd in the late afternoon.
Safety
In terms of safety considerations, the Old Town Ohrid is safe during the day and evening.
However, like any tourist destination, it’s always advisable to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
The Ancient Theatre of Ohrid
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The Ancient Theatre of Ohrid was built in the 200 century BC and is one of the oldest theatres in Europe.
It was built on a hill overlooking Lake Ohrid, providing visitors with an incredible view of both the lake and the city below.
The theatre has been restored over time and now serves as a popular venue for concerts and performances throughout the year, but you can certainly visit when it’s not in use and snap a few Insta-worthy pics.
Cost
The entrance to the Ancient Theatre is free, and you can even take a stroll around the ruins without paying anything.
Opening Hours
The Ancient Theatre is open to the public 24 hours a day, and you can visit the tourist attraction at any time of the day or night for an opportunity to see it in different lighting.
Facilities
While the Ancient Theatre is a popular tourist attraction, finding facilities can be a bit challenging.
There are no shops or restaurants within the theatre, but you can find some cafes and souvenir shops in the surrounding area.
Parking
There is limited parking available near the Ancient Theatre, so it’s best to park at one of the public parking lots in Ohrid and take a leisurely walk to the theatre.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Ancient Theatre is during sunset, when the golden light creates a magical atmosphere.
This is also a prime time for capturing photos, as you can get stunning shots of the ancient ruins with the sun setting behind them.
Safety
The Ancient Theatre is considered safe during the day and evening, with no reported safety concerns for visitors.
However, since the area can get quite crowded during performances, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings if you are attending an event.
Tsar Samuil’s Fortress
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Tsar Samuil’s Fortress stands atop another hill overlooking Old Town Ohrid, providing visitors with breathtaking views from its walls.
Restored at the turn of the 11th century by Tsar Samuil, after previously being built presumably by King Philip II of Macedon, this fortress was once used as a defensive stronghold against invading forces, but today it serves as an open-air museum showcasing artifacts from ancient times.
Visitors can explore its many rooms, towers, courtyards, and gardens while learning about Macedonian history along the way and, of course, taking beautiful pictures.
Cost
The entrance fee to Tsar Samuil’s Fortress is $1.50, making it a budget-friendly option for exploring the city’s history.
Opening Hours
Tsar Samuil’s Fortress is open every day from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Facilities
Within the fortress walls, you can find a small cafe and souvenir shop to grab a snack or memento.
Parking
Parking near Tsar Samuil’s Fortress is limited, so it’s best to park outside the walls and walk up the hill.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tsar Samuil’s Fortress is in the morning when it’s not too crowded, and you can capture stunning photos of the fortress against the backdrop of Lake Ohrid.
Safety
Tsar Samuil’s Fortress is generally considered safe for visitors, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially if the location is crowded.
The Church of St. John at Kaneo
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The Church of St. John at Kaneo is a gorgeous Orthodox church that sits perched on top of cliffs above Lake Ohrid’s shoreline, offering panoramic views across both land and water alike.
Constructed sometime in the 13th century before the rise of the Ottoman Empire, the church is dedicated to John of Patmos, the writer of Revelation, who is considered to be the same person as John the Apostle.
Inside the church, you’ll find stunning icons and frescoes depicting scenes from biblical stories, which, despite their age, are still visible and striking, making them quite remarkable sights to behold.
However, while the view of the church is absolutely breathtaking and a must-visit location for snapping beautifully scenic photos, the inside of the church cannot be photographed due to the concern of preserving its ancient artifacts.
So don’t forget to capture the stunning church from the outside, but it’s best to put your camera in your pocket while inside.
Cost
Now, this is one of the strangest parts about the popular tourist location, as the cost to enter the church seems to change and is quite inconsistent.
The church itself is often closed and doesn’t operate at regular visiting hours, and whenever it is open, someone seems to charge visitors $1-2 per entry but doesn’t seem to charge others anything.
It could be that they don’t charge locals who visit but do charge tourists or that they only request donations and sometimes let people in for free, but you might want to bring some cash with you just in case.
With that said, you can enjoy the surrounding area and take a breather on one of the benches around the church for free while snapping breathtaking photos of the Ohrid Lake below it.
