Ohrid pulls you in the moment you arrive. A lake so clear it mirrors the sky, streets that whisper history, sunsets that stop time. Wander past centuries-old churches, feel the stone beneath your feet, hear the call of the water. Some come for the culture, some for the quiet. Either way, Ohrid leaves its mark. Days move slower here—boat rides at sunrise, strolls along the shore, golden-hour reflections on the water. In this article, we’ll introduce you to this Macedonian gem and tell you what are some of the best things to do in Ohrid for your upcoming trip.
Getting To Ohrid
There are several ways to get to Ohrid, a beautiful city located in Macedonia. Here are some common transportation options:
By Air – The small but handy St. Paul the Apostle Airport (OHD) brings in seasonal flights from European cities. Step off the plane, and within minutes, you’re breathing in lake air. If flights don’t align, Skopje Airport (SKP) is a solid alternative, about three hours away by road.
By Bus – Buses roll in from Skopje, all other cities in Macedonia, Tirana, and nearby Balkan hubs in Serbia, Bulgaria and Greece. It’s an easy, budget-friendly option, with views shifting from rugged mountains to open water. The bus station sits just outside town—grab a taxi or stretch your legs on the last stretch.
By Car – A road trip to Ohrid has its own magic. Winding routes through valleys and lakeside curves make for a drive worth savoring. Summer parking? A challenge. Best to find a spot and explore on foot.
Getting Around Ohrid
Ohrid is best explored at its own pace. Small enough to walk, scenic enough for a boat ride, and just big enough to need a ride now and then.
On Foot – The old town is made for walking. Cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, lakeside promenades—every turn feels like a postcard. Stroll from the ancient amphitheater to Kaneo Beach without breaking a sweat. Just wear comfy shoes—some streets are steep.
By Taxi – Cheap, easy, and everywhere. Official taxis are metered, but it doesn’t hurt to confirm the price before hopping in. Need a quick lift to a beach or the bus station? This is your go-to.
By Boat – The lake isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a highway. Local boats take you to St. Naum, Bay of Bones, or a quiet beach across the water. Some skippers even offer private rides—just negotiate a price.
By Car Rental – Not essential for the town itself, but useful for exploring beyond. Drive to remote monasteries, mountain viewpoints, or even cross into Albania for a day trip. Parking in summer? Tricky, but not impossible if you plan ahead.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Ohrid depends on your preferences and the experience you seek. Summer, from June to August, is the peak season, perfect for enjoying the lake and outdoor activities, but also much more expensive than the rest of the year. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer mild temperatures, thinner crowds, and cheaper prices. Winter (November to March) is cold, but if you’re lucky to see Ohrid in white, you’re in for a treat.
Where To Stay In Ohrid
When it comes to choosing accommodation in Ohrid, here are some popular areas to consider for your upcoming trip:
Old Town: home to the oldest part of Ohrid and some of the city’s most important historical sites, Old Town also has a lot of accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique hotels, and traditional houses situated very close to the lakefront. A few of our favorites incldue
Villa Old Town: tiny, charming guesthouse with intact traditional interior and a rooftop terrace with awesome views.
Villa Jordan: A boutique hotel with great views of the lake and a very nice, relaxing garden.
City Center: Not too far from Old Town, you’ll find the modern city center where you can find a lot more attractions and accommodation options. Here are our favorites.
Hotel Tino Sveti Stefan: One of the finest modern hotels in town.
Villa St. Sofija: A cozy guesthouse in the center but still in a quiet area with its own courtyard garden.
Lakefront: If you prefer stunning lake views and easy access to the waterfront, consider staying in hotels or apartments along the shores, like.
Hotel Belvedere: A lakeside hotel with spacious rooms and a private beach area.
Villa Swiss: A charming lakeside villa with comfortable rooms and apartments.
Lagadin: Located a few kilometers away from the city center, Lagadin is one of the most peaceful lakeside neighborhoods in Ohrid.
Villa Milka: A family-run guesthouse with lake views and a large terrace.
Villa Veron: A boutique hotel situated in a quiet area of Lagadin with easy access to the lake.
Helpful Resources For Visiting Ohrid
Before we get to the list of the most incredible things to do in Ohrid, let us share a few tips that will make traveling to Macedonia and Ohrid a lot easier.
