A typical first trip here runs about $400 to $525 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Tavče gravče, baked beans in a clay pot with dried paprika; national dish
- Ajvar, Macedonian red pepper relish, made in enormous autumn batches
- Kebapi, grilled minced meat rolls served with flatbread and raw onion
- Tikveš wine, some of Europe's most underrated wines from the Tikveš region
- Mastika, anise-flavored spirit similar to Greek ouzo
- Ohrid Summer Festival (July–August), open-air performances at ancient theater
- Galicnik Wedding (July), famous traditional wedding ceremony reenactment
- Lake Ohrid, UNESCO site, one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes
- Orthodox Christmas (January 7) and Epiphany cross-diving ceremonies
Macedonian is the official language (similar to Bulgarian and Serbian). English is spoken in Skopje and tourist areas.
The country is welcoming to visitors and proud of its ancient heritage tied to Alexander the Great.
- Macedonians are hospitable and generous with food and rakia
- Lake Ohrid is sacred, treat it and the monasteries there with respect
- Tipping 10% is appreciated in restaurants
- The country is very affordable, one of Europe's best-value destinations
Latest for North Macedonia
Updates for North Macedonia will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.