Macedonia is a country rich in cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, and its cities reflect this unique blend of history, tradition, and modernity. From the vibrant capital city of Skopje, with its mix of ancient sites and contemporary architecture, to the picturesque lakeside town of Ohrid, known for its UNESCO-listed old town, each city in Macedonia offers its own distinct character and charm. With a wealth of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, the cities in Macedonia offer a captivating experience for visitors seeking to uncover the hidden gems of the Balkans.
In this article, we’ll give you a brief introduction to all the cities in Macedonia (34 in total) and hopefully, give you a few extra reasons to seriously consider visiting this small but beautiful country.
But first, let’s cover some basics…
Helpful Resources For Visiting Macedonia
For affordable flights to Macedonia, Qatar Airways is currently offering a fantastic deal, allowing you to save up to 10% on your ticket price.
As for travel insurance, SafetyWing has some great options specifically tailored for trips to Macedonia, ensuring you have the coverage you need (for more information about this, you can also check out our SafetyWing review).
If you’re considering renting a car during your stay in Macedonia, be sure to take advantage of our 15% discount available on all car rentals in Macedonia.
To further maximize your savings, check out our special offer on accommodation bookings in Macedonia provided by Booking.com which offers up to 10% off.
Lastly, don’t forget to review the visa requirements for your trip to Macedonia. Fortunately, Macedonia has a relatively liberal visa policy, exempting visitors from many European countries, the US, Canada, and Australia from needing a visa. However, if you do require a visa, obtaining it through IVisa is a convenient and hassle-free option, eliminating the need to visit the local Macedonian embassy.
Skopje
We start off this list of cities in Macedonia with its capital Skopje, a fascinating destination that seamlessly blends the old and the new. With its rich history and cultural heritage, Skopje is an underrated city that offers a captivating experience for visitors. Explore the enchanting Old Bazaar, a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with traditional shops and bustling with activity. Admire the grandeur of the Skopje Fortress, which overlooks the city and offers breathtaking views.
Marvel at the impressive statues and monuments scattered throughout the city, showcasing its unique architectural style. Indulge in the vibrant nightlife and sample delicious Macedonian cuisine and don’t forget to visit the mesmerizing Matka Canyon. Skopje is a city of contrasts, where ancient history meets modern aspirations, making it a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Ohrid
Located on the shores of Lake Ohrid in Macedonia, Ohrid is a captivating destination that offers a wealth of experiences. With its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, the city is steeped in history and boasts a remarkable collection of medieval churches, ancient ruins, and picturesque cobblestone streets. Explore the stunning Ohrid Lake, known as the “Pearl of the Balkans,” with its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage through art galleries, museums, and traditional performances. Enjoy water sports, boat cruises, and relaxing beach days. With its charm, natural beauty, and cultural treasures, Ohrid is an enchanting destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Bitola
Bitola, the second-largest city in Macedonia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas, Bitola offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Wander through the well-preserved Ottoman-era streets, lined with elegant mansions and traditional bazaars. Explore the ancient ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis, an impressive archaeological site that transports you back in time. Visit the iconic Clock Tower, a symbol of the city’s rich past. Indulge in delicious local cuisine and savor the vibrant cafe culture of Shirok Sokak, Bitola’s equivalent of Paris’ Champs Elysees.
Kumanovo
Kumanovo is a dynamic city in the northern part of the country, beckons with its vibrant energy and intriguing attractions. Explore the city’s rich history as you wander through its historic neighborhoods and admire the blend of architectural styles, from Ottoman-era structures to modern buildings. Visit the iconic Clock Tower, a symbol of Kumanovo’s past, and delve into its fascinating museums that showcase the region’s heritage. Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring bustling markets, trying traditional delicacies, and engaging with friendly locals. Surround yourself with breathtaking natural beauty as you venture into the nearby mountains and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
Prilep
Prilep, one of the most important historic cities in Macedonia, is famous for its cultural heritage but also its natural beauty. It is famous for its striking medieval fortress, Marko’s Tower, which stands proudly atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Prilep is also known for its traditional tobacco production, with the city being a hub for the tobacco industry in the country. The city is home to several historic mosques and churches, showcasing the multicultural fabric of the region.
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Tetovo
Tetovo is a city in the northwestern part of Macedonia renowned for its cultural diversity, historical landmarks, and stunning natural surroundings. It is most notable for the colorful Painted Mosque, also known as Tetovo’s Alabaster Mosque, which features exquisite exterior decorations. The city is a vibrant melting pot of different cultures, with a significant Albanian population that adds to its cultural tapestry.
