Matka Canyon is home to Lake Matka, Macedonia's oldest manmade lake, and the entire canyon is a biological and geological wonderland. The term 'Matka' is derived from the Macedonian word мaткa, which means womb, and represents the region's abundant biodiversity. There are 77 unique species of butterflies, two novel species of spiders found nowhere else, five species of pseudo-scorpions, huge communities of bats, and over 1,000 plant species. Nearly 20% of the species that flourish here are endemic, meaning they cannot be found anywhere else on the planet.

The canyon region is about 5000 hectares large, and in addition to the canyon itself and a man-made lake, there are a number of caves that range in length from 20 to 176 meters. The Vrelo Cave, one of the best natural attractions on the list of the New7Wonders of Nature, is the most well-known. There are many activities available for adventurers, including trekking in the mountains, climbing, cave excursions to see stalagmites, stalactites, drip-stone pillars, and cave lakes, boat journeys, kayaking in the gorge of the Treska River, and fishing. The medieval village of Matka also has churches, monasteries with paintings, and the remains of a fortification.

Restaurants, bars, cafes, and even lodging choices are available for those who wish to remain longer. After the busy summer season, the canyon becomes less crowded, the weather gets cooler, but the grandeur remains. Autumn hues turn the hills orange, and the water appears even verdant against that backdrop.

Google Rating: 4.8/5
Website: https://www.canyonmatka.mk/
Phone: +389 70 271 900
Opening Hours: Daily
Address: VStreet 1, Village Matka 1000, Skojpe, North Macedonia

The Church of St. Clement of Ohrid is the biggest cathedral of the Macedonian Orthodox Church. The church was erected to honor the 1150th anniversary of the birth of St. Clement of Ohrid. The building of this church began in 1972 and it has rotunda measurements of 36 x 36 m. It is made up entirely of domes and arcs and covers an area of around 1,000 m2. This facility can accommodate around 6000 people. When you enter the church, the iconostasis built of oak wood draws your attention.

The center dome is 650 m2 in size. For the first time in history, Jesus Christ is painted on a 70 m2 canvas, with one eye measuring 1.5 m in diameter. The architect left large areas for windows in order to comply with the canons of the orthodox churches. However, to avoid a great quantity of light (which is standard practice in a church to boost the mystery), a crystalline plexiglass is inserted, which gives a stunning projection of colors depending on the angle at which the light falls. The church is not only attractive on the inside, but also on the exterior, where there is a large area with a contemporary fountain and numerous desks, as well as various flora that fill the entire space with harmony and freshness.

Google Rating: 4.8/5

Phone: +389 2 322 7450

Opening Hours: Daily - 8:00 to 20:00

Address: Blvd. Partizanski Odredi 17, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia

Mustafa Pasha Mosque is located within the borders of the Old Bazaar. The mosque was erected in 1492 as a tribute to Mustafa Pasha. He served as the Vizier of Sultans Bayazit II and Selim I and held significant positions in the Ottoman Empire. The marble inscription above the entrance door, which bears Arabic lettering, indicates that the structure was constructed on the foundations of a medieval church.

The mosque's construction is typical of early Constantinople architecture. It has a square foundation and a dome with a diameter of 16.3 m. The dome was erected on pillars ornamented with arabesques, and on its left side, motifs from the period of the mosque's construction are painted, while on its right side, there are newer ones with no particular artistic value. The structure is surrounded with riveted stone and two rows of brickwork. The entry to the mosque is through the porch, which is composed of white marble and is flanked by four marble columns united by semicircular arches.

The 47-meter-high minaret is erected on the mosque's northern side and made of crushed limestone. Inside the mosque, there is a prayer area with a mihrab on the southeast corner. A platform to the right of the mihrab is where the prayers are recited. A gallery is located just above the entryway. There is also a turbe within the mosque where Mustafa Pasha was buried in 1519.

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Phone: +389 2 329 7204

Opening Hours: Daily

Address: Fort Kale, MK MK, Fort Kale, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia

The Stone Bridge is a bridge that spans the Vardar River in Skopje, Macedonia. This bridge, commonly known as the Duan Bridge, is named after Serbian Emperor Stephen Duan. It is a one-of-a-kind piece of architecture that has captivated people all around the world. This construction is built of stones arranged in a half-circle. Each stone has a certain weight.

