But as more and more travellers are looking past the big cities in Europe, or exploring the region of the Balkans, this 2 days in Skopje itinerary might be just what you need to plan your time here.

Skopje may be the capital city of North Macedonia, but I’ll be honest: it’s not my favourite part of the country; Ohrid is.

But the city is quirky. With its larger-than-life statues, a fascinating old bazaar, and the natural beauty of Matka Canyon, it is an easy drive from here.

I first visited Skopje about ten years ago and returned this summer. Things have changed. There are more museums and cafes, and the old town has great vibes.

Known for its ambitious “Skopje 2014” project, which transformed the city’s centre with monumental architecture and sculptures, Skopje is now, a decade on, a place where history and modernity coexist in the most surprising ways. 

It is also a really inexpensive place to visit compared to the rest of the Balkans, which is great for those who travel on a smaller budget.

Tips for Visiting Skopje:

• Currency: The currency in North Macedonia is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). While many places accept credit cards, having cash is handy, especially in smaller shops and the Old Bazaar.
• Language: Macedonian is the official language, but many locals, especially younger people, speak English.
• Getting Around: Skopje is compact and pedestrian-friendly in the central areas. Taxis are affordable, but ensure they use a meter.
• Habits and Customs: Tipping 10% at restaurants is customary. Macedonians are warm and hospitable, and a friendly “Zdravo” (“Hello”) goes a long way.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city and its natural surroundings. Summer (July and August) is very hot, with temperatures above 35 degrees celsius.
• North Macedonia is not part of the European Union or Schengen Agreement so standard borders are in place with the neighbouring countries.

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2 days in Skopje Itinerary:

Day 1: Exploring Skopje’s History and Culture

Morning: The Old Bazaar and Kale Fortress

Start your journey in the historic Old Bazaar, one of the largest and most vibrant marketplaces in the Balkans. Skopje was built by the Ottomans, and you can see their influence here.

This Ottoman-era gem is a maze of cobblestone streets lined with shops selling everything from handmade jewellery to traditional Macedonian sweets.

Don’t miss visiting the Mustafa Pasha Mosque, a 15th-century architectural masterpiece with intricate carvings and a peaceful courtyard perfect for reflection.

Make your way up from the bazaar to Kale Fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city. It feels like something straight from the popular series Game of Thrones. 

This ancient stronghold has roots dating back to the 6th century and offers panoramic views of Skopje. 

Lunch: Traditional Delights in the Bazaar

Head back to the Old Bazaar for lunch at a local eatery.

I recommend you try Macedonian specialities like ajvar (pepper-based spread), tarator (cold yoghurt soup), and ćevapi (grilled minced meat).

Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of homemade rakija, a fruit brandy made by distilling fermented fruit juice, such as plums, grapes, pears, apricots, or quinces.

I enjoyed lunch a few times here at Vavilon Restaurant, and the food was always good.

Afternoon: Stone Bridge and Macedonia Square

Walk down to the iconic Stone Bridge, a symbol of Skopje connecting the Ottoman Old Town with the modern city centre.

Originally built in the 15th century, the bridge has witnessed centuries of history and remains a favourite spot for photographs.

Crossing the bridge brings you to Macedonia Square, the city’s heart.

You’ll find the towering ‘Warrior on a Horse’ statue, widely recognised as Alexander the Great. It really is the statue of all statues! 

Surrounding the square are fountains, grand neoclassical buildings, and busy cafes. 

You can also walk down to Mother Teresa Memorial House.

This is a small museum dedicated to Mother Teresa. Although of Albanian origin, she was born in North Macedonia and is well known for devoting her life to helping those most in need, specifically in Kolkata.

Evening: Dinner with a view

For dinner, you might visit a restaurant near the square offering traditional Macedonian cuisine, such as Destan or Pelister.

Enjoy dishes like tavche gravche (bean stew) and shopska salad while watching the city light up at night.

For more detailed information on North Macedonian cuisine, read our post about foods to try in North Macedonia.

Day 2: Nature and Museums

Morning: Matka Canyon Adventure

Start your second day with a half-day trip to Matka Canyon, a natural paradise just 30 minutes from Skopje. 

