ohrid macedonia travel guide

How to Spend the Perfect 72 Hours in Ohrid, North Macedonia

Last updated on March 27, 2024

Our main reason for visiting North Macedonia in the first place was getting to see Lake Ohrid in its full glory. So, after exploring the capital of Skopje, we headed down south to spend 3 full days in the scenic town of Ohrid. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the beach, explore ancient churches and monasteries, or indulge in delicious Macedonian cuisine, Ohrid has something for everyone.

At the same time, it retains its small town charm and is really compact, meaning we could easily work in the mornings and still explore plenty in the afternoons.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know when planning your trip – from where to stay to the best things to do and restaurants to visit in Ohrid – so you can make the most of your time in this magical town!

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Where to stay in Ohrid, North Macedonia

As we wanted to work remotely during this leg of our trip, we were looking for a place where we could comfortably set up our virtual office. We chose RINES Apartment *, where we stayed for 4 nights at a cost of €154.75 (around £137) . Our favourite thing about this place was its location in a quiet residential area, yet only a 10-minute walk away from the waterfront. If you’re arriving by bus, the station is also just a 15-minute walk away. You have to be careful, though, as the pavement is extremely narrow in places and a little tricky to walk on, especially in the evenings.

When it comes to the flat itself, the only real downside was that the hosts didn’t supply toiletries or even toilet paper, so we had to buy these ourselves. On the positive side, there’s a washing machine, which can be particularly handy if you’re travelling for an extended period, like we were. Overall, our stay was very comfortable and we would certainly consider booking it again for future trips.

Best things to do in Ohrid

Buy some original ohrid pearls.

One of the best keepsakes to bring home from Ohrid are the original Ohrid pearls. Not your typical pearls, these ones are made of ground shells that are formed into a ball and coated with several layers of special emulsion. To make the emulsion, they use the scales of the Plashica fish, a species only found in Lake Ohrid. The rest of the process is a well-kept secret.

You’ll find all sorts of jewellery in most souvenir shops around the town. But remember, only two families in Ohrid, the Talevi and the Filevi, are certified to make the original Ohrid pearls. So, if you’re after the real deal, their shops are where it’s at!

After popping into both shops, I decided that the Filevi pearls were more up my street. It looks like I was in good company too, as we spotted photos of the Swedish Royal Family on the walls. If you’re planning to buy, I’d really recommend checking out the Filevi website first. This way, you can get a ballpark idea of what you’d like to buy, along with the pricing. Once you’re in the shop, the choice is almost too much, so it definitely helps to know what you’re looking for!

Make friends with the local kitties

It’s no secret that I’m a total cat lady. If that sounds like you too, you’re gonna feel right at home here. The cats of Ohrid are super friendly and sociable, often spotted lounging about in the sun on the steps of local shops or strolling through the town’s streets. As we were eating in the waterfront restaurants, they’d often come up to our table, hoping for a bite. They’ve become such an integral part of Ohrid that you can even buy cat magnets in souvenir shops!

We saw so many strays during our time in Ohrid that I started carrying around a bag of cat treats in my handbag just in case. One of the cats we met was covered in scars and wounds, and it broke our hearts thinking about what he must have been through. Even so, every encounter with these furry friends was a highlight of our trip. They add to the town’s charm and character and serve as a reminder of why we should care for all creatures, big and small.

Explore the Church of Saint Sophia

As you wander through the old part of Ohrid, right by the entrance to the Ohrid Boardwalk, you’ll come across one of the most important churches in North Macedonia. In fact, it’s so important that you can spot a part of it on the back of the 1000 denars bill!

The Church of Saint Sophia was built in the 9th century on the foundations of an early Christian basilica. During the Ottoman rule, it was converted into a mosque, and the stunning medieval frescoes were covered up. It was eventually abandoned in the first half of the 20th century and turned back into a church. During the restoration works, they uncovered the original frescoes, which you can now admire for a small entrance fee.

Sadly, the church wasn’t open when we were there, but it was still lovely to walk around the grounds. Between July and August, the church gardens also host North Macedonia’s biggest music and theatre event, the Ohrid Summer Festival, featuring performers and theatre groups from various countries around the world.

Stroll the Ohrid Boardwalk

The boardwalk connecting the old part of the town with Potpesh Beach was undoubtedly one of my favourite places in Ohrid. When we first stumbled upon it, it genuinely felt like we were stepping into paradise.

You can also use it to reach one of the waterfront restaurants, or continue on to the Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo. As you walk alongside a cliff, surrounded by crystal clear waters, it’s the perfect place to take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of Ohrid.

Pose under the flower arch

Now, I would categorise this next attraction as “nice-to-see” rather than “must-see”. But, if you find yourself with some extra time or in need of some fresh Instagram content, this flower arch should do the trick. You can find it on the Ohrid City Square, right in front of the St. Kliment Ohridski statue.

Go back in time at the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid

Very close to the Upper Gate of Samuel’s Fortress, you can find the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid. Built in 200 BC, it served as a venue for performances and gladiator fights. Later, it became the site of Christian executions by the Romans. This caused the locals to despise the theatre, so after the fall of the Roman Empire, they decided to abandon and bury it.

What’s fascinating about this place is that it was uncovered by complete accident back in the 1980s during construction work in the area. This created a rather unusual effect, as it’s now completely surrounded by modern houses. I mean, can you imagine growing up with an ancient amphitheatre practically in your front garden? These days, the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid hosts a variety of public performances again, including the Ohrid Summer Festival.

Climb to the top of Samuel’s Fortress

An interesting fact about Ohrid is that at the turn of the 11th century, it used to be the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire. That’s when Tsar Samuel restored an old fortress dating back to 4th century BC, resulting in Samuel’s Fortress as we know it today.

Although it’s no longer the stronghold it once was, Samuel’s Fortress is still worth a visit. At the time of our visit in 2022, the entrance fee was 120 MKD (around £1.70 / €2) . Back in 2003, extensive restoration work was done on the fortress, adding new battlements where none of the original ones had survived. Now, if you climb to the top, you get incredible panoramic views of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding area. I’d say it’s the only reason to visit, as other than that, the interior of the fortress is mostly rubble.

Visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Ohrid, there’s a good chance it featured the Church of St. John at Kaneo. What makes this church a must-see for anyone visiting Ohrid, as well as one of the most iconic photo spots in the entire Balkans, is its clifftop position overlooking the lake.

Getting there was quite a struggle, but the scenic views made it more than worth it. If you’re heading there from Samuel’s Fortress, you can stop by the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon, or check out the ruins of an early Christian basilica on your way.

To get the best photo with the lake in the background, you should climb the steps behind the church. If you’re visiting in the high season, I’d highly recommend getting there before the tour groups arrive, as this place can be swarming with tourists. For an additional fee, you can also go inside to see the medieval frescoes.

Learn about the art of paper-making at the National Workshop For Handmade Paper

If you weren’t actively looking for it, you could easily miss this tiny, unassuming workshop. However, it was actually one of the most fascinating places we visited in Ohrid, as it houses one of the only 2 existing copies of the Gutenberg Press in the world! Ohrid has been making paper since the 16th century, and this little museum/shop is dedicated to preserving this ancient craft.

Inside, you can witness the paper-making process firsthand completely free of charge. The man who gave us a short demonstration was an absolute wizard. When we mentioned we came from Poland, he instantly switched to our language, with occasional Macedonian words thrown in-between. Describing these processes in your own language is hard enough, let alone in a foreign one, so he completely blew us away!

Once the demonstration is over, you can buy some handmade paper in the form of postcards, prints, or notebooks. The great thing is that there was no hard sell – although we didn’t need much persuading anyway after the demonstration we’d just seen.

Best restaurants to visit in Ohrid

It was Mac’s birthday on our first day in Ohrid, so I decided to book us into the town’s nicest restaurant for dinner. Our friends recommended Kaneo, and after seeing the photos, I was instantly sold.

The restaurant is practically on the water, with its own little jetty. At sunset, you get unparalleled views of the boats on the lake, with the Church of St. John at Kaneo right behind you.

They refresh the menu seasonally, meaning the truffle gnocchi our friends had tried the year before and raved about was, unfortunately, no longer available. Interestingly enough, though, soon after we sat down at our table, we were approached by the head chef holding an actual lobster! Turns out, he spends a month in different restaurants around the world, preparing lobster as his speciality. As I don’t like seafood, we didn’t take him up on his offer, but every single dish we tried was delicious.

We had the parmigiana and fish soup for starters, followed by gnudi Toscani in sage sauce and homemade ravioli with shrimps, foie gras, and truffles for our main.

Then, we had a cheesecake with sour cherries and apple tarte tatin with vanilla ice cream for dessert.

All of this, including 2 alcoholic drinks each (the Lavanda was SO good!) , came to just 3,800 MKD (around £55 / €62) , which was incredibly affordable!

Another highlight of our experience was the fact that we had multiple cats come to our table in the hopes of getting a little treat. I understand this might not be to everyone’s liking, but we were both in our element. Overall, if you come to Ohrid, Kaneo is certainly the #1 restaurant you should try.

Kaj Kanevche

On our last evening, I was really craving a burger, which is how we ended up at Kaj Kanevche. I learned this the hard way, though, that in Macedonian the word ‘burger’ doesn’t mean the same thing it does in Western countries. I ended up getting just a beef patty with cheese and chips, but I wasn’t complaining. Barbecue is a serious business in the Balkans. These people truly know their way around meat, and every single piece I’ve tried was amazing, this one no exception.

Mac opted for the traditional Macedonian tavche gravche, which is a baked bean stew served in a clay skillet. So, if you like a hearty English breakfast, you’ll likely enjoy this dish too.

The one thing you absolutely HAVE to try, though, is the traditional Ohridsko makalo, which is a delicious creamy garlic paste. We tried it with some bread with spices, and it was unbelievable how such a simple starter can be so flavoursome. If we hadn’t been travelling with hand luggage only, we would’ve definitely bought some to take back home!

Roastery – artisan coffee house

If you like quality coffee, you should definitely drop by Roastery for your caffeine fix. There’s a counter by the entrance where you can buy some coffee to take away. Or, you can go to their waterfront terrace and enjoy your coffee with a view.

They also offer a great selection of breakfast and lunch dishes, and you could easily work remotely from there too – that is, if you don’t find the crystal blue water right in front of you too distracting…

I hope you enjoyed my little guide to Ohrid! In case you missed the first part of our North Macedonia trip, here’s a post listing all the best things to do in Skopje . In the meantime, I’d love to hear which of these places you liked the most. Is there anything you would add to this Ohrid itinerary?

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The Ultimate Ohrid Travel Guide

Ohrid travel guide – captivating visitors with its timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Ohrid is recognized as both a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. The city’s medieval old town, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture, is a treasure trove of historic sites, including the iconic Ohrid Cathedral and the ancient Saint Naum Monastery.

The lake, framed by the picturesque Galicica National Park, offers crystal-clear waters and opportunities for leisurely boat rides. Ohrid seamlessly combines natural splendor with cultural significance, making it an enchanting destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Ohrid is great for…

• Watersports
• Architecture
• coffee culture
• Galicica NP

Ohrid Transport Links

By Bus Intercity Bus Station ( Google Maps ) ( Timetable and tickets ) Domestic Routes: Skopje, Bitola, Kichevo, Tetovo, Gostiva, Struga, Sv Naum International Routes: Belgrade, Nis, Tirana, Shkodër, Podgorica, Kotor, Dubrovnik

By Plane Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport ( Google Maps ) ( Timetable and tickets ) International Routes: Vienna, Dortmund, Manchester, Memmingen, Zurich

Tours & Activities in Ohrid

Book before you go, taking the stress out of your travel plans.

Things to do in Ohrid

Attractions and activities to make your visit an unforgettable one

Water Activities

Take advantage of Lake Ohrid’s crystal-clear waters by engaging in various water activities. Whether it’s swimming, kayaking, or simply enjoying a relaxing boat tour, the lake provides ample opportunities for aquatic adventures.

Ohrid Old Town

Begin your adventure in the enchanting Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets adorned with medieval architecture. Explore the historic churches, traditional houses, and artisan shops that make this area a step back in time.

Ohrid Lake Promenade

Take a leisurely stroll along the Promenade and absorb the breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, stop by charming cafes, and consider a boat ride to fully appreciate the beauty of the lake.

Samuel’s Fortress

Ascend to the hilltop to visit Samuel’s Fortress, an ancient stronghold that provides panoramic views of Ohrid and the lake. Explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and archaeological remnants, immersing yourself in the town’s rich history.

Saint Naum Monastery

Venture south along the lake to discover the Saint Naum Monastery, a tranquil and scenic site. The monastery complex, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a peaceful retreat. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat trip to the nearby springs, known for their crystal-clear waters.

Church of St. John at Kaneo

Perched on a cliff overlooking the lake, the Church of St. John at Kaneo is an iconic symbol of Ohrid. Admire the medieval frescoes inside the church and savor the spectacular views of the lake and mountains from this vantage point.

Ohrid Amphitheater

Immerse yourself in ancient history by visiting the Ohrid Amphitheater, a well-preserved Roman theater. This archaeological site hosts events during the summer months, offering a unique cultural experience against a backdrop of ancient ruins.

Plaoshnik Archaeological Site

Explore the Plaoshnik Archaeological Site, home to the reconstructed Church of St. Clement of Ohrid and the University of St. Clement. Uncover the history of the first Slavic university and admire the beautiful mosaics.

Icon Gallery

Dive into the religious and artistic heritage of Ohrid by visiting the Ohrid Icon Gallery. The collection features icons from the medieval period, providing insight into the region’s Byzantine and post-Byzantine artistry.

Ohrid Bazaar

Wander through the lively Ohrid Bazaar, where traditional markets meet modern boutiques. Explore the vibrant stalls selling handmade crafts, local souvenirs, and traditional Macedonian delicacies.

Bay of Bones Museum

Explore the Bay of Bones Museum, a reconstructed prehistoric settlement built on stilts over the water. Learn about the lifestyle of the ancient inhabitants of Lake Ohrid and their innovative construction techniques.

Beach Labino

For a relaxing day by the lake, head to Beach Labino. This pebble beach, nestled between the cliffs and the lake, offers a tranquil setting for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the serene atmosphere of Lake Ohrid.

Find out more about beaches to visit in North Macedonia in this post .

Walk along the well-preserved City Walls, which once encircled the Old Town for protection. The walls provide not only a glimpse into Ohrid’s medieval past but also offer stunning views of the town and the lake.

Galicica National Park

Venture into the Galicica National Park, which surrounds Lake Ohrid. Hike or drive through this pristine natural reserve to witness diverse flora and fauna, including rare orchids and endemic species. The park offers numerous trails for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Day Trip to Struga

Take a short drive to the nearby town of Struga, located at the other end of Lake Ohrid. Explore the charming streets, visit the unique Vevchani Springs, and experience the cultural and architectural highlights of this lakeside destination.

Sunset Cruise on Lake Ohrid

Wrap up your day with a romantic sunset cruise. Several local operators offer boat trips during the evening, allowing you to witness the sun setting over the lake, casting a warm glow on the surrounding mountains and creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Try Macedonian Cuisine

Indulge your taste buds in Macedonian cuisine by sampling local dishes at the numerous restaurants and taverns around the city. Don’t miss out on specialties like Tavche Gravche (baked beans), Pastrmajlija (Macedonian Pizza), Ohrid trout, and traditional desserts like Tulumba and Palachinki. Find out more about what food to try during your visit, in our post on North Macedonian Food.

Upcoming events

Explore upcoming events in Ohrid, that you may want to incorporate in to your visit

may 24-26, 2024

Ohrid ultra-trail.

The Ohrid Ultra Trail event is an exhilarating and challenging trail running race that unfolds amidst the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Lake Ohrid.

JUL – AUG 2024

Ohrid summer festival.

The Summer Festival transforms the picturesque lakeside city of Ohrid into a vibrant stage for music, dance, and theater, captivating audiences with a diverse array of performances.

JUL 27 – AUG 1, 2024

Ohrid waves.

The Waves Festival immerses attendees in a dynamic celebration of electronic music, creating an electrifying atmosphere on the shores of Lake Ohrid.

What Laura Did Next

Lake Ohrid, Macedonia: the ultimate travel guide

Considering visiting Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia ? I visited earlier this summer and absolutely loved it. Boasting warm weather and affordable prices, this hidden gem in the Balkans is well worth a visit. A perfect summer destination in Europe , it’s also relatively undiscovered compared to its Greek neighbour, making it an ideal retreat. Ohrid (pronounced Ock-rid) itself is absolutely beautiful, boasting interesting history. The lake is actually the oldest lake in Europe, and it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Spend your visit relaxing at the beach with picturesque views, take a boat trip to some of the historical points in Ohrid, and try some delicious traditional food. In this Lake Ohrid travel guide, I share my top tips and recommendations for visiting this beautiful part of North Macedonia.

Table of Contents

Quick tips for visiting Lake Ohrid

Get this:   affordable panoramic boat cruise . Enjoy this beautiful boat tour around Ohrid Old Town and learn more about the town – it’s a great way to get your bearings. Don’t miss: an Ohrid monastery winery tour . I was pleasantly surprised at just how delicious (and cheap!) Macedonian wine is, so try plenty of local wines, brandies, and a cheese and charcuterie platter on this winery tour. Bucket list experience:  tick off three incredible destinations with a tour of Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Montenegro in three days. I loved every single place and it’ll be a trip you never forget – the destinations are so close too, it’s rude not to visit them all. Flights : find the cheapest flights to Ohrid with  Skyscanner . Stay:  Find the most affordable hotels in Ohrid on  Booking.com .

Where is Lake Ohrid, Macedonia?

Lake Ohrid is located on the border between North Macedonia and Albania in the Balkans in southeast Europe. Set in southwest North Macedonia, it’s huge, and spread across 134 square miles, and is both the deepest lake in the Balkans, and the oldest lake in all of Europe. Lake Ohrid is famous for being beautiful, and is deep rooted in interesting history. As well as fishing, sailing, and exploring the beaches, there are plenty of historical buildings to explore along the shores. It’s thought that Ohrid was a Greek colony which was rebuilt by the Romans following a huge earthquake centuries ago.

How do you get to Lake Ohrid?

There are a couple of options for reaching Lake Ohrid by plane. Ohrid actually has its own airport which is just 10km from the town itself, and Tui operates direct flights from London Luton Airport to Ohrid weekly throughout the summer months. You can take a shuttle bus that coincides with flights to take you into Ohrid itself. If this isn’t available for your flight, you can take a private taxi or arrange a transfer in advance. Either shouldn’t cost you much more than 500MKD, or roughly €8. If, like me, you’re visiting Ohrid out of season and there aren’t direct flights from the UK to Ohrid, you can arrive via Skopje. There are frequent flights to Skopje throughout the year from London, often for very reasonable prices. From Skopje, the simplest way to Ohrid is via the main Skopje bus station. The journey takes around three hours, and cost around £15. Don’t forget to save some cash for the platform fee – you’ll need to pay this regardless of having a bus ticket! Another option is accessing Ohrid via Tirana airport in Albania. I did this for my return flight, and Flixbus run a daily service from Ohrid to Tirana for around £15 one way too.

Coming from Skopje? Here’s my guide on the best ways to get from Skopje to Ohrid .

When is the best time to visit Lake Ohrid?

Lake Ohrid enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it perfect for the summer months. I visited in May, and it was sunny and warm – so sunny in fact I even got sunburnt on a boat trip on Lake Ohrid! In July and August, temperatures will reach around 30°C – perfect for enjoying most of the activities Lake Ohrid has to offer. While July is usually the sunniest month of the year, August is often slightly hotter. If you visit in shoulder season, in May, June, or September, you’ll find it slightly cooler. In these months, temperatures average between 20-25°C. Lake Ohrid is still surrounded by (sometimes snowy) mountains, so do make sure to pack a light jacket and some warmer clothes particularly for the evenings which can get cooler.

Where is best to stay in Ohrid?

You have two primary choices when it comes to where to stay in Ohrid: the old town of Ohrid, or along the shores of Lake Ohrid. The old town has winding cobbled streets and adorable alleyways to explore. It’s where you’ll find the vast majority of sights, shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s where I chose to stay because I wanted to be close to where things were happening, and I found a great boutique hotel nearby. A lot of the properties in Ohrid town are also just a short walk from the lake, and many offer sprawling views across Lake Ohrid. An alternative option is to stay along the shores of Lake Ohrid. Although further from the town of Ohrid, you’re more likely to find a hotel or resort with facilities including their own onsite beach, swimming pools, and restaurants. You may wish to stay along the lake and have a couple of day trips to Ohrid instead.

Where are the best hotels in Lake Ohrid?

There is plenty of great accommodation on offer in Lake Ohrid, and it excels when it comes to boutique hotels. Most of the luxurious hotels are situated directly on the water, and as a result, come with beautiful lake views. It can be confusing to choose where to stay – I know as I spotted dozens of hotels spread out across the lake and didn’t know where to be based. The good news is that many of them are very reasonably priced. When it comes to the best hotels in Lake Ohrid, I’ve shared some of my shortlist from when I carried out my research. I’d recommend staying as centrally to the town of Ohrid as possible so that you’re close to a range of great restaurants and shops. Here’s my pick of the best hotels in Lake Ohrid.

Luxury hotels in Lake Ohrid

Villa varosh , ohrid.

We stayed at this luxurious boutique hotel for our visit to Lake Ohrid and I absolutely loved it. The room itself was a garden apartment with a lovely little patio area, and everything was immaculate. Located in the centre of Ohrid Old Town, it’s well positioned for most attractions – from the port, some excellent restaurants, and some of the historic churches. Some of the rooms have gorgeous lake views, and there’s a communal room in the boutique hotel for snacks and teas and coffee. The staff couldn’t be friendlier either, and are more than happy to help with recommendations on the local area. It’s super reasonably priced and I’d stay here again in a heartbeat.

Inex Olgica Hotel & Spa , Lake Ohrid

Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, Inex Olgica Hotel & Spa is a luxurious 5* resort with some of the most scenic views in all of Ohrid. It’s just a stone’s throw from the beach, meaning it couldn’t be easier to go for a dip in the cooling lake in the summer months. One of the best hotels in Lake Ohrid, the hotel’s facilities are second to none. Here you’ll find a cocktail bar, a spa, and bikes you can borrow to explore the area. You’ll enjoy a buffet breakfast in the morning, and you can upgrade to half board to enjoy some of the traditional Macedonian cuisine.

Villa and Winery Mal Sveti Kliment , Ohrid

An exclusive bed and breakfast, Villa and Winery Mal Sveti Kliment, is as the name suggests also a boutique winery. This place was on our shortlist of the best places to stay in Ohrid, and I heard great things about it from locals while we were there. Situated close to the entrance of Ohrid at Lower Gate, it’s close to the lake and some of the best cafes and restaurants in the town. In the hotel, you can enjoy a buffet breakfast each morning in a traditional stone designed room. In the evenings, make sure you sample some of the hotel’s delicious award-winning wines.

Budget hotels in Lake Ohrid

Villa stefano , ohrid.

Just 100 metres from the shores of the lake, Villa Stefano is undoubtedly one of the best budget hotels in Lake Ohrid. Arrive to enjoy a Macedonian tea or coffee, and explore the wonderful neighbourhood which is conveniently located between Lake Ohrid and the old town of Ohrid. All rooms are ensuite, and each has its own balcony, cable TV, air conditioning, and hardwood floor. There’s also parking and free WiFi – it’s a great base for exploring Lake Ohrid at a really reasonable price. You’ll also find the bus station just 2km away, and Ohrid Airport 10km away from Villa Stefano.

Bitrak Guest House , Ohrid

A no-frills guesthouse, Bitrak Guest House is one of the best budget hotels in Lake Ohrid. It offers simple, clean accommodation for very reasonable prices. Each of the apartments has free WiFi, TV, a bathroom, fridge, and a living area. You can choose to have a studio which features its own kitchen too. Bitrak Guest House is perfect for exploring Ohrid, and is just a five minute walk from Ohrid’s city centre. There are a number of supermarkets nearby, and a bus stop is a just a stone’s throw from the guest house. As a guest of the hotel, you can even request a grocery delivery, and there’s free parking too.

Old City House , Ohrid

Old City House is one of the best places to stay in Ohrid. It’s a sustainable aparthotel, and just a short walk from Saraiste Beach. It has its own garden, and comfortable rooms. Each room has its own sun terrace, air conditioning, flat screen TV, oven, en suite bathroom, and coffee machine – virtually everything you need for a great stay. If you don’t fancy cooking in the comfort of your apartment’s fully equipped kitchen, you can enjoy the hotel’s continental breakfast. Borrow a bike from the aparthotel and explore your surroundings. Potpesh Beach and the Early Christian Basilica are all nearby.