The airlines flying to Ohrid include Turkish, Wizzair, Edelweis, and Chair.
For travel insurance, check out SafetyWing for some affordable travel insurance (for more information about this, you can also check out our SafetyWing review).
If you’re considering renting a car during your stay in Ohrid, you can get 15% discount with our link when using Auto Euroep.
And for accomodation, use this exclusive offer by Booking.com that gives you up to 15% off.
Lastly, don’t forget to review the visa requirements for your trip to Macedonia. If you do require a visa, obtaining it through IVisa is a convenient and hassle-free option.
Incredible Things To Do In Ohrid
Now that we covered some basics, it’s time to get to the meat and potatoes of this article- some of the best things to do in Ohrid, starting with…
Explore Old Town
Start high at Samuil’s Fortress. The view stretches over red-tiled rooftops, the lake shifting colors below. Wind your way down to the Ancient Theatre, still standing after two millennia, still hosting performances under the open sky.
The heart of Ohrid beats in its churches. Saint Sophia, grand and quiet, holds centuries of history in its frescoed walls. Further on, Saint John at Kaneo clings to a cliffside, the kind of place that makes you stop and just take it in.
Between sights, the town reveals itself in small moments. A family-run shop selling hand-carved icons. A café with tables spilling onto the street, strong coffee in tiny cups. The wooden boardwalk hugs the shore, leading to hidden swimming spots where the lake laps lazily at the stones.
Go Shopping At Old Bazaar
The Old Bazaar in Ohrid is smaller than the Old Bazaar in Skopje, but it’s still impressive and gives you a chance to see one of Ohrid’s most authentic places. It has a lot of tiny maze-like streets with a lot of shops selling everything from traditional crafts, jewelry, clothing, to local delicacies.
Walk The Promenade
The Ohrid Promenade is a big pedestrian-only street that connects the old bazaar to the springs of Biljana. It’s the place locals choose to go for a walk; it’s peaceful, the lake and its swans are right there and there are a lot of restaurants and cafes where you can sit down if you need a break or just want o grab a cup of coffee and stare at the beautiful lake.
See The Oldest Tree In Macedonia- Chinarot
This list of things to do in Ohrid couldn’t be complete without the ever-famous Ohrid Chinar. In the heart of Old Bazaar Street, you’ll find this ancient Chinar tree, believed to be as old as Ohrid itself. Needless to say, it’s one of the city’s proudest landmarks.
Relax At The Springs Legends Are Made Of
Biljanini Izvori offers a peaceful escape with its crystal-clear spring water, and it’s a perfect escape from the bustling city. It’s one of locals’ favorite recreation area, with its peaceful streams and ponds and lush gardens.
Soak Up The Atmosphere At Saint John at Kaneo
„St. John the Theologian Caneo“ is one of the most famous churches in Ohrid, on the rocky hill above Caneo Beach in the old town.There are no written data on the history of the church but we know that it existed before 1447 according to some of the inscriptions inside. Today, Caneo has preserved a good part of his original frescoes, although some modifications have been made in this regard, but his original charm has been retained until today
Admire St. Sophia Church
Holy Sofia is a cathedral church temple in the old part of the city Ohrid and one of the most significant sights in Macedonia with its medieval architecture and frescoes. The church dates back to the 11th century, but it went under major reconstruction in the 14th century. Similar to Kaneo, it’s famous for its original frescoes that will surely leave you in awe.
Explore Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta
Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta in Ohrid is another remarkable Byzantine church that dates back to the 13th century. The exterior features intricate stone carvings, a beautiful bell tower, and richly-decorated interior, adorned with colorful frescoes and intricate iconography.
Discover The Oldest Religious Complex In Ohrid
The church St. Clement and Panteleimon is located in the area Plaoshnik in the old part of Ohrid. The church was reconstructed and consecrated in 2002 but its foundations date all the way back to the 9th century built by St. Clement Ohrid in the 863rd year in the same place, on the foundations of a large five-year early Christian basilica. In 916, after death, St. Clement was buried in the floor of the church in a tomb that he allegedly prepared himself.
