Welcome to Skopje! Macedonia's capital city is a place where scratching beneath the surface is highly rewarding. Amidst the Communist-era city blocks lay hidden architectural gems, vibrant market places, splendid cafes and monuments to the past. A friendly local guide is waiting to help you find the best parts of their city on a private Skopje tour.

Your guide will recommend walking to many sights, so as not to miss the little details in between. Start at the ancient Kale Fortress; from its stone walls you'll get great views to the city below. Wander across the famous Stone Bridge and along "Gold Street" in the Turkish Bazaar. Be sure to visit the 15th century <i>Daut Pašin Amam</i>, once the largest Turkish bathhouse in the Balkans, and now home to the National Gallery.

Your guide can take you out of Skopje to the nearby Roma market town of Sutka, or up Vidno Mountain to St. Pantelejmon monastery. There are many possibilities for exploring on your private Skopje tour!

Skopje

Beyond the souvenir shops and the tourist traps, among the buildings - remnants from the Ottoman Empire, the Old Bazaar offers a world of tastes that provide an experience of a different culture, and a different time. Some of the restaurants have not changed for more than half a century, with the same family recipe how to make the best food.

In our walking tour of the Old Bazaar, we taste some unique Skopje, such as Simid Pogacha - a unique type of pastry dish found only in Skopje, and some Ottoman dishes, such as Kebabs, or the Parachute (giant macaroon) desert. While as a topping, I tell you stories about the history, the buildings we pass, and the today's culture of the place where East meets West.

Unfortunately, poverty and the rush for money made restaurants decide to offer a modern atmosphere and very often cheap food. I diligently taste the food of the Old Bazaar so you can have a memorable experience. Hungry or not, you are welcome for a cultural discovery of tastes and history.

A half day gourmet tour of the Old Bazaar of Skopje, walking tour

Tastes of Skopje Old Bazaar

Let me help you create your first impression about the city of Skopje. Let me tell you all about the legends, the stories, all the historical and cultural facts about my beloved birthplace.
We'll step into the new part of the city first, where we are going to learn what happened to Skopje in recent past. The part of our city that witnesses for it's rebirth from the ruins in the earthquake in 1963.

We'll walk through the same streets which used to be the heart of the city, where all the locals gathered and where they would find their soulmate. Today the situation is similar, in a more modern way- we have more bars, restaurants, modern boutiques and kitsch architecture.

When you'd think you've seen it all, I will show you the invisible border which divides Skopje into two different areas, we'll climb on top of the Kale Fortress , where you have a magnificent view from the whole city, and then we'll roam the tiny narrow streets where you can feel and taste all the sounds, colors and smells of the old Bazaar

Be my guest and explore every corner of my hometown Skopje, 3 hours tour

Skopje walk and explore

City Tour of Skopje and Kokino Bronze Age archaeological site

Skopje city, the capital of the Republic of Macedonia is located on the cross-road of the Balkans where East meets West , using the Stone Bridge from the 15-th century as an unbreakable link, leading towards the old Bazaar and 15 centuries old fortress. In Skopje is not allowed to miss well known Macedonian cuisine and the delicious Macedonian wines. Strongly believe a visit to Skopje remains in memory as an unforgettable experience.
Kokiino- Megalithic Observatory is a Bronze Age archaeological site from the 19 century BC, about 70 km from Skopje. The site includes special stone markers used to track the movement of the Sun and Moon on the eastern horizon. The observatory used the method of stationary observation, marking positions of the Sun. Four stone seats or "thrones" are placed in a row on the lower platform. A stone block with a marking on the upper platform marks the direction of sunrise.

Discover Bronze Age archaeological site of Observatory, from the 19 century BC, Full day Tour

Embark on a captivating 1-day journey through the heart of Kosovo on our 'Private Full Day Tour. ' Starting with a scenic drive from Skopje, you'll first explore Pristina, Kosovo's vibrant capital. Marvel at the architectural splendor of the National Library, wander through the bustling Main Square, and visit landmarks like the Clinton Monument and the Mother Teresa Church. Then, discover the charm of Prizren, often hailed as Kosovo's most picturesque city. Stroll through its Mediterranean-style old town, visit the Main Mosque and Church, and absorb the rich history at the Prizren Liga Museum. This tour offers a blend of cultural insights and historical marvels, showcasing the diverse beauty of Kosovo.