This breathtaking gorge is a paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors.

You can hike along scenic trails, kayak on the emerald waters of the Treska River, or take a boat ride to explore Vrelo Cave, one of the deepest underwater caves in Europe.

The calmness of Matka Canyon is unmatched, making it a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

You can take the public bus, which takes around 40 minutes to reach the canyon, but you must get a taxi to reach the main lake section. 

You can also choose to book this organised half-day trip, which will take you to Matka Canyon AND Vrelo Cave. This trip is affordable and a great way to maximise your time here.

Lunch: Riverside Dining

Enjoy lunch at Restaurant Canyon Matka, which offers stunning river views. Indulge in fresh trout or grilled vegetables while soaking in the natural beauty around you.

Afternoon: Museums and Cultural Insights

Return to Skopje and spend your afternoon at the Museum of Macedonian Struggle, where you can learn more about the city’s history. 

The museum is well laid out, going chronologically from the beginning of the independence struggles to their independence.

Alternatively, visit the Holocaust Memorial Centre, which honours the memory of the Jewish community that once thrived in Macedonia. 

Through photos, maps, videos, and English-language wall texts, the exhibits document the Jewish community’s vibrant history in the Balkans, tragically ending in WWII when 98% of Macedonian Jews perished in the Holocaust.

In the central atrium, 7,144 beads hang in memory of the lives lost, while downstairs, an original Bulgarian goods van used to transport Macedonian Jews to Treblinka is displayed.

Although the museum was under refurbishment at the time of writing, its powerful message resonates deeply.

I recommend this private half-day Walking Tour of Old and New Skopje which includes visits to many sites mentioned above.

If you have a weekend in Skopje, I suggest a day trip to the town and Lake of Ohrid. This is, in my opinion, the most beautiful part of North Macedonia.

If you travel there after Skopje, our post about the best things to do in Lake Ohrid may be valuable.

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Evening: Bohemian Vibes in Debar Maalo

Finish your Skopje adventure in the bohemian district of Debar Maalo. This lively neighbourhood is known for its trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Try a modern take on Macedonian cuisine or relax with a glass of local wine as you reflect on your 2 days in Skopje journey through this fascinating city.

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Where to Stay in Skopje

Skopje offers a range of accommodations to suit every type of traveller, from budget backpackers to luxury seekers:

Hostel: Urban Hostel & Apartments is a fantastic choice for budget travellers. Located near the city centre, it provides clean and comfortable dormitories and private rooms, a friendly atmosphere, and excellent common areas to meet other travellers.

Simple Hotel: Hotel Vlaho is perfect for those seeking a modern yet affordable stay. This boutique-style hotel offers cosy rooms, excellent service, and a convenient location close to the city centre.

High-End Resort: The luxurious Bushi Resort combines top-notch service with a unique offering of contemporary Asian cuisine and spa facilities. Set in a tranquil area, it’s an excellent retreat after exploring the city. I enjoyed the massage here.

Iconic Hotel: The Skopje Marriott Hotel, located right on Macedonia Square, is the definition of elegance and convenience. With its spacious rooms, high-end amenities, and stunning views, it’s a top pick for luxury travellers wanting to be at the heart of the action.

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Final thoughts on this 2 Days in Skopje Itinerary

Skopje may not be on everyone’s radar, but its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a destination worth discovering.

From its ancient roots to its bold modern transformations, the city offers travellers an unforgettable experience.

Whether wandering through the historic Old Bazaar, marvelling at Macedonia Square’s architectural grandeur, or kayaking in the serene Matka Canyon, Skopje has something special for everyone.

2 days in Skopje is just enough to scratch the surface of this fascinating Balkan gem. Have you visited recently? Let us know your thoughts about this city in the comments.

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You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Europe. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual European countries, or consider a regional eSIM for Europe (which covers 39 countries).

If your travels in Europe are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries, offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM. The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. Check out our Group Tours first for any upcoming European departures, or view Tourradar for great deals on group tours in Europe.

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