Tetovo is also known for its lively bazaar, where visitors can immerse themselves in a bustling atmosphere and explore a wide range of shops and traditional crafts. The nearby Shar Mountain National Park offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, skiing, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Veles
Veles is a city in central Macedonia famous for its ancient archaeological sites, including the impressive Roman aqueduct and the archaeological site of Stobi, which showcase the region’s Roman past. Veles is also renowned for its vibrant folklore and traditional arts and crafts, with artisans producing intricate woodwork, ceramics, textiles, and of course- pastramajlija (the Macedonian version of pizza).
The city is nestled along the banks of the Vardar River, offering picturesque views and pleasant waterfront areas for leisurely strolls. Additionally, Veles hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, highlighting the local traditions, music, and cuisine of the region.
Štip
Štip is home to the iconic Bargala Fortress, a medieval fortress that stands as a symbol of the city’s past and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Shtip is also recognized for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing local and national artwork and performances. The city is renowned for its educational institutions, including the Goce Delchev University, attracting students from across the country.
Additionally, Shtip is famous for its lively bazaar, where visitors can explore a variety of shops, taste local delicacies like pastramajlija (there’s actually an ongoing rivalry between Veles and Štip about whose pastramajlija tastes better), and experience the bustling atmosphere of the city.
Gostivar
Gostivar is one of the cities in Macedonia best known for its cultural diversity, vibrant bazaar, and natural beauty. It is known as a melting pot of different ethnicities, including Albanians, Turks, Roma, and Macedonians, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry and a unique blend of traditions, languages, and cuisines. The city’s bazaar, with its bustling marketplaces and narrow streets, offers a lively atmosphere where visitors can shop for various goods, taste delicious street food, and experience the local culture. Gostivar is also surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Bistra Mountain.
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Strumica
Strumica is the largest city in Macedonia’s southeast, famous for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals. The city is home to a couple of the country’s most famous waterfalls, Smolari and Koleshino, and the picturesque Lake Vodocha, which attracts visitors with its scenic beauty. Strumica is also known for its rich cultural traditions, particularly its annual Strumica Carnival, one of the largest and most colorful carnival celebrations in the country, featuring extravagant costumes, lively music, and festive parades.
The city is home to several historical and religious sites, such as the Church of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius, the Byzantine Fortress of Strumica, and the Roman Thermae, showcasing its historical significance and architectural beauty.
Kavadarci
The first thing that comes to mind when mentioning Kavadarci is wine production, agricultural heritage, and scenic landscapes. It is known as the wine capital of the country, producing a wide variety of high-quality wines. Kavadarci is home to numerous vineyards and wineries, offering wine enthusiasts the opportunity to indulge in wine-tasting tours and learn about the winemaking process.
Additionally, the city is surrounded by picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside, providing a charming backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration. Kavadarci also hosts the annual “Days of the Vine” festival, celebrating the region’s winemaking heritage with wine exhibitions, cultural events, and traditional music and dance performances.
Kočani
This list of cities in Macedonia can’t be complete without the rice capital of the country. Located in the eastern part of the country, surrounded by picturesque mountains, lush forests, and fertile fields, Kočani is known for its medieval Stone Bridge, traditional handmade carpets, the annual Kočani carnival that attracts visitors from around the region, the quirky Kočani Tomato Festival, one of the most scenic fortresses in Macedonia (Sokolica Fortress), and last but not least- rice fields.
Radoviš
Radoviš is one of the smaller cities in Macedonia known for several notable things. The town’s history is intertwined with copper mining, and the Radoviš Copper Mines have played a significant role in the region’s economy. Additionally, Radoviš is home to the Vidoeski Monastery, a 14th-century religious site known for its beautiful frescoes and serene ambiance.
The preservation of traditional crafts and folkloric traditions is another highlight of Radoviš, with artisans practicing pottery, woodcarving, and embroidery. Visitors can witness these crafts firsthand in workshops and studios. The picturesque Radoviš Lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking, providing a tranquil retreat in nature.
Negotino
Negotino is another city in the central part of the country best known for being Kavadarci’s arch-rival. Similar to Kavadarci, Negotino is famous for its viticulture and winemaking (and rakija-making) traditions. Negotino is also recognized for its historical landmarks, such as the Church of St. George, a beautiful Orthodox church dating back to the 19th century, and the ancient archaeological site of Bargala, which provides insights into the area’s ancient past.
