tourist information ohrid

Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

Sublime Ohrid is North Macedonia's most seductive destination. It sits on the edge of serene Lake Ohrid, with an atmospheric old quarter that cascades down steep streets, dotted with beautiful churches and topped by the bones of a medieval castle. Traditional restaurants and lakeside cafes liven up the cobblestone streets, which in high summer can be very lively indeed. Outside of July and August, the tourist circus subsides and the town becomes more lived in.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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…

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…

Church of Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta

Just inside the Gorna Porta, this 13th-century Byzantine church, whose name translates as 'Our Lady the Most Glorious', has vivid biblical frescoes (newly…

Sveta Sofija Cathedral

Ohrid's grandest church, 11th-century Sveta Sofija is supported by columns and decorated with elaborate, if very faded, Byzantine frescoes, though they…

National Workshop for Handmade Paper

Here's a slightly random fact for you: Ohrid has been printing paper since the 16th century and this museum-cum-shop has one of only two copies of the…

Latest stories from Ohrid

Aug 23, 2016 • 6 min read

Macedonians will proudly reel off to visitors that Ohrid once had 365 churches – one for every day of the year. Yet in truth, the church spires and their…

Aug 16, 2016 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Ohrid

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Ohrid with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Ohrid Tourist Association

Welcome to ohrid, the town of culture and the cultural-historical heritage….

Ohrid City Tour Our  mission  is  promoting  of  Ohrid  like  tourist  destination  in  the  Republic  of  Macedonia  and  with  Our  Tourist Information office providing  of  informations  necessary  for  the  tourists  who  are visiting  Ohrid  city and  area. Informations  about  accomodation, informations  about history,…

Explore Ohrid Ohrid is a city on the eastern shore of Lake Ohrid in the Republic of Macedonia. It has about 42,000 inhabitants, making it the seventh largest city in the country. The city is rich in picturesque houses, monuments, and dominant…

National Park Galicica In the National Park Galicica we are promoting several activities and they are: Promotion  of Hiking Tour  quiding   in  the   National  park   to  the  point  from  where   it  is  posible  to  see  both  lakes  Ohrid  and   Prespa  lake Promotion of…

Archeo Park Raica Monastery a Roman bath 2 sent.a.c . and early Christian basilica 6 sent, a.c.

The historic towns and places strive to be dunamic centres of regional economic development and attract cultural tourism visitors, where tourist’s may combine their stay with variety of activities, visiting places of historical and cultural interest.

The history of Ohrid Tourist Association Biljana

 Tourist Association Biljana is a re-eastblished subject in the field of tourism and hotel services, that exists since 1970. The spectrum of activities of our association is large and wide. Because of that we will present you a small part…

• South Africa
• El Salvador
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Czech Republic
• Transnistria
• Liechtenstein
• North Cyprus
• New Zealand
• Map with posts
• Alternative Guides
• Architecture Guides
• Cafe Guides
• Itineraries
• Neighborhood Guides
• Travel Guides
• Travel Tips
• Photo Galleries
• Photo Locations
• Solo female travel
• Train Travels
• Work with me
• Privacy Policy

17 Best Things to Do in Ohrid, North Macedonia

Ohrid, North Macedonia is one of my very favorite places to visit in the Balkans . Every time I visit Ohrid I’m blown away by the beauty and charm of the place and it keeps impressing me every single time.

Whether you are looking for cultural, relaxing, or active holidays – Ohrid falls into all of these categories and surely is one of the best places to visit in Macedonia . I can’t praise this place is enough, it is simply amazing.

And so I finally put together a guide to all the best things to do in Ohrid, Macedonia. If you are planning a trip to the Balkans don’t miss this place. This is a true gem and I’m sure you will fall in love with Ohrid as much as I did!

Planning a trip to Ohrid?

Here are the highly-rated hotels, tours, and services recommended for your trip:

Accomodation:

• Villa Varosh (9.8/10)
• Villa Sofija (9.4/10)
• Villa Kale (9.3/10)

Tours and activities:

• Ohrid City Walking Tour
• Full-Day Private Lake Ohrid and Albania Tour from Ohrid
• Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting

Internet: Stay connected with Airalo eSim card – click here to get yours!

Airport Transfer: Book the private transfer from Skopje airport to your accommodation in Ohrid here.

Insurance: Get insured for your trip to North Macedonia with SafetyWing

Car rental: Compare prices and find the best deals on rental cars in North Macedonia on Discover Cars .

Table of Contents

Why visit Ohrid

Not only Lake Ohrid is an insanely beautiful place but since this area has huge historical importance you can expect to find there many Ohrid attractions and centuries-old monuments. The town and its surroundings are the perfect area for the Macedonia holidays – you can enjoy the sightseeing and then relax at the lakeside (or even swim in Lake Ohrid) or go hiking in the nearby mountains.

Even if Ohrid is one of the largest cities in Macedonia it doesn’t feel that way. When wandering around you might feel like you are transferred back in time as the place is so idyllic.

The city and the lake were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and are one of the few places that are both on the Cultural and Natural list.

How to get to Ohrid

Getting to Ohrid is actually rather easy. The local Ohrid airport serves flights to only a few European destinations, especially in the summertime but it’s worth checking if there are direct connections from your local airport.

Otherwise, you can take the bus from Skopje , there are at least ten connections per day and the journey takes a bit over 3 hours. There are also a few buses per day from Bitola as well as other destinations in North Macedonia.

The bus station is located some 2 km away from Old Town. In the summertime, it’s better to buy the ticket a few days in advance as the buses can get full.

If you are coming from Albania you have two options. Either take the direct bus from Tirana to Ohrid (apparently there are two of them each day) or take the bus to Struga (usually buses going to Skopje stop there) and then catch the local bus or taxi to Ohrid.

Or you can take the bus to Pogradec and walk/take the taxi to the border, walk through the border and then catch the bus/taxi from Saint Naum Monastery to Ohrid. I did this last time and it was just fine.

How to get around Ohrid

Most of the Ohrid attractions are within a walking distance in or near Old Town.

If you want to visit a bit more distant places like Saint Naum Monastery you can take the local bus or boat there. The nearby Galičica National Park is best reached by car, you can also join a tour.

• Are you planning a trip to North Macedonia? Be sure to join my Facebook group about traveling in the Balkans and be part of the amazing community of like-minded travelers. Click here for the access!
• Don’t want to miss new articles? Sign up to the monthly newsletter to receive all the updates to your mailbox!

Things to do in Ohrid

With the long and interesting history and all the beauty around, Ohrid really has a lot to offer. If you are wondering what to do in Ohrid this comprehensive list of things to do in Ohrid and beyond should help you plan your time there.

Wander around the Old Town

The Old Town in Ohrid is such a pleasant place, perfect for a slow wander around.

Back in the old times, when Turks came to Ohrid they allowed the Christian population of the town to live only inside the city walls, on the steep area. That is why this part of Ohrid feels a bit claustrophobic, with narrow lanes and tall houses towering above them, but at the same time, that’s what makes this area so unique.

Some of the buildings have a distinctive shape with upper floors being slightly wider than lower ones. But altogether these beautiful houses and charming lanes create such lovely scenery and getting lost in the Old Town really is a pleasure.

It is possible to visit some of the traditional houses, such as Robevci or Uranija houses – it’s definitely worth stepping inside to get a taste of how life in Ohrid used to look like in the past. Some of the old houses offer accommodation options so you might want to consider staying in one of them during your trip to Ohrid.

Shop at the Old Bazaar

Unlike the amazing Skopje Bazaar, the Old Bazaar in Ohrid is rather small, consisting only of one street, starting at the waterfront near the big Macedonian flag. But still, this is probably the most vibrant part of the town, and it gets an extra charm on the market days when there are even more people around.

Only a few old, stone stores remained on the street, a fine testimony of the past times.

Among all the other things you can buy here some local souvenirs too. There are also a few craft shops, making the place more special. And once you are tired you can sit down in one of a few cafes and watch the busy world around you.

Find all the beautiful churches

Ohrid has a long history of being the spiritual center of the region. Between 1019 and 1767 this was the seat of the Archbishopric of Ohrid, an autonomous Orthodox Church.

It is said that in the past there were 365 churches in town, one for each day of the year hence the place was often called “ Jerusalem of the Balkans”. Still today Ohrid is known for its numerous churches.

Some of them are so tiny they can fit maybe five people and you will be surprised when you find them randomly squeezed between houses.

If you would like to visit some of the most beautiful, important, and valuable churches you should head to the Church of Saint Sophia (one of the most important monuments in North Macedonia, dating to the 9th century), Church of Saint Mary Perivleptos, or Church of Saints Constantine and Elena. But the truth is every single one of Ohrid churches is worth seeing, you just might not have time for each of them.

See the iconic Church of Saint John at Kaneo

Even if this is not the most valuable of all Ohrid churches, the 14th-century temple dedicated to Saint John at Kaneo is probably the most iconic and picturesque place you can find in North Macedonia.

Because of its beautiful location, on the high cliff above Lake Ohrid, the panorama of the small church with blue waters in the background is probably the most popular picture from Macedonia that you can see in all the folders. And in real life, this sight is even more beautiful, it takes my breath away every single time.

The best place to see the famous panorama and take good pictures is from above the church, when you descend from the fortress towards the lake.

Admire the stunning view from the fortress

Samuel’s Fortress, towering above the town and Lake Ohrid, is probably the best viewpoint you can find in Ohrid.

The first fortress was built in this place already in the 4th century BC but the current fortification date to the 10th century when Ohrid was the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire rules by Tsar Samuel (the fortress was renovated recently though).

Inside you can walk the fortification and see some remnants of the old times but the main reason to visit the fortress are the amazing views of the surrounding area. You can admire the red rooftops of Ohrid’s Old Town, vast blue waters of the lake, and amazing mountains beyond.

Be impressed with the ancient amphitheater

When wandering the Old Town in Ohrid you will stumble across the ancient amphitheater, one of the most impressive of all the Ohrid attractions. It dates back to the year 200 BC and is the only remaining Hellenistic theatre you can find in North Macedonia (other, like the one in Heraclea Lyncestis in Bitola are from the Roman times). What’s even more impressive is that the amphitheater was accidentally discovered only in 1980!

This is a wonderful place to sit down, relax a bit, and admire the beautiful panorama of the Old Town and Lake Ohrid below.

The Ohrid amphitheater still serves its original function and is often used for numerous events, such as Ohrid’s Summer Festival – if you happen to visit Ohrid during one of those events be sure to attend them, it must be a great experience!

Visit Plaošnik

Hidden in the forest, between the fortress and the Church of Saint John at Kaneo, you can find Plaošnik – the archeological site with the foundations of a 5th-century basilica, numerous other excavations as well as St. Clement’s Church.

The church was restored recently but what makes it still special is the glass floor where you can see the original fundaments down below.

The works on the archeological site are still undergoing and the plan is to add a few mansions and surrounding objects from the times of Ohrid’s glory. But even now this is an interesting place to visit so be sure to stop there when you are sightseeing in the nearby area.

Find cute old cars

Of all the places I visited in the Balkans, Ohrid is the one I associate with the old, vintage cars from the times of Yugoslavia. Back then there were two main car brands produced, Yugo and Zastava, and still today you can see many of these cars parked on the streets of Ohrid Old Town.

They are such a nice addition to the place and only add to the overall atmosphere of the town. Not to mention they make a really lovely picture background.

Walk along the Lake Ohrid

One of the best things to do in Ohrid is to walk along the waterfront. This is such a pleasant area and you can be sure to relax when wandering around as the views along the way are just the prettiest.

You can either walk the promenade going from the Old Town towards the more modern and residential part of the city – the path is next to the water so you can admire the lake at its finest. There are also numerous benches if you just want to sit down and relax with this amazing view.

Another great place to go for a walk is the boardwalk going towards the Church of Saint John at Kaneo. What makes it special and unique is that the path is actually on the water and goes next to the cliff. I’ve never seen many people there so it kind of feels like one of the hidden gems of Ohrid and it is so nice to be this close to the splendid nature at Lake Ohrid.

Go for a boat tour on Lake Ohrid

If you would like to admire the incredible beauty of Lake Ohrid from yet another perspective go for a boat tour on the lake. There are a few options to choose from, you can go on an organized tour, hire one of the local men to take you for a boat ride on the lake, or go by boat to Saint Naum Monastery.

No matter what you choose, you can be sure to see a wonderful panorama of this stunning place in the Balkans. Going for a boat tour is one of the highlights of visiting Lake Ohrid.

Relax at the beach

Even if there are so many great monuments in Ohrid this is still a destination for a relaxing holiday at the lakeside. Near Old Town, you will find a few beaches where you can sunbathe, relax and swim in the lake.

If you visit Ohrid in warmer months don’t miss the opportunity for a bit of chilled-out time too!

Buy Ohrid pearls

One of the best and most typical souvenirs from Ohrid are local pearls. They are not like pearls anywhere else since they are made of shells.

The tradition of making pearls has been brought to Ohrid by a Russian immigrant around a hundred years ago and now and only two local families know the secret technique.

