Ohrid

🇲🇰 North Macedonia

Discover the Jewel of the Balkans

Ohrid - Vacation Briefing

Ohrid, North Macedonia is a hidden gem nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local culture, it is a destination like no other. Explore the ancient Old Town with its cobblestone streets and Byzantine churches, visit the iconic Ohrid Castle perched on a hilltop, or simply relax on the sandy beaches. Ohrid is also known for its crystal-clear lake waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Immerse yourself in the local traditions by attending a traditional Macedonian dance performance or savoring the delicious regional cuisine. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Ohrid has something for everyone.

Popular Sights in Ohrid

Ohrid Old Town Ohrid Lake Saint Naum Monastery Samuel's Fortress Plaoshnik Church of St. Sophia Boat Tour on Ohrid Lake Bay of Bones Museum Cave Church of St. John at Kaneo Kalishta Monastery

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Things to do during your Ohrid vacation

Welcome to Ohrid, a charming city nestled on the banks of Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Ohrid offers a wonderful blend of sightseeing opportunities and recreational activities. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking some relaxation, Ohrid has something for everyone.

Explore the Ohrid Fortress: Take a journey back in time as you visit the historic Ohrid Fortress, which offers magnificent views of the city and the lake.
Visit Saint Panteleimon Monastery: Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Saint Panteleimon Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Macedonia.
Take a boat tour on Lake Ohrid: Embark on a scenic boat tour to admire the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ohrid and discover hidden coves and charming lakeside villages.
Stroll along the Ohrid Old Town: Get lost in the narrow cobbled streets of Ohrid Old Town, lined with traditional houses, shops, and cozy cafes.
Relax on Gradiste Beach: Soak up the sun and unwind on the beautiful Gradiste Beach, enjoying its sandy shores and tranquil atmosphere.
Hike to the summit of Mount Galicica: Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Mount Galicica, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains.
Visit the Bay of Bones Museum: Discover the fascinating reconstructed prehistoric settlement at the Bay of Bones Museum, which provides insight into early human civilization in the region.
Go paragliding over Ohrid: Experience the exhilaration of paragliding and soar above Ohrid, taking in the stunning aerial views of the lake, mountains, and the city below.
Indulge in local cuisine: Savor the flavors of Macedonian cuisine by trying traditional dishes like Tavche Gravche, Ajvar, and Sarma at local restaurants and taverns.
Attend a cultural festival: Immerse yourself in Ohrid's rich cultural heritage by attending one of the city's many festivals, featuring music, dance, and traditional performances.
Relax at the Ohrid Spa & Wellness Center: Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment or unwind in the thermal pools of the Ohrid Spa & Wellness Center, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

Why you should visit Ohrid

Overall

Ohrid, North Macedonia is a destination with a mix of positives and negatives. It has some appealing qualities, but it also has certain drawbacks that may impact its desirability.

Safety

When it comes to safety, Ohrid, North Macedonia has a moderate rating. While it is generally a safe destination, visitors should still exercise caution and be mindful of their surroundings.

Culture

Ohrid, North Macedonia offers a rich cultural experience. The city is known for its historical sites, museums, and cultural diversity. Visitors can enjoy exploring the heritage and trying traditional Macedonian cuisine.

Nightlife

The nightlife scene in Ohrid, North Macedonia is somewhat limited. While there are some bars and clubs available, the options may be limited, especially compared to larger cities.

Adventure

For adventure enthusiasts, Ohrid, North Macedonia might not provide a wide range of extreme activities. However, there are still opportunities for mild adventure such as hiking and water sports in the picturesque landscapes.

Relaxation

If relaxation is what you seek, Ohrid, North Macedonia can be a great choice. The destination boasts beautiful lakeside views, tranquil beaches, and opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.

Best time to visit Ohrid

Ohrid, North Macedonia is a charming destination that offers something all year round. However, for the perfect combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and stunning sights, the best time to visit is from May to September.

Jan

Chilly but serene

-2°C - 6°C

Feb

Cold but picturesque

-1°C - 8°C

Mar

Mild and blossoming

2°C - 11°C

Apr

Pleasant and less crowded

7°C - 15°C

May

Perfect weather and blooming nature

11°C - 20°C

Jun

Sunny days and vibrant festivals

15°C - 24°C

Jul

Warm and bustling

18°C - 27°C

Aug

Hot and vibrant

18°C - 27°C

Sep

Ideal weather and quieter ambiance

14°C - 23°C

Oct

Autumn colors and tranquility

9°C - 17°C

Nov

Chilly but serene

3°C - 11°C

Dec

Cold but enchanting

0°C - 7°C

A guide To your first day of Ohrid vacation

morning

Visit the historic Ohrid Fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city and Lake Ohrid.
Take a morning stroll along the picturesque Ohrid Lake promenade and admire the charming architecture.

afternoon

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ohrid Old Town and its narrow cobblestone streets.
Take a boat tour to the nearby St. Naum Monastery and enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Ohrid.

evening

Watch the sunset over Lake Ohrid from one of the waterfront cafes or restaurants.
Attend a traditional Macedonian folklore show in Ohrid and experience the local culture.

night

Enjoy a romantic dinner by the lake, trying local Macedonian delicacies.
Take a leisurely evening walk around Ohrid Lake and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

How to get to Ohrid

By Plane

The most convenient international airport to reach Ohrid is Skopje International (SKP). It has excellent connections with major cities worldwide and is just a 2-hour drive from Ohrid. Alternatively, Thessaloniki International (SKG) in Greece is another option, with frequent international flights and a 3.5-hour scenic drive to Ohrid. Tip: Consider booking a rental car in advance for seamless travel from the airports to Ohrid.

By other means

Ohrid is well-connected by bus from major cities in North Macedonia, such as Skopje and Bitola. Buses are comfortable and offer a scenic journey through the countryside. Another option is to take a train to the nearby city of Bitola and then catch a bus to Ohrid. Tip: Check the bus schedules in advance and arrive at the bus station early to secure your seat.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!