The town’s annual Grape Festival celebrates the local wine culture and offers a vibrant atmosphere with music, dance, and traditional food. Additionally, Negotino boasts picturesque natural surroundings, including the nearby Tikvesh Lake, where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.
Kriva Palanka
Nestled in the Osogovo Mountains, the town offers breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and exploring nature trails. Kriva Palanka is renowned for its traditional folk music and dance, with vibrant performances that showcase the local culture and traditions. The town also has significant historical landmarks, including the 14th-century Monastery of St. Joakim Osogovski, a revered Orthodox monastery known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
Vinica
Vinica is one of the smallest cities in Macedonia and is known for its rich winemaking tradition and archaeological heritage. Wine enthusiasts can explore the local wineries, participate in wine tastings, and learn about the winemaking process. Vinica is also famous for its archaeological sites, particularly the archaeological site of the Vinica Fortress, which dates back to the Roman and Byzantine periods. Additionally, the city’s museum is home to the famous “Vinica Neolithic Goddess,” a ceramic figurine discovered in the area, representing one of the oldest depictions of a human figure in Europe.
Gevgelija
Gevgelija is the southernmost city in the country, most famous for being a bustling border crossing point between Macedonia and Greece and its vibrant casino industry that attracts people from both sides of the border. The town is home to several popular casinos that attract tourists seeking entertainment and a chance to try their luck at the gaming tables. Gevgelija also hosts the annual “Gevgelija Cultural Summer” festival, which celebrates music, dance, and traditional arts. The event features performances by local and international artists, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
Debar
Debar is the most remote town in Macedonia, nestled in the picturesque Debar Lake region, known for its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountain landscapes. Nature enthusiasts can explore the area’s hiking trails and climb Mount Korab, the highest mountaintop in the country, enjoy water sports on the lake, visit some of the local thermal baths, or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings. Debar is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It houses several historical sites and landmarks, including the Debar Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the town and its surroundings.
Sveti Nikole
Sveti Nikole is a small town in central Macedonia famous for its Monastery of St. Nikolas, a significant religious site that attracts pilgrims and visitors alike. The monastery showcases stunning Byzantine-style frescoes and intricate religious artwork. The town is also renowned for its annual “Days of Macedonian Music” festival, which brings together renowned musicians and performers from all over the country. Another notable attraction is the Museum of Sveti Nikole, where visitors can explore the region’s history, culture, and traditional crafts. Sveti Nikole is known for its thriving agricultural industry, specializing in wine production, particularly the local grape variety called “Kratosija.”
Kratovo
Kratovo is a beautiful small town famous for its unique and well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, characterized by its distinct stone houses with red-tiled roofs. The town is renowned for its unusual network of underground tunnels and mining heritage, as it was once a prominent center for silver and lead mining. Visitors can explore the Kratovo Stone Bridge, an impressive Ottoman bridge spanning the Kratovska River, as well as the Clock Tower, an iconic landmark in the town center. Kratovo is also known for its traditional festivals and cultural events, including the Kratovo Carnival, which showcases colorful costumes, lively music, and traditional dances.
Delčevo
Named after famous Macedonian revolutionary Goce Delchev, Delčevo is a town in North Macedonia that is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Nestled in the foothills of the Maleševo Mountains, Delčevo offers breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, picturesque valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. The town is a gateway to the Maleševo region, which is popular among hikers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
Berovo
Nestled in the scenic Maleshevo mountain range, Berovo offers breathtaking landscapes of lush forests, meandering rivers, picturesque valleys, and the beautiful Berovo Lake. Berovo is particularly famous for its clean and fresh mountain air, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and nature walks. The region is also known for its traditional agriculture, with vineyards and fruit orchards dotting the landscape but the town is also famous for making some of the most delicious cheese varieties in Macedonia.
Probištip
Probištip is a small town in eastern Macedonia best known for its rich mining heritage, particularly for the extraction of iron ore. In fact, Probištip has been an important mining center since ancient times, with evidence of mining activities dating back to the Roman period. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of old mines and gain insights into the town’s mining history but also visit the town’s new, modern aquapark.
Demir Kapija
Demir Kapija is a small town located in North Macedonia and is famous for its natural beauty, particularly its stunning canyon, and vineyards. The town is named after the “Iron Gate,” which refers to the narrowest point of the scenic Vardar River Gorge. The canyon is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna. Demir Kapija is also renowned for its vineyards and wineries like Popova Kula (one of the most famous wineries in the country) as the region is known for producing high-quality wines. Visitors can enjoy wine-tasting tours, visit wineries, and learn about the local winemaking traditions.