Things to do in Ohrid

There is plenty to do in Ohrid, whether you prefer getting acquainted with the town’s impressive historical legacy, or simply spending time on the lake. In fact, I’ve written a comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Ohrid . Here are a few highlights of the best things to do in Ohrid:

• Explore Ohrid’s Old Town . This beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site has bags of character, and plenty of interesting shops and cafes. Wander the cobbled streets, take in the traditional architecture, and see the historic fortress of Tsar Samuil.
• Sail to St Naum . A top attraction in Ohrid is visiting St Naum Monastery by boat. Located near the Albanian border, St Naum is a 10th century monastery and offers incredible views across Lake Ohrid and its surrounding beauty. I recommend taking a St Naum boat tour with your group.
• Take a Lake Ohrid boat tour . This was definitely my favourite thing to do in Ohrid! We booked the following boat tour and set out for a tour across the beautiful water and coastline of Ohrid. Our captain was super fun and allowed us to stop off for drinks en route. You’ll get a detailed history of the region, and can stop at different attractions, including the Church of St John at Kaneo.
• Visit the Church of St John at Kaneo . This is an iconic Macedonian church perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid. It’s often one of the symbolic views of Ohrid that you might see when Googling the town. Head here for a beautiful sunset and panoramic vistas.
• Enjoy the local cuisine . Macedonian cuisine is absolutely delicious, so I’d definitely say to spend some time trying different traditional cuisines during your stay. Don’t miss dishes like tavče gravče (baked beans), ajvar (a red pepper condiment), and fresh trout from Lake Ohrid. Check out my guide to the best restaurants in Ohrid .
• Go on a wine tour . You might not know that most households in Ohrid produce some kind of wine – and it’s delicious! I recommend booking onto the Monastery winery tour and wine tasting so you can sample delicious local wines and charcuterie platters, with transport included.
• Relax by the lake . Of course, you can’t visit Lake Ohrid and not enoy the lake. Take a long stroll along the promenade, sunbathe by the lake, and go for refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters (it reaches temperatures of up to 27°C during the summer). There are plenty of beaches to enjoy.
• Engage in outdoor activities . In such a beautiful part of the world where you can get close to nature, one of the best things to do in Ohrid is take part in activities. Try your hand at hiking, biking, kayaking, and even paragliding to see the town in a different way.

The best beaches on Lake Ohrid

It’s little surprise that a city as beautiful as Ohrid is a popular choice for holidays both with locals and tourists. Part of the attraction is the beautiful beaches you’ll find here. Here are some of the best beaches in Ohrid:

• Potpesh Beach – one of Ohrid’s quieter beaches, Potpesh Beach is a seclunded spot near the beautiful St John Church. Just a short walk from the old town, there are plenty of sun beds for a lazy afternoon of sunbathing. I found it much quieter than a lot of the other beaches around Lake Ohrid, probably because it’s a bit smaller. There are beautiful views that make it perfect for catching the sunset, and there are a few nearby restaurants you can move to afterwards for lunch or dinner with a view.
• Cuba Libre Beach – this iconic beach belonging to Ohrid’s iconic Cube Libre bar is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Ohrid. Close to Ohrid’s city centre, Cuba Libre Beach is perfect for spending the day on one of the sun loungers. There’s a terrace overlooking the lake – perfect for a cold dip. You can also head into the restaurant for a bite to eat. The food is really good, with reasonable prices. Sunbathing at the beach is totally free.

• Lagadin Beach – this beach is a favourite with locals in Ohrid. It has a relaxed vibe, and beautifully clean water. Although easy to get to from Ohrid’s city centre, you do need to take a short bus ride or drive to Lagadin Brach. It has a beautiful view. If you fancy a relaxed day at the beach in Ohrid, add this beach to your list.
• Gradiste Beach – if you’re up for more of an upbeat party beach, you need to visit Gradiste Beach. It’s popular, and often you’ll find parties and DJs here on most weekends throughout the summer. It’s perfect if you fancy partying all day along to loud music. There are also various bars and restaurants on Gradiste Beach. If you fancy, there’s a camping site here too where you can stay overnight.
• St Naum Beach – at the furthest point south on the Lake Ohrid shoreline, you’ll find the Monastery of St Naum. A historical must-see in Ohrid, there’s also a fabulous beach here too. You’ll find an incredible panorama across the lake at one of the best beaches in Ohrid.

What to pack for a holiday in Lake Ohrid

Lake Ohrid’s Mediterranean climate makes it a perfect destination for a summer holiday. July and August are the most popular times to visit, and are also the hottest. I visited in early May, and it was still warm enough to get sunburnt! If you’re visiting in late spring, summer, or early autumn, you’ll want to bring plenty of summer clothes and swimsuits. Cover ups are perfect, as are water shoes in case you plan sunbathing and swimming on one of the pebbly beaches. I’d also take a light jacket or sweatshirt for the evenings – Lake Ohrid is surrounded by mountains, and it can get cooler in the evenings. Make sure to bring some comfortable walking shoes too – there are plenty of picturesque hikes and trails you can take while in Lake Ohrid. Here are some essentials I took with me that I’d recommend taking with you for your trip to Lake Ohrid:

• SPF 50 – given that I did get pretty sunburnt in early May while on a boat in Lake Ohrid, I can’t recommend a good suncream enough! The sun can be deceptively strong, even when cloudy, and given the Mediterranean climate, you should make sure you take plenty of SPF with you.
• Aftersun – for the same reasons as above, I’d recommend taking aftersun with you in case you catch the sun and need relief. Packing it in your suitcase just means you’re ultra prepared for your trip.
• Water shoes – this is an item I hadn’t considered before arriving in Lake Ohrid. Many of the beaches are pebbly, and it can be super uncomfortable to walk on when getting in and out of the sea. Popping on a pair of these water shoes will be a huge relief!
• Plug adaptor – if you’re UK based, you’ll need a plug converter. Like most of Europe, Macedonia uses type F plugs. This plug adaptor is amazing as you can use it in most other countries, no matter what the plug type. I don’t travel without one any more.
• Multi device charger – I can’t travel without one of these any more, either. It’s so handy for charging a couple of iPhones at once (ideal when you’re travelling with someone and are limited on time or plugs for charging), as well as a couple of other devices.
• Clear toiletries bags – these are an absolute lifesaver at airport security – no more flimsy sandwich bags for a starter! When I visited Macedonia, I’d travelled through the Balkans from Belgrade, and so it was super handy just to shove all my toiletries into one of these while moving about.

Lake Ohrid – FAQs

Is macedonia cheap to visit.

Absolutely – in fact, I’d rate North Macedonia one of the cheapest European countries to visit . In the last couple of years, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring different European countries and Macedonia was incredibly affordable. Of course, visiting during peak summer will be more expensive, but on the whole, accommodation is very affordable (I paid around £30 per night in May). Food is very reasonable too – you can enjoy delicious restaurant meals for the equivalent of less than £10. Transport and activities are also inexpensive, making Macedonia a great place to visit on a budget. The Great British Pound has a very favourable exchange rate against the Macedonian Denar (MKD), and so you’ll find that travelling from the UK allows your money. to stretch even further.

How long do you need in Ohrid?

Of course, the amount of time you spend in Ohrid depends on your pace of travel and your interests. I visited for 3 days and found it perfect. We saw the majority of Ohrid’s attractions, thoroughly explored the Old Town, and took a boat over Lake Ohrid. We also went on some lovely walks along the lake, enjoyed dinners in the local restaurants, and relaxed. With more time, you can dive a little deeper into Ohrid’s culture and history. The Bay of Bones is a popular cultural spot, and many visitors choose to take a boat tour across the lake to see the Monastery of St Naum. You could also take a day trip to nearby attractions like Galichica National Park, or heading up Galichica Mountain for beautiful vistas across Ohrid. If you visit in summer, you might also want time for swimming, kayaking, and even scuba diving in Lake Ohrid.

How do I get to Lake Ohrid from UK?

In order to get to Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia from the UK, you can fly to either Skopje or Ohrid Airport. You’ll typically need to fly from London Luton Airport. Arriving into Skopje, you’ll need to take a coach journey, which costs around £10 and takes around hours. Ohrid Airport is obviously much closer at just a 15 minute car journey from Lake Ohrid.

Do they speak English in Ohrid?

Yes, English is widely spoken and understood in Ohrid. I found it very easy to communicate with locals in both Ohrid and Skopje. Of course, in areas with more tourists, this is likely to be the case. Whenever I’m away, I always try to learn a few phrases in the local language. Here are a few handy Macedonia phrases for you to begin with:

• Hello: Здраво (“ zdravo “)
• Thank you: Благодарам ( “blagodaram “)
• Yes: Да ( “da” )
• No: Не ( “ne” )
• Excuse me: Извинете ( “izvinete” )
• Goodbye: Довидување ( “doviduvanje “)

Is Ohrid protected by UNESCO?

Yes! Both Ohrid and Lake Ohrid are designated UNESCO World Heritage spots. This dates back to 1979, when Ohrid was listed due to its incredible natural and cultural importance. As Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, it is recognised for its biodiversity, with unique aquatic life residing in the lake. The town of Ohrid is also an ancient settlement, with dozens of well-preserved medieval architecture, churches, and monasteries. The UNESCO designation helps to protect the Ohrid region, encouraging sustainable tourism and conservation in the area.

What religion is in Ohrid?

Ohrid has a diverse religious landscape, with a number of different religions existing harmoniously. The prominent religion in Ohrid is Eastern Orthodox Christianity, and the town is an important location for the Macedonian Orthodox Church. You’ll find lots of churches and monasteries in Ohrid, many dating back to the Byzantine era. As well as Christianity, there is a strong Islam presence in Ohrid. This is typically represented by the ethnic Albanians in the area who follow mainly Sunni Islam. For this reason, you’ll also find plenty of mosques in Ohrid too.

I hope you found my guide to visiting Lake Ohrid helpful! It’s a wonderful place you should definitely visit if you’re looking to explore a beautiful area of Europe that’s a little more off the beaten track. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments and I’ll do my best to help.

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I'm Laura, a keen traveller who has visited 57 countries. I absolutely love sharing my travel guides and tips with you via my blog and social channels. When I'm not busy working in social media, I'm likely either overseas or busy planning my next trip.

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Ohrid | a complete travel guide to North Macedonia’s lakeside gem

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Nestled along the shores of Lake Ohrid, the city of Ohrid offers a captivating blend of ancient charm and modern allure. As one of Europe's oldest cities, this North Macedonian gem boasts a UNESCO World Heritage designation, testament to its rich history and cultural significance. Its cobblestone streets wind through well-preserved medieval architecture, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman influences, providing a journey through time for every traveler.

Introduction to ohrid.

Known as “The Jerusalem of the Balkans,” Ohrid offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. From the iconic Ohrid Lake to ancient ruins and vibrant local markets, this travel guide invites you to explore the hidden gems that make Ohrid a must-visit destination. Join us as we unravel the timeless beauty of Ohrid, where every corner tells a story, and the past seamlessly merges with the present, creating an unforgettable experience for those seeking a slice of Macedonian paradise.

Getting started in Ohrid

Arrival information

Ohrid is conveniently accessible by air, with the St. Paul the Apostle Airport (OHD) serving as the city’s main gateway. Located just 10 kilometers northwest of Ohrid’s city center, the airport welcomes both domestic and international flights. Airlines such as Wizz Air, TUI Airways, and Edelweiss Air operate regular services, connecting Ohrid to major European cities.

While Ohrid itself does not have a train station, travelers can opt for the nearest railway connection in the town of Bitola, approximately 68 kilometers away. From Bitola, a short bus or taxi ride will bring you to Ohrid, allowing you to enjoy the scenic journey through the Macedonian countryside.

Ohrid’s bus station is centrally located, making it a convenient option for those arriving by bus. The city is well-connected to various cities in Macedonia and neighboring countries. Companies like Galeb, International Bus, and Vardar Express operate regular services, providing a cost-effective and comfortable way to reach Ohrid.

Overview of public transportation options

Ohrid’s compact size makes it easily navigable, and the city’s public transport system is efficient for exploring both the urban center and surrounding areas. Local buses and minibusses traverse popular routes, ensuring connectivity to key attractions. Taxis are also readily available and provide a convenient means of transportation within the city.

For a more immersive experience, consider exploring Ohrid on foot. The city’s charming streets and pedestrian-friendly zones allow you to soak in its unique atmosphere, uncover hidden gems, and appreciate the picturesque surroundings at your own pace.

Additionally, boat rides across Lake Ohrid offer a scenic and relaxing way to explore the lake’s shores and visit nearby landmarks. Whether you prefer the convenience of public transport or the freedom of exploring on foot, Ohrid’s well-planned transportation options ensure a seamless and enjoyable start to your journey in this captivating Macedonian destination.

Neighborhoods and Accommodations in Ohrid

Different neighborhoods and their characteristics

Ohrid’s distinct neighborhoods offer a diverse tapestry of atmospheres, each contributing to the city’s unique charm.

Ohrid Old Town Nestled on the hill overlooking the lake, the Old Town is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, historic homes, and ancient churches. Stroll through the charismatic bazaar, where local artisans showcase their crafts, and explore landmarks like the Ohrid Fortress. The Old Town exudes a timeless ambiance, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history.

Kaneo Perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid, the Kaneo neighborhood is renowned for its iconic church of St. John at Kaneo. This area offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sunset. The tranquil surroundings make Kaneo an ideal escape for those seeking serenity and natural beauty.

Dolno Konjsko Located on the outskirts of Ohrid, Dolno Konjsko provides a more rural experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and vineyards, this neighborhood is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Explore the picturesque landscapes, visit local wineries, and experience the warmth of Macedonian hospitality in this peaceful corner of Ohrid.

Lagadin Situated along the shores of Lake Ohrid, Lagadin offers a serene lakeside retreat. With a mix of traditional houses and modern accommodations, this area provides a peaceful escape while remaining in close proximity to the city. Enjoy water activities, lakeside dining, and the tranquility of this lakeside haven.

Sv. Naum To the south of Ohrid, Sv. Naum is renowned for the Monastery of St. Naum, a cultural and natural treasure. Surrounded by pristine nature, including the Black Drin Springs and the Ohrid National Park, this neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a blend of history, spirituality, and the great outdoors.

Whether you prefer the historical charm of the Old Town, the panoramic vistas of Kaneo, the rural tranquility of Dolno Konjsko, the lakeside serenity of Lagadin, or the cultural richness of Sv. Naum, each neighborhood in Ohrid invites you to discover its distinct personality and contribute to the overall allure of this Macedonian gem.

Accommodation

Attractions and Landmarks in Ohrid

Ohrid, with its rich history and cultural significance, is adorned with a myriad of attractions and landmarks that tell the story of its past and present.

Ohrid Lake The jewel of Ohrid, the pristine Ohrid Lake, stretches across the city’s edge, offering not only breathtaking views but also a myriad of water activities. Explore the lake by boat, swim in its crystal-clear waters, or simply relax along its picturesque shores.

Ohrid’s Old Town Steeped in history, Ohrid’s Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, adorned with charming houses and ancient churches. Highlights include the Ohrid Fortress, which provides panoramic views of the city and lake, and the charismatic bazaar, where local artisans showcase their craftsmanship.

St. Jovan Kaneo Perched on a cliff overlooking the lake, St. Jovan Kaneo isn’t merely a church; it’s a soul-stirring experience. This is probably our favorite spot in Ohrid—SO SO beautiful. The medieval architecture and the stunning backdrop create a serene setting, with views that redefine the meaning of insane . Especially during sunrise and sunset.

Church of St. Clement and St. Panteleimon Perched atop Plaoshnik hill overlooking Lake Ohrid, the Church of St. Clement and St. Panteleimon is a captivating symbol of Ohrid’s history and spirituality. Inside, our €3 tour unfolded like a captivating story, led by an enthusiastic guide who brought the church’s ancient frescoes and significance to life. As a sacred site attracting pilgrims and visitors alike, this Byzantine marvel offers a glimpse into Ohrid’s rich cultural heritage and continues to inspire awe with its timeless beauty.

Ohrid Fortress

Church of St. Clement and St. Panteleimon

St. Jovan Kaneo

Ancient Theater of Ohrid Transport yourself to Roman times at the Ancient Theater of Ohrid. This well-preserved amphitheater isn’t just a relic; it’s a stage where history comes alive. Today, it serves as a unique backdrop for cultural events and performances, injecting a vibrant energy into Ohrid’s historical legacy.

Robevci House The Robevci House isn’t merely a museum; it’s a portal to the past. Immerse yourself in the exhibits showcasing Ohrid’s history, with artifacts and glimpses into life from bygone eras. It’s not just a visit; it’s a journey through time, adding layers to your understanding of Ohrid’s cultural heritage.

Plaoshnik Archaeological Site Explore the depths of history at the Plaoshnik Archaeological Site, where the reconstructed Church of St. Clement and St. Panteleimon stands. Beyond the ruins, this site holds the essence of Slavic literacy and boasts an archaeological narrative that unfolds before your eyes.

Ohrid City Wall Ohrid’s ancient city wall, dating back to the 4th century BC, bears witness to the city’s rich history and strategic significance. Originally built during the reign of Philip II of Macedon, remnants of the wall can still be seen near the Old Town and Ohrid Fortress. These historic remains offer a glimpse into Ohrid’s past as a fortified city, showcasing its enduring legacy as a cultural and political center in ancient Macedonia.

Ohrid City Wall

Ancient Theater of Ohrid

Plaoshnik Archaeological Site

Dining and cuisine in ohrid.

As you navigate the charming streets and lakeside promenades, immerse yourself in the gastronomic delights that Ohrid has to offer.

Kaj Kanevche: Nestled in the heart of Ohrid’s Old Town, Kaj Kanevche offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere. Specializing in traditional Macedonian cuisine, this restaurant is renowned for its grilled meats, fresh salads, and, of course, Ohrid Trout.

Kaneo Restaurant: Situated near the iconic Church of St. John at Kaneo, the restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains. Kaneo Restaurant is renowned for its picturesque setting, fresh seafood dishes, and traditional Macedonian cuisine.

Su rooftop restaurant: With a menu showcasing mouth-watering cuisine and freshly roasted coffee, complemented by the stunning backdrop of historic landmarks and Lake Ohrid, visitors are welcomed by an atmosphere of exquisite style. Catering to both curious tourists and friendly locals, “Su” provides a perfect setting to savor local delicacies or unwind with a refreshing drink while enjoying the mesmerizing vistas of Ohrid.

Irish Pub Dublin: As avid travelers who love to explore various Irish pubs around the world, we stumbled upon Dublin, located right on the picturesque promenade of Ohrid. While it may not stand out as the most memorable spot, it does have its charms. What sets Dublin apart are the generous portions of hot snacks they offer at incredibly affordable prices!

Local delicacies

Ohrid Trout Indulge in the local specialty, Ohrid Trout, freshly caught from Lake Ohrid. Grilled or oven-baked, this delicacy showcases the region’s commitment to fresh and high-quality ingredients.

Tavče Gravče A Macedonian staple, Tavče Gravče is a hearty bean casserole seasoned with a medley of herbs and spices. Served as a side dish or a main course, this flavorful comfort food embodies the essence of Macedonian home cooking.

Ajvar A savory pepper-based condiment, Ajvar adds a burst of flavor to many Macedonian dishes. Made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and eggplant, this versatile spread is a must-try, whether as a dip or a relish.

Activities and Entertainment in Ohrid

Ohrid offers a plethora of activities and entertainment options to suit every traveler’s preferences. From exploring ancient sites to enjoying outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of experiences to immerse yourself in.

Cultural Exploration Delve into Ohrid’s rich cultural heritage by visiting its numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites. Explore the ancient ruins of the Ohrid Fortress, wander through the Old Town’s cobblestone streets lined with Byzantine churches, or delve into the city’s past at the Robevci House Museum.

Lake Activities Embark on a variety of water-based activities on the stunning Lake Ohrid. Whether you prefer swimming in its crystal-clear waters, kayaking along its tranquil shores, or taking a leisurely boat cruise to explore hidden coves and caves, the lake offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Hiking and Nature Exploration Lace up your hiking boots and set out to discover Ohrid’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Explore the trails of Galichica National Park, which boasts diverse flora and fauna, panoramic viewpoints, and pristine mountain lakes. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoying the fresh air and scenic vistas.

Waterfront Dining and Entertainment Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of Ohrid’s lakeside promenade, where a myriad of restaurants, cafés, and bars await. Enjoy a leisurely meal with panoramic views of the lake, sample local delicacies, or sip on cocktails as you watch the sunset over the water.

Evening Performances and Cultural Events Experience Ohrid’s vibrant cultural scene by attending evening performances and events. From traditional folk music concerts to contemporary theater productions, there’s always something happening in Ohrid to entertain and inspire visitors.

Shopping and Souvenir Hunting Explore Ohrid’s bustling markets and artisan shops, where you can find a variety of locally made crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Whether you’re searching for handmade jewelry, traditional Macedonian pottery, or unique gifts to take home, the city’s vibrant shopping scene has something for everyone.

Nightlife and Socializing As the sun sets, Ohrid comes alive with a lively nightlife scene. Join locals and fellow travelers at the city’s bars, clubs, and live music venues, where you can dance the night away, sample local wines and spirits, and make unforgettable memories under the starry skies of Ohrid.

Language and Customs in Ohrid

Language In Ohrid, the predominant language spoken is Macedonian, although English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Macedonian, such as greetings and simple expressions of gratitude, can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. Remember to say “fala” (thank you) to show appreciation for hospitality.

Currency The official currency of North Macedonia, including Ohrid, is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). While some establishments may accept Euros (EUR), it’s advisable to exchange your currency for Denars to ensure the best rates. ATMs are readily available throughout Ohrid, allowing you to withdraw local currency as needed.

Tipping Tipping in Ohrid is generally appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants and cafes, a tip of around 10% of the total bill is customary for good service. However, it’s always a good idea to check if a service charge has already been included in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff is also common practice for exceptional service.

Religious sites Ohrid boasts a rich religious heritage, with numerous churches, mosques, and monasteries scattered throughout the city. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting religious sites out of respect for local customs and traditions. It’s also customary to remove your shoes before entering certain religious buildings, so be prepared to do so when visiting mosques or monasteries.

Shopping in Ohrid

Whether you’re searching for traditional Macedonian keepsakes or contemporary treasures, the city’s diverse shopping scene caters to every taste and budget.

Old Bazaar (Charsija) Step back in time and wander through the bustling lanes of Ohrid’s Old Bazaar, where a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds awaits. Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of handicrafts, textiles, pottery, and souvenirs crafted by local artisans. From intricately woven rugs to hand-painted ceramics and embroidered textiles, the Old Bazaar is a haven for shoppers seeking authentic Macedonian goods.

Antique Shops For collectors and antique enthusiasts, Ohrid boasts a selection of antique shops offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past. Browse through vintage jewelry, coins, furniture, and artwork, each piece telling its own unique story and adding a touch of history to your home.

Art Galleries Immerse yourself in Ohrid’s vibrant art scene by visiting one of its many art galleries and studios. From contemporary paintings and sculptures to traditional Macedonian folk art, these galleries showcase the talents of local and regional artists, offering a diverse array of works to suit every taste.

L ocal Markets Experience the authentic flavors and aromas of Macedonia by exploring Ohrid’s bustling local markets. From fresh produce and spices to homemade jams, honey, and traditional sweets, these markets offer a sensory journey through the region’s culinary delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local specialties such as Ajvar (pepper-based relish) and Rakija (fruit brandy) before selecting your favorites to take home.

Lakeside Promenade Stroll along Ohrid’s picturesque lakeside promenade, where a variety of shops and boutiques offer everything from clothing and accessories to artisanal crafts and souvenirs. Pick up a handcrafted piece of jewelry, a locally made scarf, or a decorative item for your home, all while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Ohrid.

Traditional Workshops Discover the time-honored techniques of Macedonian craftsmanship by visiting traditional workshops scattered throughout Ohrid. Watch skilled artisans at work as they create pottery, woodcarvings, and other handmade goods using age-old methods passed down through generations. Many workshops also offer hands-on experiences, allowing visitors to try their hand at these ancient crafts and create their own unique souvenirs.

Shopping Centers For those seeking a more modern shopping experience, Ohrid is home to several shopping centers and malls offering a wide range of retail outlets, boutiques, and international brands. Whether you’re in need of clothing, electronics, or household goods, these shopping centers provide convenient access to a diverse selection of products in a modern and comfortable environment. 

Happy travels!

As your time in Ohrid draws to a close, take with you the memories of its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you explored ancient sites, indulged in local cuisine, or simply soaked in the beauty of Lake Ohrid, this Macedonian gem has surely left its mark. 

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Ohrid Lake looks like a highlight of a trip to Ohrid. I’d love to have a chance to visit.

Wow I had no idea it was so beautiful !! Your photos are stunning, definitely adding to our list 🙂

Love this guide to Ohrid – a North Macedonian gem. And would love to explore all the neighborhoods in this charming and historic city with such scenic views.

Wow, Orchid looks amazing! I love the Church of St. Clement and Ancient theater! Would love to go hiking there as well!

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Home » Lake Ohrid Macedonia Ultimate Travel Guide and Itinerary

Lake Ohrid Macedonia Ultimate Travel Guide and Itinerary

Life is always better at the lake. Now imagine a scenic mountain backdrop and an assortment of adventurous activities to fill your day. From thrilling mountain biking to sunset cruises, Lake Ohrid is the perfect destination for any traveler.

This Lake Ohrid, Macedonia ultimate travel guide will share day-trip ideas, offer budget-savvy tips and provide contact information for locals to help you plan your next holiday to this fantastic region.

Macedonia has been keeping a secret from the rest of the world. It’s a little hidden paradise called Lake Ohrid. During weekends in the summer, Skopje becomes unusually quiet because many Macedonians make the 200 km drive to escape to this lake.

It’s also a major holiday destination for many Dutch, Polish, Serbian, Bulgarian, and German tourists. Although we’ve spent quite a bit of time exploring the Balkans , we’ve heard little about this region. Visiting Lake Ohrid simply blew us away! Especially, with its natural beauty and affordable prices.

Lake Ohrid is unique in that it holds a UNESCO World Heritage Site award for both nature and culture. With so much to see and do in the area, visitors can be as active or as laid-back as they prefer. Most travelers flock here during summer, but Lake Ohrid is a year-round destination.

Where to Stay in Ohrid

These are the best places to stay in Ohrid, Macedonia sorted by price.

Budget: Villa Dvor Ohrid (great value) or Villa Mishe (modern and clean) Mid-Range: Villa Dislievski Apartment: Apartment Villa Dudanov or Port Villa Luxury: Unique Resort and Spa (large rooms and a pool!)