If you are looking for a beautiful and traditional souvenir from Ohrid get pearls. You can find shops selling them in the Old Town.

Enjoy local food

Macedonian food is among my favorite cuisines and every time I visit the country I spend way too much time eating. But everything is so delicious and, what’s important to me, there are many vegetarian options to choose from.

And so one of the best things to do in Ohrid is to try the local food and simply enjoy it. There are numerous restaurants in the Old Bazaar area and at the waterfront so choose one of them and feast on the yummy Macedonian dishes.

Once you are full you can sit down in the cafe with a view, enjoy the drink and admire the beautiful surroundings.

Visit Saint Naum Monastery

A short bus or boat ride from Ohrid you can visit the Saint Naum Monastery.

It was founded at the very beginning of the 10th century by Saint Naum of Ohrid and is one of the most important religious sites in North Macedonia. The saint was buried here in the year 910 and the legend says if you are quiet enough you might still hear his heartbeat.

The main church in the complex was extended and rebuilt a few times and what you can see today dates to the 16th-17th century. Inside you can see beautiful frescoes from 1806.

Since this is a rather popular place it’s better to arrive here early in the morning or in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

Around the monastery complex, you can wander around the beautiful area with creeks, ponds, and a few small shrines sparsed around. You might also go for a boat trip or eat in one of the restaurants but the prices here are much higher than in Ohrid.

Visit Bay of Bones

Bay of Bones is an interesting and kind of unique museum located on the shore of Lake Ohrid, more or less halfway between Ohrid and Saint Naum Monastery.

It is literally built on water, just like it used to be in the prehistoric times when this area was home to pile dwellers. For safety reasons, they’ve built their settlement on the few thousand wooden piles standing in the water. It was discovered not so long ago, and the Bay of Bones museum is one of the newest addition to the list of attractions at Lake Ohrid.

Today you can visit the place that recreated the former settlement, with 24 houses of different shapes and sizes. Inside you will see how the prehistoric people used to live and what kind of tools and items they had.

Bay of Bones is a perfect stop if you head towards Sveti Naum Monastery and the border with Albania so you can visit it easily on the way.

Photos courtesy of my friend Osmól

When wandering around Ohrid you can always see stunning mountains in the background. That’s Galičica National Park, a beautiful mountain range located between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa.

This is a perfect area for hiking, with breathtaking views from the upper part of the mountains (they reach over two thousand meters above sea level here). In the national park, you can also find over 1600 floral species, 13 of which are endemic.

The area is very close to the city so if you feel like having a bit of an active time head to Galičica National Park.

Go for a day trip to Albania

When you are at Saint Naum Monastery you can continue a bit further and reach Albania – the border crossing is only around a kilometer away from the monastery. From there it’s some 5 km to the nearest town – Pogradec, you might also stop at the Tushemisht, the first village across the border.

Even if both countries are only a few steps away from each other, they sometimes feel like a different world. If you’ve heard about all the bunkers in Albania you won’t be surprised when you spot a few of them already after crossing the border, and the further you continue, the more bunkers you will see.

Pogradec itself is a pleasant city with a long history, an important center for Albanian culture and identity. Besides seeing the city you should definitely see the waterfront – not only it offers some of the best views of Lake Ohrid but also has some nice addition, like quirky bunkers. You can also get lunch in one of the waterfront restaurants to try the local Albanian cuisine and enjoy the splendid panorama of the surrounding area.

You might also venture a bit further into the country and see more of Albania. There are a few tours from Ohrid that you might want to consider:

• Pogradec, Korcha & Pustec tour from Ohrid
• Tirana and Durres tour from Ohrid

Final thoughts on visiting Ohrid

As you can see, Ohrid really has a lot to offer and everyone should find something interesting there. Even if this is probably the most popular destination in North Macedonia, the city and surroundings aren’t busy with tourists (like you can experience in other popular Balkan countries: Croatia , Montenegro , Slovenia , or Bosnia and Herzegovina ) and you can actually spend here relaxing holidays with so much beauty around.

I can’t recommend visiting Ohrid enough, no matter what I write it will still not be enough to describe the beauty of this place. So I suggest you plan a trip to Ohrid too so you can see it yourself! I’m sure you will not be disappointed!

Further reading

I published many articles about North Macedonia that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 19 Amazing Places to Visit in North Macedonia
• What to do in Skopje, the kitschy yet cool capital of North Macedonia
• Guide to Skopje Brutalist Architecture
• 13 Perfect Day Trips from Skopje, North Macedonia
• Matka Canyon – a perfect nature getaway outside Skopje
• Tetovo, North Macedonia – Stunning Painted Mosque and More
• 11 Great Things to Do in Bitola, North Macedonia

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in the Balkans and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in North Macedonia
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for North Macedonia here.
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to North Macedonia check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to North Macedonia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

LIKED IT? PIN THIS POST FOR LATER!

If you enjoyed that post why don't you share it with your friends? That would mean so much to me! Also be sure to join 30.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! If you don't want to miss new posts sign up to my newsletter or follow on Bloglovin !

David Golber

Across the courtyard from Sveta Bogorodica Perivleptos (The Holy Mother of God most fine, at the top of the hill) is the Gallery of Icons. Don’t miss it! Nothing like it this side of Moscow!

Thank you for the recommendation!

Thank you Kami for making this awesome list of things to do in Ohrid.

We would love to share with you, and your audience, our website (Menus.mk) where you can see the best restaurants, bars and cafes in Ohrid.

https://menus.mk

Nice to see how many efforts you put in this blog. I’ve been in Ohrid for three days now and there seems to be one thing we disagree on: to me this is not a quiet town. Many people of the Balkans come here for their holidays and the main streets are crowded with thousands of tourists, in the morning, day and night. In the centre and at the waterfront, everything is arranged for cheap mass tourism, with pizza, pizza and pizza :-)

This is something you could have added to your travel recommendations.

I think the difference is I always was there off season as, in general, that’s when I like to travel. That’s why probably Ohrid was fairly empty. I can’t even imagine the Ohrid how you describe it!

Umm, actually Zastava was the name of the company and Yugo is just one of its most sold models (others being zastava 101, the yellowish cars you have in your photo)

Thank you for the clarification! This is what happens when a person without even a drivers licence try to explain cars ;) Thanks!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Let’s become friends!

Join me on Facebook for even more travel updates!

Kami and the rest of the world

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!

Related Posts:

Bled or Bohinj: Which Slovenian Lake to Visit?

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary

13 Things To Do In Novi Sad, Serbia: A One Day Itinerary

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The Balkans and Beyond

Balkan travel inspiration and practical travel tips

The Ultimate Guide to the Very Best Things to Do in Ohrid!

The Best Things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia

There are many incredible things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia. This historic city sits on the banks of a vast, ancient lake providing some of the most diverse nature in Europe. Ohrid is also a culturally significant city containing ruins dating back to 200BC.

Where is Ohrid

The city sits on the shores of the ancient lake of the same name. Lake Ohrid spans the border of Albania and North Macedonia, but the city of Ohrid belongs to the latter.

How to get there

Most visitors travel from Saranda in Albania or Skopje, North Macedonia. There are a few options for travel around this part of the Balkans.

Many people choose to hire a car to give flexibility and independence. However, driving in the Balkans can be a hair-raising experience, even for seasoned drivers. It is advisable to take out full insurance and plan your route in advance. Remember, you will need your passport and travel documents for border crossings.

You can take the bus from Skopje (North Macedonia) to Ohrid, from Saranda (Albania) to Ohrid and from Tirana (Albania) to Ohrid.

The nearest airport is the Ohrid St John the Apostle Airport . There are very few flights per day to and from here – most are from Germany, Switzerland and Austria. However, it’s always worth checking as it is very conveniently located for exploring the best things to do in Ohrid.

Skopje or Tirana both have larger airports with many international flights daily.

There is no train station in Ohrid. The nearest is in Bitola which is over an hours drive away. However, this line is well connected to the capital city, Skopje.

Is Ohrid worth Visiting?

So, is the city of Ohrid worth visiting? Yes absolutely! This ancient city is full of character and charm and surrounded by mesmerizing nature. Ohrid is worth visiting if you want to combine a trip to one of the oldest human settlements in Europe with some incredible hiking, camping and lake swimming opportunities all in one weekend.

Things to Do in Ohrid

That’s all great, but let’s talk specifics. What, exactly makes Ohrid worth visiting? Firstly, there are so many amazing things to do in Ohrid.

Explore Lake Ohrid

Let’s begin with the obvious… Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. It is also a place of astounding natural beauty. The serene lake is home to over 200 species of plants and animals unique to the area and is now the most densely biodiverse lake in the world! Because of this, it is sometimes referred to as the European Galapagos.

However, this natural wonder is at risk of being added to UNESCO’s list of endangered sites. UNESCO claims this is due to “unrestrained development, lack of response to illegal construction, and the destruction of nature and the ecosystem”

So, when you visit, please remember to respect the beauty and wildlife of the area. Take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints.

Go Hiking in Ohrid

Ohrid is really worth visiting if you enjoy hiking, nature and phenomenal views.

For beautiful hiking with phenomenal views across the lake, head out to National Park Galicia. Great if you like to experience untouched nature and authentic, rural North Macedonia. There are signed routes but the signs are not easy to find or follow. If you’re not confident, it might be a good idea to hire a guide. Hikes in NP Galacia with Free Pass Ohrid start from €28.

Discover the Old Bazaar

One of the best things to do in Ohrid is to explore the Old Bazaar. This street goes back to roughly the 9th century and gives visitors a good feel for the cultural importance of the city. The large tree in the centre of the ancient square claims to have been there since the beginning – making it around a thousand years old!

During the day, the streets are bustling with shoppers and hungry tourists. Many stores sell pearls from the lake, others sell delicious barbequed meats, burek and ice cream (not together…). The architecture is really interesting as it beautifully reflects the Ottoman period.

Take a wander down the ancient streets and sample some fare. There is a really fun and vibrant atmosphere here in the summer, especially on market days.

St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid 6000, North Macedonia

Marvel at the Beautiful Churches and Mosques

The town of Ohrid is something of a spiritual hub. There are many churches, monasteries and mosques dotted around the old city. Apparently there are 365 churches in total, but we didn’t keep count.

The Church of St Jovan at Kaneo is built on a cliff overlooking the lake. If you only visit one church in North Macedonia, this is it!

Around 30% of the town’s population is muslin, so there are many beautiful mosques in Ohrid. The largest and most central is the Mosque of Ali Pasha. However, we found the most charming to be the Haji Durgut Mosque – constructed in 1466.

The Eastern Orthodox Monastery of Saint Naum is also worth a visit. It is a 45 minute drive south of the town. However the road follows the lake shoreline and the views are impressive.

Perform at the Greek Amphitheatre

The Greek Amphitheatre was built in 200BC. Initially used as a stage for Greek performing art, it was also later used by the Romans for gladiatorial duals. The amphitheater was only rediscovered in the 1980s – by accident – when houses were being built in the area.

To this day, plays, ballets and other performances are held here during the Ohrid Summer Festival. No sign of any gladiators fortunately

Ilindenska, Ohrid 6000, North Macedonia

Take in some History at Samoil’s Fortress

Samoil’s (or Samuel’s) Fortress is a medieval fortress with great lake views. Ohrid was the capital of the first Bulgarian Empire in the 11 th century when Tsar Samuel had the castle constructed. However, it is thought the present fortress was built on top of an older fortification which can be dated back to the 4th century BC.

The fortress was restored in 2003 and you can explore the whole thing and enjoy the incredible views across the lake and the ancient town. Entrance is 80 Denara (about €1.50) per person – bring cash!

Kuzman Kapidan, Ohrid 6000, North Macedonia

Where to eat in Ohrid

Another reason to visit Ohrid? The amazing places to eat and drink! There are many great culinary options available.

Before we could even check in to our accommodation, we had to get food! In the main square in the old town (next to the ancient tree) is Pizzeria & Restaurant Luna . We stopped here for a quick bite. The place was very busy but we were served pretty quickly and the food was decent and relatively cheap. As we were starving, it might not be the most accurate review. However, make sure you sit outside as customers inside are still allowed to smoke.

Dimche Malenko, Ohrid, North Macedonia

For the best quality food in town, Kaneo is tough to beat. This family run restaurant serves plenty of fresh seafood and the view across the lake is unforgettable. The prices are a little higher than normal, but it’s worth it for the location.

MK, Kocho Racin 43, Ohrid 6000, North Macedonia

The next day, we stopped at Fruit Box for a refreshing morning smoothie. Definitely recommended as they have many great flavor options and the icy drinks taste great in the baking heat.

St. Clement of Ohrid, St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid 6000

For amazing burek, dont miss the Ohrid City Bakery. They also serve decent coffee here.

Boulevard Turistichka 47, Ohrid 6000

La Terrasse Cafe is a nice spot to relax with a coffee. It is near the old Bazaar so its great for watching the world go by.

St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid, North Macedonia

For an evening cocktail, Shilla has a great menu with reasonable prices. They also serve nice coffee during the day and have decent WIFI.

