Are you planning on visiting Skopje? If so, you’re in for a treat! This gorgeous city has something to offer everyone.
But before you can enjoy all that Skopje has to offer, you need to know how to make the most out of your trip.
That’s where we come in.
Below, I will share 19 travel tips for visiting Skopje.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro, these tips will help make your trip an unforgettable experience!
So, without further ado, here are our best travel tips for visiting Skopje:
01: Start your trip by getting a lay of the land
Skopje is a large city, so it’s helpful to orient yourself before venturing out.
Pick up a map from your apartment, hotel, or hostel, and take some time to walk around and get familiar with your surroundings.
02: Be sure to visit the city’s many museums
If you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Skopje, we recommend visiting some of the city’s museums.
The Museum of Macedonian History is a great place to start, but there are many other options as well.
Skopje is also home to several art galleries, so be sure to check them out as well!
03: Don’t be afraid to try new food
Skopje is a great place to try new food, and you’ll find many different cuisines represented throughout the city.
From Macedonian specialties to Turkish delights, there’s something for everyone in Skopje.
Be sure to try some of the city’s street food – it’s delicious and often very inexpensive!
04: Try the local cuisine (& Burek)
No trip to Skopje would be complete without sampling the local cuisine.
From traditional Macedonian dishes to international fare, there’s something for everyone in Skopje.
Be sure to try some of the city’s famous burek – a type of pastry filled with meat or cheese – while you’re here!
05: Admire Skopje’s architecture
Skopje is known for its beautiful architecture, and there are plenty of architectural sights to see throughout the city.
One of our favorite places to admire architecture is at the Stone Bridge, which spans the Vardar River and connects Old Town with Macedonia Square.
06: Visit Skopje’s parks & public gardens
If you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the scenery, we recommend visiting one of Skopje’s many parks.
City Park is a great option, as it’s centrally located and offers plenty of green space.
However, there are several other parks worth checking out as well!
07: Check out the city’s calendar of events
No matter what time of year you visit Skopje, there’s always something going on!
Be sure to check out the city’s calendar of events before your trip, so you can plan your itinerary around some of the city’s festivals and celebrations.
08: You can walk anywhere in Skopje
Skopje is a very walkable city, but sometimes it’s nice to explore without having to do all the walking yourself.
Luckily, Skopje offers several options for public transportation, including buses and trolleys.
You can learn more about the city’s bus fares and cards here.
09: Finding a place to stay is easy
When it comes to accommodation, there are many different options in Skopje.
From hotels and hostels to apartments and guesthouses, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your needs and budget.
We recommend checking out some of the city’s Airbnb listings – there are often great deals to be found!
10: Enjoying a shopping spree
Shopping is a popular activity in Skopje, and there are plenty of places to do it!
From high-end malls (like the new East Gate Shopping Mall) to local boutiques, you’ll be able to find whatever you’re looking for in Skopje.
Be sure to bargain when shopping at markets – it’s expected, and you may be able to get a better price!
11: Look for ways to save money while in Skopje
Skopje is a budget-friendly city, but there are still plenty of ways to save money while you’re here.
One easy way to do this is by eating at local restaurants – they typically offer great food at much lower prices than tourist traps.
Additionally, many museums and attractions offer discounted rates for students and seniors, so be sure to ask about discounts before you visit!
12: Enjoy a walking tour of Skopje
If you’re hoping to see some of Skopje’s sights without spending a lot of money, we recommend taking advantage of the city’s many free walking tours.
These tours are led by local guides who are passionate about Skopje and its history, and they’re a great way to learn about the city while seeing some of its most famous landmarks.
13: Enjoy Skopje’s nightlife
When it comes to nightlife, Skopje has plenty to offer! Whether you’re looking for a place to grab a drink or dance the night away, you’ll find it in Skopje.
Be sure to check out some of the city’s clubs and bars – we guarantee you’ll have a good time!
14: Visit the Matka Canyon
If you’re visiting Skopje during the summer months, we recommend taking a day trip to one of the city’s nearby lakes.
Lake Matka is a popular option, as it’s only a short drive from the city center.
Here you can swim, hike, and enjoy the beautiful scenery!
15: Enjoy the diversity of cultures
Skopje is a cultural melting pot, and you’ll find many different ethnic groups represented throughout the city.
One of the best ways to learn about Skopje’s diverse culture is by visiting one of the city’s many markets.
From the Old Bazaar to Bit Pazar, there’s sure to be a market that interests you!
16: Learn about the city’s many religions
Skopje is home to many different religious sites, including mosques, churches, and temples.
If you’re interested in learning about the city’s different religions, we recommend visiting some of these places of worship.
Some of our favorites include the Church of St. Clement of Ohrid (quite a way out of Skopje) and the Daut Pasha Hamam Mosque.
17: Be aware of your surroundings
Skopje is a safe city, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling to any new place.
Be sure to keep your belongings close to you at all times, and avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas.
If you have any concerns or problems while in Skopje, don’t hesitate to reach out to the police or your hotel/hostel staff for help.
18: Get travel insurance
When visiting Skopje is to make sure you have travel insurance.
This will help protect you in case of any unforeseen events (such as lost baggage or medical emergencies) while you’re on your trip.
We recommend World Nomads travel insurance as they offer comprehensive coverage at an affordable price.
If you’re a Revolut user, you can also use their own built-in travel insurance plans.
19: Don’t forget to soak up the atmosphere
One of the best ways to enjoy Skopje is by simply taking a stroll through the city and soaking up the atmosphere.
Whether you’re strolling down the main pedestrian street or exploring one of Skopje’s many neighborhoods, there’s always something new to see!
This guide was first published on July 3, 2022 and was last updated on February 27, 2024. For more information, please contact us at contact@skopjeguide.com.