And See More Churches
Even though we mentioned a few of Ohrid’s most famous churches already, this list of things to do in Ohrid wouldn’t be complete if we miss the chance to mention that Ohrid and its surroundings are actually home to 365 churches- one for every day of the year, a rare feat that earned the city its popular nickname- the Jerusalem of the Balkans and one of the hottest tourist attractions in this part of Europe. So, if you’re looking to discover some hidden gems and visit many more medieval churches that we didn’t mention on this list, Ohrid won’t disappoint you.
Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our guide to Matka Canyon in Skopje.
Breathe History At Tzar Samoil’s Fortress
The Samuel Fortress, is a medieval fortress in the city of Ohrid, originally built by the king Philip II of Macedon, and later named after the medieval king Samuel. It’s considered one of the largest fortifications preserved in Macedonia, and its first mentions in history date back to the 3rd century BC. The fortress today represents the highest part of Ohrid, which rises 100 meters above the level of Lake Ohrid.
Attend An Event At The Ancient Amphitheater
The Ohrid Amphitheater is a Roman theater and archeological site from the end III century BC. The ancient theater is located at the foot of the eastern edge of the higher Ohrid hill and is home to many great manifestations and festivals, especially during the summer.
See Plaošnik, Europe’s First University?
Plaošnik, often referred to as Europe’s First University, is a historic site in Ohrid that has been known as a sanctuary since the beginnings of Christianity, and probably before that. The previously mentioned Church of the Holy Clement and the Panteleimon is the most important structure on the site, but you can also find a small museum and a few other old buildings on the site as well.
Admire Local Architecture At The Robevi Family House
Robbovi’s house is an old house in Ohrid which is considered to be one of the most representative examples of old city architecture in Macedonia, and a protected cultural monument. Today, the house also houses the Ohrid Archaeological Museum. The house was built in 1825.
Drive To Saint Naum Monastery
St. Naum is another old monastery built on a high rock above Ohrid Lake. St. Naum, before the end of his life, founded the monastery and in 910, after his death, he was burried there. Interestingly, the structure of the church is almost identical to the church „St. Pantheleimon and one of the local legends says that St. Naum and St. Clement (who the other monastery is named after) were brothers, and they began to build the monasteries at the same time.
Eat On A Floating Raft
When visiting the Saint Naum Monastery, you can indulge in one of the most memorable culinary experiences in Macedonia- eating on a raft located on the ancient springs surrounded by lush greenery from all sides.
Check Out Macedonia’s First Water Museum
Bay of Bones is an archeological site turned into a replica of an ancient settlement between the villages of Peshtani and Trpejca. Most of the artifacts were discovered in the lake in the late 90s and the museum was opened shortly afterward.
Go Hiking At The Galicica National Park
Spreading across an area of 25,000 acres, Galicica is the smallest National Park in Macedonia. If you’re lucky, you can see the endangered Balkan Lynx. There are 36 of them in Galicica, and there are also small populations of bears and wolves. Galicica is home to arguably the most famous hiking trail in the country which leads to the top of the mountain, from where you can see the Ohrid Lake on your right, and the Prespa Lake on the left.
Hike To Ramne Village
Ramne Village is technically a part of the Galicica National Park, but getting there takes a few hours of walking along lush forests, meadows, and slopes. It’s one of the most remote villages in the Ohrid area and its gorgeous panoramic vistas of Lake Ohrid are definitely worth the walk (trust me).
Hike To Velestovo
And speaking of gems and remote villages, Velestovo is another gem. It’s not as remote as Ramne and has seen a lot of development in recent years, so you can get to the village with a car but there are a lot of trails and walking routes where you can climb higher and take amazing pictures of the city of Ohrid and its beautiful lake.
Get The Best View In Macedonia
One of the most spectacular viewpoints in Galicica National Park, which offers a panoramic vista of both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa is the peak called Magaro. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,255 meters, this is, in my opinion, this is the most beautiful view in the whole country, and personally, one of my favorite places to visit in Macedonia! No matter how many times I visit, I just can’t get enough of the peaceful atmosphere at the top.
Visit The Fishing Village Of Peshtani
Peshtani is a village near Ohrid that got its name from the many caves (peshteri) surrounding the area. The village lies south of Ohrid, and it’s a great gateway for exploring the beauties of the Galicica National Park. Pestani has numerous accommodation facilities, the largest of which is hotel Desaret.
Get Away From Everything In Trpejca
Trpejca is located south of Peshtani on the road to St. Naum Monastery at an altitude of 710 meters and offers some of the most peaceful beaches on Lake Ohrid and some of the most amazing views of the city (excluding the mountains).