As a result, the weight of the bridge is spread along the arc. Because of this, the construction is robust and unlikely to collapse. In addition, a stone bridge will withstand high winds and can survive earthquakes. In the early 20th century, Skopje had rapid population expansion and industrialisation. The Stone Bridge got more busy and was unable to accommodate the increased foot traffic. To remedy this issue, the city decided to build a new bridge downstream from the Stone Bridge.

Despite the new bridge's completion, the Stone Bridge remains a significant landmark in Skopje. It remains a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors, and it is frequently utilized as a location for events and festivals. The bridge is also a popular site for people to take photographs and enjoy the city views. The Stone Bridge is now a protected cultural heritage monument and is regarded as one of Skopje's most significant historical structures. It serves as a symbol of the city's continuing energy and perseverance, as well as a reminder of its rich past.

Google Rating: 4.6/5
Opening Hours: Daily
Address: XCWM+Q6R, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia

City Park Skopje is a large public park located in the heart of Skopje, Macedonia. It is one of the most popular parks in the city and is visited by locals and tourists alike. The park is a great place to spend a day or two. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors or a place to take part in some of the events and activities, City Park Skopje is the perfect spot.

The park is situated on the banks of the Vardar River and is surrounded by lush green trees and shrubs. City Park Skopje is divided into two sections, the upper and lower park. The upper park is the larger of the two and is home to a variety of attractions, including a large lake, a playground, a fountain, and a variety of sculptures. The lower park is smaller and is home to a variety of gardens, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a cactus garden.

The park is also home to a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and other activities. During the summer months, the park is a popular spot for picnics and barbecues. There are also a variety of restaurants and cafes located within the park, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat.

Google Rating: 4.6/5

Phone: +389 2 329 7204

Opening Hours: Daily

Address: 2C4C+3G9, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia

The Old Bazaar in Skopje is located on the eastern side of Stone Bridge, just a short walk from the main square. It is the largest bazaar in the Balkans. The Old Skopje Bazaar goes back to the eleventh century and had the most active growth from the 15th to the 19th centuries, representing complex economic-trade, architectural, and cultural-traditional entity. It was created in an oriental style, with various broader and narrower lanes and cobblestone streets.

Various craftsmen and trade shops followed one another. Traditional crafts include blacksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, shoemakers, tailors, watchmakers, tinsmiths, coppersmiths, saddlers, and a variety of other production-catering activities. There are also some functioning businesses for contemporary industrial items that can only be found here.

The genuineness of the Old Bazaar may also be felt in another way. The flavor of centuries-old dishes is only a few steps away, thanks to the abundance of historic eateries. Many of these restaurants serve delicious cuisine and beverages at reasonable costs in an authentic setting, with live music on weekends. Whatever you do, do not forget to get some kebaps and a glass or two of a wonderful strong rakija.

The Old Bazaar is the most intriguing section of Skopje for visitors and locals, providing them with a trip back in time as well as a deep understanding of Macedonian culture and customs. Every day is filled with intriguing events in the Bazaar, therefore Skopje Old Bazaar is not to be missed if you visit Macedonia's capital.

Google Rating: 4.5/5
Opening Hours: Mon - 8:00 to 18:00, Tue to Sun - 8:00 to 00:00
Address: MK, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia

Macedonia Square is a central landmark situated in the heart of Skopje. This renowned square is the largest in the country, covering an area of over 18000 square meters. It is also one of the most famous tourist attractions of Skopje, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world each year. The history of Macedonia Square dates back to the early 20th century when it was named Republic Square. However, in 1991, after the declaration of independence of North Macedonia, it was renamed to its current name to reflect the pride and heritage of the country.

Some of the city's most famous structures encircle the square, including the National Museum of North Macedonia, the Macedonian Opera and Ballet, and the Holocaust Memorial Center. The colossal statue of Alexander the Great, a renowned military leader and conqueror who was born in Pella, a region situated in northern Greece, is one of the square's most remarkable features.

The spectacular fountain, which was constructed in 2011, is another eye-catching feature of Macedonia Square and is one of Europe's biggest musical fountains. The fountain serves as a gathering place for both residents and tourists, and it features a vibrant and magnificent show of water and light acts that draws a large number of visitors.