Makedonski Brod
Makedonski Brod is a small town in North Macedonia known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The town is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying the scenic landscapes. Makedonski Brod is particularly famous for its proximity to the beautiful Krchin Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction that draws visitors with its cascading waters and tranquil surroundings. The town also has a rich cultural heritage, with several historic churches and monasteries, such as the St. Spas Monastery, showcasing beautiful architecture and religious significance.
Resen
is famous for its close proximity to Lake Prespa, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, and Galichica National Park. Lake Prespa offers breathtaking views, abundant flora and fauna, and opportunities for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Resen is also renowned for its historic sites, including the Church of St. George, known for its stunning frescoes, and the Resen Museum, which showcases archaeological artifacts and important cultural exhibits from the region. Additionally, Resen is famous for its traditional hand-woven wool carpets, known as “Resen kilims,” which are highly valued for their intricate designs and craftsmanship.
Bogdanci
Bogdanci is one of the smallest cities in Macedonia renowned for its vineyards and wineries that produce high-quality wines. The region’s favorable climate and fertile soil create optimal conditions for grape cultivation, resulting in a variety of delicious wines. Bogdanci is particularly famous for its red wines, with popular grape varieties including Vranec and Cabernet Sauvignon. Visitors to Bogdanci can explore the vineyards, participate in wine-tasting tours, and also see the city’s famous windmills.
Valandovo
Valandovo is another small town in the south of the country mostly known for its agriculture production. The town is one of the country’s largest tobacco, pomegranate, wheat, and watermelon producer. Another thing this town is known for is the annual Valandovo Folk Fest which focuses on traditional folklore music and has participants from not only Macedonia but the entire region.
Kruševo
Kruševo is a town that holds a special place in Macedonian history as the birthplace of the Ilinden Uprising, a significant rebellion against the Ottoman Empire in 1903. The town is famous for its traditional architecture, featuring well-preserved stone houses and narrow cobblestone streets. Kruševo is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting various festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Sculpture Symposium and the Balkan Festival of Folk Songs and Dances. Additionally, Kruševo offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, paragliding, and skiing during the winter months.
Demir Hisar
Demir Hisar is one of the smallest cities in Macedonia best known for its peaceful surroundings and its proximity to the Baba Mountain range and the Pelister National Park. This makes Demir Hisar one of the best destinations in Macedonia for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
Dojran
Dojran is a town in North Macedonia known for its picturesque lake, Lake Dojran. The town is famous for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for relaxation and leisure activities. Lake Dojran is known for its clear and calm waters, surrounded by beautiful beaches and lush vegetation. It offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Dojran is also known for its therapeutic mud, believed to have healing properties. Visitors can enjoy mud treatments and spa therapies, taking advantage of the natural resources found in the area.
Pehčevo
Pehčevo is a town in North Macedonia known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is located in the eastern part of the country, surrounded by mountains and stunning landscapes. Pehčevo is famous for its proximity to the Maleshevo Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring scenic trails. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, with diverse flora and fauna, including rare plant species. Pehčevo is also home to the Pehčevo Zrnovska River, which flows through the town, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and enjoying nature. The town itself features traditional Macedonian architecture, charming streets, and welcoming locals, offering a glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage.
Kičevo
Kičevo is a beautiful city in the western part of the country surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also famous for its rich history, with notable landmarks such as the Clock Tower, Stone Bridge, and the Church of St. Dimitrija. The city is also known for its traditional folklore, music, and dance, which are celebrated through various cultural events and festivals.
Makedonska Kamenica
Gaining the status of a city in 2004, Makedonska Kamenica is one of the newest cities in Macedonia. It’s located at the foot of the Osogovo Mountains on their southern slope. Makedonska Kamenica is known as a mining town, with the most famous Macedonian lead and zinc mine, Sasa, located in its immediate vicinity.
Mavrovo
Last but not least, we round up this list with Mavrovo. Although technically, Mavrovo is a region and not a city we thought it deserves a mention on this list because it covers a relatively large part of the country, it’s home to the country’s most beautiful national park, some of the most delicious cheese varieties, one of the oldest monasteries in the country, and it hosts some of the most important cultural events in the region like the traditional Galicnik wedding.
How did you like our list of cities in Macedonia? Which one of them seems most interesting and which one would you like to visit first? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
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