We were only visiting Skopje for 2 days basically as on our first day we arrived at 9pm and on our last day we had to leave for the airport at 9am. We decided that we take some chill time and go with the flow. Therefore, we did not plan a lot of places which we would like to visit. The following is what we have visited:
1) Millennium Cross
This was the first location that we went to and we must say it was simply amazing. I honestly was not thinking I'm going to enjoy it as much as I did. We visited when it was a public holiday and went by bus (which was free on that day). We took the bus from the main bus station, number 25. The bus ride itself was a really pleasant one full of sceneries. The bus stops you half way up the Vodno mountain and then you can catch a cable car to arrive at the top with costs 100MKD each adult ticket. The cross is 1066,74M above sea level, therefore you can imagine the splendid view you will have. we really recommend that you take a packed lunch with you as it is a very good place for a picnic. Apart from this, there is also some swings where the kids can enjoy themselves as well.
2) Matka Canyon
We had a unique experience at the Matka Canyon. First thing we should mention is that if you are busing it there you should catch the number 60 bus. The times are quite irregular to be honest but somehow we managed.
When you arrive there, you will have a bit of a walk to reach the actual location. You will find first a boat ride which takes you around the Canyon, but if you keep walking further on you
will find another boat ride which also offers a tour in the caves. We opted for the first option which was 200MKD each. It was very pleasant and the views were breathtaking.
After this we decided to track along the canyon as it looked quite adventures and indeed it was. First of all you really need to careful on how you put your feet, as one wrong move and down you go into the canyon (there is not a lot of height though). What we experienced was that three quarters of the hike in, it started raining cats and dogs, thus we decided to make our way back. Obviously the rain made our way back more difficult while we ended up soaking wet as we were not prepared for the rain. Therefore, when visiting we suggest you go with trainers and some raining gear to be safe ;)
3) A stroll at the center of Skopje
Since our accommodation what right at the heart of Skopje, we used to try and explore the city center as much as possible and there is quite a lot to see. Some of which are:
Stone bridge: This what built on Roman foundations under the patronage of Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror between 1451 - 1469. This goes across the Vardar River.
Old Bazaar: This is situated on the eastern bank of the River Vardar. When one crosses to the old Bazaar, the difference is felt immediately. The place is full of color and it is like you have entered a beautiful maze. We used to visit often and also had our last dinner there which was an exquisite experience. One must add that this is the largest and oldest market places in the Balkans. You can visit the following link for more details and best things to do at the Old Bazaar: https://passportsymphony.com/visiting-skopje-old-bazaar/
Alexander The Great Statue: This statue definitely cannot be missed. It is a memorial for Alexander the III who reigned for 13 years and left a great impact back in the days. He has concurred a huge empire that stretched the Balkans to modern day Pakistan.
4) Ohrid
If you have some time to spare and maybe you also rented a car during your stay, it would be a great idea to visit Ohrid. Us personally did not visit as we did not have enough time on our hands. But a couple whom we met on our way to North Macedonia (and back to Malta) visited and they couldn't recommend it enough. Well, one could also opt to stay at the splendid place for the whole vacation. You can visit this link for more info on how to get to Ohrid, how to go around and suggestions on what to do while there: https://www.mywanderlust.pl/things-to-do-in-ohrid-macedonia/
__________________________________________________________________________________
Other blog
Basic information: https://coupletravelblog.wixsite.com/mysite/post/macedonia-~-skopje
Comments