The square has experienced significant renovations in recent years, transforming it into a contemporary, pedestrian-friendly plaza. Today, Macedonia Square is filled with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and stores, making it a popular location for both locals and visitors who come to enjoy the lively ambiance. It is a must-see location that captures the essence of North Macedonia and provides tourists with a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Google Rating: 4.4/5
Opening Hours: Daily
Address: XCWJ+FQJ, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia

The Memorial House of Mother Teresa is situated in Skopje where she was born and spent most of her youth. The house was built in 2009 as a memorial to her humanitarian efforts and global influence. The home gives guests a glimpse into her life, her accomplishments, and her memory. The memorial house has two levels and a cellar. The ground floor of the building houses a reception space, a multimedia room, and a gift store. The multimedia area depicts a visual chronicle of Mother Teresa's life and work through photos, films, and personal mementos.

The second floor of the home brings visitors to her family's apartment, which remained intact for over fifty years after the death of her mother, Dranafile Bojaxhiu. Visitors can see the kitchen, the sitting room, and other rooms where Mother Teresa and her brothers grew up. The furnishings, clothing, and artwork in the apartment provide a sense of how the family lived at that time.

The basement of the memorial house has a small chapel with a replica of the tomb in Mother Teresa’s home city of Calcutta, India. The chapel is a quiet and tranquil spot where guests can ruminate on this remarkable woman's saintly work. Visitors to the Mother Teresa Memorial House can gain a better understanding of her life, which she devoted to helping others through her love, kindness, and selflessness

Google Rating: 4.4/5

Website: https://memorialhouseofmotherteresa.com/

Phone: +389 2 329 0674

Opening Hours: Mon to Fri - 9:00 to 20:00, Sat to Sun - 9:00 to 14:00

Address: MK, Makedonija 1000, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia

Skopje Fortress is a historic fortress in the city of Skopje. It is situated on the highest point in the city, overlooking the Vardar River. The Roman Empire finished building it in the 5th or 6th century. The castle, which was utilized in the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, is strategically significant.

The fortress has a shape of a triangle, flattened in the north and with a pronounced fall on the south and west sides. The eastern half of the fortress descends down the flow of the Serava River, and it now houses a portion of the bazaar. There are several archaeological sites within the Skopje Fortress, where extensive studies have been conducted. From 1953 through 1967, significant archeological digs were conducted. Material evidence of the late Neolithic habitation of the region was gathered from them.

There is no admission cost to the castle. You should absolutely go view this castle as it is only a short walk from the city center. There are also lovely views of the city and the Vardar River. As a result, this Castle should be on your list of places to visit in Skopje.

Google Rating: 4.3/5
Phone: +389 2 312 9323
Opening Hours: Daily - 9:00 to 19:00
Address: 2C2M+736, Samoilova, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia

The National Archaeological Museum in Skopje offers a unique opportunity to learn fascinating things about Macedonia's rich history and witness magnificent findings from various times. The Museum is located in the middle of Skopje, near to the iconic Stone Bridge; its ideal position makes it an easily accessible venue that is equally attended by residents and visitors.

Before entering the Museum, you will note its magnificent architectural style, which was recently built as part of the Skopje 2014 project. The structure is very new, with tall columns and massive glass windows that give the Museum a fresh and distinct image. Entering the Museum is like entering a another universe, with various items and treasures from all around the nation assembled in one spot. The Archaeological Museum takes visitors on a trip through the millennia, from the Neolithic Age through the Bronze and Iron Ages, the Classical and Hellenic Periods, and the Roman, Slavic, Byzantine, as well as Turkish Periods.

Its permanent exhibition presents over 7000 artifacts of extraordinary historical, cultural, and art values. These artifacts tell stories of the local inhabitants, their material and spiritual cultures from early prehistory to the end of the Ottoman period. Each of the pieces displayed there has its own story that only shows how rich the past of Macedonia and Macedonian people is.

Google Rating: 4.1/5
Website: https://amm.org.mk/
Phone: +389 2 323 3999
Opening Hours: Tue to Sun - 10:00 to 18:00
Address: Кеј Димитар Влахов 1000, Skopje 1000, North Macedonia