• Duration: 5-7 days
• Distance covered: 600km (approx. 9 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Skopje Old Bazaar, Tetovo Mosque, Lake Ohrid, Krushevo
The Skopje loop route in North Macedonia is another iconic Balkan road trip that takes you past all the must-see locations in the nation. After spending a few days in the capital, compare and contrast the old Ottoman-era bazaar with Skopje’s sculpture-filled city center. Then, head west to Tetovo, a little town with one of the most beautiful mosques in the Balkans.
To get to Lake Ohrid, head south, skirting Mavrovo National Park. Ohrid is an excellent starting point for seeing the inland wineries and villages as well as the monasteries and churches surrounding the lake. Before continuing into the hills, stop at Bitola to see the remains of the ancient Greek and Roman city of Heraclea Lyncestis.
Your spirits will be restored by spending a few days in little Krushevo, my favorite location in North Macedonia. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets, dine at neighborhood cafés, and be sure to stop by some of the town’s artisans.