St Clement of Ohrid Letnica Complex, Ohrid 6000

When to visit Ohrid

The best time to visit Ohrid is between April and June and September and November. The summer – particularly August – can get incredibly hot and very dry (over 40°C or 104°F). This can attract crowds of people to the lake’s shores, all trying to escape the heat.

If you visit in the summer months, pack sunscreen, keep in the shade and drink plenty of fluids. The spring and autumn months are very pleasant weather wise.

Ohrid is quiet and cold between the months of November to March. If that’s what you’re looking for, then these months are perfect.

Where to stay in Ohrid

There are many great places to spend the night in Ohrid.

Budget  –  Old Town Hostel . Perfect for a quick stop in the city. It’s cheap and cheerful and has private rooms.

Mid-Range  – Boutique Villa Arte is conveniently located, serves a delicious breakfast and has underground parking. there are also amazing views from the balcony.

Luxury  –  Hotel and Spa Tino is perfect for a little R&R. This spa hotel looks out over the lake so you can enjoy they serene views as well as the hammam.

Traditional  – The Villa Flora Apartments are quaint and quirky. There are beautiful gardens, bike rentals and the apartments are pet friendly.

How long to stay in the “Pearl of the Balkans”

If you would like to experience everything that Ohrid has to offer, you will probably need 2 or 3 days. However, it is definitely possible to stop over for a night while passing by en route to another location. It is an ideal stopping point when travelling from southern Albania to Skopje .

How expensive is Ohrid

Ohrid, and North Macedonia in general, is very cheap compared to western countries.

A substantial meal will cost between €5 and €20 and accommodation between €10 and €100 per night. It is perfectly possible to do this trip on a strict budget but there are luxury options as well.

Is Ohrid Safe?

Yes! Ohrid is a very safe and welcoming city. We found people to be very friendly and helpful and even curious about our visit to their country. We had the same experience across North Macedonia.

One thing to look out for is taxi scams. Make sure you call for a taxi where possible. If you are not in a position to do so, ensure you only use registered cabs. These will have a plate on the top with the name of the company or they will have a ‘taxi’ sign and the name of the company on the doors. A registered driver will also show their license in the right bottom corner of the windshield and have a taximeter and radio station in the car.

Try  Taxi Global  +38970515180 when booking a cab. They will hang up and call you back, send an SMS with the cab number and also let you know how many minutes the car will be.

What to Pack for a Trip to Ohrid

We have put together a simple yet convenient packing list for your trip to Ohrid

• Passport and travel docs
• Cash (Macedonian Denar MKD can also be withdrawn from ATMs locally)
• Printed travel tickets (if using public transport)
• Hiking boots or shoes
• Beach towel
• Book/audiobook/music for travelling
• Water bottle
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Map or downloaded GPS or map application on your phone
• Phone/charger/power bank
• Decent camera with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery

The Language in North Macedonia

There are two official languages spoken in North Macedonia – Macedonian and Albanian. Many Macedonians in the cities speak a little English but it is useful to learn a few phrases. Macedonian is an Eastern South Slavic language and is therefore not easy for English speakers. However, any attempt is greatly appreciated by the locals. Here are a few words to try out:

Hello –  Zdravo (ZDRA-voh)

Please –  Molam (MOW-lahm)

Thank you  – Blagodaram (blaag-OH-Daar-ahm)

Yes  – Da (DUH)

No  – Ne (NEH)

Goodbye –  Dogledanje (dough-GLAD-anye)

Where to go next

Ready for another adventure? Why not try travelling from Ohrid to Skopje ? There is plenty of history and culture to discover in beautiful North Macedonia.

Final note:  Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited North Macedonia? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

The Best Things to Do in Ohrid

Share this:.

We love to travel and share our Balkan experiences to assist and inspire

I loved this & brought back lovely memories of a few days spent in Ohrid a couple of years ago. I enjoyed the boat trip to St Naum, running around the lake & of course those views out of the lake behind St Jovan.

It’s surreal that grandiose amphitheaters like this are still being discovered so recently! The Baltics are high on my travel wish list, thanks for introducing me to a beautiful new place.

How amazing does the Greek amphitheatre and that fortress look?! Ohrid isn’t somewhere I had heard about before, but it’s now going on my list because of the historic sites you can see there!

Understand [ edit ]

Archaeological finds indicate that Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. The lake itself is over three million years old. Ohrid town is first mentioned in Greek documents from 353 BCE, when it was known as Lychnidos - or, “the city of light.” Only much later, in 879 CE, was it renamed Ohrid. The name probably derives from the phrase “vo hridi” – meaning roughly, “in the cliff.” It comes from the time when the town was limited in a small area on the lake side of the hill, which in fact is a huge cliff rising above the lakeshore. The town as we know it today was built mostly between the 7th and 19th centuries. During the Byzantine period, Ohrid became a significant cultural and economic centre, serving as an episcopal centre of the Orthodox Church and as the site of the first Slavic university run by Saints Clement and Naum at the end of the 9th century. At the beginning of the 11th century, Ohrid briefly became the capital of the kingdom ruled by Tsar Samuel, whose fortress still presides over the city today.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Ohrid's Airport serves 9 year-round flights to many major destinations throughout the continent. Both Chair Airlines and Edelweiss Air serve flights to Zürich . Wizz Air , a major budget airline in the region, is the main provider at the airport, with flights to EuroAirport Basel / Freiburg / Mulhouse , Dortmund , London–Luton , Malmö , Memmingen , Milan–Malpensa , and Vienna . As for seasonal flights, even more airlines serve this area: these include Arkia [dead link] flights to Tel Aviv ; Corendon Dutch Airlines [dead link] to Amsterdam and Maastricht / Aachen ; Onur Air [dead link] to Istanbul ; and TUI fly Netherlands to Amsterdam and Eindhoven . Seasonal charter flights are available by Enter Air to Warsaw–Chopin and LOT Polish Airlines to Katowice . TUI fly Belgium is planning to begin seasonal flights to Brussels on 6 June 2020.

By boat [ edit ]

There is a daily boat to Pogradec in Albania in the tourist season, leaving Ohrid at 10:00.

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ]

The city centre and the old town is compact and best seen on foot. An interesting walk that takes in the main attractions starts in the main square. The city's museums are in this area. From here, visit St. Sophia Church, the Antique Theater. Finally, walk up the hill to King Samuil's Fortress. Plaoshnik, and St. John - Kaneo can be visited on the return journey.

By taxi [ edit ]

Transport in Ohrid is inexpensive and covers all areas of the city. Taxi drivers may try charge tourists higher rates, so insist on a set price.

Daily boat trips to St Naum Monastery and a few interim beaches. It leaves Ohrid's main harbour at 10:00 and at 15:30 from St. Naum Monastery, with additional trips on certain days. 600 denars return.

By rental car [ edit ]

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 )

See [ edit ]

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 [ edit ]

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.

Do [ edit ]

Beaches [ edit ]

Apart from sightseeing, there are a few different natural beaches. Usually, the further from the city centre the more scenic they become, and each offers a unique beach experience. Gradiste beach is known for many young people and music for instance, while others have families or tranquil atmosphere. Beaches are most crowded in July and August, and quiet the rest of the year, which is a whole different experience.

• Labino beach . It's a small, stony beach that is not crowded. The water is clear and refreshing. Best time to go is in the morning.  
• Ljubaništa beach ( On the southwest side of the lake. ). Probably the best beach on Ohrid Lake. The beach is long and sandy with usually clean water. There are a lot of people, but you can't feel that since the beach is really large. Best time to go is after 18:00. A sunset you won't forget. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Gorica Hotel beach . This is maybe the most beautiful beach on the coast, it's covered with small pebbles and cut between deep rocks. Unfortunately it can get very crowded, so come here in early morning or late afternoon. If you visit Ohrid off-season this is the place to come and enjoy a great swim. There is a small cafe on the beach where one might also get some snacks and ice cream or rent beach beds. Walking along the coast from the city centre to this beach is scenic, even more past it, and takes about 1½ hr. The presidential Villa Ohrid, where the Balkan's Peace Framework was signed, is in the woods nearby. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Scuba diving [ edit ]

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.

Events [ edit ]

• 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.

Buy [ edit ]

• 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 [ edit ]

• 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.

Groceries [ edit ]

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 [ edit ]

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.

Eat [ edit ]

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 [ edit ]

• 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 [ edit ]

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

In Gorno Konjsko 9 km from Ohrid [ edit ]

• 41.054464 20.812518 8 Terasa Utarna , s.Gorno Konjsko , ☏ +389 76 621 843 . Traditional food, Local wine, Terrace, Lake and city view, Open only in summer ( updated May 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ].

The traditional Macedonian alcoholic beverages are rakija and mastika. Boza is a refreshing drink on a hot summer day; it was spread throughout North Macedonia with the arrival of the Turks and it has significant nutritional value. Other popular drinks are Macedonian wines called Kavadarka and Smederevka and Skopsko beer . Try boza with ice-cream. It's called "Ambasador".

• Cafe Galerija , Kliment Ohridski ( city centre, just before the entrance to the old city ). 08:00-00:00 . If you like to have your morning coffee at the city centre, enjoying the view of the lake, you better find the small authentic coffee shop named "Galerija". It is one of the oldest coffee shops in the city. Enjoy in the lake view and the city at the same time. 80 cents .  

Sleep [ edit ]

Main forms of accommodation are private houses, apartments and villas, you can also try to find a couchsurfer. For an average price of around €10-15 per night, you will find excellent private facilities, located mostly in the Old Town. Fastest and safest way of booking accommodation in Ohrid hotels and apartments is to visit website [dead link] . On the page are published different information which help tourists during their stay in Ohrid. While arriving there, to get a host you can ask at the nearest Tourist Information Bureau (at the bus station, for example). However, the best solution is to make your reservation in advance via Internet or phone, having in mind the growing popularity of Ohrid as tourist destination:

• Villa St. Sofija , Kosta Abrash, 64 , ☏ +389 46 254370 , fax : +389 46 279028 , [email protected] . Check-in: after 13:00 , check-out: before 12:00 . 4-star hotel in the heart of the old city and close to Ohrid Lake. A restaurant with two dining rooms and a spacious terrace. Warm and inviting bar and lounge to unwind in the evenings. Relaxing reading lounge as well as on-site parking and meeting facilities for business functions or private celebrations for up to 80 people. €25-99 .  
• 41.14472 20.76086 1 Albergo Mimi Ohrid , Straso Pindur, 2 , ☏ +389 46 250103 , [email protected] . Guest house, quiet yard. €10 .  
• Antonio Guesthouse Ohrid , Dejan Vojvoda str No.94 , ☏ +389 70 736906 , [email protected] . Nice family guesthouse in the centre. There are 4 double and twin triple bed rooms, car parking, free Wi-Fi Internet, cable TV, and bathroom.  
• Sunny Lake Hostel , ☏ +389 75 629571 , [email protected] . Cosy 35-bed hostel with friendly and helpful stuff, in the old town two minutes' walk from the centre. Nice breakfast included. Very nice kitchen and lake view balcony. Wifi, hot water showers. They have some bikes for guests to use free of charge. Dorms from €8 (low season), private rooms €25 per room . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• Pela , St. Stefan village ( 4 km to the south, on the road Ohrid - Sv. Naum ). Is situated in a pine forest in the tourist settlement of St. Stefan. Nearest sandy beach is only 100 m away. Capacity: 40 rooms with 120 beds. All rooms with bathroom, cable TV, WiFi, direct telephone line, mini bar, air condition, balcony. The hotel offers: seminar hall, parking, football/basketball courts, restaurant, play garden for the youngest. B&B starting from €16 .  
• Risto's Guesthouse , 23 village of Elsani ( on the western slopes of Galichitsa National Park in the village of Elshani, 10 km south of Ohrid ), ☏ +389 75 977 930 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00-00:00 , check-out: 11:00-12:00 . The guesthouse has clean and tidy single and double rooms. The hosts serve home made drinks, home made bread and traditional food. All rooms have a terrace and prices include breakfast. €15 per person .  
• Metropol Lake Resort ( Hotel Bellevue ) ( 7 km south ), ☏ +389 277660 . These four star hotels are on the lake  
• Sv. Naum Hotel , Sv. Naum Monastery ( bus from Ochrid or walk 1.2 km from Border crossing ). The hotel surrounds the church of St. Naum. On the shore of Lake Ochrid. A beautiful and relaxing place to spend a night. Visit the monastery early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Hike in the surrounding area. €40 .  
• Villa Elena , Trpejca Village , ☏ +389 72 592 151 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• Villa Koceski , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 258 333 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• Apartments PS , Naum Ohridski 14, Pestani , ☏ +389 78 265 378 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.187996 20.869738 2 Villa Art MoMir , s.Openica , ☏ +389 70 331 223 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.087612 20.827696 3 Velestovo House , s.Velestovo , ☏ +389 76 337 335 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.024738 20.815787 4 Guest House Shoposki , s.Elshani , ☏ +389 75 792 641 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.07777 20.80965 5 Guesthouse Paradise Nest , s.Shipokno , ☏ +389 71 259 096 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.063251 20.801919 6 Apartments Golden Sunset , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 76 404 521 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.066697 20.800767 7 Villa Cvet Rooms , St.Stefan B.B, Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 78 322 725 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.066688 20.802975 8 Villa Chingo , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 77 914 419 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.063842 20.801969 9 Apartments Koteski , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 77 956 532 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.06216 20.802578 10 Villa Novak , Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 75 604 547 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.014954 20.812233 11 Villa Majda , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 963 802 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.013924 20.808289 12 Villa Bane , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 71 504 309 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.089522 20.8073 13 Villa Marta , Jane Sandanski 60 , ☏ +389 70 387 672 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.099509 20.81506 14 Villa Megdani , Naum Ohridski bb , ☏ +389 71 426 411 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 40.962053 20.783243 15 Villa Bube , s.Trpejca , ☏ +389 78 313 570 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.074798 20.803428 16 Hotel Maida , St. Stefan, Konjsko , ☏ +389 46 277 667 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 40.961782 20.782346 17 Restaurant Ribar , Trpejca , ☏ +389 70 249 472 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.089604 20.810311 18 Villa Stefan , Racha , ☏ +389 71 265 594 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.014224 20.808692 19 Vila I Restoran Galeo , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 537 876 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 41.047482 20.802095 20 Villa Sandra , Lagadin , ☏ +389 70 200 356 . ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 40.959985 20.781467 21 Villa Trpe , Trpejca village , ☏ +389 72 277 600 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.164103 20.751133 22 Villa SiVa , s. Podmolje , ☏ +389 76 656 384 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 40.9141 20.74245 23 Ethno-villa "Risteski" , s.Ljubabanishta , ☏ +389 72 210 906 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.087916 20.824499 24 Vila Velestovo , s.Velestovo , ☏ +389 78 332 680 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.016942 20.810251 25 Apartments and Rooms Lipa , s.Peshtani , ☏ +389 72 511 877 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.060341 20.80316 26 Grne , s.Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 71 463 322 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.04483 20.80521 27 Robinson Sunset House , s.Lagadin , ☏ +389 75 727 252 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.045533 20.803276 28 Villa Klia , Lagadin , ☏ +389 78 302 828 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.045873 20.803145 29 Hotel Dva Bisera , s.Lagadin , ☏ +389 46 285 920 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.052237 20.811954 30 Villa Minami-Guesthouse , s.Gorno Konjsko , ☏ +389 76 900 007 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 40.96138 20.783023 31 Villa De Niro , Trpejca village , ☏ +389 70 304 105 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• Country House Konak Zavoj , village Zavoj , ☏ +389 78 968 419 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.062675 20.804282 32 Guest House Stefanoski , village of Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 72 745 909 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.020017 20.809556 33 Guesthouse Zimovski , St Naum Ohridski br20, Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 637 583 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.018601 20.810162 34 Apartments Vela , Naum Ohridski 27, Pestani , ☏ +389 77 678 719 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.061364 20.803815 35 Villa Klibo , s.Konjsko , ☏ +389 75 275 767 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.063245 20.802351 36 Villa Idila , village of Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 71 298 297 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 40.963002 20.783977 37 Villa Marko , Trpejca village , ☏ +389 46 209 340 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.034142 20.80918 38 Karali apartments , Eleshec , ☏ +389 70 331 091 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.131042 20.837638 39 Villa Rechkof , village of Velgosti , ☏ +389 78 288 462 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.020968 20.809768 40 Villa Kliment , village of Peshtani , ☏ +389 46 285 032 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.086081 20.828274 41 Guest House Talec , village of Velestovo , ☏ +389 77 675 604 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.084798 20.827569 42 Villa Sunset , village of Velestovo , ☏ +389-75-450-382 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.088073 20.824328 43 Villa Velestovo , village of Velestovo , ☏ +389 77 890 292 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 41.158147 20.752873 44 Hotel Ambasador , village of Podmolje , ☏ +389 70 304 006 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.064558 20.801952 45 Apartments Nate , village of Dolno Konjsko . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.012798 20.807103 46 Villa Davor , village of Peshtani , ☏ +389 70 771 193 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.011311 20.806805 47 Hotel Desaret , village od Peshtani , ☏ +389 46 207 700 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.025221 20.807381 48 Villa Blago , village of Peshtani . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.0761 20.80362 49 Hotel Tino , St. Stefan , ☏ +389 46 209 340 , [email protected] . 52 rooms, restaurant (250 persons), spa centre, indoor and outdoor pools, children's pool and playground, table tennis, conference room ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.113009 20.812047 50 House Nativa , str. Lazo Trposki 14 , ☏ +389 71 714 742 . All rooms at the guest house are fitted with a seating area, a TV with cable channels and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and a shower. The units will provide guests with a wardrobe and a kettle. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.120099 20.784323 51 Apartments Antigona , str Vasil Stefoski 36 , ☏ +389 46 270 278 . All studios are air-conditioned and comprise a fully equipped kitchenette, cable TV and a private bathroom. They come either with lake or garden views. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.072818 20.802298 52 Hotel Aqualina , St. Stefan , ☏ +389 46 200 047 , [email protected] . Free Wi-Fi, TV, private parking, private Bathroom, garden terrace, air conditioning, swimming pool, bar, restaurant, beachfront ( updated Feb 2020 )

Apartments [ edit ]

• Adeona Apartmani , ☏ +389 70 391 201 , [email protected] . Private 4 star apartments. Contact Nade Andreeska. Total capacity: 8 beds.  
• 41.11139 20.79419 53 Apartments Rosana , Old Town, Ilindenska 4 ( close to the church St. Sophia ), ☏ +389 70 550590 , [email protected] . Family house overlooking the lake, quiet yard, a garden-terrace with a private beach, excellent conditions for families, free Wi-Fi. Max. 12 persons.  
• Liberta Apartment , Str. Partizanska 10 ( city centre ), ☏ +389 78 278007 , [email protected] . Central area, next to the Hotel Palas and Catholic Church, historical sites within reach.  
• Grebnos Stone-House Apartments ( in the heart of the city ), ☏ +38946272625 , [email protected] . All the rooms are made of stone walls, giving you the feeling of being inside a cave. The rooms have views of Lake Ohrid. You can overlook everything and still keep your privacy.  
• Jovan Apartments , Dimitar Vlahov 20 ( Old bus station ), ☏ +389 70 352025 . 2 apartments in the centre.  
• Matjan apartments , Ul.Kuzman Josifoski 2 ( in the centre ), ☏ +389 70 249908 , [email protected] . Luxury 4 star apartments.  
• Old Town Accommodation , Ul. Ilindenska 3 , ☏ +389 70 642 809 , [email protected] . A quiet place to stay in the old town. Private accommodation with rooms and apartments, situated near the Catedral church of St. Sophia.  
• Tiffany Apartment , ☏ +389 46 270090 , [email protected] . Apartment in the centre.  
• Villa Filip , Trpejca Village ( 18 km from Ohrid ), ☏ +389 70 248005 , [email protected] . Private 4 star villa located right near the Lake in. Contact Gabriela Nedelkoska. Total capacity: 14 beds.  
• Villa Germanoff ( Old Town, near church St. Sofia ), ☏ +389 46 266 831 , [email protected] .  
• 41.11265 20.79697 54 Villa St Clement the Lesser ( Vila Sveti Kliment ), Metodij Patce 10 ( located near the Lower Gate ), ☏ +389 46 250 655 . 4-star villa in a quiet alley away from the traffic. €40-70 apartment . ( updated Oct 2017 )
• Private rooms Blagica Angeleska , Dejan Vojvoda 111 , ☏ +389 46 265838 . Very nice people and place. +phone=+389 72 710439  
• Joce Apartments , Dejan Vojvoda str No.96 , ☏ +389 70 307293 , [email protected] . 4-star, nice family house in the centre of the city in a quiet place. There are twelve new apartments: four twin-bedded, six three-bedded and two four-bedded. Each room has French bed (double bed), bathroom, mini kitchen, fridge, balcony, central heating, air conditioner, free internet access, cable TV, car park. One of the cheapest places in town. about €10 pp/night .  
• 41.11264 20.79631 55 Apartment Rozmari , Metodi Patchev 15 ( between Grebnos Stone-house Apartments and Villa St Clement the Lesser. ), ☏ +389-70994514 , [email protected] . The apartment occupies the ground floor of a private house and has a separate entrance. It has two bedrooms with two twin beds in each room, a spacious kitchen with a dining table for four, and a full size bathroom. From one of the bedrooms you can walk out onto a terrace with a beautiful view overlooking Lake Ohrid and the old city. For reservations contact the proprietor Prokopie PopStefanija.  
• 41.061577 20.805048 56 Apartments Taneski , village of Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 70 212 343 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 41.066455 20.800875 57 Hotel Granit , village of Dolno Konjsko , ☏ +389 46 207 100 , [email protected] . ( updated Feb 2020 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

• Ohrid Pearl is a type of imitation pearl (an artificial, man-made pearl) and as such has no real value as a gemstone. Most of the "pearls" sold around Lake Ohrid, on the street and in most shops, are simply unfinished imitation pearls (beads made of nacre, but without the pearly coating). Although selling shops have clear notes stating these are hand made ones.

Go next [ edit ]

• Bitola (E 80 km) – One of the most European-flavoured cities in the country, Bitola is known for its colourful neo-classical architecture and the Ancient Macedon ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis nearby.
• Kičevo (N 60 km)
• Kruševo (NE 90 km via Bitola) – A museum-city nestled high up in the mountains of southwestern North Macedonia; it is one the most historically significant destinations in the country as it was the site of a revolt against the Ottoman Empire; there is skiing in the winter, and paragliding, walking and mountain biking in the summer.
• Prilep (NE 110 km) – Tobacco fields, medieval monasteries, and strange rocks.
• Resen (E 25 km) – The home to Saraj Castle built in 1908.
• Struga (E 16 km) – A small town on Lake Ohrid which used to be rather quiet, yet nowadays (2016) it receives an enormous number of Dutch tourists.
• Debarca – A rural region just north of Ohrid.
• Pogradec , Albania (SW 40 km) – A small city on the other side of the lake, and worth a visit for those with extra time in Ohrid.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• UNESCO tag to be fixed
• Has custom banner
• Articles with formerly dead external links
• Articles with dead external links
• Has map markers
• Airport listing
• Has mapframe
• See listing with no coordinates
• Listing with Wikipedia link but not Wikidata link
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Western North Macedonia
• All destination articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

• Hidden Gems
• Popular Classics
• Travel Tools
• Photography
• Vintage Pieces
• Digital Prints

16 Wonderful Things to Do in Ohrid

• May 3, 2024

Ohrid is a significantly historic and beautiful ancient lakefront town in Europe . However, depending on which part of the world you’re reading this from, there is a chance you’ve never heard of it.

For decades, Ohrid has been an important tourism hub and has entertained Europeans on their annual holidays. But the absence of international travellers makes it an intriguing hidden gem.

The city of Ohrid is steeped in historic landmarks, religious sites, and one of the most breathtaking lakes in the world . Before Ohrid really takes off with visitors from the rest of the world, it’s a magical place that any “off the tourist track” traveler will genuinely appreciate.

From the best things to see, how to get there and where to stay, this is our complete Ohrid travel guide.

Where Is Ohrid?

Is lake ohrid worth visiting, tourist map of ohrid.

• Church of Saint John the Theologian
• Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid
• Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon
• Church of Saint Sophia
• Potpesh Boardwalk
• Beach Labino
• Galičica National Park
• Samuel’s Fortress
• National Workshop For Handmade Paper
• Ohrid City Park
• Old Bazaar Street
• Boat or Sailing Tour
• Promenade and Drinks
• The Bay of Bones Museum
• Trpejca Beachfront
• Saint Naum Monastery

Flying to Ohrid

Flying to skopje, flying to tirana, the best time to visit ohrid, best mountain stay, best old town apartments.

• Best Stay With a View

Best Lakeside Stay With Pools

Best quiet location apartment.

• Best Luxury Stay
• Search for Ohrid Hotels
• Travel Tips for Visiting Ohrid

Lake Ohrid Travel Resources

STOP HERE if you’re not interested in a self-guided trip to Ohrid. Instead, consider a convenient day trip to Ohrid from Skopje that includes transportation and a guide . Easy peasy and done!

→ Book a Full-Day Tour of Ohrid from Skopje ←

Essentials for Visiting Ohrid

🛫 To reach Ohrid by plane, you’re more likely to find cheaper flights by flying into Skopje Airport instead of Ohrid Airport .

⛱ Ohrid is an incredible lake destination. To experience Ohrid at its best, plan a visit in late summer or early fall when the weather is still pleasant but crowds have gone.

🛌 If you’re visiting Ohrid without a car, book a stay in the centre of Ohrid . This way, you’re within walking distance of the major attractions and the lakefront. Comparatively, accommodation prices in Ohrid are a fantastic value.

→ Book a top rated stay in Ohrid ←

🚶🏻‍♀️Book a walking tour of Ohrid in order to learn about the city from a local or professional.

⛵️ Opt for a boat ride, water taxi or sailing excursion to explore Lake Ohrid or to visit the gorgeous Saint Naum Monastery.