Opening Hours
The church doesn’t seem to have consistent opening hours, but you can visit at any point throughout the day and enjoy the surrounding area.
We would, however, avoid going there at night as there is a fence and a gate that might be locked after dark.
Facilities
There are no facilities available inside the church, but there is a small shop where you can buy refreshments at the entrance.
However, just like the church, the shop doesn’t seem to operate consistently, so it’s best to bring your own water and snacks just in case.
Parking
Parking is not available near the entrance of the church, so parking your vehicle in the closest spot you can find on your way to the church and walking there would be your best option.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo is either early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and the breathtaking scenery of the sun setting across Ohrid Lake.
Safety
The Church of St. John at Kaneo, while a stunning location, is situated perilously perched on a cliff.
Therefore, recognizing safety measures is crucial to ensure a safe and memorable visit.
Ensure you stay within the designated areas, keep a safe distance from the edge, and be aware of potential slippery spots, especially during rainy weather.
Children should be supervised at all times.
Enjoy the breathtaking view, but remember safety always comes first.
The ‘Wooden Crossing’
About
With no official name since the ‘wooden crossing’ is nothing but a passage built on the shore of the Ohrid Lake as an alternative to the streets that can get pretty crowded during summer, this surprisingly picturesque location is a fantastic spot for capturing photos.
With its simple wooden structure and stunning views of the lake, along with picturesque tree branches hanging over it, the ‘wooden crossing’ is a must-visit for any Instagram-savvy traveler.
Cost
There is no entrance fee to the ‘wooden crossing,’ making it a budget-friendly option for an Insta-worthy photo.
Opening Hours
The ‘wooden crossing’ is accessible at all times.
Facilities
There are no facilities available on the ‘wooden crossing,’ but it technically leads to the center of the city, so you can easily find shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby.
However, if you plan on spending some time taking photos here, it’s best to bring your own water and snacks.
Parking
Parking is available near the ‘wooden crossing,’ as the city’s center and square, as well as parking spots, can be found nearby.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the ‘wooden crossing’ would be in the morning or at sunset to snap a breathtaking photo for the gram.
Safety
While the passage is considered safe, you should definitely avoid running, jumping, or standing on the edge of the crossing, as it can be slippery and pose a safety hazard.
While it’s worth noting that the water below is shallow, so the risk of drowning is definitely low, injuries can still occur, which is why it’s best to thread it carefully and be mindful of your surroundings while taking photos.
Lake Ohrid
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Lake Ohrid is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Macedonia.
Located near the border with Albania, it is a stunning lake surrounded by mountains and filled with crystal clear waters.
Besides being a popular swimming and boating destination, Lake Ohrid also offers spectacular photo opportunities with its breathtaking views.
Cost
There is no entrance fee to visit Lake Ohrid, so you can swim and take photos for free.
Opening Hours
The lake is accessible at all times, but we recommend visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Facilities
Lake Ohrid has various facilities available for visitors, such as swimming areas, boat rentals, and restaurants.
There are also designated areas for photo-taking, so you won’t have to worry about obstructing other tourists while capturing your perfect shot.
Parking
Parking is available near the lake, with numerous parking spots scattered around the area.
However, it’s best to arrive early in the day to secure a spot, as it tends to get crowded during peak tourist season.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lake Ohrid is during the summer months, from June to September when the weather is warm and perfect for swimming.
However, if you want to avoid the crowds, visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or October would be ideal and can still be a great opportunity to explore the city and take beautiful pictures.
Safety
While swimming in Lake Ohrid is generally safe, it’s always best to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines.
Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t swim too far from shore if you’re not a strong swimmer.
Additionally, make sure to respect designated swimming areas and boating zones to avoid any accidents or injuries.
Bay of Bones Museum
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The Bay of Bones Museum offers visitors an insight into ancient life on Lake Ohrid.
It is an open-air museum set on a platform over the lake that showcases reconstructed houses from the bronze age as well as artifacts from that era, such as pottery and tools used by early settlers.
This unique experience gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like thousands of years ago in this area.