Most Popular Tours in Ohrid

• 🏞️ Discover the UNESCO-listed landscapes of Lake Ohrid on this private tour and explore the entire lakeside in one day
• 🚢 Cruise along the historical part of Ohrid and taste 4 samples of fine authentic wines in unlimited quantity, in an intimate atmosphere with beautiful surroundings
• 🏍️ Experience the lush landscapes of Macedonia as you explore Galicica National Park on an exciting ATV tour
• 🚶 Embark on a walking tour of the Old Town and discover the city’s main attractions with a private tour guide
• 🪂 Take this Paragliding Flight above the Ohrid and surround yourself with breath-taking Mountain and Lake Views

🚕 Need a transfer from Skopje to Ohrid? If you’re not renting a car and want to see Lake Ohrid, book a private transfer for up to three people to your hotel or vacation rental.

Best Day Trips in Lake Ohrid

The best day trip in Ohrid includes taking the ferry from Ohrid to St. Naum. From St. Naum, visitors may tour the monastery, swim on the beach, visit the St. Naum Spring, dine at one of several restaurants, or rent a paddleboat.

Beach, Boat, and St. Naum Monastery

One of the best days we had in Lake Ohrid was spent boating, sunbathing, and visiting St. Naum Monastery. If you are not traveling by car, the best way to get to the other side of the lake is by the Lake Ohrid Holiday Ferry.

For two people, the cost was about USD 25. The ferry provides round-trip transport to the other side of the lake and a beautiful scenic boat ride. The ferry departs from Ohrid’s main city center around 10 a.m. and departs St. Naum around 3 p.m.

Floating over the springs provides passengers with a spiritual and mystical feeling.

Once we arrived, we toured the picturesque Monastery taking note of the famous peacocks, beautiful architecture, and scenic views. There are a hotel and a restaurant on the premises. During our visit, the restaurant was playing some lovely guitar music, making it a relaxing place to enjoy a coffee or a cool drink.

Thanks to Aleksandar from the EDEN Tourism Cluster of Southwest Macedonia , we were wisely advised to explore the freshwater springs located next to the Monastery. A 30-minute rowboat ride through some of the most pristine water on the planet is available for about USD 3 per person.

St. Naum Spring

Floating over the springs provides passengers with a spiritual and mystical feeling. The guides narrate throughout the boat ride and point out specific locations where the water is released from the earth below. This was one of our top experiences in all of Europe!

After our boat ride, we headed to the only sandy beach on Lake Ohrid. It’s located adjacent to St. Naum. The lake was warm despite being so close to the chilly spring water.  There are changing stations, fountains for drinking water, souvenir stands, and a few restaurants.

We ate at Cuba Libre Restaurant Drim, which is directly next to the springs. The ferry departs for Ohrid at 3 p.m. If you’d like to stay longer,  consider the option to take a minibus back for a small cost. Minibusses provide pickup and drop-off in the Saint Naum parking lot.

Outdoor Adventures

Ohrid’s diverse topography provides a great backdrop for a variety of outdoor adventures. For this reason, we decided to enjoy an ATV adventure through Galicica National Park .

Hiking Around Lake Ohrid

Hikers will love the 350+ kilometers of mountain trails to explore around the lake. We spent one day hiking in the Marin Dol Valley, along the Old Velestovo Trail. The trail is elevated providing glorious views of the lake below.

Many of these settlements are now abandoned and it gave us the feeling as though we were walking through an opened time capsule.

On the walk, we passed through several small villages such as Velestovo, Shipokno, and Gorno Konjsko. Many of these settlements are now abandoned and it gave us the feeling as though we were walking through an opened time capsule.

Villa Minami

Halfway through our walk, almost like a mirage, we came upon Villa Minami located in the village of Gorno Konjsko. During the tourist season, this quaint B&B offers visitors a lovely opportunity for a traditional lunch with gorgeous lake views. (Non-hikers can reach Villa Minami by taxi for about USD 10 from the city center.)

After lunch, we continued through the wooded forest in Galichitsa National Park. During our slow, easy walk, we learned more about the area and shared stories along the way. After a while, we reached Risto’s Guest House where we enjoyed the perfect refresher, homemade cherry juices picked fresh from her garden.

While enjoying our juices we were informed that many hikers plan multi-day hiking tours through this region and use Risto’s as a pit stop. Often people will start in Struga and make their way to St. Naum, overnighting in guesthouses along the way.

Risto’s Guest House is a popular stop on this hiker circuit. They receive stellar reviews, with some of the best homemade cooking on Lake Ohrid. The Eden Tourism Cluster of Southwest Macedonia can provide additional information and help in arranging these multi-day hiking tours.

Best Hiking Guide in Lake Ohrid

We spent the day hiking with our new friend Ivan Cekic, a licensed mountain guide. Ivan specializes in organized mountain biking and cycling excursions through Travel Velodrome, but he’s also an avid hiker with lots of knowledge to share. You can contact Ivan at [email protected] to set up personalized tours throughout the Ohrid area.

Biking Around Lake Ohrid

The following day we connected with J.J. Adventures to enjoy a cycling day trip on Ohrid’s backroads and mountainsides. There are a variety of different trails and difficulty levels for a wide range of experiences.

J.J. recommended the medium level course that winds it’s way along some beautiful countryside and up a mountain to Saint Bogorodica church.

Ivan and J.J. also organize multi-day biking tours for cycling enthusiasts. That morning we met at a local hotel where we received our bikes, helmets, and packed lunches.

Exploring Ohrid’s Old Town and City Center

Although enjoying lake life was our main goal, many historical attractions are worthy of a visit too.

Samuel’s Fortress

The Samuel Fortress was constructed by Tsar Samuel of Bulgaria who moved the Bulgarian Empire’s capital city from Skopje to Ohrid in 990 A.D. Today, the fort is a very controversial character, especially between Bulgarians and Macedonians.

Climb up to the fortress towers to get a great view of the lake and surrounding city. There’s a small admission fee, but the views make it well worth it.

Amphitheater

This amphitheater was discovered by accident in the 1980s and was used for gladiator battles and murdering Christians during its heyday. It was believed to be constructed around 200 B.C. and is now mainly used for summertime concerts and performances.

1,000-Year-Old Tree

The Old Plane Tree is one of Ohrid’s most famous landmarks. It is estimated to be over 1,000 years old.

National Workshop for Homemade Paper

This tiny working museum demonstrates the old-world tradition of making handmade paper. There are many beautiful handmade paper products for sale including journals, postcards, and frame-worthy sketches all for as little as 2 euros. Admission is free.

Church of St. John at Kaneo

Gracing the cover of National Geographic twice, this church is truly the iconic beauty of Lake Ohrid. The earliest surviving documents can confirm that the church has been perched on the cliff overlooking the lake since at least 1447. In 1964, restoration efforts found wonderful frescos painted on the dome.

Ohrid was built on the Ancient Greek city of Lychnidos. The Amphitheater and the remains of this early Christian basilica, believed to be from the 5th century, were the only two structures left of the initial settlement. However, recent excavations revealed lovely mosaics constructed with the up-most attention to detail.

Bay of Bones

Consider visiting one of Macedonia’s most popular museums. The Bay of Bones is a speculative recreation of a prehistoric settlement, from 6000-8000 B.C. It features staged over-water huts replicating the living conditions of the people who once lived here.

There is a very small museum on-site, but it doesn’t provide much information. Touring the museum takes about 30 minutes.

There is a small cafe so grab an ice cream or coffee to enjoy the waterfront and to extend your time at the museum. Next, to the archaeological site, there is a company that arranges scuba diving tours.

We took a minibus from a local bus stop to get to the Bay of Bones Museum. After our visit, we had a very difficult time getting back to the city center.

We waited for almost two hours at the side of the road waiting for another minibus to come from St. Naum. The easiest, most reliable way to visit the museum is by arranging transportation ahead of time.

Best Restaurants in Lake Ohrid

On our tour, we were lucky to discover three great restaurants that offer a more memorable dining experience in Ohrid.

Fish House Kaneo

Known locally as belvica, this freshwater fish is a specialty dish around Lake Ohrid. At Fish House Kaneo, we dined lakeside enjoying this local delicacy served with grilled vegetables, roasted green peppers with garlic, and potatoes. When accompanied by a glass of white wine and rakija, this dining experience is as local as it gets.

Before dinner, we enjoyed a sunset boat cruise on the lake. Locals line their boats along the lakeshore making it easy to hail one for a short sunset cruise. Ask a local to find out the going rate.

The trendy SU Hotel features a fresh, modern menu, lake views, and a great outdoor seating area. Order the Real McCoy, 180 grams of pure baby beef. This is our top pick for the best burger in the Balkans!

As previously mentioned, we reached this charming, family-run restaurant by hiking, but folks can drive to the restaurant or hire a taxi for about USD 10 from the city center. The restaurant boasts aerial views of the lake and fabulous local Macedonian food at reasonable prices. It is here where we tried Gomleze, a layered Macedonian pie that when prepared in the traditional method, takes several hours to properly make.

Best Cheap Eats in Ohrid

As busy budget travelers, we love cheap local eats that are hearty and satisfying. We found three places worthy of a stop.

One morning, our host from Apartments Joce invited us to his favorite local restaurant, Restaurant Boem. This place served up some of the best chorba in Macedonia. Along with fresh bread and a regional garlic dressing, this was one of my favorite meals in Macedonia.

It took us some time to realize this, but chorba is a morning dish only. It is often referred to as a cure for morning hangovers. If you want to sample chorba, come before noon! It goes quickly!

Along the lakeside promenade, a small stand grills up meats for hearty hamburgers and ćevapi pitas. The bonus is the ability to garnish your order. There’s a salad bar where you can personally load up on tomatoes, onions, and delicious grilled peppers! It’s a good place to stop if you’re looking for a quick cheap meal. Great value!

Spicy Sausage Pita

Located in the square with the Old Plane Tree, this restaurant sells spicy, grilled meat sandwiches at a great price. They offer to take away so it’s a great option when you want to grab a quick bite to eat.

We’d like to give a special shout-out to our friends at EDEN Tourism Cluster of Southwest Macedonia  for helping us plan our week around Lake Ohrid. Their hospitality, warmth, and pride in their country are as beautiful as the landscape itself. We arrived as tourists and left as friends.

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One thought on “ lake ohrid macedonia ultimate travel guide and itinerary ”.

Nice to see some attention given to the active tourism opportunities that the Ohrid-Prespa region has to offer. Not many people realize that Lake Ohrid, Prespa and Mount Galichica create one of the most biodiverse locations in all of Europe with several plants and animals that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. Together with the stunning scenery, that makes for superb hiking and biking. We’re glad you enjoyed that experience.

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10 Best Things To Do in Ohrid: A One-Day Itinerary

Last Updated on October 25, 2023

by Michael Rozenblit

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Straddling North Macedonia and Albania, gorgeous Lake Ohrid is one of the top destinations to visit in North Macedonia. There are a number of things to do in Ohrid beyond enjoying the tranquillity and beauty of the body of water itself and it’s so worth setting some time aside to enjoy this lovely destination.

Considered to be one of the oldest lakes in the world and the deepest lake in the Balkans , Lake Ohrid is a popular holiday destination among North Macedonians and other Balkan residents.

Though it does straddle two countries, the North Macedonia side of Lake Ohrid is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And the town of Ohrid itself has a lot to do aside from lounging around on the lake.

So if you want to step a bit off the beaten path and explore a truly spectacular area, then consider visiting Ohrid – you’re sure to fall quickly in love.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Ohrid?

There isn’t a lot of information out there about visiting North Macedonia, let alone Lake Ohrid. So it is normal for visitors to wonder how many days to spend in Ohrid in order not to feel too rushed, be able to explore the town and also get some time to get out onto the lake.

Fortunately for those short on time, the town of Ohrid is quite small and compact and you can see the vast majority of what it has to offer in just one day. That being said, spending only one day in Ohrid doesn’t really give you the time to relax and chill out in this holiday destination, which is what most do when they flock to this lake!

Ideally, you would spend 2 days in Ohrid or more. This will allow you to do a bit of sightseeing while also giving you time to lounge on the beach or get out onto the lake. With a few more days, you can also head outside of Ohrid Town and visit places like the St Naum Monastery and Galičica National Park. You can even go wine tasting in the surrounding area!

Getting To & Around Ohrid

Ohrid Town is located in the southwest of North Macedonia and sits along the shores of Lake Ohrid. As mentioned above, Lake Ohrid itself actually spans across both Albania and North Macedonia, making it a central place to visit if you’re on a longer trip through the Balkans .

When it comes to getting to Ohrid, there is a small international airport just outside of Ohrid Town. The airport, however, is seasonal and only serves a handful of European destinations, so it’s not always the best option. Your best bet is travelling overland.

From the North Macedonian capital of Skopje , you can get a direct bus to Ohrid and the journey will take about four hours through the gorgeous countryside.

If you have a rental car, the drive from Skopje to Ohrid takes about 3 hours. It is also possible to visit Ohrid as a day trip from Skopje either on a full-day tour or on a private tour.

If you’re coming from Albania, there is a direct bus from Tirana to Ohrid that takes about 2.5 hours, however, it is not very frequent.

You could also get a bus from Tirana to Struga – a town on the lake just north of Ohrid Town – and grab a minibus or a taxi from Struga to Ohrid. It’s only about 15 minutes away. You can also organise a tour if you want to take an Ohrid day trip from Tirana.

You also could combine a trip to Ohrid with a longer trip across mainland Greece . There are no direct buses from Ohrid to Thessaloniki , however, you can drive between the two in about 4 hours if you’re keen for a beautiful road trip.

Once in Ohrid Town, you can easily get around the town itself on foot and there is no need for a car.

Even if you want to get somewhere outside of the town, for instance to the Saint Naum Monastery, you can grab a boat to ferry you across the lake. However, if you do want to head out to Galičica National Park, it may be best to hire a car for this.

10 Things to do in Ohrid: A One-Day Itinerary

A good part of the appeal of visiting Lake Ohrid has to do with simply chilling out and enjoying the beauty of the lake – this is a popular holiday destination for a reason!

However, there are a number of great things to do in and around the town that you can easily occupy a day or two if relaxation isn’t really your thing!

Ancient Macedonian Theatre

You can begin your exploration of Ohrid Town at a fascinating ancient ruin. The Ancient Macedonia Theatre of Ohrid is a wonderfully preserved Greek amphitheatre that dates back to 200 BCE. Nestled between two hills, it’s in a perfect location to keep it protected and to ensure that the acoustics are fantastic.

Because of this, the theatre is still used for performances to this very day. Especially in the summertime, the theatre plays host to performances in the Ohrid Summer Festival.

The fascinating thing about this theatre is that it is the only Hellenistic theatre of its kind in North Macedonia, so it’s definitely a place that is worth checking out while visiting Ohrid. Especially if you’re a history buff!

Samuel’s Fortress

Ohrid Town was once the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire during the 11th Century while under the rule of Tsar Samuel of Bulgaria.

During that time, he constructed this imposing fortress to guard the town from invaders. Though the majority of the fortress was constructed in the 11th Century, there is archaeological evidence that a fortress of some sort has existed in this spot since the 4th Century BCE.

Today, the imposing fortress is a major tourist attraction in the town and paying a visit to it is one of the best things to do when you’re in Ohrid. From the top of the fortress, you can get spectacular views over the old town and of Lake Ohrid and it’s absolutely beautiful.

There is a small fee to enter, however, it’s worth it to be able to climb around the old stalls and take in the incredible panoramas from this historic place.

Labino Beach

From the fortress, you can wander through some walking trails for about 10 minutes until you reach the rocky and lovely Labino Beach. While no visit to Ohrid is complete without lounging a bit on the beach, one of the highlights of reaching here are the views you can get along the way.

If you wander along the pathways from the fortress, you will come across a few viewpoints where you can get an excellent vista of lovely Lake Ohrid.

After your walk, you can take the time to chill out a bit on the beach or maybe take a dip in the water. Though this isn’t going to be an expanse of soft, white sand, the pebble beach is still a great place to visit.

Old City Park

Next to the beach, you can take the time to wander through the Old City Park. This is a large park that’s on the edge of Ohrid Town and is filled with historic sites to see.

One of the most notable landmarks to take in while wandering around this area is the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon.

This Byzantine-style church is dedicated to St Clement, who was a disciple of St Cyril. The church has evidence of it being the site where the first students of the Glagolitic alphabet – which was the first written Slavic script and what today’s Cyrillic alphabet is derived from (the script that is used in countless Slavic countries – including North Macedonia – today).

During Ottoman rule of this area in the 15th Century, the church was actually turned into a mosque. Today, however, it is back to being an Eastern Orthodox Church.

There are other beautiful churches to see in the City Park along with plenty of archaeological sites that are so worth taking in. It really puts into perspective just how old and historic Ohrid as a town is.

Church of Saint John the Theologian

Hopefully, you haven’t tired of seeing beautiful and historic churches because the next stop is one of the most iconic in all of Ohrid – the Church of St John the Theologian, also known as the Church of Saint John at Kaneo.

This church sits on the banks of Lake Ohrid and is incredibly picturesque and symbolic of the town entirely and it is one of the top Ohrid attractions.

This 13th-century church is located on its own little cliffside peninsula jutting into the lake. It is a gorgeous site to see.

Inside the church, you can also view some beautiful frescoes painted on the interior of its dome that were discovered during a 1960s restoration of the building. No visit to Ohrid is complete without snapping a photo of this beautiful building.

Ohrid Boardwalk/Bridge of Wishes

After taking in the aforementioned historic sites, it’s time to stroll around and simply enjoy the lovely scenery along the lake. There is an expansive boardwalk that you can stroll along lakeside where you can really take in the tranquil vibes of this town.

Make sure not to miss the Bridge of Wishes, a small bridge that offshoots from the boardwalk. This bridge, like many in Europe, is where plenty of couples leave a lock to symbolise their love.

If you want to see the lake from a different vantage point, this is also a great time to head out on the lake and take a boat ride! There are plenty of operators around and you can be shown the sights and views of the lake and gain a bit of perspective.

Church of Saint Sophia

There are a lot of churches to visit in Ohrid, but after wandering along the boardwalk or getting out onto the water, it’s time to take in yet another – the Church of St Sophia.

This is another Byzantine-style Orthodox church located in Ohrid’s old town. Constructed in the 9th Century (and rebuilt in the 10th Century), it is home to a large collection of Medieval art and is considered to be quite an important church in North Macedonia due to its historical significance.

Robev Family House

Moving still further into the old town you will come across the Robev Family House. This 19th-century house was once home to the Robevi family – a family of wealthy merchants and today it has been turned into a museum.

For a small fee, you can tour the museum and take in a lot of interesting artefacts that were once owned by this important family. You can also learn about the history of 19th-century Macedonia and see the impressive collections held by this family over the three floors comprising this house.

Church of Holy Mary Peryvleptos

Yes, after the Robev House Museum, it’s time to head to another church! The Church of Holy Mary of Peryvleptos (also sometimes spelt Peribleptos) is also built in the Byzantine style and was constructed in the 13th century – making it one of the oldest churches in Ohrid.

What makes this church notable is its impressive and well-preserved frescoes that depict a number of beautiful religious imagery and are worth taking the time to view.

Ohrid Old Bazaar

And if you’re looking for a great place to browse or maybe pick up a great souvenir from your time in Ohrid, then consider heading to the Old Bazaar. Located in the centre of the Old Town of Ohrid, this is the main tourist drag in the town and is filled with different shops and eateries.

This can be a great place to pick up a necklace or earrings adorned with Ohrid pearls , which are made from grinding down shells found in the lake.

Even if you aren’t in the mood to pick up a souvenir, this is a great place to stroll along and take in the lively atmosphere, especially as the sun begins to set. The Old Bazaar has had a marketplace along it for centuries and it is still lively today, though certainly selling different things!

Have More Time?

If you have more than a day to spend in Ohrid, then there are a few other things you can do to occupy your time.

One of the most popular places to visit as a day trip from the town is the St Naum Monastery. Located about 30 kilometres south of Ohrid close to the Albanian border, this is a historic monastery that can be reached via ferry from Ohrid town.

If you want to spend more time on the lake itself, you can opt to go on a longer boat ride. There are plenty of options to be able to spend a few hours out on the lake, enjoying the peaceful vibes and seeing the towns from a different perspective.

Those who want to get a bit more active may want to consider visiting nearby Galičica National Park. This gorgeous natural area is located within easy reach of Ohrid and has a number of hiking trails to enjoy. It is, however, best reached if you have your own vehicle.

Finally, you could also plan to go wine tasting! There are a number of wineries within the vicinity of Ohrid such as Monastery Winery that will take you on a tour of them. Otherwise, you can always find a local vintage in restaurants and bars within the town itself.

Where to Stay in Ohrid

Old City House – This cosy guesthouse is located 300 metres from the beach in Ohrid. They have a number of air-conditioned rooms along with a kitchen for guest use and a lovely terrace to enjoy.

Villa Jordan  – This 4-star hotel overlooking Lake Ohrid is perfect for those after an upmarket stay. There are several great rooms to choose from along with a large swimming pool and free parking.

Blue Lake Hostel – Those looking for a hostel will love this highly-rated option in Ohrid’s old town. They have a number of different rooms and also organise fun activities for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Ohrid hotels!

Lake Ohrid is a delightful destination that isn’t necessarily on the radar of many visitors. However, there are plenty of great things to do in the area and it’s a wonderful place to visit.

Are you planning to visit Ohrid? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

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A Guide to Ohrid: Macedonia’s Lakeside City of Light

Last Updated on: 5th June 2022, 03:05 pm

The historical town of Ohrid is North Macedonia’s most popular tourism hotspot. Situated along a hill at the edge of Lake Ohrid, few other cities in the region can rival its picturesque setting. While Ohrid’s main appeal is taking things slow and soaking up the atmosphere, the town is home to historical churches, an ancient fortress and some unique museums, all of which we’ll be covering in the Ohrid guide below.

The main attractions in the town center can easily be seen in a single day on foot. You should also allow an extra day, however, to visit Sveti Naum (ideally by ferry), in addition to a day spent exploring  Galičica National Park .

Ohrid Guide Contents

Wandering ohrid, the ancient theater.

• Samuel’s Fortress

The Church of St. John at Kaneo

The church of st. sophia.

• Ohrid’s Museums

Swimming in Lake Ohrid

• Accommodation & Transport Info

In antiquity, the city was known as Lychnidos, or the ‘city of light.’ While inhabited at least as far back as the Iron Age, the town as we see it today was largely built between the 7th-19th centuries.

With its well-preserved houses, cobblestone streets, and views of the lake, one of the best things to do in Ohrid is simply wandering through town.

As North Macedonia is landlocked, locals flock to Ohrid in the summer to soak up the sun and take a dip in the lake. While the town is indeed touristy, it still manages to maintain its local feel and is an all-around pleasant place to explore on foot.

In addition to its traditional houses – many of which were built in the 19th century, Ohrid is also well-known for its churches. The small town of around 40,000 people is home to no less than 365 churches – one for each day of the year. 

While there are several prominent churches that will be mentioned in the Ohrid guide below, many of them are tiny. Wandering through town, you’ll often encounter these compact ancient structures nestled between houses or shops.

Situated right near the Old City’s Upper Gate is one of Ohrid’s oldest structures. The amphitheater was built around the 3rd century BC during the Hellenistic era and was later used for gladiator fights by the Romans.

Amazingly, the refurbished theater still hosts modern musical performances as part of the annual Ohrid Summer Festival. While not especially impressive on its own, it’s interesting to see such an old structure completely surrounded by modern residences.

Just behind the theater, meanwhile, is the Upper Gate which is worth a quick look. Ohrid was a fortified city throughout much of its history, with its walls extending out to a whopping 3 km. And this gate served as one of the town’s main entry points for centuries.

Over in the National Museum, you can look at an ornate golden mask dating to the 5th century that was found around here (the original may actually be in Belgrade). Today, in stark contrast, the area around the gate is home to a concrete parking lot.

Samuel's Fortress

Visible from all over town, Samuel’s Fortress was built atop a hill some 100 m above the lake. According to Greek historian Polybius, there was a fortress here as far back as the reign of Macedonia’s King Philip II (father of Alexander the Great) in the 4th century BC.

The fortress remained in use until relatively recently and is now one of modern Ohrid’s top tourist attractions. Entry costs 80 MKD and the fortress is closed on Mondays.

Following the Hellenistic era, the expansive fortress was controlled by groups like the Romans, Byzantines and Slavs. It took its current shape under the reign of Tsar Samuel (r. 976-1014) of the First Bulgarian Empire, after whom the structure is named. 

Samuel made Ohrid his capital during his reign and it’s from here that he was in constant conflict with the Byzantine Empire .

The Byzantines would end up the victors, with Emperor Basil II destroying the fortress. But it was ultimately restored not long after.

The fortress then remained in use up through the late Ottoman era, when a rogue feudal lord named Dzeladin-Bey ruled Ohrid from here into the early 19th century.

There’s not a whole lot to see inside, but you can walk along the walls for some of the best views of Ohrid and the lake. Be sure to get here early to beat the crowds.

Beginning in the early 2000s, the fortress has undergone extensive restorations and archaeological excavations. At some point during your time in town, be sure to check out the National Museum where you’ll find some of the artifacts uncovered here.

On display are ceramics from the Hellenistic era as well as various figurines of Greek mythological figures. 

From atop the fortress, you can also get a view of Plaoshnik’s Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon, the next location featured in this Ohrid guide. 

The path downhill through the forest to the Plaoshnik area can be a little tricky, but follow the signs to the ‘Basilica’ or use the Maps.me app.

Considering how compact Ohrid is, it’s somewhat surprising to find a secluded forested area right in the heart of the Old Town. And it’s in this area, roughly in between Samuel’s Fortress and the Church of St. John at Kaneo, that you’ll find the site known as Plaoshnik.

Amazingly, archaeological findings discovered here are as old as the 12th century BC. Other important artifacts found here date from the early Iron Age, the Hellenistic era and early Roman period followed by Byzantine and Ottoman times. 