📸 Must Do Activity: Panoramic Boat Cruise of Old Town Ohrid

Ohrid is the 6th-largest city in North Macedonia and is located in the southwest corner of the country. North Macedonia is a country in the Balkans , a group of countries in Southeast Europe. It is bordered by a handful of other countries, including Kosovo and Greece. Although North Macedonia is landlocked, the city of Ohrid is a frequented lakefront town on Lake Ohrid.

Lake Ohrid is partially divided between two countries, and approximately 1/3 of it belongs to Albania. This means that Ohrid is less than 30 km (18 miles) away from the Albanian border, and, in fact, it’s only a 2.5-hour drive to Tirana. Domestically, Ohrid is situated 180 km (111 miles) south of the nation’s capital, Skopje.

A second lake named Lake Prespa is situated just to the right of Lake Ohrid. This lake is also shared, but with Greece instead of Albania. From the Greek border, the city of Ohrid is just under 90 km (56 miles) to the north .

📞 Stay Connected: Before arriving in a country outside of the EU, pre-purchase an eSIM card for your phone so it can be used instantly once you get there. Setting up an eSIM with a provider like Airalo ensures you have internet access as soon as you arrive. For us, this method gives us peace of mind that we don’t have to scramble in the first day or so to find a local SIM card.

There are certain places we visit that leave us with the impression: “More people should know about this place.” Ohrid and its lake are unquestionably one of the most underrated destinations we’ve had the pleasure of discovering. However, this is not to say that it’s a hidden gem by any means. It’s long been a well-deserved holiday hotspot for many Europeans; it just has not made a splash with Americans and other international travellers. Honestly , we wouldn’t necessarily mind if it stayed this way so we can continue to come back and enjoy Ohrid’s beauty without mass tourism .

The most obvious reason why Lake Ohrid is worth visiting is its unparalleled beauty and distinctly clear water. Most photos you’ll see of Lake Ohrid beaches can easily be mistaken for the sea. For anyone even slightly keen on having the ultimate holiday by a lake, it’s hard to find a better option than Lake Ohrid.

Lake Ohrid has everything one would require for an idyllic European summer. Stunning beaches, waterfront dining, and an ancient town to wander through. As if these aren’t enough reasons, its overall affordability in comparison to other hotspots on the continent will certainly win anyone over.

Lake Ohrid is a natural wonder and holds significant historical importance. It was even deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. A majority of the lake’s water originates from underground springs, some of which are at the surface level. Along with its impressive deepest point of 290 meters, Lake Ohrid is believed to be over one million years old. Its many unique characteristics have led researchers to identify Lake Ohrid as one of the most special lakes in the world.

As if being so geographically blessed is not enough, history has uncovered that Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe. Furthermore, as recently as 2023, discoveries unearthed clues to finding remnants of villages from 8,500 years ago that were built on stilts in the middle of the lake.

→ ✈️ Find cheap flights to Skopje ←

The Best Things to Do in Ohrid

1. church of saint john the theologian.

One of the most famous symbols of Ohrid (and the most photogenic) is the Church of Saint John the Theologian . Originally built on a stone foundation, the astounding church is also a combination of architectural styles, including Byzantine and Armenian. Most notably, it is blessed with one of the most picture-perfect settings in Ohrid. Perched on a cliff over a historic fishing village , you won’t find a more idyllic atmosphere. Whether you plan a visit to sit in peace with an unobstructed view of the lake or simply want the best photo opportunity in Ohrid, this site is a must-see.

To reach the church from the Old Town, you can do so along the lower lakefront path or from the upper road by Samuel’s Fortress. The best panoramic view of the church and lake can be found here .

2. Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid

In modern times, it’s easy for visitors to gaze upon an ancient landmark and overlook the thought and purpose put into constructing it. When building the ancient theatre of Ohrid, it has been discovered how carefully each decision was made. The theatre sits in the upper part of the Old Town and between two hills, therefore protecting the performance acoustics from winds.

Furthermore, it advantageously faces the lake and boasts scenic views of Galičica mountain . Details have also been uncovered that imply the gladiator fights that took place during Roman times. Ohrid’s ancient theatre is the only Hellenistic-style theatre in the entire country and dates back to 200 BC . Visitors can now admire it anytime for free.

3. Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon

The ancient monastery originally dates back to when Saint Clement first arrived in Ohrid. At some point, it was used as a place to spread the teachings of what is now the Cyrillic alphabet . It was found that the number of students hosted reached a number of 3,500. Therefore, it created the reputation of being the first Slavic University in the world.

After the saint’s death, he was buried in a crypt built for himself underneath the monastery , which is still possible to visit today. As with all monasteries and historical landmarks in Ohrid, the religious site passed through a variety of empires. This has made it a rich archaeological site as research has uncovered remnants of a Roman basilica and different mosques . A small entrance fee of around €2 is needed to go inside the outdoor complex.

4. Church of Saint Sophia

With Ohrid’s more famous church on the waterfront stealing the spotlight, the Church of Saint Sophia is vastly underrated. The church’s marvellous architecture, peaceful surrounding garden, and its grand presence are a highlight of Ohrid’s Old Town. If you’re passing by without knowing it, the church’s beautiful arches and columns will catch your eye.

Originally from the 11th century, the church has undergone many changes, including being converted to a mosque at one point. Inside the church, medieval frescoes have stood the test of time and bring the interior of the ancient church to life. To enter the church, there is a small fee of less than €2, but the exterior is free to enjoy at any time. For those particularly focused on learning more about the church, you can pay extra (about €10) for a guided tour.

5. Potpesh Boardwalk

From the old city, it’s possible to reach the Church of Saint John the Theologian from the top or bottom. Walking along the waterfront route is much more scenic and overall a beautiful experience. The Ohrid Boardwalk, which leads to Beach Potpesh and beyond, is a charming yet functional feature most likely put into place because of tourists. As a boardwalk should, it is built into the water and hugs the cliffside , allowing pedestrians to maneuver along the shore without having to endure the old town’s hills.

After Beach Potpesh, you’ll run into a section of a few restaurants which also rent umbrellas and sunbeds for the beach.  Kaneo Restaurant was specifically recommended to us more than once and has a dreamy location and view.

6. Beach Labino

For a tranquil setting to enjoy the beach, plan a brief hike to Beach Labino . It is an untouched and “wild” beach with zero bars or sunbeds to spoil the serene atmosphere. Since it is slightly off the beaten track , you won’t encounter many other visitors, which makes this beach that much more magical.

The water is characteristically immaculate, and the beach is comprised of pebble rocks. To reach Beach Labino, you must walk through the forest surrounding Samuel’s Fortress and down the hillside. If you’re already on a trek to visit the Church of Saint John the Theologian, you can reach Beach Labino by walking on the path directly above the shoreline.

7. Galičica National Park

Aside from the lake, Ohrid’s other prominent natural landmark is the Galičica National Park. Towering above the valley and city is the mountain of Galičica with the highest summit reaching 2,255 meters above sea level. Hiking and mountain biking are some of the national park’s most enjoyable activities, as the park is well-marked with trailheads.

Founded in the 1950s, the national park is home to an extensive range of vegetation and flora. Whether you take a 4×4 vehicle or trek your way on foot to the top, the panoramic view of Lake Ohrid at Galičica’s peak is guaranteed to blow you away. From both sides of the park, there are also dedicated paragliding starting points where you can watch people fly off into the distance.

Tips for Driving: You’ll want to enter the national park from the P501 road that runs along the lake’s shoreline. P504 is the road which leads all the way to Lake Prespa. To reach the top of Galičica Mountain, you need to turn left here . Keep in mind that from this point, the road is only paved for about 2 km until you reach the abandonded ski center. After these 2 km, it’s recommended you continue with a 4×4 car. Entrance to Galičica National Park is around €3.

8. Samuel’s Fortress

Upon one glimpse of Ohrid’s cityscape, you’ll notice the outstanding fortress perched on the hill. Derived from the oldest historical data on Ohrid, it is said that the fortress was erected around 209 BC . Although it’s been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the course of history, it still stands proudly as one of the largest medieval fortifications in the entire country.

Emperor Samuel, who reigned from 976 to 1014, ended up getting the credit for the fortress from his succession, and during the period when Ohrid was the capital for Macedonian Slavs. Today, it serves as a leading landmark of Ohrid city and a spectacular place to visit for sweeping views. Entrance to the fortress costs around €2 per person and takes about 15 minutes to walk through.

9. National Workshop For Handmade Paper

One of the most quirky and unexpected attractions you’ll come across in Ohrid is this paper-making workshop . Even for us, it wasn’t on our radar while walking through the old town, but we saw a sign for it and decided to stop in. Entrance is completely free, and the gracious family who runs the studio puts on demonstrations whenever a visitor is interested. From beginning to finish, the staff does great job explaining the process (in English too!). 

The workshop features a Gutenberg-style machine, which is what was used to make handmade paper the old-fashioned way. Throughout the shop, you’ll also see works of art on the handmade paper for sale. For anyone seeking an unconventional souvenir or gift, this is the perfect place to find one.

10. Ohrid City Park

A lakefront town wouldn’t be complete without an attractive city park to people-watch from. The park is well-maintained with small flower gardens, shaded benches, and peaceful views of the boats funnelling in and out. I will admit, we only came across the Ohrid City Park because it includes a great children’s playground . A playground so entertaining that our walking tour of Ohrid was delayed by our daughter refusing to leave.

In addition to the traditional play sets, there are vendors who rent motorized toy cars for children to use by the minute. In short, the city park is an excellent pit stop for families visiting Ohrid with children.

11. Old Bazaar Street

Running in parallel with the main avenue that leads to the lake is the street once used as a bazaar. In present-day, it’s still used as a shopping street but in a different sense and without typical ancient trade items. You’ll see many different kinds of shops ranging from tattoo studios, currency exchange offices to jewelry stores .

During the summer, it certainly gets packed with tourists searching for the perfect souvenirs to bring home. Without a doubt, it’s Ohrid’s most lively street and a petite version of something you’d stumble upon on Istanbul or a busy NYC street. If you’re headed into the old town of Ohrid, enter by the Chinar Tree and walk down the bazaar street to take advantage of the full experience.

12. Boat or Sailing Tour

What better way to enjoy a ravishing lake than by taking a boat trip? Touring Lake Ohrid by boat is possible in a few different ways, and there are many to choose from that depart from the Port of Ohrid. First, there are large ferries which act as water taxis along the eastern shoreline. These are typically large boats and carry many people in the direction of popular attractions like Saint Naum or the Bay of Bones Museum . If you are not travelling by car or simply don’t feel like driving, this is the best way to visit nearby attractions with minimal effort.

For a more private or exclusive experience, you can rent a small motorized boat for just your family or group. If you rent a boat with a skipper, they’ll be able to give you a tour from their local perspective and take you wherever you’d like to go.

Sailing tours are also common on Lake Ohrid and one of the most scenic ways to discover the area. While browsing boat tour options, you’ll also notice that nearly every boat operator’s price is the same. Or at least, it’s advertised at the same rate and gives you the option to negotiate if you prefer.

13. Promenade and Drinks

One of Ohrid’s most delightfully surprising features was its pedestrian promenade . It is in great shape, stretches far along the lakefront, and is lined with bars and restaurants . Beginning at the Port of Ohrid, you can start walking south, where you’ll cross the channel over a small bridge and continue past Despina Lounge Bar.

Throughout the promenade, you’ll also find multiple playgrounds for kids, green lawns to lay on, and quiet beach areas . After a day of swimming, stop into one of the waterfront bars for a cocktail and enjoy the sunset. The evening light hits Lake Ohrid in a stunning golden filter.

14. The Bay of Bones Museum

As possibly the most mentioned tourist attraction on Lake Ohrid, this museum is certainly one of a kind. The Bay of Bones Museum is a constructed replica of an ancient dwelling in the style it is believed to have existed during its actual time. Based on scientific findings and centuries of research, this authentic reproduction is an example of what a settlement looked like on Lake Ohrid between 1200 – 700 B.C.

For a glimpse into a prehistoric time, stepping back into the past at the Bay of Bones Museum is a must while visiting Ohrid. Admission to the Bay of Bones costs around €3 per person and includes access to the settlement model, an artefact museum and Roman military fortress.

15. Trpejca Beachfront

While many visitors will remain near Ohrid’s town centre for beaches, the eastern shoreline of the lake is where the best beaches are. Particularly as you head further south, a stunning landscape begins to present itself. The small village of Trpejca is home to arguably the most beautiful beach on Lake Ohrid . With clear water and blue hues, Trpejca Beach could be disguised as something you’d find on an island in the Adriatic Sea.

To reach Trpejca, it is best to drive. Parking is quite tricky in the small village, especially during the summer. It’s recommended to park near the mini market above the village and walk down to the beach.

If you feel like exploring, take a quick detour to Bluebay , which is hidden below Trpejca. There is nearly no public area as most of the shoreline belongs to the private waterfront homes, but it’s still worth catching a glimpse of. The scenery is exceptionally mesmerizing and reminds us of something from Southeast Asia.