The crystal clear waters and the unique scenery is also fantastic photo opportunity for the avid Instagrammer.
Cost
The entrance fee to the museum is around $2 for adults and only $0.50 for children, which can be considered a budget-friendly attraction to see while in Ohrid.
However, since the museum is located at around a 20-30 minute drive outside of the center of the city, you will also have to pay for transportation, which can include a taxi, bus, or a boat ride.
The boat ride to the Bay of Bones Museum is €25 or around $30, and a taxi ride with an agreed waiting time and return can run you between $50-100, which may be a better option when traveling with a group.
As per the photo above, the boat that goes to St. Naum Monastery stops for a short visit to the Bay of Bones Museum and can be found at the Ohrid Lake promenade at 10:30 every morning.
Finally, there are apparently several public buses that stop at the Bay of Bones Museum daily; however, the bus schedule seems to change frequently and is often unreliable, so it’s best to inquire about the time and location of the nearest bus stop that will take you there through a designated tour guide.
Opening Hours
The museum is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the summer season and 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the winter season.
Facilities
There are facilities available at the museum, such as restrooms, a small gift shop, and a restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Macedonian cuisine while overlooking the beautiful lake.
There are also well-manicured gardens, benches, a small playground, and plenty of shaded areas scattered around the museum, making it a comfortable place to relax and take in the stunning views.
Plus, there are a bunch of friendly cats wandering about, so if you are an animal lover, you will definitely have the best time visiting this place.
Parking
Parking is available near the entrance of the museum, with designated parking spots for both cars and buses.
It is recommended to arrive early during peak tourist season to secure a parking spot.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Bay of Bones Museum is either early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Additionally, visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or October can also provide a more intimate experience with fewer tourists around.
Safety
The Bay of Bones Museum is a safe place to visit, with designated areas for walking and exploring the reconstructed houses.
However, since the museum is set on a platform over the lake, it’s important to be cautious when walking near the edges or when trying to take the perfect Instagram photo.
Always follow the designated paths and be aware of your surroundings.
Additionally, be careful when walking on the platform as it is made of wood and can be slippery when wet.
As always, enjoy your visit, but remember to prioritize safety at all times.
Plaoshnik Monastery Complex
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The Plaoshnik Monastery Complex, located below Tsar Samuil’s Fortress, dates back to 893 AD when it was built by St. Clement, who was one of the most prominent disciples of Cyril and Methodius and is often regarded as a patron of education and language by Slavic people.
The complex consists of the St. Panteleimon Church, built in 1363 and dedicated to the martyr and healer Panteleimon, along with other buildings, including a bell tower, refectory, library, monastery cells, and more.
Outside the main church is a beautiful courtyard with stunning views of Lake Ohrid, along with archaeological excavations of a three-naved basilica adorned with floor mosaics featuring geometric and floral motifs that dates back to the early Christian period (5th-6th centuries.)
Visitors can explore these historic sites while taking breathtaking photos of the views across Lake Ohrid towards Albania’s Galicica Mountain range beyond.
Cost
The entrance fee to visit the Plaoshnik Monastery Complex is around $2 for adults and a little less for children.
However, when visiting the location, make sure to only pay for tickets at the designated booth found at the entrance of the complex, as scammers often operate near the gate and may try to sell fake tickets or “tours” at a higher price.
Opening Hours
While there isn’t a specific opening time, the Plaoshnik Monastery Complex is generally open during daylight hours.
Some information says that the complex is open 24 hours a day, but this isn’t the case, and the area is fenced off at night.
Therefore, it’s best to visit during the day, and if planning on going at night for photography purposes, make sure to inquire about specific opening hours beforehand.
Facilities
There are facilities available at the Plaoshnik Monastery Complex, such as restrooms and a small gift shop that sells traditional Macedonian souvenirs, such as filigree jewelry, postcards, and religious icons.
There is also a small cafe near the main church, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or traditional pastry while taking in the stunning views.
Parking
Parking is available near the entrance of the complex, with designated parking spots for both cars and buses.
As this attraction is quite popular, it’s best to arrive early during peak tourist season to secure a parking spot.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Plaoshnik Monastery Complex is during sunset or sunrise for the most picturesque views and lighting.