Archaeological ruins, evidently dating to the Byzantine era, can be found scattered throughout the site. But signage offering context is unfortunately lacking. 

Normally, the highlight of Plaoshnik is the 5th-century basilica known for its mosaics. Sadly, however, it was off-limits at the time of my visit. It seems like much of the site is under restoration, and there will hopefully be more to see in the future.

With the mosaics inaccessible, Plaoshnik’s main highlight is the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon, believed to date back to the time of Saint Clement himself in the 10th century.

During the Middle Ages, Ohrid long served as an important Orthodox educational center. This was largely thanks to Saint Clement and Saint Naum, two of the region’s most venerated saints who lived here in the 10th century (Panteleimon, on the other hand, was martyred in the 4th century).

Supposedly, the very first Slavic script, Glagolitic, was taught for the first time in this building. It served as a precursor to the Cyrillic alphabet which remains in use throughout North Macedonia and the wider Slavic world to this day.

The church has some nice icons, but its refurbished interior isn’t nearly as interesting as the other churches featured in this Ohrid guide.

To complement your visit to Plaoshnik, be sure to visit the National Museum (more below), where you’ll find a wide range of artifacts uncovered here. 

Notable pieces include a marble portrait from the 2nd century BC, statuettes and bones from the Roman era, various ceramics and findings from a prominent individual’s tomb.

Built in the 13th century, the Church of St. John at Kaneo is arguably Ohrid’s most photographed landmark. But that’s more for its picturesque lakeside setting than for the small cruciform-shaped structure itself. 

Disappointingly, this is yet another Macedonia Orthodox church which charges an entrance fee for foreigners (100 MKD, or €2).

But by simply stepping inside to inquire about the entry requirements, you can already see all the frescoes in an instant. For Ohrid’s best frescoes, you’re better off saving your change for Sveti Sophia in the center of town (more below).

After seeing the church, it’s worth exploring the Kaneo Beach area around it. The pebble beach is set amidst scenic rocky outcrops, while you can grab lunch in one of the nearby restaurants.

The residential road leading back to town, meanwhile, contains some historical houses, such as the 19th-century ‘House of Petrush Vangelov.’

St. Sophia is Ohrid’s most impressive church – both inside and out. It was built in the 11th century on the foundations of an even older Christian structure, and long served as the Patriarchate and Archbisphoric of Ohrid.

Later on, upon their conquest of Ohrid in the 15th century, the Ottomans converted the structure to the mosque, plastering over the vivid frescoes with lime. The artwork would remain obscured for centuries until the end of World War II.

Interestingly, the frescoes were painted around the time of the schism between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, and they depict dozens of ecclesiastical dignitaries from the East along with several Roman popes. 

This mix of Eastern and Western religious figures in a single church is said to be totally unique.

Entry costs 100 MKD for foreigners. And while signs outside state that photography is prohibited, I simply asked at the ticket gate and was granted permission. 

Ohrid's Museums

In addition to the landmarks mentioned in the Ohrid guide above, the town is also home to a few unique museums that are well worth a visit. They can all be easily reached on foot while exploring the Old City.

National Workshop For Handmade Paper

The National Workshop For Handmade Paper is dedicated to Ohrid’s paper-making tradition that’s been in place for centuries. Amazingly, it also happens to contain one of only two working replicas of the Gutenberg Press in the world.

Stepping inside, you can enjoy a demonstration of the process, while the guide will be happy to answer any of your questions. Entry is free, but after such a comprehensive explanation, it will be hard to walk away empty-handed.

The small shop sells large prints of religious iconography and scenes of Ohrid, birthday cards, notebooks and more. As souvenirs, they certainly beat your typical mass-produced plastic trinkets!

The Ohrid National Museum

Also known as the Robev Family House Museum, this three-story museum is a must-visit during your time in Ohrid. Split into two halves, it serves as both an ethnographic and an archaeological museum.

In certain sections, you’ll find well-preserved rooms of the former Robev home, a wealthy merchant family who built this house in 1863. There are also numerous late Ottoman period artifacts, costumes and local artwork on display, including some stunningly ornate woodcarvings.

Other rooms, meanwhile, take you much further back into time. You’ll find Greco-Roman era artifacts from Plaoshnik and Samuel’s Fortress (see above), in addition to interesting grave finds from elsewhere throughout the Ohrid region.

Archaeological findings uncovered from various tombs range from the 6th century BC to the 3rd century AD.

The Icon Gallery

Another popular attraction in Ohrid is the Icon Gallery, situated right outside the Church of Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta. You can find it near the Upper Gate. 

While I went over to check it out, they were charging around 200 MKD for entry and told me that no photos were allowed. 

Having just seen some magnificent icons at the National Museum of Medieval Art in  Korçë , Albania, I decided to save my money. All these seemingly small entry fees in Macedonia really start to add up after awhile!

But for those with an interest in medieval icons, the art here dates from the 13th-18th centuries. From what I could gather from standing outside, there seem to be a couple dozen or so pieces on display.

If you’re visiting Ohrid in summer, you won’t want to miss the chance to swim in the lake at some point. But while there are several places to swim right in the city center, they’re crowded and uncomfortable, lacking any sand or proper place to relax.

Some of the best beaches can be found outside the city, such as right outside Sveti Naum or the long stretch of beach to the south of town. But these locations are too far to reach on foot.

Staying in the Old Town near the Upper Gate, I discovered an unlabelled beach to the north of the city. I had plenty of space to relax and, while not the very cleanest beach, the scenery was gorgeous and the water felt nice. I’ve marked it on the map above.

Other places to consider near the town center are Beach Labino (north of Kaneo) and Beach Voena, about 20 minutes on foot south from the pier.

Additional Info

Ohrid is arguably North Macedonia’s number one tourism destination. Accordingly, you’ll find direct connections with most Macedonian cities.

You can take a direct bus from Skopje or nearby Bitola . Just be sure to check the schedules at the bus station in advance. Buses were running on a reduced schedule due to the pandemic during my visit, and for some routes there were only a few buses per day.

If you’re coming from Bitola and no bus is about to depart, you can take a shared taxi from outside the bus station which will cost the same (around 200 MKD).

You can also take direct buses to Ohrid from neighboring countries, with buses coming in from as far away as Belgrade.

If you’re coming from southern Albania, figuring out the bus routes can be a bit tricky. There’s no direct bus from Korçë, despite its proximity to the border. Instead, you’ll need to take a bus to Porgradec (just across from Sveti Naum ) and then another bus to the border.

After that, you’ll need to walk across the border and then find another bus or taxi for Ohrid on the other side. If you don’t have much luggage, you can even stop at Sveti Naum on the way.

While I’d planned to enter Ohrid from Korçë/Pogradec, I ended up needing to go and pick up a package in Vlorë , where I’d been living earlier. Fortunately, there was a direct bus from Vlorë to Ohrid that also made stops in Durrës and Elbasan.

I went with a company called Senad Tours, which took us through the border crossing to the north of the lake rather than the one near Sveti Naum. It was one of the easiest border crossings of my life, with none of us even needing to exit the minibus.

Ohrid’s bus station is a few kilometers out of town, and you’ll need to take a taxi to your hotel if they’re not willing to come and pick you up.

For those coming from farther away, Ohrid’s St. Paul the Apostle International Airport has direct connections with various cities throughout Europe.

Ohrid consists of the Old City area and the modern city just southeast of it. Ideally, you’ll want to stay within or as close to the Old City as possible. As Ohrid isn’t very large, staying somewhere in the modern city near the lake should be fine, as long as you’re within walking distance of the main attractions.

I stayed within the Old City in a place called Surban , situated just next to the ancient theater. For around €10 a night I had a private room with a shared bathroom. But as I was the only guest for the first few nights, this wasn’t a big deal.

While the room was rather small and simple, the host was incredibly helpful and kind. She even picked me up and dropped me off at the bus station for no extra charge.

The Complete Guide To Ohrid, North Macedonia

Ohrid is an ancient city in the southwest of North Macedonia. The main feature of this city is of course Lake Ohrid, but there are other things that make this place quite famous. Ohrid is a famous resort town with many nice beaches around the lake, ancient churches, and a beautiful old town. I was in Ohrid for an entire week to work on this complete guide to Ohrid, so I hope it is extremely helpful with planning your next trip!

The Best Time To Visit Ohrid

The best time to visit the city of Ohrid will be during the shoulder season (middle to end of Spring and the beginning middle of Fall). If you are coming to Ohrid in summer it will most likely be really crowded with both local and international tourists, as well as being much more expensive. I was actually in Ohrid from the end of January to the beginning of February and even though I had to skip out of beach and lake activities, the peacefulness was a great trade off.

How To Get To Ohrid

Ohrid is one of the biggest “towns” in North Macedonia with a population around 42,000. It is also the biggest tourist destination in the country, so naturally that there is an international airport that you can use. 

For those of you who went first to the capital of North Macedonia – Skopje , there is an easy and cheap way to get to Ohrid. Since the country no longer services a rail line to Ohrid the only option is to take a bus. And luckily, the buses from Skopje to Ohrid leave almost every hour. The ride will take roughly 3 hours and the cost of a round trip is about $15. 

Note: North Macedonia is a mountainous country, therefore the bus to Ohrid will drive through the mountains and the road, as you can imagine, is going to be very windy. For people like me who suffer from car sickness or vertigo, it is not going to be an easy 3 hours. My advice: eat something before getting on the bus (on an empty stomach car sickness feels way worse) and get a big bottle of cold water. 

Where To Stay

The best place to stay in Ohrid city is within Ohrid Old Town. This is the most charming area of the city and the most convenient for those who want to visit historical sites and be close to plenty of good restaurants. 

Here is my suggestions for cool places to stay in Ohrid:

• Lukanov apartment

Luanov apartment is a great budget option that is located on the eastern side of the old town of Ohrid, right next to the church of St. Sophia. The building is located up a small hill, therefore the view from the rooms is unbelievable. 

Price: 22 Euros (this is winter price, in summer prices might go up)

Location: Boro Sain 9

Click here to book

• Villa Varosh

Villa Varosh is located in the same spot as Lukanov apartment, and has almost the same view, but the rooms are way more comfortable and modern. 

Price: 45 Euros (this is winter price, in summer prices might go up)

Location: MK, Boro Shain 15a, Ohrid 6000

• Vila Bisera 

Vila Bisera is located 7 km from the downtown of Ohrid and they spell the word villa with one “L”. Or maybe it is someone’s name. This is one of the best luxury hotels in Ohrid. The best time to stay at this villa is in summer when you can use two of their outside pools and enjoy a delicious breakfast on the summer terrace. When you are done exploring the old town of Ohrid and want to have a super relaxing chill time by the water, this hotel is a great choice 

Price: 72 Euros (in-season rate)

Location: Lagadin, Ohrid

Where To Eat In Ohrid 

Sveta Sofija : This restaurant is located right next to the church of St. Sophia and serves up traditional North Macedonian cuisine. Everything we had here was good, but I highly recommend the Ohrid trout “tavi”, which is fish baked in a clay pot with vegetables.

Location: MK, Tsar Samoil 88, Ohrid 6000

Pizza Nemo : On my first night in Ohrid I really felt like just going to get a pizza and then resting. I happened on Pizza Nemo while walking towards the center and figured it was good enough. I was wrong, it was fantastic. I didn’t really expect to get great pizza in a tourist town in North Macedonia, but the pizza here was so delicious. Paired with a couple beers, Pizza Nemo is a great place to eat after a long day.

Location: MK, Tsar Samoil, Ohrid 6000

Le Petit Bistro Lihnidos : Located right in the center of the old town, I was actually “stuck” in Lihnidos due to a huge rainstorm. The menu here is large and they have plenty of options for various appetites. I recommend the pizza if you’re drinking, or the sandwiches if you’re looking for something light.

Location: Kosta Abrash, Ohrid 6000

Pizza Bar Instinct : It’s strange to me they call this place a pizza bar, when everything else on the menu was so good. I was a little apprehensive to be honest as it’s right at the entrance to the old bazaar, and reminiscent of a middling tourist trap restaurant. However, again, I was mistaken. The prices here are totally fair (for the old town) and the food was delicious. I recommend the Chicken Curry Tortellini which was just $4. 

Location: Kliment ohridski 120 Ohrid MK, 6000

Dalga : This restaurant is a very nice place, especially in summer when you can sit on the summer terrace overlooking Lake Ohrid. The restaurant has a mix of cuisines including traditional. I would recommend trying fried Plashica, a small fish endemic to Lake Ohrid)

Location: Kosta Abrash 3, Ohrid 6000

Porta: This is a great cafe for breakfast and lunch. The prices are super affordable and the location is just great!

Things To Do In Ohrid, North Macedonia 

• Get lost in Ohrid Old Town
• Saint Sophia

Samuel’s Fortress

• St. John the Theologian

The Bridge of Wishes  

Church of saints clement and panteleimon, ancient theater, get some ohrid pearls, try ohrid trout.

• Have a Boat Tour Around the Lake
• Find a Cute Beach And Have a Swim in Ohrid Lake

Get Lost in Ohrid Old Town

Ohrid Old Town is the place to be if you are coming to Ohrid city. Almost all the things to do, the best cafes and restaurants, and hotels or airbnbs with great views are located in Ohrid Old Town.

The Old Town is quite large, with many thin cobblestone streets to get lost in. However, if you follow a street that goes down the hill, you most likely will end up next to the lake. 

Because we traveled to Ohrid in winter, the Old Town was quite empty, except during the weekend when locals were relaxing at the cafes overlooking the lake. In summer though, the situation is completely different. The city turns into a prime tourist destination for locals and foreigners and the thin streets of the Old Town are full of people. 

Saint Sophia Church

The Church of Saint Sophia is one of the 365 churches that existed at one point in Ohrid (every church was dedicated to one day in the Orthodox calendar). It is located in the center of Ohrid Old Town.

The Church of Saint Sophia was built in the 10th century. The church was nicely preserved and inside it you still can see the old frescoes on the walls and ceiling. Once you are inside, pay attention to the eyes of people on the frescoes. The thing is that their eyes are scratched off. One of the locals that we met in Skopje, who is also an archeologist, explained to us why this is very common. During the time of the Black Death, people thought that if they would take (scratch) some paint of the frescoes of saints, mixed it with water and drink it, they would be healed.

After you visit the inside of the church, walk to the right side of it where the courtyard is. The courtyard looks quite decrepit, and it seems like everyone just forgot about this part of the church.

Samuel’s Fortress is one of the main historical sites in Ohrid. The fortress was built by Tzar Samuel at the time when Ohrid was the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire in the 11th century AD. Although recent excavations show that the Samuel’s Fortress was built on the ruins of another fortification that dates back to the 4th century BC and may have been built by King Philip II of Macedon. 

Most of the walls of the Samuel’s Fortress have been recently restored and you can climb them to enjoy a great view of the city and Lake Ohrid. The inside of the fortress, however, is still in ruins. 

To get inside the fortress you need to pay a small fee – 60 denars or 1 Euro. Before going to the fortress, prepare some small bills, since you cannot pay with your card and they don’t alway have change for a high denomination bill.

The Church of St. John the Theologian

The Church of St. John is located on the cliff, next to Kaneo beach. That is why the church is often called St. John at Kaneo. No one knows when exactly it was built, but it was most likely built in the 13th century before the rise of the Ottoman Empire. 

The church of St. John is the iconic picture of Ohrid Old Town. Even I could not resist placing the picture of the church of St. John with Lake Ohrid in the background as the title picture for this article.

You can visit the church for a small fee of 100 denars ($2). It is a very small church and you would need just a glimpse to see everything inside. 

The Bridge of Wishes was built as a shorter walk to the Church of St. John. Instead of walking 1,5 km through the city up the hill, you can walk around the clif for just 1-2 minutes, as the bridge is only 140 meters long. 

The Bridge of Wishes gives you an opportunity not just to have a shorter walk, but also enjoy the lake and its freshness, see for yourself how clean the water is, and of course toss a coin into water and make a wish. Of course, almost every city has these superstitions “drop a coin into a fountain to come back” and things like that, but you never know, maybe it works.

The Church of Sts. Clemen and Panteleimon have a long and not always happy history. It is believed that the church was built in the 10th century BC, when Saint Clement arrived in Ohrid. With a church he started a school to teach the bible.

Later, the church was ruined a few times and rebuilt, turned into a mosque when the Ottomans came, turned back to a church and again to a mosque until the year 2000, when the mosque was destroyed and transformed into the church once again. The same year the excavation around the church started and you can see today. 

To get inside the church costs the same as to any other church in Ohrid – 100 denars. Inside, it looks quite simple, no ancient mosaics on the walls or ceilings like in St. Sophia church. However there are artifacts presented which were found on the property during the renovations.

The excavation site looks quite impressive and you are allowed to walk around it. It is possible that at the entrance you will be ambushed by a local guide who gives tours. And sometimes it is really nice to have a person who knows the history of the place, but because it was the second time per day that it happened (and the first time we could not understand what the guy was saying at all, we refused to hire a tour guide. 

The Ancient theater in Ohrid is located in Ohrid Old Town, not far from the main gated entrance. It has quite an interesting story. The theater was built in 200 BC and later was used by the Romans as a place for gladiators’ fights. Unfortunately the same theater was used by Romans as an execution place of early Christians. Therefore, with time, people started to hate this place. The theater was buried by the locals under soil and stones, which actually helped to preserve this site. 

In the 1980s the Ancient theater was accidentally found due to some construction work nearby. The excavation work was done and once again people can enjoy watching plays and concerts at this historical site. The site is completely open and you don’t need to pay fees to visit it. 

It seems like every city that was influenced by the Ottoman Empire has an old bazaar, including Ohrid. Although, in Old Town, the old bazaar is more like an old bazaar street that was turned into a shopping street with many boutique stores. 

The street is not that long, but full of stores that sell clothes, small cafes and most importantly, jewelry stores which sell Ohrid pearls. It is a nice place for getting your souvenirs and presents for your friends. 

The bazaar street starts at the lake side and takes you deeper into the Old Town to one of the mosques and a nice fountain. It is definitely a site you want to visit in Ohrid, but be aware that on weekends it is super crowded. By the way, there are a lot of gypsy kids walking between the cafes’ tables and asking for money, so watch your things. 

Ohrid is famous for their pearls and they are owned by many celebrities and heads of state. In fact, even Queen Elizabeth has a few strands of Ohrid pearls.

Now, you may be wondering, “If Ohrid is a lake that doesn’t have oysters, how can they have pearls?” Well, it is because Ohrid pearls are not true pearls, but rather a unique type of faux pearl with a closely guarded secret manufacturing process.

In fact, there are only two families in the entire world who know how to make Ohrid pearls, and their shops are right down the street from each other. 

The history is quite interesting. In 1924 a Russian man stationed here knew of a way to make faux pearls by using the scales of a fish endemic to Lake Ohrid. 

The fish is called Plashica, and other than that one ingredient, no one knows the secret to making these pearls.

While you can buy pearl jewelry at plenty of stores, the best place to go is to either the Filevi or Talevi family shops. These are of course the two families that know the secret to making Ohrid pearls and you can avoid buying at a less reputable shop that may get pearls from China. 

The people in North Macedonia love Lake Ohrid not just because the water is extremely clean, but because it has a few endemic fish which are culinary specialties.One of them is plashica, a small fish that is usually served deep fried and cost around 300 denars ($6) per plate and from the scales of which the Ohrid pearls are made. The other one is Ohrid trout. 

Due to overfishing, Ohrid trout is endangered at the moment, but even so, you can still find this dish on the menus of many Ohrid restaurants. I guess people are allowed to catch a certain amount of this fish. The price per kilogram of Ohrid trout is 2400 denars ($48), so your baked trout can cost around 1000 denars ($20), since one fish is around 300 – 400 grams. You need to try Ohrid trout not because this fish is endangered, but because it is really delicious. 

A small tip for you: while you are travelling in North Macedonia and going to the city, you should also visit the city of Struga. Restaurants there are half the price and just as good as in Ohrid. 

Have a Boat Tour Around Ohrid Lake

One of the popular activities in Ohrid is a boat tour around the lake. Unfortunately, because we traveled to Ohrid in the middle of winter, it was quite cold for a boat tour at that time. 

Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest lakes in the world. It has crystal clear water and a few isolated beaches that you can only get to by boat and enjoy some time away from summer crowds.

Find a Cute Beach Side and Have a Swim in Ohrid Lake

Most locals come to the city of Ohrid for some rest and relaxation. Lake Ohrid has a few nice beaches that are as good as the beaches on the sea line. 

This is the main resort city of the whole country and a favorite place of locals to spend their summer weekends. Therefore you should do as the locals and have a few nice relaxing days at the lake. 

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megscoffeebreak | 7th Feb 21

This is a great post! I really enjoyed reading x

Alona Tiunina | 8th Feb 21

Thank you so much! I am glad you liked it!

Suzie Provo | 7th Sep 21

Great post with lots of good info! I am going to Ohrid this month (Sept.) with a small tour company. Glad to have some history and background for my adventures there!

Alona Tiunina | 8th Sep 21

Thank you for your feedback! I am very glad it is helpful.

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Visit Lake Ohrid in Macedonia With This Complete Guide

Posted by Di Minardi | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links.

Macedonia isn’t a super popular travel destination in Europe but there are some hidden gems in the country and Lake Ohrid is definitely one of them.

Lake Ohrid is one of the best places to visit in Macedonia because it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few in the world that is both a natural world heritage site (the lake itself) and a cultural world heritage site (the Old Town).

The beautiful lake is also on the border with Albania, so it’s also easy to combine with a trip to Theth in Albania’s Accursed Mountains.

This little gem on the water is a perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a few drinks while swimming under the sun. If you want to visit Lake Ohrid on your next trip to the Balkans, don’t hesitate to add it to the itinerary.

Ready to go? Make the most of your visit with this complete guide to Lake Ohrid!

How to Get to Lake Ohrid

Determining how to get to Lake Ohrid all depends on which city you’re coming from.

If you want to learn how to get from Sofia to Lake Ohrid,  click the link to see my detailed guide.

To get to Lake Ohrid from Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, it’s much easier. Simply check this timetable and then go to the Skopje bus station for the one that suits you best. The bus ride is a bit over 3 hours long and costs 520 denars / about 10 usd.

To get to Lake Ohrid from Tirana, you can buy a bus ticket on the route that eventually goes all the way from Tirana to Skopje (which is where we were heading).

You can buy the tickets from Drita Tours, an agency located behind the large International Hotel in the center square.

The bus leaves every day at 4pm and 7pm. Just be warned that this route takes forever .

We went from Tirana to Durres (on the coast) and then s l o w  l y made our way to Struga. The border crossing required a personal search of each bag and we all had to get off the bus which took another 45 minutes.

Finally, we arrived in Struga, which is where you’ll get off to go to Ohrid. From here, it’ll be another 20 minute taxi ride (and should cost about 10 to 12 usd) to get to the lake.

Having inadvertently went to Lake Ohrid from both Skopje and Tirana (don’t ask), I can strongly suggest that the trip is much faster and better on the Macedonia side.

If you can schedule your itinerary to go from Skopje to Lake Ohrid to Tirana instead of the other way around it will definitely be better.

What to Do When You Visit Lake Ohrid

Ok, you made it to your destination!

Now, what should you do when you visit Lake Ohrid? I have all the answers for ya right here.

Chill on the Water

The best thing to do when you visit Lake Ohrid is to simply relax.

My favroite place to do that during our 3 night stay was at Cuba Libre Beach Bar . It’s about a 15 minute walk from the center and here they have lounge chairs on a dock on the water and a restaurant serving food and drinks.

You can show up the morning to get a lounge chair or reserve yours the day before. From here you can jump off the dock to cool off when you get too hot and they have everything you need, including wifi and clean bathrooms, for a great day.

The cost is 200 denar / 4 usd for a bed and umbrella for the day and it’s totally worth it.

Also, the food was surprisingly good (I mean, it was totally average but that was better than I expected) and the prices were great.

Mixed drinks and food started at 250 denar / 5 usd and beers were only 110 denar / 2 usd. In total for coffee, lunch, sun beds and plenty of beers for two we spent 2700 denar / 50 usd at Cuba Libre. I thought it was a pretty good deal for a full day!

Go on an Adventure

If laying in the sun all day isn’t for you there are also more adventurous activities available in Lake Ohrid.

If you’re looking for more, paragliding trips are easy to organize directly at Cuba Libre, or you can rent scooters, bikes, or kayaks from agencies in the center, get a paddle boat for only 200 denar / 4 usd per hour to explore the lake, or take boat tours on the water.

Take a Boat Trip to the St. Naum Monastery

On our third day, we decided it was time to switch it up a bit and visit the St. Naum Monastery .

This required a 1.5 hour boat ride and you can buy tickets directly on the dock in the main square. They cost 600 denar / 11 usd per person and the boats leave at 10 am every day.

The ride is nice and we arrived to the monastery around 11:30.

It has an old painted chapel and a lot of peacocks running around the grounds. After that, we ate lunch at Ostrovo with a table right on the water and then took a short boat ride into the fresh water springs. The cost was 200 denar / 4 usd per person and was definitely worth it.

It felt like I was exploring a long lost jungle and the color of the water was gorgeous.

Finally, we finished our day trip laying on the beach under a tree and reading until it was time to go. The boat left at 3 and with an extra stop at the Bay of Bones museum on the way back we returned to Lake Ohrid around 5 pm.

Explore the Old Town

The Old Town was built around 800 AD and is quite beautiful to walk around in.

There’s not a ton to actually do in it but it’s great for photography and has lots of cute little restaurants to sit down in for a bite to eat.

In the Old Town one of the main attractions is the National Museum and you can visit a workshop for handmade paper as well.

Catch the Sunset at the Church of St. John

How beautiful is this place? It was right by our Airbnb and is an easy walk from the Old Town.