16. Saint Naum Monastery

After visiting many monasteries, we made assumptions about what it was going to be like to see Saint Naum (Sveti Naum). Boy, were we wrong. Not to say it was better or worse than what we expected, it was just a unique experience . In the most respectful way possible, visiting St. Naum Monastery felt like going to a theme park. The drive down the tree-lined and landscaped driveway to reach the entrance feels as if you’re about to meet a queen.

Since it’s technically a monastery, entrance is free but parking is not . You don’t have an option to park anywhere else and must pay the insignificant parking fee.

The actual monastery is just one aspect of the entire area. A large section at the front of the complex is comprised of vendors selling souvenirs, ice cream, and beach equipment. The fact is, most people don’t come to visit Saint Naum Monastery, they come to visit the beaches and swim . Within the monastery grounds, you’ll also find a couple of restaurants and bars for lunch as well as large public restroom facilities.

The Springs of St. Naum was our favourite feature as it was fascinating to experience the cold water springs feeding directly into the lake. The monastery itself is gorgeous, boasts a beautiful view, and is still frequented by people who visit for religious purposes. Visitors interested in seeing this monastery from 900 A.D. can also get there by a one-hour long boat ride from Ohrid. 

How to Get to Lake Ohrid

Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport is the nearest international airport to the city of Ohrid and is less than 30 minutes away. It may sound convenient, but in reality, flight options tend to be limited since it is a smaller airport in comparison to the nation’s capital. Finding indirect flights to Ohrid is the most common, so it really depends on whether you value price, time, or convenience more. Nonstop flights to Ohrid are very restricted, so counting on flying directly to Ohrid shouldn’t be your first plan of attack.

→ ✈️ Find flights to Ohrid Airport ←

To reach North Macedonia by plane, most people would fly into the international airport in Skopje, the country’s capital. It is the largest airport in the country and therefore, services the most flights. For visitors traveling from within Europe, direct flights to Skopje are widely available, especially in the summer. Well-known airlines that fly into Skopje include Austrian Airlines, easyJet, LOT, Lufthansa, Norwegian, SWISS, and the budget airline of Wizz Air. Flights departing from Rome, Vienna, Zurich, Warsaw and Frankfurt are just some of the possible nonstop flights to Skopje within Europe .

How Far Is Skopje From Ohrid?

After flying into Skopje, it takes about 3 hours to drive to Ohrid . By public transportation, expect a journey of nearly 4 hours from Skopje to Ohrid.

→ ✈️ Find cheap flights to Skopje Airport ←

Alternatively, it is an option to fly into Tirana, Albania and cross the border into North Macedonia from the western side. The driving distance from Tirana to Ohrid (3 hours) is the same as if you were to drive from Skopje. However, you’ll need to keep in mind the border crossing, which can take up to one hour on a busy day. If flights happen to be cheaper or work better for your schedule, browse flights to Tirana instead. 

→ ✈️ Find cheap flights to Tirana ←

One of the most common ways that travelers are visiting the Balkan countries is by road tripping. With a handful of borders within close proximity of each other, driving to and throughout the Balkans is efficient, convenient, and the best way to explore on your own schedule. Personally, we’ve completed a few border crossings from and to North Macedonia, none of which were problematic.

If you are driving from Albania, there are two options to access Lake Ohrid by land . The border by the Albanian town of Lin is called Kafasan and will take you along the west coast of Lake Ohrid. Secondly and from the bottom of the lake, it’s possible to drive through the St. Naum border crossing. From both Albanian borders, it takes one hour or less to reach Ohrid. From the north end of Greece, the closest border crossing to reach Ohrid is near Medzhitlija and is 1.5 hours away. Stretching further away from Lake Ohrid, there are land borders with entry to North Macedonia from every direction (Kosovo, Serbia, and Bulgaria) .

→ 🚗 Book a cheap rental car from Skopje Airport ←

Important Tips for Crossing Borders in the Balkans

• Understand that although you’re driving from one Balkan state to another, the countries are completely independent of each other . Avoid making generalizations, but for the most part, entry and exit requirements are similar. If you’re unsure or hesitant about anything, quickly research land border guidelines ahead of time. Furthermore, be mindful when you are driving from/to the EU and into a non-EU country. These border crossings tend to be much more thorough and lengthy processes.
• Do not always take navigation directions literally or trust them fully . We use Google Maps, and although it’s reliable in foreign countries 90% of the time, we always make it a habit to study the route before we commit. There was an instance where Google provided a route from North Macedonia to Albania through Kosovo. After examining the route, I noticed it had us crossing country lines through a forest with no official border in sight. If we were to have blindly started this navigation route, we would have wasted 2-4 hours by having to turn back around.

For a particular type of crowd, taking a tour bus to Lake Ohrid is very popular and was a common sight during our time there. These are not public buses, so tours are typically all-inclusive, which means they include guides and perhaps accommodation or activities. If you’re not one to self-plan, opting for this type of approach to explore Ohrid is an excellent choice. Full-day (or more) tours from Tirana and Skopje are abundantly available for tourists who aren’t renting a car or driving themselves.

→ 🎒 Book a full-day tour of Ohrid from Skopje ←

On average, Ohrid has a mild climate, and temperatures don’t usually reach extreme heights or lows. However, you can never be too sure nowadays, and it’s not uncommon for the weather to drastically change in a matter of days. In general, if you’re interested in taking full advantage of Ohrid’s lake , plan to visit between June and August . Temperatures can reach a high of 30°C (86°F) in the peak of summer, but the nice thing is that the lake’s temperature remains comfortably refreshing. Additionally, a couple of days filled with heavy rainfall are also not completely rare during the summer. Just in case, it’s not a bad idea to pack a raincoat.

For those who don’t plan on prioritizing beach days during a trip to Ohrid and perhaps are more keen on sightseeing, check out Ohrid in the fall . The months of September and October have a lesser chance of rainy days and are still warmer than spring months. Enjoying the national park and its many trails for hiking or biking is also best done during the shoulder season.

Compared to Western Europe, accommodation in Ohrid is inexpensive year-round . Nonetheless, if you’re looking to obtain the best deal possible or want a luxury experience that you wouldn’t normally be able to afford, you can save nearly 50% during the low season.

Where to Stay In Ohrid

There is a wide range of different types of accommodation in Ohrid. Ranging from beachfront hotels, town center apartments, mountain retreats to no-frills cabins , there are options for every budget.

For people who will have a car during their trip, choosing a centrally located place to stay isn’t much of a factor. The nearby towns and points of interest in Ohrid are all fairly close to the center , so getting around doesn’t eat up much of your day. If you’re the type of traveler that books accommodation based on price, you can easily find more affordable hotels and apartments the further from Ohrid you are.

If you are not traveling with a car, choose to stay in the center of Ohrid. This way, you will still be close to the action, and there are many beaches, restaurants, and bars within walking distance. Whenever you do feel like exploring, you can catch a boat from Ohrid’s port and head south along the lake’s coast. Regular ferry stops are made in multiple areas, stretching from Ohrid and all the way down to the Albanian border.

The best towns to stay in along the east shore of the lake include Sveti Stefan, Lagadin, Peshtani and Trpejca.

→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Ohrid ←

Villa Velestovo

Bache Apartments

Vila Bisera

Final Tips for Visiting Ohrid

• Unlike neighboring countries, North Macedonia does widely accept cards at other establishments like restaurants, bars, and attractions. Bigger hotels may accept cards, but for nearly all other accommodation, have cash on hand just in case.
• English is spoken very commonly, especially with the younger generation. Still, it’s recommended to learn a few phrases in Macedonian to show respect as a visitor.
• Ohrid is incredibly safe. However, you may come across people begging who aren’t shy to come up to you. In general, be mindful of your items . If you’re not already covered, consider purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Ohrid.
• As a tourist, it’s easy to overlook the fact that you’re touring many religious sites. Try to be respectful in terms of clothing and your actions while visiting churches and monasteries .
• The beaches found along the Ohrid Boardwalk are scenic but they are not the best beaches on the lake. Alternatively, you’ll find the best beaches between Lagadin and St. Naum .
• Restaurants near Old Town can be overpriced and average tasting in comparison to other towns on Lake Ohrid. We always found the best meals near Ohrid at restaurants situated in the hills . When dining at beachfront eateries, you’re paying for the location and not necessarily the quality of food.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Share this:

4 thoughts on “16 wonderful things to do in ohrid”.

Pingback:  Mavrovo National Park: Europe's Affordable Outdoor Destination

Pingback:  Visiting Lin, Albania: An Ancient Site and Charming Village

Pingback:  The Complete Guide on Driving in North Macedonia - Adventures of Ace

Pingback:  Top 7 Best Places to Visit in the Balkans for First Timers - Adventures of Ace

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from adventures of ace.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

19 Things to do in Ohrid, Macedonia

There are many things to do in Ohrid, it’s no wonder it is one of the most visited destinations in North Macedonia.  Located on the edge of one of the deepest lakes in Europe, Ohrid is arguably one of the most beautiful and culturally-rich cities in Europe.

Nicknamed the ‘Jerusalem of the Balkans’, Ohrid was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1979.  Ohrid Town is best known for its cultural and historic significance, with a variety of archaeological sites within city limits, as well as churches and monuments.

Aside from its extensive cultural attractions, Ohrid serves as a prime destination to experience nature.  And being that it’s situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, it becomes extremely popular in the summer months.

Filled with plenty of places to shop, dine and explore, Ohrid is a must visit on anyone’s Macedonia itinerary.  In this article, we’ll go over all the best things to do in Ohrid and at the end of the article, I’ll list any tips you’ll want to know before you visit this magical destination.

Before we get started, I need to address the elephant in the room.  I am sometimes referring to North Macedonia, officially the Republic of North Macedonia (FYROM) as Macedonia in this post because that’s how the people of this country want it to be referred and how it works with the keywords in google.

I understand that whichever name I use, I am offending someone so it’s a catch 22.  I mean no disrespect, only want to show through my eyes the beautiful landscapes, kind people and tasty food I experienced when visiting Ohrid.

For full transparency,  I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post which gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. If you find this post useful, you can also treat Jess to a cup coffee by clicking the icon on the bottom of the page. This will allow me to continue to create more content for you to enjoy ☕️. 

Table of Contents

Things to do in Ohrid Quick List

Below I have a listed the best things to do in Ohrid and best day trips from Ohrid for easy viewing.  If you’d like more information, click on the blue links below for a detailed post or vlog of that specific Ohrid activity.

• Ohrid Boardwalk & City Beach

Summer Festival

• Classical Amphitheater (Skip to 8:35)

Eat at Via Sacra

• St. Sophia Church (Sveta Sofija Cathedral) (Skip to 7:28)

Church of Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta

• Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo (Skip to 10:00)

Kaneo Village

• Lower Gates & Upper Gates
• National Workshop for Handmade Paper (Skip to 5:45)
• National Museum (Skip to 4:47)

Plaošnik Archeological Site

Sveta bogorodica bolnička & sveta nikola bolnički.

• Samuel’s Fortress (Skip to 10:00)

Day Trips from Ohrid

• Saint Naum Monastery (Skip to 7:08)
• Bay of the Bones Museum (Skip to 1:55)

Galicica National Park

Ohrid Travel Vlogs

We filmed a couple vlogs when we were here about some of the awesome things to do in Ohrid and things to do around Ohrid.  If you’d like to see exactly what we were up to check out our vlog above.  If not let’s get to the good stuff – 19 best things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia.

🎥   Watch our N. Macedonia Series on YouTube

Best Things to do in Ohrid

Lake Ohrid has been a magnet for visitors for centuries and is the main reason that visitors flock to this town, especially during the summer months.  Flanked by majestic snow-capped mountains and rolling hills, its deep blue waters provide a peaceful and picturesque retreat.

One of the most popular things to do in Ohrid is to take a boat ride over Lake Ohrid.  We rented a boat for 20 Euros and had it all to ourselves.

As you cruise along the lake you’ll pass by sleepy villages and the most photographed monastery in North Macedonia, Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo.

Book a Boat Tour →

Ohrid Boardwalk

The Ohrid Boardwalk is a great thing to do in Ohrid for all ages.  Located on the shoreline of the beautiful Ohrid Lake, this boardwalk provides breathtaking views all throughout the year.

The boardwalk is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll.  With plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from, it’s the perfect spot to grab food or drinks and spend the afternoon.

If you happen to be traveling to Ohrid in the summer between July and August, don’t miss out on the Summer Festival.  The Ohrid Summer Festival is an acclaimed annual event that brings together a wide variety of cultural events, exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, lectures and workshops.

This is Macedonia’s most important cultural event which celebrates Macedonian culture through music, literature, art and dramatic performances.  Additionally, the festival’s unique venues, such as local churches, the amphitheater and museums provide a one-of-a-kind experience.

Classical Amphitheater

A sight to behold and one of the best things to see in Ohrid is the classical Amphitheater.  Built hundreds of years ago, it is thought that the amphitheater was built around the 11th or 12th century.  The Roman’s utilized this theater for shows, animal fights and gladiator fights.