1-Day Kosovo Highlights: Pristina, Prizren, and Optional Gracanica Visit

Private Full Day Tour of Kosovo

Skopje has plenty of charm. Its Ottoman- and Byzantine-era sights are focused around the city's delightful Čaršija, bordered by the 15th-century Stone Bridge and Kale Fortress - Skopje's guardian since the 4th century. Don't miss the excellent eating and drinking scene in the Old Bazaar.
Chance to see the brutalist architecture, old palaces of 20th c. and at same time the new project 2014 -many governmental buildings, museums, the National Theater and numerous sculptures.
Matka -A gorge in which a rich complex of medieval churches, monasteries and remnants of a fortress (the medieval town of Matka). There are dozens of caves and large number of endemic plants and animals. It is also important to mention that there are 77 species of Balkan endemic small butterflies in area of Matka Canyon
Cave Vrelo- was listed as one of the natural sites in the world in the New 7 Wonders of Nature project. The Cave has 2 lakes inside and is one of the deepest underwater cave on the Balkan

A full day Exploring of Nun Mother Theresa city and short drive into the nature

Lendmarks of old and new "baroque" Skopje city and trip to Matka Canyon

Jewish Heritage of Monastir, Full day Tour from Skopje to Bitola

Bitola, or also known as Monastir during the Ottoman Empire, was and still is an important town: It was established by Philip II, father of Alexander The Great; It is on the Ancient Roman Road of Via Egnatia; and it was the town where the international community decided to open consulates to the Ottoman Empire.
Today, Bitola is a town with a wealth of cultures intertwined in its streets. Likewise, the remnants of a once-thriving Jewish community are scattered throughout the town, and blended in everyday life as a memory.
In this tour we learn about the history of the Sephardic Jewish Community in Bitola: how and when it was established; how they lived; and how they disappeared, following the annihilation on 11 March 1943, when Bulgarian fascist soldiers took the whole Jewish population of Bitola, together those of present day North Macedonia to Treblinka, Poland. So join me in experiencing Bitola today while taking a walk into the past and taste what being a local feels like, for a day . . . so dress nicely.

The Story of a Sephardic Community in Bitola and North Macedonia

If you don't have too much time, and still wanna explore the city streets and stories of Skopje, and at the same time wanna escape traffic and people, this is the right tour for you.

The city of Skopje is divided into two different areas that tell two different stories, physically parted by the river Vardar. The differences in our city are the ones that make it very unique in it's very charming way.

After that we will escape to the breathtaking hidden canyon of Matka. We will ran into beautiful landscapes, great for amazing shots, kayaking, visiting Vrelo cave or just chilling and having a coffee by the lake.

It is very convenient that such magnificent nature is so close to the city center. Only 30 min driving from downtown, and you can do so many things and have fun breathing clear mountain air.

Canyon Matka, the view from the restaurant

Explore Skopje by walk and relax at Canyon Matka, full day tour

Skopje city tour & Canyon Matka

Pearls of Macedonia Tour, 3 Days Tour from Skopje

This tour provides a clear picture about the history, religion and traditions of Macedonia.
The territory of Skopje has been inhabited since at least 8000 years BC; remains of Neolithic settlements have been found within the old Kale Fortress.

In the beginning of the 1st century AD, the settlement was seized by the Romans and became a military camp, later under Byzantine rule. In 1392, the city was conquered by the Ottomans and remained under Ottoman control for over 500 years. In 1944, it became the capital city of Democratic Macedonia (later Socialist Republic of Macedonia), which was a federal state, part of Yugoslavia (later Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia). The city developed rapidly after World War II, but this trend was interrupted Macedonia has rich wine tradition, 1963 when it was hit by a disastrous earthquake.

Ohrid a city positioned beside a lake, declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Then you will explore the 'City of Consuls' Bitola, and finish with tastings in Tikves Winery.