Visiting during the peak tourist season may also result in larger crowds, so visiting during the shoulder season of May or October may provide a more intimate experience.
However, make sure to check opening hours beforehand, as they may vary depending on the season.
Safety
The Plaoshnik Monastery Complex is a safe place to visit, with designated areas for walking and exploring the historic sites.
However, as this attraction is located high above Lake Ohrid, it’s important to use caution when walking near the edges or taking photos.
Always follow designated paths and be aware of your surroundings.
Additionally, as this is a religious site, it’s important to be respectful and dress appropriately.
This means covering your shoulders and knees and removing hats or sunglasses when entering the church.
By following these safety guidelines, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience at the Plaoshnik Monastery Complex.
Galicica National Park
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Galicica National Park is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Macedonia.
Located between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa, the park offers breathtaking views of both lakes from its highest peak, Magaro Peak.
Standing at 2255 meters above sea level, this peak provides stunning panoramic views that will make your social media followers jealous.
But besides snapping breathtaking photos, there’s much more to do in the park, including hiking, biking, and camping.
Galicica National Park is also a protected area and home to over 1000 plant species, including some rare and endemic ones.
It’s also home to various wildlife, such as deer, wolves, lynx, bears, and many amphibians and bird species.
Cost
The entrance fee for Galicica National Park is 300 MKD, or around $4.
When visiting, make sure to bring Macedonian denars, as card readers may not always get a good reception, which can make paying by card challenging.
Opening Hours
Galicica National Park is open year-round and can be visited at any time during daylight hours.
However, some parts of the park may have limited access during certain times of the year, so it’s best to check with a park ranger or a local tour guide before planning your visit.
Facilities
There are limited facilities within Galicica National Park, but there are picnic areas and a visitor center located at Magaro Peak that provides information about the park and its flora and fauna.
There are also designated camping areas located in a bay in between the mountains of the Galicica National Park for those interested in spending the night in the park.
Parking
Parking is available near the visitor center at Magaro Peak and at various designated areas throughout the park.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Galicica National Park is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.
Autumn can also be a beautiful time to visit as the leaves change colors and provide a stunning backdrop for photos; however, the weather during this season can be unpredictable, so make sure to plan your trip for a sunny day.
Safety
Galicica National Park is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any outdoor destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks for any activities.
Additionally, be respectful of the park’s natural environment and do not leave any trash behind.
Finally, avoid starting fires, be it for grills or campfires, as the park is prone to wildfires, especially during the summertime when the temperatures are soaring and the vegetation is dry.
With these safety measures in mind, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience at Galicica National Park.
Magaro Peak
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Magaro Peak is the highest point in Galicica National Park, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular with visitors.
The summit can be reached by foot or car, and there are several trails that lead up to the top of the mountain.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of both Lakes Ohrid and Prespa, as well as some incredible photo opportunities.
Cost
The cost of visiting Magaro Peak is 300 MKD, or around $4, which is payable as you enter Galicica National Park.
Opening Hours
Magaro Peak is open year-round and can be visited at any time during daylight hours.
As with Galicica National Park, some areas may have limited access during certain times of the year.
Facilities
There are no facilities located at Magaro Peak, so it’s important to come prepared with any necessary supplies, such as water and snacks.
However, there is a visitor center and picnic area available near the parking lot at the base of the mountain.
Parking
There is a designated parking lot located at the base of Magaro Peak, which is free for visitors to use.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Magaro Peak is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant and allows for clear views of the surrounding lakes.
However, if you’re willing to brave colder temperatures, visiting in the winter can provide a unique and beautiful experience.
Just bear in mind that clear days are best, as foggy conditions can obscure views and may disappoint photography enthusiasts.
Safety
While Magaro Peak is generally a safe place to visit, it’s important to use caution when hiking or driving up the mountain.
Be aware of changing weather conditions and avoid any risky behavior, such as going off-trail or getting too close to the edges for photos.
The road to the peak can also be narrow and winding, so make sure to drive extra carefully and follow all traffic laws.
Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings and respect the natural environment of the park by not littering, starting fires, or disturbing any wildlife.
By following these safety guidelines, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience at Magaro Peak.
Vevcani Springs
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Located on the western side of Galicica National Park, Vevcani Springs is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
The clear waters that flow from the springs are not only visually stunning and make for beautiful backdrops in photos but are also known for their healing properties.
But aside from enjoying the stunning view and listening to the sound of moving water, visitors can also explore the surrounding area and visit nearby restaurants that serve traditional Macedonian dishes.
Furthermore, in the village, you will also find cute traditional houses along with hiking opportunities and rich history, such as the attempted declaration of Macedonia’s independence and its special religious status under the Ottomans.
Cost
There is no cost to visit Vevcani Springs, making it a great budget-friendly option.
However, since the village where the springs are is located outside of Ohrid, you will have to pay for some type of transportation, be it a taxi, a bus, or a car rental.
Opening Hours
Vevcani Springs is open year-round and can be visited at any time during daylight hours.
Facilities
There are limited facilities at Vevcani Springs, but there are surrounding restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
Parking
Parking is available near Vevcani Springs, but it can get busy during peak tourist seasons.
It’s recommended to arrive early or consider taking public transportation to avoid any parking difficulties.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Vevcani Springs is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm.
During these seasons, the surrounding area is also lush and green, making it a picturesque setting for photos.
Safety
Vevcani Springs is a safe area to visit, and even petty crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing, never occur in this peaceful village.
However, while you may read somewhere that you can swim in the springs, it’s important to note that this is not allowed and can be dangerous due to strong currents, along with hidden underwater hazards, such as sharp rocks, which can cause injuries.
Therefore, it’s best to admire the beauty of Vevcani Springs from a distance and avoid any risky behavior.
Additionally, as with any outdoor location, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and respect the natural environment by not littering, causing any damage, or disturbing any wildlife.
By following these safety guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience at Vevcani Springs.
Trpejca
About
Trpejca is a small fishing village located on the shores of Lake Ohrid in Galicica National Park.
Known for its picturesque scenery and traditional houses, it’s no wonder that this charming village has become a popular spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
Visitors can stroll along the narrow streets, enjoy the local cuisine, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
Cost
Visiting the Trpejca beach is free, but if you are staying in the center of Ohrid, you will need to pay for transportation to get there unless you already have a car.
Buses are sadly an unreliable transportation method in this part of the town, so budgeting for a taxi or a car rental is recommended.
With that said, taxis may be a little too expensive since the beach is a 20-minute drive away from the center of Ohrid, so make sure to ask for a price beforehand and compare prices between different taxi companies or renting a car for the day to explore the village and surrounding areas.
Opening Hours
Trpejca is open year-round, but some of the local businesses and restaurants may have limited hours during the off-season.
Facilities
Trpejca has several small shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy, as well as public restrooms.
The village also has a small beach area where visitors can relax and swim in the lake.
Parking
Parking is limited in Trpejca, but there are designated areas for visitors to park their vehicles.
It’s recommended to arrive early or consider taking public transportation if possible.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Trpejca is during the summer months when the weather is warm and allows for outdoor activities.
However, if you’re a fan of winter landscapes, visiting in the colder months can also provide a unique and beautiful experience.
Safety
Trpejca is generally a safe area to visit, but it’s important to be cautious when swimming in the lake.
Be aware of changing weather conditions and any underwater hazards, such as sharp rocks, that may be present and potentially dangerous.
Additionally, as with any outdoor location, visitors should respect the natural surroundings and not engage in any behavior that may harm the environment or disturb wildlife and other patrons, such as littering, starting fires, or being too loud.
By being mindful of these safety guidelines, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Trpejca.
Cherry Blossoms
About
The cherry blossom trees in Ohrid are just another beautiful sight the city has to offer during spring, therefore, if you are visiting the picturesque location during this season, make sure to keep an eye out for them.
These stunning pink trees can be found scattered throughout the city, with some of the best spots being along the lake promenade and in the city center, and can provide a beautiful backdrop for an Insta-worthy photo.
