Skopje - Excursion through the capital of Macedonia

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Skopje - First Excursion through the capital of Macedonia

Of course, we were excited in looking forward to our first impressions what would convey our first trip to Skopje.

Before starting our trip we had been advised already that there would be a large number of sculptures and monuments in the city center, which would have swallowed a lot of money, that should have been better invested for regional infrastructure. So at least the first information about Skopje, we have got.

From Gostivar, the motorway section to Skopje is finished

skopje 06 tourThe time was right to make our own judgments. We had also taken our bike freak Piotr on the way which we promised to take him to Skopje by car, since the trip by bike along the busy main road was just too dangerous. So we take off early in the morning. We always followed the E-65 / A2 signs to towards Skopje, initially through green valley landscape, then following the road steadily climbing, when between Slivovo and Gostivar we had to cross the mountains. From Gostivar, a part of the highway to Skopje is finished already, so we quickly came over to Tetovo into downtown Skopje. We had booked a room in the city center, which we wanted to see first of all, after that, we had to say goodbye to Piotr.

skopje 10 tourOn the way to the hotel we passed through a first part of a pedestrian area, next to the monument of St. Clement of Ohrid. Along the way we also met the small museum house, which was built here in memory of Mother Theresa. Mother Teresa was born on 26th of August 1910 in Üsküb, what was the name of Skopje during the Ottoman Empire, was a nun and missionary of Albanian origin who also owned Indian citizenship. Worldwide known due to her services and her support to the poor, the homeless, the sick and dying, for which she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. In the Catholic Church Mother Teresa is revered as blessed. Mother Teresa died on 5th of September 1997 in Calcutta, India.

The Vardar had once been navigable here

skopje 08 tourAfter checking in at the hotel and a quick snack we were ready for a first tour through the capital Skopje. First, we went along on the banks of the Vardar river, we were surprised by the many huge cafes and restaurants, which were accordingly well attended. We noticed the first still under construction wooden monument which was created in the river bed as a restaurant in the shape of a medieval ship where we initially completely missed the reference to Skopje. Was the Vardar river once been navigable until here?

Later we should look for the Roman viaduct

A little later, we reached the first of the newly constructed bridges crossing the Vardar River and even here we realized what people had been trying to explain us in terms of sculptures and monuments: the footbridge was full of "modern" figures from antiquity, which certainly all a have a relation to the history of Macedonia, however, were represented in so frequent number on the railing of the bridge, that after a few meters no one had anymore interest in reading names and dates. Too bad. In addition to that, there was the variety of exaggerated oversized lights that reminded more of Disney World and its fairytale castles. Well, the view to the left was then even more beneficial because it came to really interesting old stone bridge dating from Roman times. We will do a separate report which will follow little later. Later we wanted to search for the Roman viaduct, a really interesting architectural construction of Skopje but unfortunately there was not a single sign.

And new sculptures and figures every few meters

The neo-classical new buildings, maybe a mixture of different eras, could not give the impression of truly stunning architecture, rather again in the style of Disneyland exaggerated monstrous, here less would be even more. And every few meters of new sculptures and figures, which did not change on the other side of Vardar. At the center of this arrangement, there was still a huge column with the statue of Alexander the Great showing different battle segments and other ornament images, all lined with fountains and reverberate with music. Certainly based on the idea to build something special, we needed to say, that people from Ohrid have been right in their impression. There is a lack of infrastructure in the country especially regarding waste disposal. Here investments are urgently needed, which should all affect not only the piles of garbage on the roadsides but above all in education, so at least the next generation would be sensitized.

The Vardar river is overflowing with plastic and other rubbish

Who stops at the most amazing monuments in the city, the super modern boulevards stocked with sidewalk cafes which certainly attract numerous guests, if at the same time the Vardar river is overflowing because of plastic and other garbage. Here it certainly would be easy with little financial cost to clean and make it more beautiful.

Too bad, so our impressions too,  that the transmitted stories of boastfulness accompanied with the financial waste of exaggerated cult monuments, needed to be confirmed during our first tour: a Disneyland of the sculptures!
The next day we will have a check on the ancient Ottoman bazaar, which was hopefully not prepared in a modern way.

Skopje – First Tour of the Capital of Macedonia

Discover the fascinating capital of North Macedonia! Skopje combines Ottoman history, socialist architecture, and modern developments into a unique experience.