We went for sunset and the view of the water and the chapel and the sun sinking behind the mountains was great. Afterward, walk a few steps down the coast for dinner at Kaneo (I’ll get to that soon!) and you’ll have a perfect night.

Where to Stay When You Visit Lake Ohrid

When you visit Lake Ohrid you can either stay in the center area or the Old Town area. They’re about a 15-minute walk apart and it just depends on what you’re looking for.

We stayed in the Old Town at an Airbnb and had amazing views from the balcony.

If you want to be closer to the lake and the bars and restaurants then staying downtown will be better for you. Whichever you choose you really can’t go wrong and they’re so close together that the decision won’t have a huge impact on your stay either way.

Click here to book your stay in Lake Ohrid .

Where to Eat When You Visit Lake Ohrid

Now for my favorite category: food! If you visit Lake Ohrid you’re in for a treat because the food is great.

I was surprised because usually small touristy towns are overpriced and the food is disappointing but not Lake Ohrid… if you know where to go that is.

We stayed for three days and stopped here every single day for breakfast. Fruit Box is just that good.

They have tons of different smoothies on the menu, both fruit and protein, and have these small little chocolatey breakfast balls that are only 30 denar each as well. The smoothies were super cheap and were a perfect refreshing start to our hot days under the sun.

Dr. Falafel

This place is amazing.

It’s a tiny little Turkish restaurant tucked in at the far end of the pedestrian street. Their menu is small, which is always a good sign, and we each got the falafel plate. It included bread, hummus, six falafel balls and an array of veggies for only 170 denar / 3 usd. So filling, so flavorful, so cheap.

That’s my kind of meal.

Kaneo Retsaurant

Kaneo was my favorite restaurant and if you visit Lake Ohrid definitely don’t miss it. It’s located right by the Church of St. John, so it’s perfect to combine some sunset pictures at the church with dinner at Kaneo.

Here I strongly recommend the truffle gnocchi (I love truffle) and a dish called “trout in prison.”

Both were made with homemade pasta and were just so delicious. Plus, for the quality and view the price was great. Meals cost between 300 and 500 denar / around 5 to 10 usd and the mojitos were spectacular as well.

Visit Lake Ohrid With This Complete Guide

Our 3 night / 4 day stay in Lake Ohrid was everything I wanted and more.

The water was cold and refreshing, the food was hot and tasty, and the vibe was just right. Lively but relaxing is exactly what I need on vacation and Lake Ohrid definitely delivered.

If you’re considering a visit to Lake Ohrid, book it. This is one of the most beautiful places in Macedonia and has everything you need for a perfect vacation!

Ready to go?

Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights to Skopje and explore accommodation like unique stays on Airbnb or the top-rated hotels on Booking.com to plan the perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay at Lake Ohrid!

This article is part of the Mesmerizing Macedonia series. Read the rest below:

How to Get from Sofia to Lake Ohrid by Bus

How to Spend 24 Hours in Skopje, the Strangest City in the Balkans

The Complete Guide to Craft Beer in Skopje

How to Get From Lake Ohrid to Tirana

Then, explore the complete Macedonia series for more insider tips on what to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in the country.

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Ohrid Town, North Macedonia: Travel Guide

1. introduction, 2. ohrid town, ohrid town centre, tsar samoil's fortress, the churches & roman theatre, a walk around ohrid town, 3. a half day excursion to the monastery of sv naum, 4. accommodation in ohrid town, 5. links to my other blogs on north macedonia.

Despite some unsettled weather we really liked Ohrid Town and Lake Ohrid. Ohrid Town is an attractive town with a lot of character. With its picturesque lake setting it would be a great place to spend a week sightseeing and swimming in the summer.

When we were there in early May the accommodation was cheap and meals were reasonably priced. See my blogs Serbia to North Macedonia - Week 3 and North Macedonia to Greece - Week 4 .

It would probably be more expensive in peak season. I am sure Lake Ohrid would be a very popular vacation destination for North Macedonians in the summer.

Some of the main things to do when staying in Ohrid Town are:

Wandering around the streets of historic Ohrid Town.

Walking on the walls of Tsar Samoil's fortress.

Visiting the Roman theatre.

Visiting 4 historic churches, some dating back to the Byzantine era.

Walking along the lakeside promenade south of Ohrid Town.

An excursion to the monastery of SV Naum on the Albanian border.

Beaches and swimming in Lake Ohrid in summer. We weren't there in summer unfortunately!

A day trip to the towns of Struga, Kalista and Radozda on the north western side of Lake Ohrid.

Ohrid Town's main shopping street is Makedonski Prosvetiteli which runs north from the quay. Ohrid Town's historic centre is to the west of this main street and it is an enjoyable area to explore.

It is a pleasant walk along the promenade on Lake Ohrid which begins at the south end of Makedonski Prosvetiteli. It extends several kilometres southwards past what used to be Tito's summer residence.

The fortress was built in the late 10th century by the Bulgarian Tsar but was extensively restored in 2003. There are very few buildings within the castle walls. The main reason to visit is to walk along the top of the walls and the towers. There are good views of Ohrid Town and Lake Ohrid.

It cost Eur 2 to enter the fortress. There is a sign at the entrance warning that the steps and walls can be slippery. It was raining when we went and it was very slippery.

Ohrid Town has three beautiful churches dating back to the Byzantine era.

The 13th century Church of St John at Kaneo has a spectacular setting but it attracts a lot of tour groups. A board walk on the lake leads from Ohrid Town, skirting around the cliff edge. There is an entry fee of Eur 2 but a Tripadvisor review stated that it wasn't worth it.

The Church St Sophia is an important 10th century Macedonian church. It was converted to a mosque in Ottoman times and the Byzantine frescoes were whitewashed. The frescoes have since been restored and are the main reason to see the interior. The entrance fee is Eur 3.

The Church of Holy Mary Peryvleptos was built in 1295 and has some very beautiful old frescoes. There is an entrance fee of Eur 3 and reviews indicate that it is worth seeing the interior.

The Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon looks old and fascinating from a distance but it was actually constructed recently. There had been an ancient church on this site but the Ottoman Turks converted it into a mosque. The mosque became dilapidated and it was replaced by a new one at the beginning of the 17th century. In 2000 the mosque was demolished and replaced with this church.

There is an entry fee of Eur 3. I don't think the interior of the church is particularly worth seeing as it is so new.

The Roman theatre was built in 200 B.C. It was buried after the fall of the Roman empire and only discovered in the 1980s. Entry is free.

You can do a circular walk around the north side of Ohrid Town which takes about an hour.

Start at the Quay in Ohrid Town and walk westward along the Lake Ohrid towards the Church of St John. When you reach the church walk up the hill and follow the paved path northwards around the hill above Lake Ohrid.

Stay high on the hill and don't take the path descending to Lake Ohrid. Later on follow a path eastwards which will take you to a road running north of the fortress. After the fortress you will be able to turn southwards back into Ohrid Town and descend back to the lakeshore.

3. Half Day Excursion to the Monastery of Sv Naum

It is a half an hour drive from Ohrid Town to the Monastery which is very near the Albanian border. You could stop off on the way at Pestani, The Bay of Bones and Trpejca but they aren't anything special. The Bay of Bones Museum looks like a tourist trap.

There is a large car park at the monastery charging Eur 0.60 and there are toilets nearby for a similar small charge.

There are boat trips from Ohrid Town to the monastery that cost Eur 25. There used to be a daily ferry costing Eur 10 but I am not sure it still runs. If you are driving I suggest you come early in the morning to avoid the visitors arriving by boat.

The interior of the monastery's 16th century church is very beautiful and worth seeing. There is a small entrance fee. The grounds around the monastery are extensive and there are peacocks roaming around.

It is commercialised. There are shops lining the path from the car park to the church and there is a hotel and restaurant in the grounds. One of Lake Ohrid's best beaches is located at the monastery so take your swimming gear if the weather is good. It will be a popular location in the summer.

It doesn't take long to see the main church at the monastery. Some people spend a few hours there wandering around the grounds, seeing the other churches, swimming in Lake Ohrid, renting a row boat etc. We only spent an hour there as it wasn't summer.

We stayed in a 2 bedroom apartment that was a 10 minute walk into Ohrid Town along Lake Ohrid. We booked it through Booking.com and paid Eur 36 per night. I have reviewed the accommodation on my blog " UK to Greek Islands Accommodation - Part 1 " (number 11).

Tetovo & Skopje, Macedonia: Travel Guide

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Your Everything-To-Know Guide To Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia

It’s not much of an exaggeration that we wanted to visit North Macedonia because of Lake Ohrid in the first place. (And because 85% of its territory is covered in mountains in the second place.) Is it really that beautiful? Yes, it is! We’ve seen quite some amazing lakes, and it’s not that easy to knock us off our feet anymore, but Lake Ohrid managed to do just that.

We spent an entire week there, slowly exploring the area and the beaches. Whether you have a week or less, this post helps you choose the sights and activities that’ll make your visit unforgettable, too. So let’s see the best things to do in Ohrid – the town and the lake.

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What to do in Ohrid?

Ohrid is not only the name of the lake, it’s the name of a city, too. Together they were accepted as Cultural and Natural World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. We definitely recommend having the old town of Ohrid as your base while visiting the area, because it’s undoubtedly the most impressive place to stay!

Best place to stay in Ohrid :

• luxury : Hotel Aleksandrija (central location, easy access to Ohrid Old Town)
• mid-range : Apartments Kanevce Beach & Relax (central location, easy access to Ohrid Old Town)
• budget : Apartment Ain Naum (great location)

But what to see there? If you’ve seen any pictures of North Macedonia ever, there’s a high chance it was one with the Church of St. John at Kaneo (or Sveti Jovan Kaneo in Macedonian), overlooking Ohrid lake:

Familiar? Among many other Macedonian Orthodox churches, St. John at Kaneo is located in Ohrid, and it offers the best views. You can take a look at its tiny interior for a small fee, but it’s the outside views that are truly astonishing! Several terraces look over the pure blue water of the lake, and you can walk up to the viewpoint above the church for that iconic view.

Best walking trails in Ohrid: the Old City Park

Once you’re up there, you’ll notice that trails continue further into the Old City Park, and it’s worth exploring them! Our favorite trail was the one running along the edge of the hill. In addition to those amazing lake views, it also gives access to secluded Labino Beach. It’s not really a hike, because it’s quite short and easy, but it’s as close to a hiking trail as you find in Ohrid town.

The trail in the center took us to 10 th -century Tsar Samuel’s Fortress through the quiet pine forest.

Best churches in Ohrid

The legend says that Ohrid once had one church for each day of the year. The number today is significantly smaller than 365, but we still found a surprising number of churches there, and it felt like we bumped into one wherever we walked in Ohrid.

Church of St. John at Kaneo has undoubtedly the best views, but there are some more special ones. Like the Church of St. Sophia with its pretty garden. It was actually converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire, and the same happened to the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon that dates back to the 9 th century.

The Mother of God Perybleptos church is close to the Upper Gate of the old town, and the square in front of it treated us with lovely views of Samuel’s Fortress and the old town from above.

Cobblestone streets and ruins of the old town

The Upper Gate is the best preserved of the gates that lead to the narrow streets of Ohrid old town. It’s built on a hill, and every street ends up at the lakeshore at some point.

The ancient theatre of Ohrid is not far from the Upper Gate either, and it dates back to 200 BC. Once it was home to performances and gladiator fights, then it was used for executions, and then was abandoned for a long time. Now it’s nicely renovated, and energetic little toddlers (like ours… khm) enjoy climbing its steps.

We also liked the Ohrid Boardwalk over the lake that connects the old town with Potpesh Beach . This small, pebbly beach is worth a visit, anyway, both for swimming and sunset views. It’s one of the best beaches in Ohrid, quickly accessible from the old town.

Ohrid waterfront

As for sunset views, there’s another perfect place to enjoy them: the pier and the waterfront promenade of Ohrid . It’s already outside of the old town, and this means you’ll have views of both the lake sunset and the old town.

This is the place you surely won’t miss, because it’s the main walking street and the busiest shopping street in Ohrid. That’s precisely the reason we didn’t like it that much, but it has one good thing: it ends at the waterfront promenade. 🙂

The best beach in Ohrid town: Labino Beach

Between the port of Ohrid and the Church of St. John at Kaneo you found several small public beaches. But our favorite was a bit beyond the church, accessible from the pathway running along the cliffs in the Old City Park. It led us down to Labino Beach, a secluded pebbly beach that was solely ours.

Best beaches at Lake Ohrid

When it comes to our absolute favorite Lake Ohrid beaches though, they’re all a bit further from Ohrid town. Drive about 20-40 minutes southwards from there, and you’ll stumble upon bays that remind you of the Adriatic Sea, and can choose from a wide selection of the most stunning beaches!

Gradishte beach

Gradishte beach consists of four crystal clear, perfectly turquoise bays, and they were our absolute favorites! The beach belongs to the Gradishte campground, but anyone can access it. At the camping entrance there’s a gate that the kind receptionist opened for us, and when we asked him if we could just visit the beach, he said “Sure” with a big smile. We were charged no entry fee or parking fee, but parking space for daytime visitors is limited. It wasn’t a problem for us as our car was the only one when we arrived, but it might be busier towards mid-summer.

The four bays are separated by large rock boulders, and water boardwalks were built around the rocks so that you can walk from one to the other. You can also find bars and deck chairs at each bay.

The color of the water is incredible, and to get the best views of the bays, walk up to the small hill on the southern peninsula of the campground, and take your seat on one of the benches . And enjoy one of the best lake views in North Macedonia.

Also, Gradishte beach was the only Lake Ohrid beach where we haven’t seen any trash on the beach. Sadly, on other beaches we found empty cans, plastic bags or bottles. Sometimes they were collected into one pile and tucked behind a tree or bush, sometimes a few were just buried in the sand. It’s just disappointing. Not the beaches, they were still beautiful, but can’t we all just take better care of them? If you could bring a bottle of anything, you can surely take it home with you, too, even if there’s no trash can.

Hidden bays after the Bay of Bones

As far as we know these bays don’t even have names. But beaches without names should be fabulous, shouldn’t they? (They are!)

How to find them? Park at the dirt/grassy area right after the Bay of Bones parking lot. You’ll immediately find yourself on the top of a rocky plateau that offers amazing views of Lake Ohrid. Once you walk around, you’ll notice that some paths don’t lead to a viewpoint, but down to a small, pebbly cove. We found three of them, two very small ones, and one that’s suitable for several families. Feel free to choose yours.

Trpejca beach

Nicknamed as the “Saint-Tropez of Lake Ohrid”, Trpejca beach has truly romantic views. It’s a long, pebbly bay with some cliffs in the water. It’s accessible by stairs, and you need to park your car in the parking area at the top of the stairs. Or on any of the streets where there’s space.

Ljubanista beach

It’s also a bay that belongs to a campground but accessible for anyone. We parked our car in the paved area before the entrance gate. The long pebbly-sandy beach is backed up by lush green hills, and there’s a beach bar, as well.

The first beach in Lagadin

Or we should say right before Lagadin, if you drive from Ohrid. We don’t know if it has a name, but you can park your car in a paved parking area before the signpost that indicates the town of Lagadin. A few steps take you down to the beach from there.

Barely anyone knows about this lovely, pebbly bay which has clear, beautifully blue water, and trees give some shade on the beach. Lake Ohrid is truly among the most stunning lakes in North Macedonia.

Bay of the Bones: a unique open-air museum

The best museum we visited in North Macedonia? The Bay of the Bones at Lake Ohrid. On Lake Ohrid, I should say, because it’s a museum built on water. To be fair, I also need to add that this was the only actual museum we visited in the country, because this was one that all three of us could enjoy.

Our almost-2 years old Tomi is way too young for museums, but the Bay of the Bones made him excited. It’s a reconstruction of a prehistoric pile dwelling settlement , and he liked peeking into the houses and spotting fish in the water under our feet. If you’re more adventurous, you can sign up for a scuba dive to the underwater archeological site of the original settlement.

North of the reconstructed village there are ruins of a Roman fortress on top of a hill. While the ruins are probably not the most astonishing you’ve ever seen, we got stunning views of Lake Ohrid and the green mountains of Galičica, so they were definitely worth the walk. (And that’s where we spotted the turquoise bays of Gradishte, and we liked the views so much that we visited the beach the following day.)

Monastery of Saint Naum

This is the only thing we missed at Lake Ohrid. It’s a huge miss as this Orthodox monastery established in 905 is one of the most attractive sights in the country, and also a popular day trip from Ohrid.

Why did we not visit it then? We just felt it would have been too much for us with Tomi. He’s (understandably) not interested in visiting a monastery, he’s too young to comply with rules, and we didn’t want to spend our time looking after him instead of enjoying our visit. The days we spent at Lake Ohrid were hot, anyway, so we thought that the whole family would have much more fun on the beach. The beach it was, and no regrets there.

Despite the fact that all we’re able to tell you about this monastery is our reasons not to visit it, we encourage you to do so nevertheless. 🙂 You can also take a boat ride to the source of Lake Ohrid from the monastery grounds.

Hiking in Galičica National Park above Lake Ohrid

When it comes to hiking in Ohrid, your best bet is visiting nearby Galičica National Park. Galičica Mountains tower above Ohrid lake, and some local companies offer guided hikes, but you can also hike there on your own. Trail maps are posted at most trailheads, and trails start from the towns of Peshtani, Elshani or Trpejca, and along road P504.

P504 is a zigzagging road that took us through the park, and it connects Lake Ohrid with Lake Prespa. It’s a toll road, the road quality is varying from good to still acceptable, but the views are great! The famous trail to Magaro peak also starts along this road, and it was the only longer hike we’ve done in the park.

It’s an amazing, 7 kilometres scenic loop trail that took us through wildflower meadows and snow fields, and rewarded us with a panorama of the two large lakes and all the mountains of Galičica below us.

Read this, too: Complete Guide To Galičica National Park, North Macedonia

Where to stay in Ohrid

Ohrid old town is the best place to stay and use as a base to walk in town and explore the rest of Lake Ohrid.

Best luxury hotel: Hotel Aleksandrija is a 4-star hotel on the lakeshore of beautiful Ohrid lake. The location is excellent, even though it’s not inside the old town, it’s right by the lower gate. The waterfront promenade is also a few steps away. It offers spacious, elegantly furnished rooms, with breakfast upon request.

Best mid-range accommodation : Located next to the Church of Saint Sophia in the old town and connected to Potpesh Beach by a scenic boardwalk, the Apartments Kanevce Beach & Relax are great for those looking for a comfortable self-catering accommodation. It has a garden with a terrace, and you can rent bikes, too.

Best budget accommodation: Apartment Ain Naum is a few streets further from the lakeshore, but it still has a great location in the old town, and you can enjoy nice lake views from the balcony. The apartment is spacious, clean and has excellent guest reviews.

Parking and road tolls

First of all, the only toll road is P504 through Galičica National Park. North Macedonia has motorways, but they don’t reach Lake Ohrid. That also means you shouldn’t expect a motorway quality road. The road along the lakeshore is fine, but narrow and has lots of curves, so drive carefully. However, if you’re not the one driving, you can enjoy the nice views.

Parking is only a problem in Ohrid. You’re not allowed to drive into the old town – unless your apartment owns a space that you can use. Since the old town of Ohrid is the best place to stay, we recommend booking accommodation with free parking there.

Otherwise, paved or dirt parking lots are free to use on the lakeshore, and you can also park on the streets in the smaller towns if there’s enough space. Parking fee is charged at the Monastery of Saint Naum though , where you can use a large, paved parking lot in front of the building complex.

So… are you ready for a visit? What else would you like to know?

Read more about what to see and do in North Macedonia:

• 9 Things To Know Before Traveling To North Macedonia
• Your Guide To Pelister National Park, North Macedonia
• Your Guide To Mavrovo National Park, North Macedonia

Disclosure: Please note that affiliate links are used in this post, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase. If you are ready to book your trip and would like to support this website in some way, here’s your chance. Thank you! 🙂

Related articles:

Your Guide To Galičica National Park, North Macedonia

Where To Stay In Skopje, North Macedonia?

10 Things To Know Before Visiting North Macedonia

By beata urmos.

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

Across the courtyard from the Holy Mother of God Perivleptos (Sveta Bogorodica Perivleptos) church is the Museum of Icons. Don’t miss it! Nothing like it it this side of Moscow! If it is closed when you get there, go back.

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13 Best Things To Do In Ohrid North Macedonia [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 38 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Lake Ohrid is one of the most famous lakes you can visit in Europe. It’s thanks to its  rich history ,  spectacular scenery , and  beautiful monasteries . I keep having some of the best memories as this place took my breath away during my visit. It’s so unique in a way. I spent 3 days exploring Ohrid and the entire area around the lake and fell in love .

In this article, I’ll tell you about the  13 best things to do in Ohrid and around . So choose one or two and enjoy your time in Ohrid and at the oldest lake in Europe – Lake Ohrid.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Interesting Facts About Ohrid & Lake Ohrid

💡 It’s the oldest lake in Europe 💡 Lake Ohrid is also one of the deepest lakes in Europe 💡 It’s famous for Cyril and Methodius, who invented Cyrillic Alphabeth here in the St. Naum Monastery 💡 It’s home to two endemic fish species: Plashica & Ohrid Trout 💡 Ohrid town hosts 365 monasteries , one for each day of a year

List Of The 13 Best Things To Do In Ohrid & Map

1. Stroll Through The Streets Of Ohrid Old Town 2. Can You Find 365 Monasteries? 3. Walk Alongside Ohrid Boardwalk 4. Enjoy Views Of Monastery Of St. John The Theologian 5. Visit Church of St. Clement and Panteleimon 6. Explore Samuel’s Fortress 7. Shop For Ohrid Pearls 8. Take a Panoramic Boat Tour Around Ohrid 9. Relax on a beach & swim 10. Visit St. Naum Monastery 11. Explore Bay Of Bones 12. Go Hiking 13. Drive around Lake Ohrid

1. Stroll Through The Streets Of Ohrid Old Town

Ohrid town is the most popular destination to visit around Lake Ohrid. It offers many attractions and activities with  local restaurants ,  bars ,  bakeries , and  shops . It’s also the best  place to stay overnight  and a great base to explore Lake Ohrid.

The town is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe.

Stroll through its streets and admire the beautiful whitewashed buildings with wooden decorations from the 17th Century.

➡ Book this wine tasting tour in a local monastery as part of your Ohrid exploration.

2. Can You Find 365 Monasteries?

Many travelers, especially those with a religious purpose for their visit, come to this town to see at least a few of the  365 monasteries . If you can find all of them during your visit to this small town, let me know in the comments below. I think I haven’t counted more than 20.

Locals say they have  one monastery for each day of the year . Therefore, the Ohrid town is also called the  ‘Jerusalem of the Balkans.’

3. Walk Alongside Ohrid Boardwalk

Walking on Ohrid’s Boardwalk was one of my favorite activities to do in the town. You’ll be walking on Lake Ohrid and enjoy stunning views of the entire area.

It runs below the Varosh neighborhood and ends at the iconic Monastery of St. John The Theologian. There are fishermen , so go ahead and ask them about local life.

My tip is to walk on the boardwalk just before the sunset . Then, you can finish at the monastery, sit nearby, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the sun setting at the lake’s horizon.

4. Enjoy Views Of Monastery Of St. John The Theologian

This Macedonian Orthodox church is one of the most beautiful in the city, right on the shore of Lake Ohrid. Archaeologists claim it was constructed around the 13th century , even before the Ottomans took over the area.

Later in the 20th century , archaeologists found many frescos inside the church dating back to the Byzantine times.

Sometimes, you might also see the name ‘ St. John at Kaneo ‘, so don’t get confused.

5. Visit Church of St. Clement and Panteleimon

Another iconic church in Ohrid lies close to the City Park . Visit the Church of St. Clement and admire its beautiful icons and frescos.

When St. Clement came to the city, Boris I of Bulgaria asked him to restore a very old church in the area.

So he did, and ever since, the church has been named after him. Later, it was severely damaged by the Ottomans . So, what you can see today is a complete restoration.

I loved the atmosphere of the church and its area. It’s worth the visit. You can buy tickets on the spot .

👉 READ ALSO: 13 Most Beautiful Places In North Macedonia To Visit

6. Explore Samuel’s Fortress

This Fortress is perhaps my favorite place in the town. I loved the stunning views of the entire lake. I even took some shots with my drone for you guys to see. It’s stunning.

Samuel’s Fortress was the main base and the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire during the reign of Tsar Samuel of Bulgaria. He ruled the empire from here in the 11th century .

After, it was abandoned and served as a hiding place, or just remained a pride of Ohrid. Nowadays, you can walk alongside the Fortress’s walls and learn about the history of the place.

You can buy tickets on the spot .

PRO TIP: After your visit, stop at the Fort Cafe and treat yourself to a coffee and some sweets. This cafeteria has a unique atmosphere.

7. Shop For Ohrid Pearls

Ohrid is also famous for its beautiful Ohrid Pearls that you can only find in this area. They’re made from the fish scale Plasica , an endemic fish species that you can find only in Lake Ohrid. Locals name it Ohridski Biseri.

It’s then covered in a ground shell , which makes the pearls beautiful and shiny.

The truth is, there are only a few places where you can buy original and real Ohrid Pearls . Many places here sell fake ones. One of the best places with a family tradition to buy them is  Filevi – Ohridski Biseri Filevi Dr. Pavel Filev .

FUN FACT: I bought a necklace from a local grandma to support her 😀 (with fake ones on purpose, because I wouldn’t like to be robbed as a traveler). I made it my travel necklace , so I always wear it while traveling. It always reminds me of this special place .

8. Take a Panoramic Boat Tour Around Ohrid

Another great way to explore Ohrid is to see it from a boat. Join this guided tour on a boat and see the most iconic sights from the lake.