History, religion and traditions of Macedonia, Ohrid, Bitola and Tikves Winery

Macedonia Skopje Matka Lake Discovery Private Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Macedonia with our 'Skopje and Matka Lake Discovery Private Tour. ' This one-day adventure unveils the rich tapestry of Skopje's history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the remnants of the old city train station to the vibrant Street Macedonia and the revered Memorial House of Mother Theresa, you'll walk through the chapters of Skopje's storied past. The tour takes an enchanting turn as we explore the medieval Stone Bridge and the artistic haven of Daut Pasha Hammam. As your guide, I'll share intriguing tales and personal insights, bringing each landmark to life. The highlight is our serene boat ride on Matka Lake, leading to the awe-inspiring Vrelo Cave, Europe's second deepest. With my expertise in local history and dedication to crafting memorable experiences, I promise a journey that's not just a tour, but a doorway to the soul of Macedonia.

Arch of Triumph, entrance to the main square in Skopje

Stone Bridge - Official landmark of Skopje

Bird's Eye View of the resort at Matka Canyon

Skopje and Matka Lake in a Day: Cultural Treasures and Europe's Marvelous Cave

Half Day Bicycle Tour from Skopje to Matka Canyon

When visiting Skopje, and you are in the mood for a light adventure to explore the rural area around Skopje, or if you are like me, and want to escape from the busy urban chaos into the tranquillity of nature, a bike tour to visit Matka Canyon is your best choice.

Our tour is a discovery of the suburban and rural part of Skopje, away from the crowds. We take backroads with very little traffic, following a route that I have specially designed for you. We pass suburbs and villages, we cross suspended bridges, while I tell you the local stories, only to get to an amazing nature area - Matka Canyon with cliffs rising from the water straight up. And there, options of activities awaits us: hiking, kayaking, boat ride, or simply enjoying a view of the river.

Allow me to guide you in an experience that through Matka Canyon you will learn stories about the local culture, history, technology and the present day life. This bike ride, and Matka Canyon just might be your best memory from Skopje.

Specialized Pitch Expert (male geometry) available in S to XL sizes.
Specialized Jynx Comp (female geometry) available in XS to L sizes.

Optional mountain bike path to Matka Canyon

Crossing suspended bridges over Treska River

Tour of Skopje's natural beauty and rural area

This tour is super fun, not only because you'll be able to feel the dynamics of the city and discover different corners of Skopje but also because you will have the possibility to taste and discover our local food.

We will start with the magical Old Bazaar which will take you few centuries back with it's friendly community, the cute cobblestone streets, countless jewelry shops and the most delicious street food.

You will have a possibility to taste the most traditional breakfast and after the breakfast we will continue to walk around the old part. We will stop for a chocolate tasting and coffee break inside of the bazaar.

After visiting our colorful Bazaar, I will take you to a local restaurant for a traditional lunch.
Please do not forget to bring your appetite :)

Explore the Old Bazaar, the farmers market and taste the traditional Macedonian food

Skopje Food and Walking Tour

Stip is an economic, cultural center of East Macedonia, one of the oldest cities in Macedonia. It is formed at the site of the ancient Roman city Astibus, which at the time of Byzantium is mentioned under the name Stipeon, after which the city received the present-day name.

As a city fortress under the name Stip the city was in the composition of the Macedonian state of Tzar Samuel. Turks conquered Stip in 1395. At the time of their rule the city is an important settlement on the Ser road, and in the XVI and XVIII century was bishop's seat.

In the XIX century, especially in its second half, the city grew in economic and population sense, and within in 1900 lived 20, 900 inhabitants. Today the population of Stip is about 50000 people.

Skopje tours

Explore with 27 tours and 5 guides.

Bojan R.

$ 294 (USD)

Elena M.

$ 144 (USD)

Jordan

$ 149 (USD)

Vlado V.

$ 300 (USD)

Lence M.

$ 172 (USD)

Bojan R.

$ 782 (USD)

Elena M.

$ 218 (USD)

Jordan

$ 599 (USD)

Vlado V.

$ 160 (USD)

Bojan R.

$ 330 (USD)

Elena M.

$ 178 (USD)

Jordan

$ 239 (USD)

Meet your local guides in Skopje

Customize your tour

Skopje tours

Things to do in Skopje