Set atop a hill overlooking the beautiful Ohrid Lake, the architecture of the amphitheater is largely well preserved that seats up to 5,000 people.  You can still see some name markings on some of the seats which symbolizes the families and people that had those specific seats (usually the wealthy) back in those days.

Its visual appeal from the shore of the lake attracts throngs of visitors each year, with scenery that is framed by Ohrid’s large mountains and a seemingly endless blue sky.  As if that’s not enough, the ancient amphitheater also plays host to a number of open-air concerts in the summer, making it a Mecca for both history and music lovers.

If you’re looking for a great restaurant in Ohrid and love eating delicious pizza while enjoying great views, look no further than Via Sacra.  Located in the shadows of Saint Sofia, Via Sacra has a small menu offering a few traditional Macedonian dishes and of course pizza.

We walked 30 minutes after our long travel day to get to Ohrid and it was worth the extra steps.  Joe claims it was the best pizza he’s ever had.  That being said, we were also very hungry and he hasn’t been to Italy yet!

🧄 Must Try: Makalo | a traditional Macedonian side dish which is basically a garlic spread.

St. Sophia Church

St. Sophia Church is one of the most significant landmarks and best things to do in Ohrid.  Built in the beginning of the 11th century, it is over 1000 years old, making it one of the oldest churches in the country and the Balkans.

The church itself is incredibly beautiful, with ornate designs on the exterior walls and frescoes inside depicting scenes from the old testimony.  There’s a mural inside that depicts baby Jesus without shoes which can’t be seen on any other mural beside a church in Florence.

Like the amphitheater, concerts are held inside the church during the summer festival, it has great acoustics.  After you’re done checking out St Sophia Church, grab a slice at Via Sacra.

The Church of Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta is a church in Ohrid located on a hill and offers great views of the town and Lake Ohrid.  Unlike most churches that were around during the take over of the Ottoman Empire, this church was not destroyed by the Ottomans because the church was devoted to the mother of god and not Jesus.  It cost 150 MKD to enter.

Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo

Another church to make the Ohrid things to do list is Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo.  This church overlooks the town of Ohrid and sits on a small peninsula which juts into the lake.

The Church of Sveti Jovan is renowned for its incredible architecture.  The main facade of the church is whitewashed and is decorated with a main door flanked by twin towers.  Not only is this church a beautiful work of art but its the most photographed church in the country as it was featured on the cover of National Geographic.

Ohrid is a small enough town that you can do a DIY walking tour and if that’s what you do, I’d end your tour here.  It’s very peaceful and there’s tons of birds flying around that are enjoyable to watch.

Kaneo Village is a beautiful little settlement nestled against the banks of Lake Ohrid close to the Church at Kaneo.  You’ll pass by the picturesque village as you’re walking back to the town center if you’ve just visited the church.  With traditional stone pathways, fishing boats, rolling hills and endless views of the lake, Kaneo is an ideal place to experience the beauty of the Balkan region.

Stroll Through the Old Bazaar

One of the best Ohrid attractions is the Old Bazaar.  The Old Bazaar in Ohrid is full of shops, cafes and gelato stands.  It’s the much more livelier part of town.

Ohrid Pearls are a popular thing to buy in Ohrid town, although most of the places that sell the Ohrid Pearls are fake, there are a few places that sell genuine pearls.  The pearl store right next to Via Sacra Restaurant is the real deal.  (That’s coming from my tour guide when I took a private tour of Ohrid.)

Join the Newsletter

Subscribe for Travel Tips, my Latest Content and Much More.

Visit the Upper & Lower Gates

The old town of Ohrid is well-known for its many gates, which were used to protect the city from invaders.  The two mains gates are the Upper and Lower gates.

The lower gate is a double-arched gate meant to increase the city’s defense.  As soon as you wake through the lower gate, theres a grate and if you peer down, you’ll be able to see the “original road’.  Meanwhile, the upper gate is strategically placed on the hillside that overlooks Ohrid town and is in close proximity to Church of Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta.

Make Paper at the National Workshop for Handmade Paper

The National Workshop for Handmade Paper is one of the best free things to do in Ohrid.  Visiting here is an amazing opportunity for paper enthusiasts from all over the world to come together and explore the traditional art form of paper making.

Hosted by the local workshop owner, the workshop provides an educational experience about the basics of hand paper making.  The Handmade Paper Museum even has an exact replica of the Gutenberg Press which is pretty darn cool.

National Museum

Located in the heart of Ohrid just as you pass through the Lower Gates is the National Museum.  The museum is home to an impressive selection of Macedonian artifacts, artworks and relics from throughout history including several gold burial masks.  A handful of these masks have been found throughout the country and are suppose to be what the princesses have been buried in.

It cost 150 MKD to enter and inside the original Ottoman-style house are works of art, religious artifacts, pottery, jewelry, coins and manuscripts.  You’ll even be able to see old photographs, clothing, furniture and what the rooms used to look like.

Other Museums to Check out:

• Icon Gallery – houses a remarkable collection of Ohrid icons.
• Memorial House of Hristo Uzunov – a memorial house dedicated to Hristo Uzunov.
• Wood Carving Gallery

The Plaošnik Archeological Site is an ongoing excavation site where the main find on the site is believed to be where St. Clement (the patron saint of the region) set up his monastery.  This is an easy Ohrid attraction to visit on your way to the fortress and church of St. Jovan Kaneo.

The SvetaBogorodica Bolnička & Sveta Nikola Bolnički Churches can be found on your left as soon as you walk inside the Ohrid lower gates.  These small churches were used to house the quarantined people of the plague due to their locations inside the city walls.

Samuel’s Fortress

Rounding off our best things to do in Ohrid list is exploring Samuel’s Fortress.  It cost 120 MKD to enter and is located about 800 meters above lake level.  The castle includes several defensive elements such as walls and towers and offers majestic views of the city.

Ohrid Day Trips

I couldn’t make a things to do in Ohrid post without mentioning some of the best day trips from this city.  You should be able to cover all the Ohrid attractions I listed above in a few days.  These day trips from Ohrid listed below are Ohrid must-sees and best explored if you have your own transportation but can easily experienced via public transportation or on a tour.

St. Naum Monastery

The Saint Naum Monastery is by far the best day trip from Ohrid.  This small yet stunning monastery is perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid.  You can’t get a better setting.

The monastery is built in traditional style, with walls and floors made of hewn stone, frescoes on the walls and a bell tower.  Visitors to the monastery will marvel at the amazing views of the lake and will get to enjoy the 2 friendly peacocks that live on the grounds.

There is a regular ferry service that runs several times a day from Ohrid town to the Saint Naum Monastery.  There is one at 9 am and one a 10 am.  If you take the 10 am, it will also stop at the Bay of the Bones Museum which I talk about in the next section.  The trip takes an hour and a half one way and costs 15 Euros round trip which is a pretty good deal.

If you rented a car, parking costs 50 MKD.  This allows you to have more time to explore Sveti Naum and avoid the crowds of the ferry.  Plus there’s several restaurants you can dine at and enjoy a peaceful meal on the lake.

Book a Tour →

🦚 Unique Stay:  There is a hotel on the grounds of the monastery that you can stay at if you love epic views and staying in unique places around the world.

Bay of the Bones Museum

The Bay of the Bones Museum is located on the way to the St. Naum Monastery and is a wonderful museum on Lake Ohrid.  The museum is a reconstruction of a prehistoric pile dwelling site, dating back to Neolithic times.

This ancient tribe wasn’t discovered until recently (1997) and represents the authentic living environment of the prehistoric village.  The community had a whole village built on piles of wood that was connected to the lakebed and had a retractable drawbridge that was defense against predators such as animals and other tribes.

Excavations weren’t underway until 2005 and they believe that there were 24 homes, all of which are represented at the museum.  It cost 150 MKD to enter.  This was one of my favorite places to see in Ohrid and reminded me a lot of the Uros people that live on Lake Titicaca in Peru.

🎥 Watch Next:   Homestay on Lake Titicaca, Peru

Galičica National Park is located on the border of North Macedonia and Albania and offers stunning views of Lake Ohrid.  There are several hiking trails that run through the park but this is one of those National Parks that you can easily drive through and you feel completely satisfied.  There are several spots along the way that you can pull off and after a very short walk, you’re greeted with epic views.

There is a road that cuts through the park and takes you up and over the mountain eventually spitting you out at Lake Ohrid’s sister lake, Lake Prespa.  The drive is nothing short of amazing and a must experience when exploring the outskirts of Ohrid.

🎥 Watch Next: Exploring Galičica & Pelister National Parks

Ohrid Tours

I took a Private Half Day Tour when I was exploring Ohrid and it was great.  My tour guide was super knowledgable and I learned a lot.  Here are a few other tours with good reviews.

• Ohrid Half Day Tour

Ohrid: Rural wine & dine experience

Ohrid: Rent an e-scooter and discover the beauty of Ohrid

Where to Stay in Ohrid

There are plenty of places to stay in Ohrid that will accommodate every type of traveler and on every type of budget including nicer hotels and budget friendly guesthouses.  These are the top picks on where to stay in Ohrid.

• Hotel & Spa Tino Sveti Stefan – Where to Stay in Ohrid for Luxury
• Hotel Aleksandrija – Mid Range Place to Stay in Ohrid
• Villa Flora – Budget Option of Where to Stay in Ohrid

North Macedonia Travel Tips

• Renting a car is cheap and roads are well maintained to drive on.
• The country is small and you can explore all the highlights in 10 days time.
• Saying a few words in Macedonian goes a long way.
• American Express isn’t accepted very often.
• Most accommodations only accept cash as payment.
• Prices double during high season.
• Some People of Macedonia may get offended if you call the country North Macedonia.
• Bus travel is very affordable and you can get a ride across the country in less than 4 hours.

Onward Travel in North Macedonia

• Cross over the border to Albania and explore the capital of Tirana.
• Explore underrated Pelister National Park and experience a homestay in Dihovo.
• Press north to the capital of Skopje.
• Kayak through Matka Canyon.
• Taste Tikves wines at the source.
• Wildlife Spot in Mavrovo National Park.
• Road Trip through the Balkans and explore bordering countries such as Serbia , Albania, Montenegro or Greece.

Do you have any favorite things to do in Ohrid?  Let other travelers know in the comments below ↓

 balkan travel guides ↓.

Planning a trip to the Balkans?  Check out these guides below for inspiration.

Staying the Night in the Rila Monastery

33 Brillant Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia

10 Charming Hotels in Berat, Albania

Enjoy this Post?!?! Pin in for Later ↓

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Follow me on social media

Hi, we’re Jess (& Joe).  We hope you’re enjoying our free travel guides and tips.  If so please consider buying us a coffee ☕️.  We appreciate your support!

🎥 Do you follow us on You Tube?   Subscribe to follow along on our adventures!

Popular Posts

12 Best Things to Do in Ohrid, North Macedonia

Located in the south-western part of North Macedonia, on the shores of Lake Ohrid, is the ancient city of Ohrid . With stunning Orthodox architecture and breathtaking nature , Ohrid is one of the most significant cultural and historical centres in the country, and whether you prefer action-packed, cultural or relaxing travel, you will find something that suits you in Ohrid.

While many of the main things to do in Ohrid are best saved for summer (it was a little too cold to swim when I visited in October!), there are still plenty of things to keep you occupied if you visit Ohrid, no matter what time of year it is. So, if you’re wondering what to do in Ohrid then look no further. I’ve rounded up a list of the 12 best things to do in Ohrid, whether you’re an avid adventurer or a culture vulture.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Ohrid?

One of just 28 sites accepted as both Cultural and Natural World Heritage sites by UNESCO, Ohrid is one of the best places to visit in North Macedonia. It may not seem like it, but Ohrid is actually one of the biggest cities in the country, and one of the most beloved by locals and tourists alike. 

Known as the ‘Jerusalem of the Balkans’ due to its huge number of churches (365 – one for every day of the year!), Ohrid is the perfect place to go if you’re interested in religious history, but if ancient churches aren’t your thing, don’t worry.  From hiking in the nearby mountains to renting a boat and relaxing on the lake, you will be sure to fall for Ohrid’s olde-worlde charm at some point.

The Best Things to Do in Ohrid

1. see the iconic church of st. jovan at kaneo.

If you only see one church in Ohrid, make it this one. The church of St. Jovan of Kaneo was founded at the end of the 13th century and dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Perched on a high cliff above the Kaneo fishing village and with distinctive Byzantine-style architecture, the church of St. Jovan is one of the most photographed places in North Macedonia, and when you take in the panoramic views of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains, it isn’t hard to see why.

2. Visit St. Samuil’s Fortress

If you’re hungry for more Ohrid history, continue uphill from the church of St. Jovan to Samuil’s Fortress. Named after the first ruler of the Bulgarian Empire from Ohrid, Tsar Samuil, this fortified city covers almost 8400 square meters and is super well-preserved, boasting 18 huge towers and 4 gates, as well as sweeping views over Ohrid’s Old Town and Lake Ohrid.

3. Explore Lake Ohrid

No list of things to do in Ohrid would be complete without mentioning the vast array of activities that you can enjoy on the lake. At  a whopping 2-5 million years old and covering an area of around 138 square miles, Lake Ohrid is one of Europe’s oldest and largest lakes. 