Learn about the history from your captain’s perspective, and see sights like St. John The Theologian Church, the Church of Saint Clement, and even the Caves of Love.

If you want to make a bigger tour around the lake , go directly to the  Port of Ohrid , where locals advertise all boat tours. Talk to more people and decide which boat trip is best for you.

➡ Book this panoramic tour of Ohrid with an English speaking guide.

9. Relax On A Beach & Swim

Lake Ohrid is one of the best places for relaxation and vacation . The water is calm, and it’s the perfect place to go swimming. If you want to go for a swim, I recommend heading to the Old Swimming Court . It has a small pier from which you can access the water.

If you want to relax on a beach , I recommend Voena Plazha Beach . It’s slightly further away from the town, but the beaches in the center are super small and often crowded. Also, the water is not the cleanest right in the center.

10. Visit St. Naum Monastery

St. Naum Monastery belongs to one of the most important spots in  European history . The two brothers , Cyril and Methodius , Byzantine Christian theologians and missionaries from Thessaloniki (Greece), invented the  Cyrillic Alphabet  and started their first teachings.

They did so as they were sent on a mission to  spread Christianity further to Eastern Europe , particularly Moravia, now a region in the Czech Republic next to Slovakia.

However, they first had to  translate the Bible for the Slavic people  to understand their religion. To make it easier for the Slavs, they  invented a brand new writing system  – the Cyrillic alphabet.

During their teachings in Eastern Europe, they taught Slavs important religious aspects, including the alphabet. Nowadays, the  Cyrillic script  is the official writing system of various languages in Eurasia.

How To Get To St. Naum Monastery

The best way to get to the St. Naum Monastery is with an organized boat tour or a car . You can also take a taxi if you don’t mind paying more for the ride.

✅ Organized Boat Tour To St. Naum: 10 EUR (roundtrip), leaves from Port of Ohrid ✅ Taxi: Drivers ask for 1200 Denars, which is a lot – negotiate to at least 900 Denars.

👉 READ ALSO: How To Get Around North Macedonia – learn how to negotiate with taxi drivers

Best Things To Do At St. Naum Monastery

You can do more things once you’re at the monastery, apart from visiting it. It’s a nice area worth spending at least half a day:

• St. Naum Monastery
• Relax on a beach & swim in Lake Ohrid
• Visit Ohrid Springs by a boat
• Do shopping at the local markets

11. Explore Bay Of Bones

One thing you definitely shouldn’t miss when visiting Lake Ohrid is the open-air museum in the Bay of Bones .

It houses a collection of animal remains and fragmented vessels that archaeologists found in Lake Ohrid. You’ll enjoy seeing those artifacts from the Bronze and Iron Ages .

So visit the museum and have a drink after to enjoy the stunning views. The museum is all built on the water , which makes it even more special.

12. Go Hiking

Another exciting thing you can do in Ohrid is to go hiking. If your feet want more adventure, like mine, walk the hiking trails in the nearby Galicica National Park .

One of the easier hikes is to walk from Ohrid to Ramme village , then continue to Velestovo village , and come back to Ohrid. You can stop in the villages and experience local life .

If you want to challenge yourself, hike to the highest mountain called Mt. Magaro . Or walk across the Magaro Pass. First, you’ll start at Stenje (as the Lake Pespa), walk through the Lipova – Vrv Magaro , and then descend to Trpejca at Lake Ohrid.

The views from these hiking trails are breathtaking.

👉 READ ALSO: Matka Canyon: All You Need To Know For Your Visit

13. Drive Around Lake Ohrid

Another thing you can do is to  rent a car , if you already don’t have one, and  drive around Lake Ohrid . You’ll even be  crossing the border  twice . Once from North Macedonia to Albania and then again when getting back to North Macedonia in the southern part.

Ask at the Albanian border for a  stamp on your passport . Crossing the border is relatively easy. You don’t need anything special, just don’t forget to  take your passport .

On the Albanian side of Lake Ohrid, you’ll pass through  Pogradec , which also has  great beaches  and a few resorts. You can stop here and relax for a while.

On the way, you’ll pass another big city on the lake, which is  Struga , before making your way back to Ohrid town. Stop in Struga for  lunch  and explore its hidden gems.

Free Things To Do In Ohrid

Ohrid and its lake offer so many free activities that you can enjoy. It’s a great place for everyone on a budget, as you can do almost everything without paying.

These are the best free things in Ohrid:

✅ See Monastery Of St. John The Theologian ✅ Walk around the Church of St. Clement ✅ Visit the City Park ✅ Walk on the Ohrid Boardwalk ✅ Admire Sauel’s Fortress from the outside ✅ Walk through the old streets of Ohrid Old Town ✅ Admire beautiful Ohrid Pearls ✅ Go swimming ✅ Relax on a beach

BONUS: North Macedonia Itinerary 7 – 10 Days

If you want to explore more of North Macedonia, take my North Macedonian itinerary . Choose to spend 7, 8, 9, or 10 days in the country and travel with it.

It includes various things from the capital of Skopje, wine-tasting spots, hiking, and the best cities, and you’ll also make it to Ohrid and Lake Ohrid.

Click on the image below and travel with this itinerary:

Practical Tips For Visiting Ohrid & Lake Ohrid

To help you plan your visit to Ohrid, I’ve got some more tips for you. See when the best time to visit is, how many days to spend, where to eat, and get a 1-day itinerary suggestion from me.

Where Is Ohrid

Ohrid is located in North Macedonia on the Balkan peninsula . It’s a small town in the southwest of North Macedonia, close to Lake Ohrid and Albania . Lake Ohrid , as the border crosses the lake, belongs to North Macedonia and Albania.

You can also make a day trip from Ohrid to Tirana (Albania’s capital) or the nearby Pogradec .

Best Time To Visit Ohrid & Lake Ohrid

The best time to visit Ohrid and Lake Ohrid is June, September, and October . These months are less crowded than the summertime (July and August). Temperatures are also mild and range between 25°C/77°F to 33°C/91°F.

You can enjoy all the activities at this time of the year and even go swimming or relax on a beach.

How Many Days Do You Need In Ohrid?

3 to 5 days is the best time to spend in Ohrid. 3 days is the minimum to explore the city and enjoy the lake.

If you want to make day trips around Lake Ohrid , such as the Bay of Bones , hiking or driving around the lake, I recommend spending 5 days . This way, you’ll soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the lake to the fullest.

How To Get To Ohrid

You can get to Ohrid from various cities in North Macedonia and Albania .

There are many organized tours you can take from Skopje to visit Ohrid for a day or more. You can also take a local bus from Skopje or Bitola and other cities. Check out my article about North Macedonian buses and learn more about traveling by bus to Ohrid.

However, I think the best way to get to Ohrid is to rent a car . It’ll give you a lot of flexibility. Roads are easy to navigate, and you can also drive around the island.

RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ITINERARY

Rent A Car Via Discover Cars – best prices and big selection of car rentals. PRO TIP: Check ratings of the company you choose before booking ( ratings can be off ). Go on Google, see ratings of the car rental company, then book on Discover Cars.

How To Get Around Ohrid

The best way to get around Ohrid and Lake Ohrid is by car . There are not many buses , and it’s not clear when they run. The bus situation is a mess, so we wouldn’t rely on buses.

You can also take a taxi if you don’t mind paying more. Or you can take a boat to the major sights such as the Bay of Bones and St. Naum Monastery.

Overall, the best way is to rent a car for a while days, be flexible, and explore the area on your terms.

Where To Stay In Ohrid

Ohrid has some of the most beautiful apartments in North Macedonia. The villas are beautiful and affordable , and most of them have amazing views.

My tip is to stay in an apartment or Airbnb rather than a hotel . I found that the hotels were average, and you’ll get a much better value from an apartment or an affordable villa with stunning views.

So here are my top 3 apartments I recommend for your stay in Ohrid:

➡ Ohrid Boutique Apartments ➡ Villa Fortezza ➡ Villa Varosh

Where To Eat In Ohrid

I highly recommend having dinner in one of the following restaurants with a lake view. Don’t forget to make a reservation in advance as they are usually fully booked in summer:

• Kaj Kanevche Restaurant
• Kaneo Restaurant

1-Day Itinerary For Ohrid & Lake Ohrid

Visiting the  monastery of St. John ,  the Church of St. Clement and Panteleimon , and  Samuel’s Fortress  has to be definitely on your Ohrid bucket list.

Stroll through the  tiny streets , go inside a shop, and buy the famous  Ohrid pearl .

After, walk alongside the lake on the  Ohrid Boardwalk  until you reach the famous St. John Monastery. After, walk up through the  Old City Park  and stop at the  Church of St. Clement and Panteleimon. Then,  visit  Samuel’s Fortress , with stunning lake views.

Relax in a  cafe at Fort Cafe  before you check out the  Ancient Theatre of Ohrid  and make your way back down to the town. Have a great lunch, and take some rest. Shop for souvenirs on  Old Bazaar Street  and in the old town.

In the afternoon or in the morning, you can visit the St. Naum Monastery and learn about the history and the evolution of the Cyrillic Alphabet.

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand Ohrid and the lake better. Check the answers below.

Is Ohrid Worth A Visit?

Yes , Ohrid is 100% worth visiting . It’s the most beautiful town in North Macedonia with much history and culture. It’s also unique for having 365 monasteries , one for each day of the year. And it’s famous for the Ohrid Pearls that you can buy only in the town.

Can You Swim In Ohrid?

Yes , you can swim in Ohrid. There are a few small beaches such as Beach Potpesh and or Beach Saraiste . However, they’re often very crowded and small . So I suggest swimming further away from the center at Old Swimming Court .

What To Do In Ohrid When It Rains?

You can do everything in Ohrid even if it rains, including visiting its monasteries, Samuel’s Fortress, eating delicious food, and go swimming. Make sure to bring a waterproof jacket , and you can still do all the activities. Don’t let the rain stop you from exploring the town and Lake Ohrid.

WRAP-UP: Visiting Ohrid & Lake Ohrid

These are the best activities you can do in Ohrid and Lake Ohrid. It offers diverse activities, places full of history and culture, and beautiful relaxing spots.

Enjoy your time at the oldest Lake in Europe. Learn a lot about its history and the importance it brought to the world and the entire Europe. It’s a special place, and I’m sure you’ll love it.

If you have any questions or need a customized travel itinerary, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you. Or check out my favorite travel resources and plan by yourself.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For North Macedonia Travel

Looking to visit more places in North Macedonia? Check out my related articles:

Best Of North Macedonia Itinerary 7 – 10 Days

Most Beautiful Places To Visit In North Macedonia

Complete Matka Canyon Guide

North Macedonia Buses: How To Get Around North Macedonia

How To Cross Tushemisht – St. Naum Border

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

NORTH MACEDONIA : Interested in more articles for North Macedonia? Check out my North Macedonia Travel Page :

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Ohrid Travel Guide: The Pearl of Macedonia

December 19, 2023 December 19, 2023 by piriguide

Ohrid is one of the most beautiful cities in the Balkans, and they don’t call it the pearl of the Balkans or even the pearl of Macedonia for nothing. It is as precious, bright, and significant as a pearl. With its deep-rooted history and natural beauties, it is quite rare. In fact, the city is on the UNESCO World Heritage List! First, in 1979, Lake Ohrid, one of Ohrid’s greatest symbols, was added to the list. Later, the historical and natural texture of Ohrid ensured the entire city’s protection under UNESCO.

In this article, we have listed the must visit places in Ohrid for you. But before we start, let’s remind you: Don’t forget to download the Piri Guide mobile app to explore Ohrid step by step with your personal tour guide! 😊

Where is Ohrid?

Ohrid is known as the eighth-largest city in North Macedonia. It is also quite close to the border with Albania, approximately half an hour away. The city is about a three-hour drive from Skopje. It takes its name from the enchanting Lake Ohrid, which is considered one of the most stunning lakes in North Macedonia. Many tourists from landlocked countries without access to the sea, such as Kosovo and Serbia, choose this city region for their vacations.

When to Visit Ohrid?

For those who wish to visit Ohrid, the most suitable period is considered to be April and May. Especially during this time, the heavy rainfall comes to an end, and the temperatures are not excessively high. The festivals organized in these months may also catch your interest. For travelers who do not enjoy crowds and hot weather, visiting Ohrid in September and October, following August, is a more suitable option. The city also attracts attention with winter tourism opportunities. In January, which experiences the coldest temperatures in Ohrid, the average temperature varies between -2 degrees to 5 degrees. Therefore, it is advisable to be prepared when visiting during winter.

The Pearl of Ohrid

One of the most important cultural heritages of this city is its pearl. Over 200 species in the ecosystem of Lake Ohrid are endemic, meaning they exist only in this region. Out of 17 fish species, 10 are found exclusively in Lake Ohrid, with Letnica and belvica being the most famous. However, there is one fish that stands out—the plasica, used in the production of Ohrid pearl. When thinking of Ohrid pearl, don’t immediately picture the pearl that comes from the oyster. Ohrid pearl is made from a fish called plasica. The technology used in the production of this pearl is a family secret, known only to two families in Ohrid: the Filevi family and the Talevi family. A special liquid solution is made from the scales of the plasica fish in Lake Ohrid. This secret liquid solution is considered the key ingredient in the production of the Ohrid pearl.

Places to Visit in Ohrid

We’ve made a list of must-visit places in Ohrid. Yet, we should remind you that you can find more on the P iri Guide mobile app.   Piri Guide  detects your location, offers you the best travel routes, and starts telling you the hidden stories of wherever you are. All you have to do is to get your headphones or earbuds and follow the path at your own pace. Then, don’t set out for your trip before downloading the digital travel guide! 😊

Saints Clement and Panteleimon Church

This is the church where the Cyrillic alphabet was born! Let’s explain right away: Saints Clement and Naum were Byzantine brothers and students of Cyril and Methodius. Cyril and Methodius are known today as the “Leaders of the Slavs.” They are the two most important figures who spread Christianity among the Slavs. They developed the Glagolitic alphabet to write the Old Slavic language. The Cyrillic alphabet was later developed based on the Glagolitic alphabet. Glagolitic is a Slavic alphabet believed to be used by the Bulgarian Slavs living in the Ohrid region. Initially, it was a liturgical script, later used as a cryptographic language or code. Finally, the familiar Cyrillic alphabet emerged.

Saint Clement used the newly built Church of Panteleimon to teach his students Old Church Slavonic and the Glagolitic alphabet. Research indicates that Ohrid native Clement and Naum of Preslav developed the Cyrillic alphabet. After developing the alphabet, Clement named it after his teacher Cyril, and he established the Ohrid Literary School.

After Clement’s death in the 10th century, he was buried inside this church. You can see his tomb inside the church.

Handmade Paper Workshop

The workshop was opened in 2002. Ohrid has been producing paper since the 16th century, following the ancient Chinese tradition of papermaking. The Chinese papermaking tradition reached Europe in the 13th century. They use the essence of the tree in the papermaking process, and in some cases, cotton can be added. For decoration, they utilize natural materials such as flowers, leaves, tobacco, and coffee.

Everything in this small workshop has been produced on a Gutenberg printing press. There are only two copies of the Gutenberg print in Europe, one in Slovenia and the other in Ohrid, where we are exploring today. Inside the workshop, they demonstrate how handmade paper is produced live. Additionally, you can purchase original handmade products.

The Lake Ohrid

Ohrid is known as the “City of Fish,” and it owes its abundance of fish to Lake Ohrid. The nearly 5 million-year-old Lake Ohrid is the oldest and deepest lake in the Balkans. Fifty percent of it is fed by underground springs. The water of Lake Ohrid is very clear, and the locals liken it to tears. They even call it the “Tear of the Eye Lake.” Just as tears cleanse and moisturize the eyes, the lake holds great importance for the people of the city. Throughout history, the waters of this lake have nourished and sustained them.

The Old Bazaar

The Old Bazaar starts from Ohrid city square and the harbor. This bazaar dates back to the Ottoman era, so you can find Turkish restaurants and brands both inside the bazaar and throughout the city. The street within the bazaar is also known as the Turkish Bazaar. There used to be a significant Turkish presence here, but it has decreased over time.

Throughout the bazaar, there are many cafes and restaurants. You can choose one with a view of the lake. Additionally, boutiques, bookstores, and souvenir shops are lined along this bazaar. Those who want to buy gifts for their loved ones should definitely check out the shops in the Old Bazaar.

Bay of the Bones Museum

The Bone Museum, also known as the Bay or Water Museum, is an archaeological complex located along the shore of Ohrid near Gradishte and Ploca Micov Kamen excavation sites. Its history dates back to 1200 to 700 BC. The Ohrid Lake, which is quite shallow at this point, has led to the emergence of a large wooden water museum.

Many consider the Bone Museum to be one of the largest prehistoric pile dwellings. Pile dwellings are simply houses built on the lake. There is a reason why it is called the Bay and the Museum of Bones. Many animal remains have been found at the excavation site. Some were in a fragmented state, but others have been preserved in containers and have reached the present day.

If you’re thinking of seeing Skopje while you’re there, be sure to check out our Skopje travel guide.

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By rental car

At Ohrid's airport, there are 8 car rental services available that you can quickly book at the airport or on the website [dead link] . These include

• Avis ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 2 256 1847 )
• Enterprise ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 70 343 112 ; ☏ +389 78 504 500 )
• Europcar ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 78 20 55 46 )
• Hertz ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 71 446 584 )
• Inter Ways ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 75 404 031 ; ☏ +389 75 404 030 )
• Sharr Express ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 70 209 578 ; ☏ +389 70 389 417 )
• Sixt ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 75 448 902 )
• StarCar [dead link] ( [email protected] ; ☏ +389 75 356 688 ; ☏ +389 76 334 555 ; ☏ +389 71 333 644 )

Aside from the lake, Ohrid is most famous for its ancient churches, basilicas, and monasteries where Saints Kliment and Naum with the help of Bulgarian king Boris I (students of Cyril and Methodus) wrote their teachings and formulated the Cyrillic alphabet used in North Macedonia, as well as neighboring countries Bulgaria, Serbia and Montenegro and as far as Russia, and many of the countries of the former Soviet Union. Most of these churches charge an entry which for tourists is normally double that what locals pay, but is still worth it. It is a good idea to cover up when entering a church, but most locals will understand the inconveniences involved during a hot Macedonian Summer. There is also a wonderful ancient walled fortress at the top of the city.

Fortifications

The old town is circled with walls, which are crowned with Tsar Samuel fortress. The first fortifications were built in the 5th century BC, but the oldest remains preserved are from 3rd century BC. The fortifications were reinforced various times throughout history and what stands today is largely from the 10th century. There used to be four gates to the city: the Lower Gate - you'll reach it soon after you walk from the main square inside the old part of the town on “Car Samoil” street. It used to be the gate through which regular visitors entered the city in the ancient and medieval times, just one tower of it still stands; the Upper Gate - in ancient times it used to be connected with the ancient theatre by portico. It is well preserved due to the reinforcements made in the 16th century; the Front Gate - near St Mary's Celnica Church. It is the main entrance gate but just stands in traces today; and the Water Gate - the entrance in the city from the lake, the place where it used to stand is not known.

Scuba diving

It is possible to scuba dive in lake Ohrid. You have to get to Gradiste, some 15 km south of Ohrid town. At the site is also Bay of Bones, an open air museum of how life used to be here. There is only one scuba diving shop (SSI affiliated), Amfora Diving [dead link] , with the usual choice of courses and diving trips. One dive including rental of all equipment costs €45.

• Ohrid Summer Festival , ☏ +389 46 261 304 , [email protected] . The Ohrid Summer Festival is one of the largest and most important music and drama festivals in North Macedonia. The first concert took place in 1961 in the church of St. Sophia, with its exceptional acoustics. The festival in Ohrid has a particular international flavour because of the participation of a large number of leading musicians and ensembles from the best known European and world music centres. There have been participants from 44 countries. This Festival has a solid reputation as it has gradually become part of the large family of the most famous European music festivals. The Ohrid Summer Festival has its own sound conceptions, and it is able to draw up a musical program that includes artists of world renown. This festival is held each year from July 12 to August 20. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Ohrid Swimming Marathon - Each year, in the second half of July, the swimming elite throughout the world gathers in Ohrid and, starting from the monastery St. Naum, they swim along the Lakeshore to the town harbour, approximately a 30-km route. Since 1998 the Ohrid Swimming Marathon has entered in the World Swimming Club of the 12 worldwide held marathons under the patronage of FINA-The World Swimming Association.
• The Balkan Folklore Festival - Member of the UNESCO Association of The International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folklore Art, and The International Organization for Folklore Art. This festival has so far presented numerous original songs and dances from folk culture for more than 30 years. About 1,200 ensembles with 42,000 members have taken part in the festival.
• Ohrid Calling , Biljanini Izvori Stadium . This electronic dance music festival first began in the early 2010s and has grown each year, drawing some of the biggest names in the genre such as David Guetta, Afrojack, Martin Garrix, and others. It runs for a few days at Biljanini Izvori Stadium around the Ilinden national holiday (August 2). Promotional posters for the event can be seen throughout the country and tickets usually start around 1,000 denars. ( updated May 2019 )
• Kostoski international festivals [1] - they have participants from all over the world, including folklore groups, majorettes, choirs, brass bands, and modern dance ensembles.
• Traditional Macedonian musical instruments, filigree jewelery, woodcarvings, items made from copper, or a CD with authentic Macedonian music , can be brought home to refresh your memories of your visit.

If interested in real Macedonian folk music, ask for music performed by Aleksandar Sarievski, Nikola Badev, Vaska Ilieva, Petranka Kostadinova, Anka Gieva, Jonče Hristovski, Kočo Petrovski... Avoid CDs with modern-day "turbo folk" music (i.e. semi-naked girls with bad voices, singing on techno melodies).

• The Talevi and Filevi are the two Ohrid families who make genuine Ohrid pearl necklaces, earrings and broaches; they carried over this handcraft down from one generation to another. Ohrid pearl is created from seashells and coated with 5-7 thin layers of emulsion made from the scales of the Ohrid fish called Plashitsa, and is protected with a Designation of Origin.
• Books from Ohrid to read on the beach or take home.

Some of the modern buys in this birthplace of Cyrillic literacy, include books from Happy Something Press, Ohrid's book publisher in English, founded by Macedonian born author and Oxford University student Evangelina Cifliganec [2] known for her contemporary novel "Happy Something" . Its 2nd edition was published by the publisher's Ohrid branch, HappySomething.com, as the author was said to be inspired by Ohrid. You might find it easier online as the price of the English version there is higher and not always in stock.

A Passage through the Fog is a book that has been written in Ohrid by the Ohrid born writer and photographer Misho Yuzmeski. Dr. Michael Seraphinoff, in his Translator`s note on the book has written: "Misho Yuzmeski's novel invites the reader to join his young narrator on a journey of discovery through the heart of modern Europe. While this journey offers certain narrow insights into modern day city life in England and a few of the continent's major cities, it is the internal journey of the young traveler that is at the heart of this novel. Readers are liable to find parallels to some youthful search for meaning of their own in Michele's journey. He reminds us of a critical time in many of our lives, when childhood is finally behind us, but the road ahead is quite uncertain." A copy of the book can be found in all Ohrid's bookstores and there is no difference in price between different stores. Bulgarian translation of the same book is available, as well.

Short History of the Macedonian People by Risto Stefov was published in Ohrid in 2011. This book is a chronological outline of historical events involving Macedonia and the Macedonian people from ancient times to the present.

Numerous book stalls can be found (at least in good weather during the tourist season) in the square near Ohrid harbour. They sell a variety of maps useful for tourists as well.

The downtown farmers' market has all kinds of fresh produce, as well as local specialties such as walnuts. There are cheese and sausage shops in the market as well, as well as numerous vendors of clothing and assorted industrial goods.

Bicycle supplies and service

There is at least one bike repair shop, which also sells common spare parts and supplies, next to the farmer's market. Some vendors in the market carry bicycle accessories (spare tubes, pumps, etc.) as well. This is pretty much the only place in the region to purchase stuff like this, since smaller towns around Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa do not seem to have any bicycle related shops or services - and even gas stations there may not have air pumps.

Restaurants and hotels throughout North Macedonia are proudly displaying Ohrid trout (Ohridska pastrmka) on their menus because it is very delicious but it is illegal to catch the fish along the Macedonian shoreline of Lake Ohrid. Please do not support or encourage the consumption of the trout. Ohrid trout, an ancient living fish, is in severe danger. There is also another trout species called Belvica. Some popular restaurants in Ohrid known to most people in town simply by the name are:

Try these foods:

• Ribna Čorba , a traditional fish soup served in most restaurants, mostly as a starter.
• Burek , a layered pastry inherited from Ottoman times and popular for breakfast here. Choose with meat, cheese or spinach/cheese (arguably the best), and take a cup of traditional Macedonian yogurt. Modest looking place Burekđilnica Igor makes the best burek in town, Žito Leb' s is also good.
• Makalo , a starter spread made with garlic and yogurt.
• Gjomleze , baked layered pancakes cut in a rhomboid shape, and usually served with white cheese.
• Ohridski Gevrek , a traditional bakery product. You can buy it in Žito Leb' . Try it with yogurt or peach juice.

Around the Clock Tower

• 41.116865 20.798473 4 Gostilnica Neim , Goce Delchev 71 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 41.116838 20.798699 5 Vkusno Salim Usta , Goce Delchev . ( updated May 2022 )
• 41.118236 20.798972 6 Restaurant Boem , Boulevard Turistichka 75 . ( updated May 2022 )

In Dolno Konjsko 8 km from Ohrid

• 41.061197 20.802561 7 Gostilnica Kaj Meče , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 75 296 170 , [email protected] . ( updated May 2022 )

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Things to do in Ohrid (My favourite Town in All of the Balkans!)

