Plan your trip to North Macedonia:
the Marvel of the Balkans

Here are a few stats and tips that we picked up in our time here. Let us know if there is anything we should add!

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* We will be updating this section with a new format soon

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Total Population: 2.08 million

Capital City: Skopje (526k)

Currency: Macedonian Denar (MKD)

Driving: Right Side

Measurement Standard: Metric (km)

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⪢ Entry requirements:

Check the entry requirements for your country of citizenship. Some visitors may need a visa to enter North Macedonia, while others may be eligible for visa-free travel. Here are a few things to consider:

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• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in North Macedonia.

• Proof of onward travel: You must have a valid ticket for your onward journey out of North Macedonia.

• Health insurance: It is recommended that you have health insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay in North Macedonia.

• Visa: Citizens of most countries do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. If you are planning to stay in North Macedonia for longer than 90 days, you will need to obtain a visa from the nearest embassy or consulate of North Macedonia, and must complete to the following:

• Visa application form: You can download the visa application form from the website of the Embassy of North Macedonia in your country.

• Photo: You must provide a recent passport-sized photo.

• Proof of identity: You must provide a copy of your driver's license or other government-issued ID.

• Proof of accommodation: You must provide a letter of invitation from a host in North Macedonia or a hotel reservation.

• Proof of financial support: You must provide a bank statement or other proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in North Macedonia.

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The processing time for a visa application is usually 1-2 weeks. Entry requirements for North Macedonia may change at any time. It is always best to check with the Embassy of North Macedonia in your country for the most up-to-date information.

⪢ Language

​The official language is Macedonian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

⪢ Currency

The currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). It's recommended to carry local currency for small purchases, but major credit cards are accepted in most establishments. Convert your currency here.

⪢ Weather

North Macedonia has a varied climate, ranging from Mediterranean in the south to continental in the north. The best time to visit North Macedonia is during the spring (May-June) or fall (September-October). During these times, the weather is mild and sunny, and there are fewer tourists. The summer (July-August) can be hot and crowded, while the winter (December-February) can be cold and snowy. 

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⪢ Cultural Etiquette

Respect the local customs and traditions. Greet people with a handshake, remove your shoes when entering someone's home, and avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion.

⪢ Transportation

North Macedonia has a well-developed transportation system. Public buses and taxis are common in cities, while renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the country.

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⪢ Health & Safety

North Macedonia is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, exercise normal precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. It's advisable to check if you need any vaccinations before traveling and carry necessary medications with you.

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⪢ Local Cuisine

North Macedonian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Ottoman influences. Grilled meats like kebabs and čevapi are popular, accompanied by the flavorful ajvar red pepper relish. Tavče Gravče, a hearty bean stew, is the national dish, while the refreshing Shopska Salad combines tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and feta cheese. Burek, a savory pastry, and pastrmajlija, a boat-shaped bread with meat toppings, are beloved snacks. North Macedonia is also known for its strong fruit brandy called rakija and delicious desserts like Tavče Gravče and Baklava. The country's creamy yogurt and local specialties offer a delightful culinary experience.

⪢ Dress Code

North Macedonia has a relatively conservative dress code, particularly in rural areas and religious sites. Dress modestly when visiting churches or mosques, covering your shoulders and knees.

⪢ Must-See Places

Explore the capital city of Skopje, visit the historic town of Ohrid, enjoy the stunning nature of Mavrovo National Park, and discover the vibrant cultural scene in Bitola.

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⪢ Festivals and Events

Check the local calendar for festivals and events happening during your visit. The Ohrid Summer Festival, Skopje Jazz Festival, and Treskavec Monastery Pilgrimage are just a few examples of the vibrant cultural scene in North Macedonia.

⪢ Driving

Driving in North Macedonia offers the opportunity to explore the country's scenic landscapes and charming towns. The road network is generally well-maintained, allowing for convenient travel between cities and regions. It's important to familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits and parking rules.

Defensive driving is recommended, as local driving habits may differ from what you're accustomed to. Keep in mind that road signage is predominantly in the Cyrillic alphabet, so having a GPS or a map can be helpful. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of driving in North Macedonia while staying alert and adhering to road safety guidelines.

⪢ Tipping

Tipping customs in North Macedonia are generally more modest compared to some other countries, but leaving a gratuity is still appreciated for good service. In restaurants, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a 10% tip if you're satisfied with the service. Some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so it's worth checking before adding an additional tip.

For other services like taxis, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip is customary. While not mandatory, it is a gesture of appreciation that locals and service industry workers will welcome. Ultimately, tipping in North Macedonia is discretionary, and the amount should reflect your satisfaction with the service provided.

⪢ Connectivity

Connectivity in North Macedonia is generally reliable and accessible. The country has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure with widespread coverage for mobile networks and internet access. Most urban areas have access to 4G and increasingly 5G networks, providing fast and stable internet connections. Major cities and tourist destinations offer free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Here are a few suggestions:

Makedonski Telekom (also known as T-Mobile) is the largest mobile operator in North Macedonia. It has a good network coverage and offers a variety of plans to choose from.

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A1 is the second largest mobile operator in North Macedonia. It also has a good network coverage and offers a variety of plans to choose from.

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Lycamobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that uses the network of Makedonski Telekom. It offers affordable plans to travelers and has a good network coverage in major cities.