About this tour

Day 1: Tirana to Ohrid (North Macedonia)

Morning:

Departure from Tirana: Start your journey early in the morning from Tirana. The drive to Ohrid, North Macedonia, takes about 2.5 to 3 hours (around 130-150 km) through the Qafë Thanë border crossing.

Arrival in Ohrid: Check in at your accommodation in Ohrid and take some time to rest.

Midday:

Ohrid Old Town: Begin your exploration of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient history and stunning lakefront views.

Visit Samuel’s Fortress: Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Ohrid and the city. The fortress, built in the 10th century, is one of the area’s most important landmarks.

Church of St. John at Kaneo: This picturesque church perched on a cliff offers breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid. It is an iconic symbol of the city, known for its medieval architecture and peaceful location.

Afternoon:

Boat ride on Lake Ohrid: Enjoy a relaxing boat trip on Lake Ohrid. You can sail towards the Monastery of Saint Naum, located on the southern shore of the lake, near the Albanian border. The monastery is known for its beautiful gardens and peacocks.

Explore the Monastery of Saint Naum: The 10th-century monastery is not just a religious site, but also a serene place surrounded by nature and the crystal-clear waters that feed the lake.

Evening:

Dinner in Ohrid: Enjoy dinner by the lake at a local restaurant such as Kaneo or Antico, where you can try traditional Macedonian dishes like tavče gravče (baked beans) or trout from Lake Ohrid.

Overnight in Ohrid: Relax and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: Ohrid to Bitola and Mavrovo National Park

Morning:

Travel to Bitola (1.5 hours): After breakfast, head towards Bitola, the second-largest city in North Macedonia. Bitola is known for its Ottoman-era architecture and historical significance.

Explore Heraclea Lyncestis: This ancient city was founded by Philip II of Macedon in the 4th century BC. The archaeological site includes stunning mosaics, a Roman theater, and ancient baths.

Walk along Širok Sokak Street: This pedestrian street in the heart of Bitola is filled with charming cafes, boutiques, and beautiful 19th-century architecture. Take some time to enjoy a coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.

Midday:

Lunch in Bitola: Try traditional Macedonian cuisine at a local restaurant such as Gradska Kafeana.

Afternoon:

Travel to Mavrovo National Park (2 hours): Continue your journey to Mavrovo National Park, one of the most beautiful and largest national parks in North Macedonia. Known for its stunning mountains, lakes, and forests, it’s the ideal spot for nature relaxation.

Visit Mavrovo Lake: Take a walk along the shores of the beautiful Mavrovo Lake. In the middle of the lake, you will see the partially submerged Church of St. Nicholas, a unique symbol.

Optional activities: Depending on your interests, you can take a short hike, go horseback riding, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Evening:

Dinner in Mavrovo: Enjoy dinner at a traditional inn or restaurant in Mavrovo, such as Hotel Tutto, where you can try local specialties like kajmak (dairy product) and fresh trout.

Overnight in Mavrovo: Spend the night in a cozy inn or hotel within the national park.

Day 3: Mavrovo to Skopje and Return to Albania

Morning:

Travel to Skopje (1.5 hours): Start your final day by traveling to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. Skopje is a city that blends the old and the new, with a rich history and modern urban development.

Visit the Old Bazaar: Explore the largest bazaar in the Balkans outside Istanbul. The Old Bazaar is a vibrant mix of Ottoman architecture, artisan shops, cafes, and mosques.

Kale Fortress: Climb to the top of Kale Fortress for panoramic views of the city and the Vardar River. This medieval fortress is one of the oldest structures in the city.

Midday:

Macedonia Square and Stone Bridge: Walk across the Stone Bridge, one of the city’s most famous monuments, and explore Macedonia Square, the heart of Skopje. Here, you’ll see the giant statue of Alexander the Great and other monuments reflecting the city’s recent architectural transformation.

Lunch in Skopje: Enjoy a traditional Macedonian lunch at a local restaurant like Pelister, where you can try kebabs or ajvar (pepper sauce).

Afternoon:

Return to Tirana (4-5 hours): After exploring Skopje, start your journey back to Tirana. The drive from Skopje to Tirana takes about 4-5 hours, passing through scenic landscapes and the Qafë Thanë border crossing.

Evening:

Arrival in Tirana: Depending on your departure time, you should arrive in Tirana by evening, completing your 3-day tour.

Logistics and Travel Tips:

• Border Crossing: The main border crossing between Albania and North Macedonia is at Qafë Thanë, near Lake Ohrid. Make sure to have your passport, vehicle documents, and any necessary insurance for cross-border travel.
• Van Rental: Ensure your rental agreement covers cross-border travel and check if additional insurance is required.
• Accommodation: For convenience, book your stays in Ohrid (Day 1) and Mavrovo (Day 2). Pre-booking ensures comfortable and well-located places to rest.
• Currency: The local currency in North Macedonia is the Macedonian denar (MKD). Some places accept euros, but it’s best to have local currency, especially in smaller towns and markets.

Locations

• Albania
• North Macedonia