This post is about my biggest surprise during my Balkan leg of travels. Ohrid stole my heart and became one of my favourite towns in the Balkans and maybe even in the whole world! In this travel guide, you will find a complete list of all the awesome things to do in Ohrid and why Ohrid must be on your Balkan itinerary.

I was not actually planning to visit Ohrid or North Macedonia at all. But I had to catch a flight from Belgrade to Bangkok. So I had to travel from Albania to Serbia.

I almost never just get on a plane and go. Instead, I always see what’s on the way and try to make extra stops and travel by bus or train. And this is what happened this time. Between Albania and Serbia, there was this mysterious, little-known Balkan gem – North Macedonia. And the first stop that was screaming my name was Ohrid. So I took a bus from Tirana and I went.

Little did I know that Ohrid would become my absolute favourite place in the entire Balkans. But is not that always the case?

I totally fell in love with the town of Ohrid and the most incredible Ohrid lake. This place is just magical!

So much so, that I had serious plans on coming back in the spring to live and work here! 

(Instead, I moved to Greece hehe)

The Ohrid Lake is like Balkan Maledives! I have never seen a lake with waters so clean and beaches so inviting! Yes, I haven’t been to every lake in the world, but this will do!

The town of Ohrid is so charming and cute that it hurts. Maybe not striking or dramatic but in its own way – super charming.

Although tourism has been strong in this area for decades, it has mostly hosted local tourists from North Macedonia and other Balkan countries. Ohrid is touristy and intimate at the same time.

Quick Lake Ohrid Facts

Lake Ohrid has been accepted as a Cultural and Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the town of Ohrid was included. It is one of the oldest lakes in the world and the deepest lake in the Balkans. 

Lake Ohrid is shared between North Macedonia and Albania with 64% of its shoreline belonging to North Macedonia

The lake is protected and extremely clean!

Top 7 Things to do in Ohrid:

• Famous Saint John at Kaneo
• Ohrid Old Bazaar and Ottoman Old Town
• Samuel’s Fortress and Ancient Amphitheatre
• Ohrid Boardwalk
• Boat trip to Saint Naum Monastery and the Bay of Bones
• Ohrid Beaches!
• Galičica National Park

So without further ado – here is your complete Ohrid travel guide!

Table of Contents

So is Lake Ohrid Worth Visiting? 

Absolutely! Lake Ohrid is one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe and the town of Ohrid is a true hidden gem of the Balkans!

The city of Ohrid combines the best of all worlds. It has the Balkan charm combining Ottoman, European and Orthodox influences, the food is better than in many other Balkan countries, it is cheaper than most of the Balkans and yet not destroyed by the hoards of tourists and greedy beach owners.

For me, Ohrid ticked all the boxes! Stunning nature, mountain hikes, a beautiful lake, mild weather and affordable prices!

I also resonated with North Macedonian culture and its people. The people are kind, quirky, free-spirited and funny. Very hospitable! North Macedonia also felt very solo traveller-friendly and super safe!

If you are wondering if Ohrid is the best place to stay around the lake and searching for some hotel and hostel recommendations, don’t miss my article about the best places to stay around Lake Ohrid .

How Long Should You Spend in Ohrid?

I recommend spending at least 3 full days in Ohrid! This will give you enough time to soak in the town’s relaxed vibe, take a boat trip to St. Neum Monastery (a must!) and spend a day lazing on the beach or exploring the old town of Ohrid and many other sights.

However, if you are looking for a place in North Macedonia where you can spend more time either working remotely or enjoying a lakeside vacation – you can easily spend a week or even more in Ohrid!

In fact, this is one place in the Balkans that I really want to return to and now that I live in Greece, I will be back sooner rather than later!

So here is a complete list of all the best things to do in Ohrid.

Awesome Things to Do in Ohrid, North Macedonia

Explore the town of ohrid.

The city of Ohrid is so multifaceted! From the waterfront and the Old Bazaar to the windy streets on the way to the fortress and the medieval streets of the old town!

Start at Ohrid City Square, where you will find a Sveti Stefan statue and the waterfront from where the boats depart. This is a lively area with many shops, restaurants, bars and walking paths.

From here, no matter which direction you choose, you will find a completely different Ohrid.

Be Sure To Wander Towards the Ohrid Old Bazaar

At first, Ohrid Bazaar doesn’t seem like much, especially compared to cities like Sarajevo or Mostar. The Old Bazaar of Ohrid is actually just a long street with a few side streets where there is an abundance of shops, cafés, small restaurants, baklava shops and much more. But this is where the heart of the town is.

It’s a great street to just browse, eat delicious ice cream and enjoy the atmosphere of Ohrid. Strolling along the Old Bazaar and finding new shops and ice cream stands is definitely one of the best things to do in Ohrid!

But my favourite part of the Old Bazaar of Ohrid was the far end ‘Turskish’ part, where I found incredible and very affordable local restaurants, cevapcilnicas and baklava shops! Make sure you head there and visit the Vkusno restaurant (it’s worth queuing!) or Cevapcilnica Aren for lunch or dinner!

And then stop at the cutest tea house Istanbul Cayci Caytore!

In this part of the town, you will also find a local market worth checking out!

And Varosh – the Ottoman Style Old Town

This is yet another completely different part of Ohrid! The Old Town, also known as Varosh, is an Ottoman-style old town that stretches up the hill to the fortress.

To uncover all its facets, lose yourself in the streets and look out for small souvenir shops, cafés and traditional restaurants!

The architecture here sometimes resembles that of Berat in Albania , but only at times. It definitely has its own distinguished feel.

As you will walk up higher you will be stunned by the views and overwhelming charm of those streets!

Old Town houses an Icon Gallery that displays a remarkable collection of icons, some dating back to the 11th century. You can also visit the beautiful Church of St. Sophia, the Ohrid City Walls and the Upper Gate.

Walk Up To the Samuel’s Fortress

Samuel’s Fortress, also known as Tsar Samuel’s Fortress, is a historic fortress located on a hill overlooking the old town of Ohrid and Lake Ohrid. It is a landmark that can be seen from any part of the city and offers spectacular views!

The original construction of the fortress dates back to the 4th century BC, but it was significantly expanded and renovated in different periods, particularly in the 10th century during the reign of Samuel. It’s an interesting landmark of Ohrid, but even if you’re not interested in mediaeval sights, it’s worth a visit for the views and the breathtaking walk up there.

I am not totally crazy about this type of attraction, but I utterly enjoyed the afternoon walking up the hill, discovering parts of Ohrid I didn’t even know existed!

Stop By the Ancient Amphitheatre

On your way to the fortress be sure to stop by the ancient theatre which is believed to have been built during the 2nd century BC, making it a structure from the Roman period.

It is one of the few ancient theatres in the world that has retained its original structure.

It is still used today for cultural events, including concerts, plays, and other performances. 

And the Church of Holy Mary Peryvleptos

This is one of my favourite churches in Ohrid and believe me, there are many of them! I stumbled across it on the way to the fortress and I truly loved its surroundings and the interiors!

Built during the time of Byzantine Emperor Andronicus II Paleologus, the church’s construction year is determined by the inscription above the entrance. The magnificent building, popularly known as St Clement’s, is a harmonious blend of impressive architecture and opulent frescoes.

Be Sure to Walk the ‘On the Water’ – the Ohrid Boardwalk!

One of the best things to do in Ohrid is to enjoy the lake’s waterfront. And there are so many ways you can do that!

One thing you can’t miss is a walk along Ohrid’s waterfront  Ohrid Boardwalk! It is beautiful no matter the time of the day or evening.

One thing you can’t miss is a walk along Ohrid’s waterfront promenade! It’s beautiful at any time of the day or evening. It leads all the way to the famous Kaneo Church, but there are many stops you can take along the way.

Stop For a Coffee or an Aperol Spritz at the Beach Potpesh

As you stroll along the boardwalk you will come across a few small beaches and restaurants. My favourite one is Potpesh Beach!

I came here quite a few times and I spent one afternoon lazing on the sunbathing deck and drinking Aperol Spritz! I couldn’t recommend this ‘Ohrid attraction’ high enough!

Visit the Famous Saint John at Kaneo – The Biggest Attraction of Ohrid

Why famous? 

If you have ever seen any photos of North Macedonia, there is a big chance you have seen the Church of St. John at Kaneo perched on the cliff with the stunning backdrop of Lake Ohrid. Yes, that’s the one!

Saint John the Theologian, also known as Kaneo, is a Macedonian Orthodox church and a fine example of Byzantine architecture. The church’s construction is likely dating back to the 13th century. Archaeologists suggest its existence before the Ottoman Empire’s rise and the restoration of the church’s dome in 1964, revealed beautiful hidden frescoes. 

The route to the church is also incredibly picturesque. You can either approach it from the top after visiting the fortress or from the bottom via the Ohrid boardwalk. Both paths are fantastic, so I recommend trying both!

It is a popular and busy sight, so if you want to take some photos, get there early in the morning before the tours begin arriving!

The Old City Park And the Secret Labino Beach

On the day you visit the Kaneo Church take a walk further up into the Old City Park!

This is just a wonderful, green area full of picturesque trails leading in all directions. 

From here you can choose to walk up to the fortress (if you haven’t already), return to Ohrid via Old Town, or walk in the other direction towards the hidden beach!

Beach Labino is a hidden wild pebble beach offering a much more secluded and peaceful experience. There will be some people, but definitely fewer than in the town and the views are just gorgeous.

It is a wild beach so if you are planning to spend some time there be sure to pack some snacks and water. And also maybe pack some water shoes or just be aware of rocks and stones. 

If you are feeling even more adventurous you can continue walking all the way to Partizan Beach too!

Stroll Lake Ohrid Promanade

One of the most incredible things to do in Ohrid is just walking along its waterfront and discovering 100 faces of the town.

To the opposite side of Kaneo, you will find a more contemporary promenade where both locals and tourists stroll day and night. But don’t stop there!

If you like your walkies, continue all the way to the Golden Beach resort. The resort is not the biggest attraction here – but on the way you will pass many small beaches, camping grounds, beach bars and restaurants and as always – incredible views!

I know I sound like a broken record, but I truly love Ohrid! 

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Take a Boat Trip to Saint Naum Monastery

Visiting St Naum Monastery should be at the top of your list of things to do in Ohrid. Not only because of the famous Monastery of Saint Naum but because the whole place is incredible!

It is like a town in itself with a stunning beach, a lake with boats resembling Thai mangroves, a small promenade, a hiking trail with surprises and a few restaurants and bars. 

The Monastery of Saint Naum was founded in the 10th century by Saint Naum of Ohrid, a disciple of Saints Cyril and Methodius, who were instrumental in the Christianization of the Slavic peoples. The monastery is mostly known for its picturesque location, with stunning views of Lake Ohrid.

The complex includes a church dedicated to Saint Naum, which houses well-preserved Byzantine frescoes. Saint Naum’s tomb is also located within the monastery grounds.

You can take a local bus to Naum which will be cheaper than a boat tour, but this is only one time I will advise against it.

If you knew me just a little you would know I always opt for local transport rather than organised tours.

But the boat tour to St Naum Monastery is just such an incredible value for money that you should definitely do it! Not only you will also stop at the Bay of Bones and marvel at the incredible views all the way through the trip, but they will also give you a very decent amount of time in Naum itself. 

You will have enough time to visit the monastery, walk around some great easy hiking paths and stay on a beach for an hour or two!

Super Tip: There is this strange taxi driver that has been driving between St Naum and Ohrid for years taking people for the price of the bus. It is perfectly safe and fun to go with him. He will be picking up people on the way so you will definitely have some random company.

I got into his taxi after my hike when I ended up at the Bay of Bones. he just stopped and said the price was the same as for the bus. The Bay of Bones Museum ticket seller behind me said it’s fine to go.

I know he was doing those rounds for years as I read about him in some random blog years ago! I hope you will meet him let me know if you do!

Visit the Bay of Bones

The Bay of Bones is also known as the Museum on the Water and is a truly unique archaeological complex.

It is a reconstruction of a prehistoric settlement from the Bronze and Iron Ages, which was inhabited by pile dwellers. The water here was quite shallow back then, so they built their houses on wooden piles above the water, creating a kind of floating village.

It was only recently discovered during underwater archaeological research when the wooden piles were found along with some artefacts and remains of animal bones that were probably used as tools.

The museum and the complex were built in the late 20th century to recreate the former settlement. Inside the houses, you can learn how prehistoric people lived and what tools they used in prehistoric times.

It can be visited as part of a boat tour or individually. It is located halfway between Ohrid and the monastery of St. Naum.

And Trpejca – The Saint-Tropez of Ohrid!

Trpejca is a small fishing village just half an hour’s drive from Ohrid. Named Saint Tropez of Ohrid, it is not really comparable but it’s super cute and offers stunning views and a wonderful beach!

This is one of those places around Lake Ohrid where you will completely forget you are by the lake. You truly feel like you are by the sea! The water here is crystal clear! 

Hike in Galičica National Park

The Galičica National Park Mountains rise majestically above Lake Ohrid, covering an area of approximately 227 square kilometres. It was designated as a national park in 1958 and is named after the Galičica Mountain, which is a prominent feature in the region. The park is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

There are several trails and viewpoints within the park and all trails are incredibly well marked. Those were some of the best-marked trailers I have walked.

Many of the trails offer incredible views of Lake Ohrid but some go very much into the forest.

The most famous is the Magaro peak hike at 2255m but you can also do the easier one starting at the Ramne village .

It is one of the least populated hiking areas I have ever visited and with this, I have a very important hint for you!

I have hiked alone for years and I absolutely enjoy it and most of the time prefer it.

Yet North Macedonia broke me for solo hiking since I have seen a bear there. Do not go hiking in Galičica National Park alone, especially in the ber season! 

Discover Ohrid Beaches!

It maybe doesn’t seem so at first but Ohrid is a wonderful beach destination! Lake Ohrid is beautiful, the waters are clear and the beaches resemble those of the seaside rather than the lakeside.

You will find a few great beaches in the town of Ohrid like Potpesh , Kaneo or Labino beach.

You can also head to the main waterfront for a swim at the ‘ Old Swimming Court ‘ which is just a swimming spot off the jetty and a great spot to watch the sunset from!

But if you are prepared to venture slightly outside of the town you will find more incredible beaches! My favourites include the beach in the village of Peshtani , Lagadin , Gr adiste campsite beach and of course the Ljubanista beach at St Naum Monastery. 

Rent a Bicycle!

Ohrid is great to discover by bicycle and you can get to many awesome spots by bicycle. One couple from my hostel even cycled to the Bay of Bones. It is definitely doable but part of the route will lead on a busy road, so consider this. 

But bike rentals are extremely affordable in Ohrid and I recommend exploring Lake Ohrid by bike. 

Take a Day Trip From Ohrid

If you are spending a few more days in Ohrid you should definitely consider a day trip. there are great towns and places you could see in a day that are just an hour or two bus drive away.

One of the best places to visit is Bitola – one of the oldest cities in the country boasting a a mix of architectural styles and ruins of the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis

You could also hop on a bus and visit Struga , a charming town located near Ohrid. It is a bigger and slightly more modern town but it is definitely worth a visit!

Finally, you can take a trip to the springs of Vevčani which is an off-the-beaten-path trip. Vevčani is a small village located only 20 minutes bus drive away from Ohrid where you can take nature walk along the springs which some call a mini Plitvice.

You can also take some more extensive, organised trips like a trip to Albania or Meteora in Greece. Here are some of the best-rated tours from Ohrid:

• M eteora (Greece) Tour from Ohrid
• Full-Day Private Lake Ohrid and Albania Tour
• Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting

Sample North Macedonian Cuisine

Last but not least – North Macedonian Food! I think out of all the Balkan countries I visited I liked the North Macedonian food the most. It is simple yet super flavoursome and very affordable!

Check out some of the best restaurants for local food in Ohrid like Viva Ksantika, Restaurant „Orfej“ or Vkusno for the best kebap in town!

Kaneo Restaurant offers amazing food and views and Noa Lounge Bar is a great place to have a meal or drink by the lake at any time of the day.

If you are looking for an affordable beer or wine with stunning sunset views, pop into the Kadmo Lounge Bar where I came for an evening glass of wine twice!

Finally, if you are looking for a beachside lounge bar with the best views, great cocktails and delicious food be sure to pop into Cuba Libre Beach. 

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Things to Know Before Visiting Ohrid, North Macedonia

The best time to visit Ohrid is between April and October. It’s when the weather is at its best. Some hotels close for the winter season so during this time you will have the biggest choice. To avoid summer crowds visit in the spring or fall. I visited in September and it was the best month for the beach and hiking!

Ohrid is totally walkable so don’t even bother with renting a car unless you want to make it a base for some great day trips. 

Ohrid is very safe both all kinds of travellers. Whether you are a solo backpacker or a family you will be safe day and night in Ohrid!

Can you swim in Lake Ohrid? Yes! Ohrid Lake is protected and therefore very clean. You can definitely swim in Lake Ohrid without any worries. Most beaches are pebble so consider watershoes. 

In Ohrid and the whole of North Macedonia, tap water is safe to drink. 

I hope you enjoyed this Ohrid travel guide and you will love it as much as I did!

Please let me know! 

Until then enjoy  North Macedonia and happy travels!

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you purchase the product or make a booking via one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Please know that I will never recommend or promote a product I don’t believe in or haven’t used. This way, you are supporting this blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

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Your Guide to Visiting Ohrid, Macedonia

Ohrid , located in North Macedonia, is a captivating city with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Known for its breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid , the city offers a perfect spot for a memorable vacation. The crystal-clear blue waters of this ancient lake, one of the deepest in Europe, are truly awe-inspiring.

Steeped in history, Ohrid boasts a city center filled with well-preserved medieval churches and Byzantine architecture. A visit to the 9th-century Samuel’s Fortress provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Taking a boat trip is a popular day trip option in Ohrid, offering the opportunity to explore various attractions, including the stunning St. Naum Monastery. Relaxing on Potpesh Beach or enjoying a boat ride to the Bay of Bones is also highly recommended.

In case you want to visit this little jewel of Northern Macedonia, below we have prepared a travel guide that includes the most important information about the sights of Ohrid and what you can do and see in Ohrid.

Where is Ohrid?

History of ohrid, getting to ohrid, exploring ohrid’s city centre, samuel’s fortress, byzantine churches, the ancient theatre of ohrid, exploring lake ohrid.

Travel to Ohrid? Here you have the best hotels in Ohrid !

Find the cheapest flight tickets to Ohrid:

Ohrid is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Balkans, located in North Macedonia. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Albanian border, Ohrid is easily accessible and makes for a perfect spot to explore the untamed beauty of the region. The city’s rich history dates back to the Hellenistic period, with traces of ancient civilizations visible throughout its cobblestone streets, archaeological sites, and well-preserved structures.

One of the main draws of Ohrid is its 9th-century old town, where visitors can wander through narrow, steep streets and admire the stunning Byzantine churches that have stood the test of time. These beautiful churches, adorned with intricate frescoes and architectural details, reflect the city’s cultural and religious significance.

Ohrid, a city steeped in history, holds a significant place in the annals of time. Dating back to the Hellenistic period, the origins of Ohrid can be traced all the way to ancient civilizations that once flourished in this region.

The city’s name itself is said to derive from the old Slavic word for “lakeshore,” a fitting tribute to its stunning location on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This ancient body of water, known for its deep blue hues, has captivated the hearts of visitors for centuries and continues to draw crowds with its ethereal beauty.

Based on historical records, the city’s origins date back 2,400 years before the Common Era. Lychnidos was situated along the Via Egnatia, the most ancient and vital Roman trade route in the Balkans. The earliest inhabitants of the area surrounding Lake Ohrid were the Briggs and Enchelians, distinguished by their names. The Briggs were synonymous with the Phrygians. Following the Third Macedonian War against King Perseus, Lychnidos transformed into the primary Roman stronghold in the northern Macedonian territories.

Ohrid reached the zenith of its popularity during this period. Unfortunately, the last accounts of Lychnidos revolve around its destruction. Historical sources indicate that a massive earthquake on May 29 and 30, 526 CE, claimed the lives of tens of thousands of inhabitants in Lychnidos, causing the city to vanish from historical records. By the late 6th century, the Ohrid region experienced extensive Slavic settlement. By the 7th century’s early 30s, the Slavic Berziti tribe had completely colonized the Ohrid region, which was subsequently named Ohrid.

In addition to its architectural wonders, Ohrid boasts an abundance of archaeological sites. Excavations have unearthed artifacts from different periods, including Roman and Ottoman remains. These archaeological treasures provide valuable insights into the city’s past and offer a glimpse into the lives of those who walked its streets centuries ago.

Ohrid’s significance is not limited to its land-based history; the city’s connection to the water is equally captivating. Lake Ohrid itself is recognized as one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, and its clear, azure waters have been a source of life and inspiration for generations. From boat trips to the tranquil Potpesh Beach, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty that surrounds Ohrid.

As a testament to its historical and cultural value, Ohrid has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This prestigious recognition acknowledges the city’s unique blend of ancient ruins, religious monuments, and natural splendor.

Getting to Ohrid is an adventure in itself, as the city’s remote location adds a sense of anticipation and excitement to your journey. Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take a bus, the trip to Ohrid promises stunning views and an immersive experience in the heart of North Macedonia.

For those traveling from abroad, the easiest way to reach Ohrid is by plane. The city is serviced by Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport, which has direct flights from various European cities. As you descend over the azure waters of Lake Ohrid, the breathtaking views from the plane’s window will give you a taste of the beauty that awaits you on the ground.

If you prefer a more leisurely journey, driving to Ohrid is a popular option. The city is well-connected to the rest of North Macedonia and neighboring countries by a network of highways. As you wind your way through the countryside, you’ll pass picturesque villages, rolling hills, and vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see. The journey may take a bit longer, but the scenic route is undoubtedly worth it.

For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, taking a bus to Ohrid is a convenient choice. The city has a well-organized bus station that is easily accessible from major cities in North Macedonia and surrounding countries. Comfortable coaches make frequent trips, and the journey itself offers a unique opportunity to witness the stunning landscapes of the region.

Once you arrive in Ohrid, you’ll find yourself in the heart of a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. The cobblestone streets of the city center beckon you to explore its hidden corners, while the 16th-century Ottoman architecture transports you to a different era. Everywhere you turn, the enchanting atmosphere of Ohrid will captivate you.

As you step foot into the city center of Ohrid, you’ll instantly be transported to a place that feels suspended in time. The cobblestone streets wind their way through the heart of the city, beckoning you to explore its hidden corners and uncover its rich history.

One of the first things you’ll notice as you stroll through the city center is the stunning architecture that dates back to the 16th century. Ottoman influences can be seen in the intricately designed mosques, while the Byzantine churches stand as a testament to Ohrid’s ancient past. Each building tells a story, and as you wander the streets, you can’t help but be awed by the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating these beautiful structures.

One of the highlights of the city center is the iconic Samuel’s Fortress . Perched on a hill overlooking Lake Ohrid, this 11th-century fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the sparkling azure waters below. As you climb the steep streets leading up to the fortress, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas that will leave you speechless.

For those seeking a taste of local delicacies, the city center is dotted with charming cafes and restaurants serving traditional Macedonian cuisine. From hearty stews and grilled meats to freshly caught fish from the lake, your taste buds will be tantalized by the flavors of Ohrid. Don’t forget to try the famous Ohrid trout, a local specialty that is as delicious as it is fresh.

As you continue to explore the city center, you’ll find yourself stumbling upon hidden squares, bustling markets, and quaint shops selling handmade crafts. The atmosphere is lively, with locals going about their daily lives and visitors immersing themselves in the vibrant ambiance. Take a moment to sit in one of the cafes, sip a cup of strong Macedonian coffee, and simply watch the world go by. It’s the perfect way to soak in the atmosphere and truly experience the essence of Ohrid.

Ohrid’s city center is not just a place to explore during the day; it also comes alive at night. As the sun sets, the streets are illuminated by the warm glow of streetlights, and the sound of music fills the air. Whether it’s a live performance in the central square or the lively rhythms of traditional Macedonian music coming from a local tavern, the night scene in Ohrid is something not to be missed.

Perched high above the city of Ohrid, Samuel’s Fortress stands as a proud testament to the rich history of Macedonia. This ancient stronghold, also known as Tsar Samuil’s Fortress, was built during the 11th century by the Bulgarian Tsar Samuel, hence its name.

Samuel’s Fortress offers visitors a glimpse into the medieval past, with its imposing stone walls and strategically positioned towers. As you enter through the sturdy gates, you can’t help but feel the weight of centuries of history upon your shoulders.

Climbing up the steep paths within the fortress, you’ll come across remnants of ancient dwellings, churches, and even a majestic throne room. The architectural marvels within Samuel’s Fortress are a testament to the grandeur of the time, with intricately carved reliefs and towering arches.

But it is not just the historical significance that draws visitors to Samuel’s Fortress; it’s also the breathtaking views it offers. From the top of the fortress, you can feast your eyes on a panoramic vista of Lake Ohrid, with its glistening blue waters stretching out as far as the eye can see. The surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, adding to the allure of this extraordinary sight.

For photography enthusiasts, Samuel’s Fortress is a dream location. The juxtaposition of ancient ruins against the vibrant natural beauty of Ohrid creates a picture-perfect scene at every turn. Capture the play of light and shadow as the sun illuminates the ancient stones, or frame the azure lake within the crumbling walls of the fortress, and you’ll have memories that will last a lifetime.

Visiting Samuel’s Fortress is not just a journey back in time; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the stories and legends that have shaped Macedonian history. Explore the hidden corners, imagine the battles that were fought within these walls, and let the whispers of the past transport you to a bygone era.

Ohrid is renowned for its rich history and its collection of stunning Byzantine churches, which are a testament to the city’s significant role during this era. These beautiful structures not only showcase exquisite architectural design but also hold great cultural and religious importance.