Cost
There is no cost to admire the cherry blossoms in Ohrid, making it a great free activity for visitors, especially those who are always looking for the perfect photo opportunity.
Opening Hours
The cherry blossom trees can be seen at any time during daylight hours, but for the best lighting for photos, it’s recommended to visit an area with the trees on a sunny day.
As for the season, cherry blossoms usually last around a month and start to bloom around the beginning or mid-April, which is the best time to visit Ohrid if you want to admire the colorful scenery.
Facilities
There are public restrooms and nearby cafes and restaurants for visitors to enjoy while taking in the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
Parking
Parking is available near the cherry blossom spots, but it can get busy during weekends when locals from other towns are visiting Ohrid for a short break, so it’s recommended to arrive early.
However, if you are staying in the center of Ohrid, you can easily walk to the promenade and enjoy the beautiful view.
Best Time to Visit
As mentioned before, beginning to mid-April is the best time to visit Ohrid if you want to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
However, it’s important to note that the exact blooming period can vary each year due to weather conditions, so it’s always best to do some research beforehand or ask locals for more accurate information.
Safety
As with any outdoor location, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and respectful of the natural environment.
Additionally, you should also watch out for your belongings, as the lake promenade is a central area that’s very popular and can get busy, even during shoulder seasons, and petty crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing, may occur.
St.Naum Monastery
About
Found by St. Naum, a medieval writer and enlightened, and located at the southernmost point of Lake Ohrid, St.Naum Monastery is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike.
Built in 905, the church has functioned as a Greek school and a place for the translation of religious texts over the centuries.
It has even been featured in the book ‘Black Lamb and Grey Falcon‘ by famous writer Rebecca West who devoted a chapter to her visit to St. Naum Monastery, which occurred in 1937.
Today, visitors can admire the stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the lake and explore the natural springs nearby while snapping photos for their Instagram feeds.
Cost
The entrance fee for St.Naum Monastery is free, however, visiting from Ohrid can be done via car, bus, or boat, typically in a day-tour type arrangement, which can cost around $20-30 per person.
Additionally, if you are planning on taking a boat ride or visiting the nearby springs, there will be additional costs.
A 20-minute boat ride through the springs is around $25, while a meal at one of the restaurants in the area can range from $5-10 per person.
Furthermore, inside the monastery, you will find two small shops where you can purchase prayer books, icons, rosary beads, and church candles.
Finally, at the entrance of the location, you will find many stalls selling traditional souvenirs like handcrafted jewelry and other gift items.
Opening Hours
The monastery is open year-round, but during the off-season (November-March), some parts of the location, such as the restaurants, may be closed or have limited hours.
Facilities
St. Naum Monastery has public restrooms along with a few restaurants and cafes for visitors to enjoy.
Parking
There is a designated parking area for visitors near the monastery, but it can get busy during peak season.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit St. Naum Monastery is during the spring or late summer when the weather is warm and allows for outdoor activities, but the crowds are not as large as during the summer months.
Safety
As with any outdoor location, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and respectful of the natural environment.
Additionally, since the monastery is on a cliff, you need to be exceptionally careful when overlooking the lake and avoid stepping on the edge.
It’s also important to remember that St.Naum Monastery is an active religious site, and visitors should be respectful of the monks and any religious ceremonies that may be taking place.
Finally, when entering the church, watch out for uneven surfaces or steep stairs, as it’s quite dark inside, and the doors and passages are narrow.
But one of the funniest things you will probably notice when visiting St. Naum Monastery are the signs that advise against trying to feed or interact with the wandering peacocks, as they can apparently be very aggressive, as per several reviews.
St. Naum Springs
About
Located near St. Naum Monastery, the St. Naum Springs are a natural phenomenon that’s worth seeing if you’re visiting Ohrid.
The crystal-clear water flows into Lake Ohrid and provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The area is also home to many restaurants where you can relax and enjoy traditional Macedonian dishes while taking in the scenic views.
It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, so expect to see many people enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Cost
The entrance fee to the springs is free, but if you’re planning on taking a boat ride through them, there will be an additional cost of around $25 per person.
Additionally, as mentioned before, there are many restaurants in the area where you can enjoy a meal or a drink, but these will come at an additional cost.