Hike To Labino Beach
Located near the village of Trpejca on the shores of Lake Ohrid, Labino Beach is a secluded and pristine stretch of shoreline. It’s one of my favorite beaches in Ohrid.
Go Camping At Gradishte
If you are reading this and thinking: “This looks great, but why haven’t you mentioned any places to go camping near the lake?” And fortunately for you, we’ve gotten to that part of the article. Gradishte is the largest camp located near the lake. Here, you can find many accommodation options ranging from bungalows to trailers and tents, just steps away from the lake
Jet Ski
Jet ski rentals are available at various locations around the lake, and you can use this link to pre-book it and get up to 10% off on your purchase. The locations where you can rent a jet ski include the Ohrid City Beach (in the center), Gradishte Beach, in the Struga City beach, or in Albanian Pogradec on the other side of the lake.
Stand-Up Paddle Board On The Lake
You can find SUP rental services and tour operators in various locations around Lake Ohrid, particularly in tourist areas and beach resorts, with the most popular spots being the Ohrid City Beach, Gradishte Beach, Lagadin, Trpjeca, Peshtani, and Struga City Beach.
Go Kayaking
Kayaking in Ohrid is not hard; the waters are usually very calm, and this makes for easy paddling. You can take your own pace and explore the lake how you want and when you want, and discover its hidden coves and secluded beaches.
Take A Boat Cruise
This list of things to do in Ohrid couldn’t be complete without taking a boat cruise. Most boats depart from the central town port, and you can choose from a regular 30-minute cruise, a 1-hour drunken cruise, or a boat trip to St. Naum Monastery.
Discover Wild Beaches
Ohrid is home to some beautiful wild beaches. Andon Dukov Beach offers a peaceful, untouched vibe with clear water and few crowds. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Debarca Beach, on the other hand, has a more rugged feel, surrounded by dense greenery and quiet waters. Both beaches provide a more private, nature-filled escape away from the busier areas of Ohrid.
Find The Best Sunset Spots In Town
Of course, this list of amazing things to do in Ohrid wouldn’t be complete without a few beautiful sunset spots. The town of Ohrid offers several fantastic spots to witness breathtaking sunsets. Here are a few of our favorite sunset locations:
Potpesh: a lakeside bar/restaurant renowned for its stunning sunset views.
Cuba Libre: a popular bar known for wild parties and its amazing sunset panoramic views of the lake.
Kaneo: In addition to being home to one of Ohrid’s prettiest monasteries, it also happens to be home to one of the best sunset spots in town.
Trpejca: this list couldn’t be complete without the sunset views of one of Ohrid’s most peaceful villages.
Buy Ohrid Pearls
One more thing this city is famous for is the Ohrid Pearls, a unique and precious white pearls that can be found only here. However, keep in mind that many tourists get scammed when buying pearls so if you want to make sure you have the original thing, visit either the store of Filevi or Tunevi, both located in Old Town.
A Note About The Ohrid Trout
If you read any other blogs, you probably know that the Ohrid trout is one of Ohrid’s most famous local delicacies. However, what you may not know is that the Ohrid trout has unfortunately become an endangered species. Just something to keep in mind before choosing to order this in a restaurant.
Day Trip Ideas
Lastly, we’re summarizing this list of the best things to do in Ohrid with a few day trip ideas.
Struga
Take a short trip to the nearby city of Struga, a neighboring city located on the other side of the lake. In addition to its beaches, Struga is also famous for being the poetry capital of Macedonia and for hosting the annual Struga Poetry Nights (a worldwide-famous poetry event).
Vevchani
Take a trip to the charming village of Vevcani, known for its natural springs, interesting people, and a quirky mask carnival that often stirs controversy with participants’ creativity.
Prespa Lake
Drive along the scenic routes surrounding Prespa Lake, another gorgeous azure lake and Macedonia’s second largest. You can combine this trip with your hiking trip in Galicica, as this lake is located on the other side of the mountain. You can visit the village of Otesevo, which is the closest inhabited place on this side of the mountain.
Did you like this list of incredible things to do in Ohrid? Did you ever try any of them? What would you like to do first if you visit Ohrid? Let us know in the comments below.
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