One of the most famous Byzantine churches in Ohrid is the Church of Saint Sophia , dating back to the 9th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true gem, featuring intricate frescoes and stunning mosaics that illustrate biblical scenes. As you step inside, you’ll be transported back in time, marveling at the incredible craftsmanship that has withstood the test of centuries.

Another must-visit Byzantine church is the Church of Saint John at Kaneo (or Saint John the Theologian), perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid. This picturesque site offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters, making it a favorite spot for photographers and visitors alike. The church itself, built in the 13th century, showcases Byzantine architectural elements, with its domed roof and ornate frescoes adorning the interior walls.

Venturing further into the city, you’ll discover the Church of Saint Clement of Ohrid , named after the famous Macedonian saint and scholar. Dating back to the 10th century, this church is a prime example of Byzantine architecture, with its elegant domes and columns. Explore the interior to admire the splendid frescoes depicting biblical narratives and the lives of local saints.

Beyond the city center, a short boat ride will take you to the enchanting St. Naum Monastery , a true hidden gem. Dating back to the 9th century, this serene and picturesque complex is nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid. With its beautiful gardens, stunning Byzantine architecture, and breathtaking views, it offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.

One of the unique features of Byzantine churches in Ohrid is their harmonious integration into the natural landscape. Many are nestled amid lush greenery or stand on sloping hills, creating a picturesque contrast between man-made artistry and the stunning surroundings.

Ohrid’s Byzantine churches will leave you in awe of their beauty, rich heritage, and spiritual significance. Don’t miss the chance to explore these architectural masterpieces and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Byzantine art in Ohrid.

In the heart of Ohrid, amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of its cobblestone streets and Byzantine churches, lies a hidden gem that takes visitors back in time to the wild and exhilarating days of ancient Rome – the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid . Just like a scene out of the famous gladiator arenas, this unique experience allows you to witness the thrilling spectacles that once captivated audiences.

Step into the amphitheater, its stone walls echoing with the cheers and cries of the past, and prepare to be transported to a world where fierce warriors battled for honor and glory. As you take your seat, the anticipation builds, and the air hums with excitement. The grand spectacle is about to unfold before your eyes.

As the gladiators entered the arena, adorned in their elaborately designed armor, a wave of admiration and respect washed over the crowd. These warriors, trained in the art of combat and discipline, are about to showcase their skills in a display of bravery and strength.

The clash of weapons, the thunderous roar of the crowd, and the adrenaline pumping through your veins create an immersive experience that leaves you breathless. Witness the skillful maneuvers, the strategic dances of battle, and the valiant efforts of the gladiators as they fight for their lives. It’s a display of raw power and determination that leaves an indelible mark on your memory.

But it’s not just about the battle itself. the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid strives for authenticity and historical accuracy, ensuring a truly immersive experience. Expertly crafted costumes, replica weapons, and carefully choreographed fights bring the ancient Roman world to life in stunning detail. The attention to detail ensures that every visitor is transported back to the time of gladiators and their fierce competition.

Beyond the thrilling fights, the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid also provides an opportunity to delve into the cultural and historical significance of these events. Delve into the ancient rituals and traditions that surrounded gladiator battles, explore the societal implications, and gain a deeper understanding of this intriguing aspect of Roman history.

When it comes to natural wonders, few can compare to the breathtaking beauty of Lake Ohrid . Nestled between the mountainous landscapes of North Macedonia and Albania, this ancient lake is a true gem waiting to be discovered.

One of the most striking features of Lake Ohrid is its deep blue waters, which have earned it the nickname “The Blue Pearl of the Balkans.” As you stand on the shores and gaze out at the vast expanse of water, you can’t help but be captivated by its serene beauty. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade or enjoying a picnic on the beach, the mesmerizing hues of the lake seem to change with every passing moment, creating a magical atmosphere that is simply unforgettable.

Aside from its stunning natural beauty, Lake Ohrid is also steeped in history. This ancient lake, formed over two million years ago, is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. It has been a site of human settlement for thousands of years, with evidence of ancient civilizations dating back to the Hellenistic period.

One of the best ways to explore the wonders of Lake Ohrid is by taking a boat trip. Whether you choose to rent your own private boat or join a guided tour, cruising along the calm waters of the lake is a truly magical experience. Sail towards the Albanian border and marvel at the picturesque villages and lush green landscapes that line the shores. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.

For those seeking a more secluded and peaceful experience, a visit to the charming Potpesh Beach is a must. Located on the eastern shore of the lake, this hidden gem is a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. With its soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, Potpesh Beach offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

As you step onto the soft golden sands of Potpesh Beach, you’ll immediately be greeted by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ohrid. The lake’s inviting blue hues beckon you to take a refreshing dip, offering respite from the summer heat. Whether you prefer to swim, float, or simply wade in the shallows, the calm and gentle waves of the lake provide a peaceful and relaxing experience.

Potpesh Beach is not only a place for sun worshippers but also an ideal destination for those seeking active water adventures. Rent a paddleboard or a kayak and explore the lake at your own pace, allowing yourself to be amazed by its beauty and tranquility. Glide along the water’s surface, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the medieval churches that dot the lakeshore.

Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the unspoiled beauty and serenity of Potpesh Beach. Surrounded by lush greenery, this scenic spot is a haven for birdwatchers, with various species of birds calling the area home. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, and you may catch sight of graceful swans gliding across the water or colorful butterflies fluttering amidst the wildflowers.

As the day winds down and the sun begins to set, Potpesh Beach transforms into a truly magical place. The golden hues of the sunset reflect off the calm waters of the lake, creating a breathtaking and awe-inspiring sight. Sit back, relax, and let the beauty of nature envelop you as you witness one of the most magnificent sunsets you’ll ever see.

No trip to Lake Ohrid would be complete without a visit to the Bay of Bones . This unique archaeological site is a reconstructed prehistoric settlement that provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the ancient people who once called this area home. Walk along the wooden platforms supported by piles, explore the ancient dwellings, and learn about the daily life of these early settlers. It’s a truly immersive experience that transports you back in time and allows you to connect with the rich history of the region.

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• Destinations
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Lake Ohrid, in its vastness and mystery, is a monumentally seductive attraction. Mirrorlike and dazzling on sunny days, it's a truly beautiful place – especially in and around the ancient town of Ohrid, with its cobbled streets, distinctive architecture, city beach and lakefront bars.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Sveti Naum Monastery

Sveti Naum, 29km south of Ohrid, is an imposing sight on a bluff near the Albanian border and a popular day trip from Ohrid. Naum was a contemporary of St…

Ohrid Boardwalk & City Beach

Skimming the surface of the water along Ohrid's shore, snaking towards Kaneo fishing village and the town's most famous church, this over-water boardwalk…

Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo

This stunning 13th-century church is set on a cliff over the lake, about a 15-minute walk west of Ohrid's port area, and is possibly North Macedonia's…

Saluting the lake from Ohrid's hilltop, Plaošnik is home to the multidomed medieval Church of Sveti Kliment i Pantelejmon, the foundations of a 5th…

Sveta Bogorodica Bolnička & Sveti Nikola Bolnički

Bolnica means 'hospital' in Macedonian; during plagues visitors faced 40-day quarantines inside the walled confines of these petite churches, which are…

Keeping one sleepy eye on Lake Ohrid from its mountain perch, Vevčani dates to the 9th century and is a quiet rural settlement beloved by locals for its…

Museum on Water – Bay of Bones

In prehistoric times Lake Ohrid was home to a settlement of pile dwellers who lived literally on top of the water, on a platform supported by up to 10,000…

National Museum

Ohrid's National Museum is housed over three floors of this remarkably well-preserved Old Town house, which dates from 1863 and was once owned by the…

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Feb 10, 2019 • 5 min read

At 3:30am, on the fifth day of an expedition along North Macedonia’s mountainous western edge, we traded our trekking poles for reins and mounted horses…

Aug 23, 2016 • 6 min read

Lake Ohrid and beyond

Lake Ohrid Macedonia Travel Guide: Things to do in 2 Days

• Post author: Hasan Mahmud
• Post published: September 14, 2019
• Post category: EUROPE / Macedonia
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Macedonia is one of the best destinations and getting a lot of attention among European travelers. This landlocked country should be on your route plan if you are making a Balkan road trip. And easily accessible from surrounded countries such as Bulgaria, Greece, Albania, Serbia, and Kosovo.

Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located southernmost part of Macedonia bordering Albania one of the deepest and beautiful lakes in eastern Europe. Majority of the 19 miles (30 km) long and 9.5 miles (15 km) wide lake is within Macedonian side. Ohrid is a perfect place to spend a few days relaxing peacefully away from the busy life.

Things To Do in Ohrid

Ohrid is a beautiful destination because of its fascinating preserve of historical heritage. And Lake Ohrid is so picturesque makes it an excellent place as a weekend gateway for visiting lakeside spots. Here are a few activities you may consider doing during your trip.

Day 1 - Explore Old Town and Near By Historical Places

Visit church of st. john at kaneo (sveti jovan at keneo).

The beautiful postcard-perfect Macedonian orthodox 13th-century church is located on a rocky cliff above the Kaneo Beach overlooking Lake Ohrid, about a 15-minute walk from Ohrid’s port area, and is perhaps North Macedonia’s most fabulous photographed location. Particularly during sunset, the stunning view of the church, Lake Ohrid, and the surrounding rolling mountains are picturesque.

If you want to see the iconic church from a different perspective, then take a 20 minutes boat from the Ohrid to the pier below St. John at Kaneo.

Ancient Theatre of Ohrid (Amphitheater) in Old Town

This place is on your way to/from St. John at Kaneo, can’t miss it. The ancient amphitheater is the largest in Balkans — Built-In the 200 BC during the Hellenistic period. It was once used by the Romans and buried after the fall of the Roman Empire. Currently is comes to life during summertime with live music and Ohrid’s summer festival.

The Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon

Only a few minutes walk from King Samuel’s Fortress this church is located on a very picturesque setting at the edge of Lake Ohrid. This Byzantine church believed to be built when St. Clement arrived in Ohrid 893 A.D, where he taught and further spread the word of Christianity.

Ohrid’s Car Samoil’s Castle

From the Monastery of Saint Naum, I walked a few minutes through a wooded area and arrived at this historic fortress of Samoil. Tsar Samoil built the enormous walls of the turreted fortress on the top of a small peninsula stretching into Lake Ohrid. Once you climb the steep steps to the top of the wall, you will be rewarded with fantastic 360 views of the town, Lake Ohrid and the rolling mountains in the far distance.

St. Sophia Church in Ohrid

St. Sophia Church worth a visit. If you are strolling through the old town, you will definitely see a few signs pointing to this historic church. It is one of the most important iconic monuments of Macedonia home of a few priceless architecture and art from the Middle Ages. There are a couple of great restaurants surrounding the curch so, feel free to try them out.

Boat Ride in Lake Ohrid 

Nothing can be more enjoyable in Ohrid then taking a boat trip in the crystal clear blue water of Lake Ohrid and watching the sun goes down behind those mountains in the horizon. You can also take the boat trips from the town to the Monastery of St. John of Kaneo.

I recommend to take a boat ride from Ohrid main pier to the beautiful beaches such as Beach Labino, Kaneo Beach and Beach Potpesh and have a great view of the old  town from the lake.  

Strolling through the Turkish Bazaar in the old quarter

It is worth to check out Turkish Bazaar. Take a walk starting from the waterfront all the way to the Krushevska Republika Square right after Ali Pasha Mosque. I enjoyed walking on the pedestrian street crowded with lots of shops on both sides. Interesting to see the historic over 1000 years old Chinar Tree by the water fountain. I am sure once you pass through the restaurant area and see those mouth-watering food, you won’t be able to resist. I went to a restaurant called Brioni 2008 tried one of the delicious Macedonian Kebapi (kebab) made from rolled minced beef.

Day 2 - Day Trip Places Around The Lake Ohrid

Boat ride to the monastery of st. naum  .

The Monastery of St. Naum is one of the most desirable tourist destinations from Ohrid. A great day trip location I definitely recommend if time permits because it’s about 29 km from Ohrid close to the Albanian border. Best way to get there is by taking a boat from Ohrid Pier. The first boat starts at 10 am and returns at 3:00 pm, sailing time one direction is about 1 hour 20 mins. The return trip is about 10 euro.

Enjoy The Unforgettable Experiences

There are a few great places that will give you once in a lifetime experience. The most enjoyable one is taking a walk to the small sandy cove of Kaneo beach. From St Sophia Church in oldtown take a stroll along the lake and follow the wooden walkway. Get a table at Restaurant Kaj Kanevche or try Kaneo Letna Bavca lake side restaurants for a delicious smoked fish, local beer and enjoy the magnificent view of the lake while having your dinner.

Where Did I Stay in Lake Ohrid

City palace hotel , ohrid, kej makedonija, ohrid, north macedonia.

It is a newly built 4 star hotel, located at Kej Makedonija road alongside Ohrid Lake, only about 200 meters from the city square and the old part of the city. I got a room with a balcony overlooking the beautiful lake and had one of the best moments of my life spending hours sitting there and enjoying the surrounding views. 

City Palace Hotel, Ohrid

A view of my room in City Palace Hotel

Have Local Food at Lakeside Restaurants

Aleksandrija restaurant, orhid, macedonia.

This restaurant is right at the center of the town, along the Ohrid Lake, plenty of outdoor sitting is availabler with a beautiful view of the lake and the port. I have tried smoked trout and a few slices of their famous wood-fired oven pizza.

Featured Travel Pictures

Helpful Information

I have visited Ohrid between Late May and early June. The weather was fantastic, the mountains surrounding the lake were lush green, and the temperature during the day was comfortable with lots of sunshine.

Therefore the best time is spring and autumn to be more specific, be there between early May and the end of June for gorgeous weather while dodging the summer crowds. Not to mention that  Hotels  are going to be still a bargain.

The closest International airport from Ohrid is St. Paul Apostle Airport (OHD) also known as Ohrid airport. There are  multiple airlines  fly there regularly. It is only about 6 miles (10 km) away from Ohrid and will cost you approx 20 Euro by taxi (negotiation needed).

From Ohrid taxi is the most convenient way to get to and from Ohrid Aiport or get a pre-arranged private transfer. You can also  rent a car  but need to book it in advance.

If you are in Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, then the best way to get to Lake Ohrid is to get on a bus for those who are not driving. The 3+ hours bus ride is comfortable, and costs are reasonable check schedule here .

From Tirana, Albania you can take an international bus to Ohrid, which is only 81 miles (131 km) and travel time is about 2:30h. Get your bus from Tirana International Bus Station, and for ticket information, you may contact Drita Tours .

The majority of travelers prefer to visit Ohrid by car from neighboring countries. The nice scenic highway systems even make it easier for European travelers. I drove from Gjirokaster, Albania to Ohrid, Macedonia with a few hours stop in Berat since I wanted to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site on the way. The total distance was about 200 miles (320 km) and travel time is about 5+ hours plus the time spent in Berat.

The old town of Ohrid is compact most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot without needing public transportation.

I was driving my rental car, and from my own experience, I found that having a car has some advantages. It is the easiest way to getting around the lake and seeing the surrounding villages. The rental vehicle is available from Ohrid St. Paul The Apostle Airport.

Taxis are available in Ohrid, and it’s a convenient way to go places difficult to reach or find parking, particularly in the old town. I highly recommend negotiating the fare with the driver in advance.

I found it exciting and saw may people enjoy riding a bicycle in Ohrid. Ask your hotel usually; they offer bicycle rental.

Ohrid is small and compact, a great weekend getaway from the capital Skopje. If relaxing is on your mind, then you will definitely need a few days depending on your interest. There are so many things to do in Ohrid such as exploring the old town, cruising in the Ohrid lake and visiting lakeside villages and attractions, Sunbathing at one of those hidden beaches, having local food sitting net to the water, shopping in the Turkish Bazaar and much more.

I was there for two days and found it a little tight to cover my interest, should have added a day or two to my itinerary.

Macedonia has its own currency called Denar (MKD); the current exchange rate is US$ 1 = 55.48 MKD. ATMs are widely available, and I used my debit card to withdraw local currencies without any issue.

If you are taking a taxi ride, you may need some bargaining skills and always settle for the fare before getting in.

Exploring the Old Town of Ohrid, there is quite a bit of walking involved, so having a tourist map handy will save you a few unnecessary hiking.

My Opinion and Last Word

Have you been to ohrid, macedonia any cool tips to share.

I loved being to this Fairy tail country and want to go back again. Hope my story have motivated you to visit. 

Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge. 

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Ohrid Travel Guide: Notes for Traveling to Ohrid

Traveling to Ohrid means immersing yourself in a world of natural beauty and enchanting landscapes. Located in North Macedonia, this small city will captivate you with its famous turquoise lake and picturesque surroundings in the Balkan region. Our Ohrid travel guide is packed with tips and recommendations so you can discover all the treasures that this place has to offer.

General Information about Ohrid

Ohrid is a town in North Macedonia . It is one of the oldest cities in Europe and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its cultural and historical importance.

The city of Ohrid has a rich history, dating back to Roman and Byzantine times. The city has been an important religious and cultural center and boasts numerous historical and religious sites.

In addition to its cultural heritage, Ohrid is also known for its beautiful beaches and Lake Ohrid, which is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. The lake is a popular tourist destination and offers a wide range of water activities.

The city of Ohrid has a population of about 40,000 inhabitants and is one of the main tourist destinations in North Macedonia. 

Geography of Ohrid

If you are wondering where Ohrid is located , you should know that is a city located in the southwest of North Macedonia , on the shores of Lake Ohrid, which is located on the border with Albania. The city is surrounded by the Galicica mountains and the Struga Plain.

Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, with a maximum depth of 296 meters. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water and unique biodiversity and is home to many endemic species.

The Galicica Mountains separate Lake Ohrid from Lake Prespa, which lies to the west of Ohrid. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

The Struga Plain is located north of Ohrid and is a fertile lowland region. The region is known for its production of apples and other fruits.

Map of Ohrid on Google Maps

What to Do in Ohrid: Activities

Ohrid offers a wide variety of activities for tourists, from water activities to cultural visits and outdoor sports. These are some of the most popular activities.

A boat ride on Lake Ohrid is one of the best ways to explore the lake, tourists can take a boat ride from the Ohrid port and enjoy the spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

In addition, you can enjoy water activities in Ohrid , as the city has numerous beaches along the lake, where tourists can sunbathe, swim and enjoy the views. You can also consider fishing, windsurfing, water skiing, swimming, and diving. It is possible to rent equipment and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the lake.

You can also visit the historical sites of Ohrid , as the city has many historically and culturally significant attractions to visit, such as the Ancient Theatre, Samuel's Fortress, and the Church of St. John in Kaneo.

Finally, the Ohrid region has many hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for outdoor sports such as paragliding and hang gliding. You can explore the mountains and enjoy stunning views of the lake and the surrounding region.

Photo of lake, mountain, and the city of Ohrid

Photo by Slavcho Malezanov on Unsplash

What to See in Ohrid: Main Attractions

Ohrid is a culturally and historically rich city and has numerous sites of interest for tourists and visitors. Below, we show you some of the most outstanding places.

Ohrid Old Town is the historic center of the city and features numerous narrow cobblestone streets, old houses, and historic buildings.

The Church of St. Sophia is one of the oldest churches in the city, built in the 11th century in Byzantine style and noted for its frescoes and architecture. While the church of St. John in Kaneo is located on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid.

The monastery of St. Naum is an Orthodox monastery located on the shore of Lake Ohrid, about 30 kilometers from the city, and is famous for its frescoes and natural beauty.

The Ancient Theater of Ohrid is a Roman theater from the 2nd century BC, located in the center of the city, and is one of the few Roman theaters still in use in Europe. The Ohrid Fortress is located on a hill above the city. It offers breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid and the city.

The Ohrid Museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the city and the region.

The city also has numerous beaches along the shore of Lake Ohrid, which are ideal for swimming, windsurfing, and other water activities.

Beaches of Ohrid

As we mentioned before, Ohrid is a town located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. The lake has numerous sandy and pebble beaches along its shores and is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy the sun and crystal-clear water.

Gradiste Beach is located south of Ohrid and is one of the most popular beaches in the region, it has a long stretch of sand and is ideal for sunbathing and enjoying the views of the lake.

Kaneo Beach is in the center of Ohrid, near the church of St. John of Kaneo. It is a small, picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and a spectacular view of the lake.

Labino Beach is located east of Ohrid and is a pebble beach with a spectacular view of the lake, it has a long stretch of beach and is popular with tourists and locals.

St. Stefan Beach is located north of Ohrid, near the village of Elshani. It is a quiet and picturesque beach with crystal clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere.

Photo of a monastery in front of a lake and mountains

Photo by Gorjan Ivanovski on Unsplash

Ohrid Festivals

Ohrid is known for its festivals and cultural events, which attract visitors from all over the world. Some of the most important and popular festivals are:

The Ohrid Summer Festival is one of the largest festivals in the city and is held every year in July and August. It includes a wide variety of events, such as classical and modern music concerts, plays, dances, and an open-air cinema.

The Ohridski Trubaduri is a pop music festival held every year in August. It attracts many young people from all over North Macedonia and the Balkans.

St. Clement's Day is a religious and cultural festival held on July 23 in honor of St. Clement of Ohrid, the patron saint of the city. It includes religious processions, music, dances, and traditional food.

The International Folklore Festival is a festival of folk dance and music held every year in September. Folk groups from all over the world participate and offer a unique experience for visitors.

The Ohrid Film Festival is held every year in September. It includes screenings of films and documentaries from around the world, as well as panel discussions and workshops on the film industry.

Ohrid’s Gastronomy

Ohrid is rich in flavors and varieties and has a strong influence on Balkan and Mediterranean cuisine. We recommend some of its best dishes:

Lake Ohrid fish is fresh and delicious, especially trout, carp, and perch. They are prepared in various ways, from grilled to stews and soups.

Tavche Gravche is one of Macedonia's most traditional dishes, made from white beans cooked in a clay oven with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices. Ajvar consists of a paste made with roasted peppers, garlic, and olive oil, it is used as an accompaniment to many dishes and as a sauce for bread.

Kebapi is skewers of minced meat (usually pork or lamb) served with flatbread, onions, and peppers. While turlitava is a stew made with a mixture of vegetables (zucchini, eggplant, tomato, bell pepper), minced meat, and spices.

Rakija is a fruit brandy produced in Macedonia and is very popular in the region and is made from a variety of fruits, such as plum, grape, and peach.

The Ohrid region is known for its high-quality wines, especially the white wine made from the Smederevka grape.

How to Get to Ohrid

If you are wondering how to get to Ohrid , here are some options that you should know.

The first option is to arrive in Ohrid by plane , since the city has the Ohrid International Airport , also known as Ohrid Saint Paul Apostle Airport, which is located about 10 kilometers north of the center.

The second option is the bus. You will find regular bus connections from the main cities in North Macedonia, such as Skopje, Bitola, and Prilep.

Finally, by car, because you can reach Ohrid through the E65 highway, which connects the city with Skopje and the border with Albania .

Getting around Ohrid: Transportation

If you are thinking about how to get around Ohrid , you should know that this is a small and compact city, so it is easy to get around on foot or by bicycle, but you can also get around by bus as Ohrid has a public transportation system that connects the city center with other surrounding areas.

In addition, there are many cabs available, and they are a good option for tourists who need to get around quickly and comfortably. 

Tourists who want to explore Ohrid's surroundings can choose to rent a car. There are several car rental companies available in the city, and the prices are quite reasonable.

Travelers can also opt to take a boat to explore Lake Ohrid .

Get to Know Ohrid Today

Ohrid is a popular destination for nature, history, and culture lovers, as well as for those looking for a relaxing beach vacation.

Thanks to its proximity to other important and cultural sites such as Greece , travelers choose to combine their excursions to Ohrid with these.

Would you like to tour one of the oldest cities in Europe? Would you like to save time when visiting tourist attractions? Greca offers you one-day tours of the most fascinating places in the city. Don't wait any longer and save your precious time with our excursions to Ohrid !

More Travel Guides!

If you were interested in our Ohrid travel guide and want to continue learning about this and other wonderful destinations, we invite you to take a look at our travel guides section, and plan your next adventure with Greca!

The best time to visit Ohrid is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. However, summer is also popular due to the warm weather and water activities in the lake.

During the peak tourist season in Ohrid, which extends from July to August, the weather is warm and sunny. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C. However, keep in mind that there may be higher tourist crowds and prices can be higher.

No specific vaccines are required to travel to Ohrid. However, it is recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations and consider consulting with a doctor or travel health clinic before your departure for personalized recommendations.

Yes, Ohrid is generally a safe destination for travel. As with any place, it is recommended to take normal precautions such as being mindful of your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. It is also advisable to have travel insurance that covers potential emergencies.

The currency used in Ohrid and Macedonia is the Macedonian denar (MKD). It is recommended to have some cash in denars for small expenses, but credit cards are also accepted in many tourist places.

Yes, English is spoken in Ohrid and most tourist destinations in Macedonia. Hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites typically have English-speaking staff. However, in more rural areas or outside the main tourist spots, English proficiency may be limited.

The typical duration of a stay in Ohrid varies depending on the traveler's preferences. For exploring the city and enjoying the main attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is usually sufficient. However, if you wish to do additional excursions or enjoy the natural surroundings, you may consider a stay of 4 to 5 days.

It is important to follow local regulations and restrictions when visiting Ohrid. Make sure to respect behavioral norms in religious and cultural places, as well as conservation regulations in the Ohrid National Park. Additionally, be mindful of any local guidelines related to mask usage and social distancing.

No, US citizens do not need a visa to travel to Ohrid or Macedonia in general. They can enter as tourists and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

US citizens need to have a valid passport to enter Ohrid and Macedonia. Additionally, it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness or injuries during the stay.

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