1. Introduction to Skopje

Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is a city steeped in history and culture. With a population of around 600,000, it is the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. The city has been destroyed several times by earthquakes, most recently in 1963, and today features a mix of old Ottoman buildings, socialist architecture, and modern new buildings.

2. The Historic Old Town – A Touch of the Orient

Skopje's Old Town, also called Stara Čaršija, is one of the oldest districts in the city. It is home to numerous mosques, old caravanserais, and traditional craft shops. The narrow streets and historic buildings transport visitors back to Macedonia's Ottoman past.

3. The Stone Bridge – The city's landmark

The Stone Bridge (Kamen Most) is one of Skopje's most recognizable symbols. Built in the 15th century during Ottoman rule, it connects the old town with the modern city center.

Tip: Be sure to take a photo here – especially at sunset, it offers spectacular views of the Vardar River.

4. Macedonia Square and the Mother Teresa Memorial House

Macedonia Square is the heart of Skopje. It is home to the impressive equestrian statue of Alexander the Great, surrounded by imposing neoclassical buildings. Nearby is the Mother Teresa Memorial House, which commemorates the Nobel Peace Prize winner who was born in Skopje.

5. Kale Fortress - View over Skopje

Kale Fortress towers majestically over the city and offers breathtaking views of Skopje. The fortress's origins date back to the 6th century, and today visitors can explore its ancient walls and towers.

Location: Within walking distance of the Old Town

6. Old Bazaar - Orient Meets Europe

Skopje's Old Bazaar is the largest bazaar in the Balkans outside of Turkey. Here you'll find:

  • Traditional handicrafts 🏺
  • Oriental spices and sweets 🍯
  • Cozy teahouses ☕

The Mustafa Pasha Mosque and the Daut Pasha Hamam, a former Turkish bathhouse, are particularly worth seeing.

More information: The most beautiful bazaars in Europe

7. Modern highlights – Skopje 2014 project

The controversial Skopje 2014 project brought numerous new buildings and monuments to the city, including:

Archaeological Museum of Macedonia

Macedonian National Theatre

Art Bridge with numerous statues

Although the project received much criticism, it is an important part of Skopje's modern identity.

8. Matka Canyon – A Natural Paradise on the City Gate

Just 15 km west of Skopje lies Matka Canyon, a paradise for nature lovers. Here you can:

Take boat tours on Lake Matka

Hike through the spectacular canyon

Explore caves and ancient monasteries

Insider tip: Visit Vrelo Cave, one of the deepest underwater caves in the world.

Learn more: Macedonia's most beautiful natural wonders

9. Skopje's Cuisine – Traditional Macedonian Cuisine

A visit to Skopje is not complete without a taste of the local cuisine. Specialties include:

Ajvar – paprika paste, perfect as a side dish

Cevapi – grilled meat rolls

Shopska salad – fresh salad with feta cheese

Macedonian wine – one of the oldest wine regions in Europe

Reading tip: The best restaurants in Skopje

10. Practical travel tips for your visit

Best time to visit: Spring (April–June) & Autumn (September–October)

Getting there: Skopje (Alexander the Great) Airport with direct flights from Europe

Getting around: City buses, taxis, and inexpensive rental cars available

Currency: Macedonian denar (MKD)

Recommended accommodations:

Luxury: Marriott Hotel Skopje
Mid-range: Hotel Senigallia
Budget: Shanti Hostel

11. Conclusion – Skopje, a city of contrasts

Skopje offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and modernity. From the Ottoman Old Town to the modern buildings of the Skopje 2014 project, there's plenty to discover. Visitors to the city should also explore the natural wonders of the Matka Canyon and enjoy Macedonian hospitality.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Skopje a safe city for tourists?
Yes, Skopje is considered safe. As in any big city, you should beware of pickpockets.

2. Which attractions are free?
Many attractions such as Kale Fortress, Macedonia Square, and the Stone Bridge are free to enter.

3. Is there public transportation in Skopje?
Yes, there is a well-developed bus network and inexpensive taxis.

4. How many days should you plan for Skopje?
2-3 days are enough to explore the main highlights.

5. Can you pay with euros in Skopje?
Not officially, but some hotels and shops accept euros.

Planning a trip to Skopje? Get inspired with our ultimate travel guide!

Please read as well:

The famous Matka - Canyon, Dam and Gorge near Skopje

Roman Scupi - first settlement in the history of Skopje

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