Opening Hours
The springs are open year-round, but some activities and restaurants may have limited hours during the off-season (November-March).
Facilities
There are public restrooms available near the springs, as well as several restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
Parking
Parking is available near the springs, but it can get busy during peak season.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Saint Naum Springs is during the spring or late summer when the weather is warm and allows for outdoor activities, but the crowds are not as large as during the summer months.
Safety
When visiting Saint Naum Springs, safety should always be a top priority, especially when opting for a boat ride.
As a precaution, keep your hands and feet inside the boat at all times, and avoid standing up or moving around unnecessarily, as sudden shifts in weight can cause discomfort to other passengers and can even cause the boat to tip.
Additionally, be careful of dropping your belongings into the water, as retrieving them can be impossible.
Visiting Ohrid? Here’s What You Need to Know
What Are Some Popular Instagram Hashtags You Can Use for Your Pictures?
Some popular hashtags for posting pictures of Ohrid on Instagram include:
#Ohrid #OhridLake #Macedonia #VisitOhrid #OhridCity #OhridOldTown #OhridSummer #OhridBeach #OhridView #OhridArchitecture #OhridPhotography #OhridSights #OhridAdventures #OhridNature #OhridTravel #OhridTourism #OhridMemories #OhridCulture #OhridLife #OhridInstagram #OhridExplorer #OhridDreams #OhridSummertime #OhridDreamdestination #OhridViewpoint #OhridLovers #OhridHoliday #OhridParadise #OhridBeauty
Is Ohrid Worth Visiting?
Yes, Ohrid is definitely worth visiting.
Located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, it’s a beautiful city with plenty to offer.
The Old Town area is full of historical sites and monuments that are sure to captivate visitors.
Additionally, there are numerous outdoor activities available such as hiking and swimming in the lake.
With its unique culture and stunning scenery, Ohrid Macedonia is an unforgettable destination for any traveler looking for a memorable experience.
What is Ohrid Known For?
Ohrid is a small city located in the southwestern part of Macedonia, and it is known for its stunning natural beauty.
It sits on the edge of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s deepest and oldest lakes.
The city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich cultural heritage, which includes ancient churches, monasteries, and archaeological sites from different eras.
Additionally, Ohrid is home to some of the best beaches in Europe, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or sunbathing.
There are also plenty of activities, such as hiking trails through picturesque landscapes or boat trips across the lake to explore hidden coves and islands.
How Long Should You Stay in Ohrid?
The beautiful city of Ohrid is a great destination for any traveler and can be enjoyed for as little as one day, but to truly experience all it has to offer, consider staying in Ohrid for two or three days.
On the first day, explore the Old Town and take in its stunning architecture and ancient churches.
The second day should be spent visiting nearby Lake Ohrid, where you can enjoy swimming and boating activities.
Finally, on your third day, visit some of the monasteries and museums around the city or hike up Galicica National Park for breathtaking views of both lake and mountains.
No matter how long you stay in Ohrid, it will surely leave an unforgettable impression.
Where Can I Swim in Ohrid?
Ohrid is a beautiful lake located in Macedonia and offers plenty of swimming opportunities.
The most popular spot for swimming is the beach at St. Naum and Trpejca, which have crystal clear waters and plenty of sunbathing spots.
Other great places to swim include Kaneo Beach and Ljubaništa Beach.
All these locations offer stunning views as well as safe swimming areas with lifeguards on duty during peak season.
For those looking for more adventurous activities, there are several water sports centers around Ohrid offering kayaking, windsurfing, wakeboarding, and more.
Ohrid is a beautiful and unique destination that offers many opportunities for stunning Instagram photos.
From the picturesque Old Town to the breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid and Galicica National Park, there are plenty of amazing spots to capture your memories in this city.
Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks or natural wonders, Ohrid has something special for everyone.
So don’t forget to bring your camera when visiting Ohrid and take advantage of all the best Instagram spots in Ohrid, Macedonia!
This guide was first published on January 21, 2023 and was last updated on June 18, 2024. For more information, please contact us at contact@skopjeguide.com.