Welcome to North Macedonia — a small country with a big story and even bigger spirit.
Now, if Macedonia had a dating profile, it would probably say: ‘Been through a lot, still standing, kind of Balkan, kind of fabulous.’
For centuries, Macedonia has been the ultimate Airbnb for empires — Romans checked in, Byzantines redecorated, the Ottomans overstayed, and Yugoslavia… well, let’s just say it was complicated. But guess what? After centuries of being passed around like a shared Netflix account, Macedonia is finally standing proudly on its own, buzzing with energy, culture, and a love for good coffee, good company, and unforgettable experiences.
Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is a vibrant city that blends history, culture, and modern life. Nestled along the Vardar River, it offers a unique mix of Ottoman, Byzantine, and contemporary architecture. From the historic Old Bazaar and Kale Fortress to the striking modernist buildings and lively cafés, Skopje welcomes visitors with warmth and charm. The city is easily accessible and provides an excellent backdrop for international gatherings and events. It is a city that loves statues so much, it might just have more status than people.
Key facts:
– Population is around 2 millions
– Languages – Macedonian, Albanian, Serbian, Turkish, Bosnian, Romani, Aroman
– Macedonians treat coffee like a religion. You don’t drink coffee, you have a coffee ritual that lasts two hours, includes deep philosophy, and possibly gossip about six generations.
Key spots in Skopje:
– Stone Bridge – dates back to the 15th century, built by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. Located in the heart of Skopje
– The Fortress Kale is located on the eponymous hill, in the very center of Skopje, on the left bank of the river Vardar
– Mother Theresa Memorial House – did you know that Mother Theresa was born in Skopje? So, the desire to pay respect to Skopje’s most famous person and the only Nobel Peace Prize winner from Macedonia culminated in the realization of a long-standing vision – building a Memorial House for Mother Teresa
– Old Bazaar – dating back to at least the 12th century. Its cobbled streets are lined with artisan shops, mosques, inns, and museums, making it a living museum of Skopje’s multicultural heritage.
– Millennium Cross – Standing 66 meters tall atop Vodno Mountain, the Millennium Cross was built to commemorate 2,000 years of Christianity in North Macedonia. As one of the tallest crosses in the world, it’s visible from nearly every corner of the city.
– Canyon Matka and Vrelo cave – Located about 15 kilometers southwest of the city, Matka Canyon is one of North Macedonia’s most stunning outdoor destinations, known for its dramatic cliffs, medieval monasteries, and tranquil lake. Nestled within the canyon is Vrelo Cave, a remarkable system of underwater and overwater chambers, featuring striking stalactites and underground lakes. Often listed among the world’s most fascinating caves, Vrelo adds a mysterious charm to this already spectacular landscape.
– Neighborhood of Debar maalo – If Skopje had a heartbeat, it would be Debar Maalo. This legendary neighborhood isn’t just a place—it’s a lifestyle. Here, “going for lunch” is code for a multi-hour ritual of joy, laughter, and unapologetic indulgence. You don’t just sit in a kafana—you surrender to it. It’s where traditional food sings, live music dances through the air, and rakija becomes your spiritual guide. In Debar Maalo, we don’t check the time—we check if the wine glass is full. Religion? Important. But kafana? Sacred!
Emergency contact numbers
Ambulance +389 194
Police +389 192
Fire brigade +389 193