As well as being declared as a special natural reserve due to its uniqueness and biodiversity by the International Hydrological Association, it has also been named as one of ten biggest centres for pelagic species by the Canadian government’s research centre, CSIRO.  Lofty credentials aside though, Lake Ohrid offers an abundance of activities, from sunset boat trips to diving, fishing, yachting , or just simply strolling around the perimeter and admiring the views.

4. Visit St. Clement’s Church

Hidden in the forest, between St. Samuil’s Fortress and the Church of St. Jovan, you will find St. Clement’s church (also known as the Church of Saint Pantaleimon) and the impressive Plaošnik archaeological complex.    Built by Prince Vladimir in 905 AD on top of a Christian basilica from the 5th century, St. Clement’s church is considered an exclusive monument of Byzantine art. Inside, you will find exceptional frescoes covering 900 square meters and early Christian mosaics, and outside you will see that work on the archaeological site is still ongoing.

5. Explore the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis

Heraclea Lyncestis was an ancient town in North Macedonia founded by Philip II of Macedon in the 4th century BC which served as a strategic point for his further campaigns to conquer Greece. However, after its devastation during Roman times it disappeared from the map. only to be unearthed near the city of Bitola in 1944. You can visit its ruins as a day trip from Ohrid by taking the bus to Bitola and then walking the 2km to Heraclea Lyncestis.  Among the archaeological excavations you will find Roman baths, a courtroom, an amphitheatre, and two Christian basilicas with wonderful mosaics.

6. Go hiking in Galičica National Park

You know those mountains that surround the city of Ohrid? Well, they’re part of Mt. Galičica National Park, a mountain range known for its exceptional biodiversity (there are over 1600 floral species!) and natural beauty.  Here you will find ample hiking opportunities, or you can go climbing or cycling if you prefer. No matter which pursuit you choose, you can’t miss the spectacular views from the mountains over Lake Ohrid.  One possible route to take is the famous trail which follows Galičica Mountain ridge, where you can find monasteries built on rocks and churches built by wealthy Macedonian monks.

7. Visit St. Naum Monastery

One of many things to see near Ohrid is the UNESCO-listed Monastery of St. Naum, which can be reached by boat or bus from the centre of Ohrid. This old Macedonian Orthodox Church was built on the remains of a former Roman villa rustica and is one of the most important religious sites in North Macedonia. 

St. Naum was buried himself here in the year 910, and locals will tell you that if you listen carefully enough, you may hear his heartbeat!  Like the other churches in Ohrid, the St. Naum Monastery is home to impressive ancient frescoes, and you can take a walk around the area or relax by the various ponds and streams nearby.

Balkan food is hearty, rich and made with love, and it is no different in Ohrid. Here you will find delicious fresh fish and seafood, along with other Macedonian staples like stuffed peppers, musaka (moussaka) and vegetable and meat stew, all served with a healthy dose of rakija.

9. Wander the Old Town

One of the most pleasant things to do in Ohrid is to enjoy a nice, leisurely stroll around Ohrid’s Old Town. With cobbled streets, artisan shops and a curious mix of architectural styles, the Old Town is the perfect place to do some souvenir shopping, enjoy some Balkan coffee and watch the world go by. If you’re keen to see how people lived in days gone by, you can pay a visit to the old houses of Robevci or Uranija , where you can step back in time and see what daily life looked like for Macedonian families. These houses are similar in style to the Skendulate House in Gjirokastra , Albania and the ethnographical museum in Pristina, Kosovo.

You should also pay a visit to the Old Bazaar. This is only a single street (much smaller than the Old Bazaar in Skopje), but you can still find some local craft shops and some tacky souvenirs – want an ID card with Putin’s face on it? Look no further. The Old Bazaar is the main promenade down to the waterfront.

10. Buy Ohrid pearls

While you’re in the Old Town, make sure to stop and buy some Ohrid pearls. Known for their brightness and shine (they get this from a special emulsion made from the scales of the local plasica fish), Ohrid pearls differ from the pearls you’ve seen before, and the technique was brought to the city by a Russian immigrant more than 100 years ago. 

These days, only two families in the whole city know the trick to making them, and they make a really unique souvenir or gift for someone else. You can find shops selling Ohrid pearls dotted all over the Old Town.

11. Visit the Church of St. Sophia (Sveti Sofia)

Did you think I was going to let you get away with only seeing a couple of churches during your trip to Ohrid?  Think again! The Church of St. Sophia is a Byzantine work of art that dates all the way back to the 9th century. When the Ottomans took over, it was turned into a mosque, before being converted back into a church again.  Inside you can find frescoes from the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries.

12. Visit the Roman Amphitheatre

Who said you needed to go to Rome to see an amphitheatre? You won’t have to look hard to find one of the most impressive of all Ohrid attractions – the Ancient Theatre. This is an open-air Hellenistic theatre that was built around 200 BC with a capacity of 4000 spectators. 

During Roman times, the theatre was used to execute Christians during gladiatorial battles, but these days it is used as a stage for various shows and festivals, and it goes without saying that this is a great place to enjoy panoramic views over the lake. Admission is free.

Where to stay in Ohrid

Ohrid is packed full of great value accommodation so you won’t have a problem finding where to stay in Ohrid. When I visited Ohrid, I stayed in Sunny Lake Hostel . Sunny Lake Hostel is a popular backpacker’s hostel in the heart of the Old Town with a great atmosphere and a balcony where you can enjoy your morning coffee with incredible mountain views. They also have Netflix and a beer garden if you’re missing those home comforts! You can view rates and book your stay at Sunny Lake Hostel here. Other great options include: AnastasiaHomestay Villa Old Town Villa Saraj Robinson Sunset House – this one is located in the heart of the national park for a more rural experience.

Things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia | Final Thoughts

As you can see, Ohrid is a multi-faceted city with a tonne of things to see and do. My favourite things to do in Ohrid were simply stroll around the Old Town, peek inside the churches, befriend the local street dogs and drink my bodyweight in coffee, but you can easily turn your Ohrid trip into a more action-packed affair if you so wish! If you have any questions about visiting Ohrid or North Macedonia then don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below! Depending on when you’re visiting, you may also find my post about visiting Ohrid in the off-season useful, as well as my guide to travelling in the Balkans . Until next time, XOXO

If you liked this article and would like to support my work, please click the button above to donate a couple of bucks and buy me a coffee. The ad revenue that I receive on this website is minimal, so support from my readers enables me to keep creating content that you (hopefully!) love to read.

Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase on a recommended site, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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!

AD – This post contains affiliate links (marked with *) | Read my full disclaimer

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?

You may also enjoy:

6 top things to do in dubrovnik: the …, a detailed guide to the colmar christmas …, strasbourg christmas markets 2023: what to expect, see, …, how to spend 24 hours in karlskrona: best …, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me via e-mail if anyone answers my comment.

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 :

You Might Also Like

Is Naples Worth Visiting? 13 Reasons To Visit & Practical Tips [2024]

Is Albania Safe For Solo Female Travellers In 2024? My Experience

How Many Days In Switzerland Is Enough? Revealed! [2024]

Leave a reply cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

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.

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

I was not actually planning to visit Ohrid or North Macedonia. But I had to catch a flight from Belgrade.

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 hahaha)

The Ohrid Lake is like Balkan Maledives! 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 in the way Gjorocaster is striking and dramatic but in its own intimate way.

Although tourism has been strong in this area for decades, it has mostly hosted local tourists from North Macedonia and other Balkan countries.

Lake Ohrid has been accepted as a Cultural and Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the town of Ohrid was included.

The lake is protected and extremely clean!

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.

So is Lake Ohris 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, Orthodox and Muslim 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 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!

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.

Be sure to also scroll down to all the Ohrid tips and things to know before visiting!

Table of Contents

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 medeaval 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 the Varosh 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 and 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 attractions, 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’ by 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 Ohrid’s Attraction

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!

Stroll the Old City Park towards Secret Beach Labino

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 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! 

Have you considered an eSIM yet?

Tired of roaming bills or wasting time anxiously looking for a SIM vendor at the airport?

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards). With eSIMs from Airalo, download and install a digital data pack from 200+ countries/regions and be connected anywhere in the world the second you land.

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!

I have a separate post about visiting Naum so head there if you want to know more!

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. 

Did you get your travel insurance yet? Travel Insurance will let you travel with the peace of mind knowing that no matter what, your unexpected medical or travel emergencies are covered. I use Heymondo for a few reasons. They have clear policies with no deductibles, the price is excellent for what they offer and the price doesn’t go up when you are over 30 years old. They have a dedicated, easy-to-use app and free assistance calls.

I can get a cover for a month or three months and I know I can travel with peace of mind and get the best product for my money.

Heymondo offers my readers 5% off so go ahead, and click on this link and get your quote.

Things to know before visitng 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 to 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!

Pleas 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!

32 Incredible Things To Do In Ohrid, Macedonia

Welcome to Ohrid, a captivating and often underrated city nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid in Macedonia. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and cultural treasures, the city offers a myriad of exciting things to do and explore, including an enchanting, dotted with cobblestone streets Old Town, a millennia-old fortress, a myriad of medieval monasteries, and an endless list of natural beauties. If this sounds interesting, keep reading, here are some of the most incredible things to do in Ohrid, Macedonia.

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 nearest airport to Ohrid is Ohrid “St. Paul the Apostle” Airport (OHD). It operates domestic and international flights, making it a convenient choice for travelers. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a prearranged transfer to reach the city center, which is approximately 10 kilometers away.

By Bus: Ohrid is well-connected to neighboring countries and major cities in Macedonia through an extensive bus network. You can find direct bus routes from cities like Skopje , Tirana , Sofia, and Thessaloniki. The bus station in Ohrid is centrally located, making it easy to access various parts of the city upon arrival.

By Car: If you prefer driving, you can reach Ohrid by car via well-maintained roads. From Skopje , the capital city of Macedonia, it takes around 3 hours to reach Ohrid by car. Additionally, Ohrid is also accessible from neighboring countries such as Albania, Bulgaria , and Greece by road.

By Ferry: Ohrid has a ferry connection to several destinations on Lake Ohrid. You can take a ferry from nearby towns like Struga or Pogradec (in Albania ) to reach Ohrid. This option allows you to enjoy a scenic journey across the lake.

Getting Around Ohrid

This guide to things to do in Ohrid wouldn’t be complete if we don’t share a few tips about getting around. Getting around Ohrid is relatively easy and convenient, thanks to the city’s compact size and well-developed transportation options. Here are some common ways to explore Ohrid:

Walking: Ohrid’s city center and most of its attractions are easily accessible on foot. Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, explore the narrow alleys, and immerse yourself in the city’s charm. Walking allows you to appreciate the architecture, discover hidden gems, and take in the beautiful views of Lake Ohrid.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Ohrid, and they provide a convenient mode of transportation for shorter distances or when you prefer not to walk. You can find taxi stands in popular areas or simply hail a taxi on the street. Ensure that the taxi has a functioning meter or negotiate the fare in advance.

Local Buses: Ohrid has a network of local buses that connect different parts of the city. The buses are an affordable option for getting around Ohrid, especially if you plan to visit attractions located outside the city center. Look for bus stops with route information or ask locals for guidance. Bus schedules may vary, so it’s advisable to check the timings in advance.

Boat Rides: Since Ohrid is situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, boat rides are a popular way to explore the lake’s beauty and visit nearby attractions. You can take a boat tour or hire a private boat to visit places like St. Naum Monastery or enjoy a scenic cruise on the lake.

Car and Bike Rentals: If you prefer more flexibility and independence, renting a car or a bike can be a good option. There are several car rental agencies in Ohrid where you can find a vehicle suitable for your needs. Bikes are also available for rent, allowing you to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

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 when the city is buzzing with activity, cultural events, and warm weather. It’s perfect for enjoying the lake, swimming, and partaking in outdoor activities. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer mild temperatures, thinner crowds, and beautiful natural surroundings. These shoulder seasons allow for a more relaxed exploration of Ohrid’s attractions and outdoor adventures. Winter (November to March) brings a serene atmosphere and lower accommodation prices, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful visit and cultural immersion.

Where To Stay In Ohrid

When it comes to choosing accommodation in Ohrid, you have various options to suit your preferences and budget. Here are some popular areas to consider for your stay in Ohrid:

Old Town: Staying in the heart of the Old Town allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and charming atmosphere of Ohrid. You’ll find a range of guesthouses, boutique hotels, and traditional accommodations offering easy access to historical sites , restaurants, and the lakefront.

Villa Old Town : A charming guesthouse located in the heart of the Old Town, offering comfortable rooms with traditional décor and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.

Villa Jordan : A boutique hotel featuring elegant rooms, some with lake views, and a garden area for relaxation. It’s within walking distance of the main attractions in the Old Town.

City Center: The city center offers a mix of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to upscale resorts. This area provides convenient access to amenities, shops, and restaurants, as well as proximity to the lake and major attractions.

Hotel Tino Sveti Stefan : A modern hotel situated in the city center, providing stylish rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with views of Lake Ohrid.

Villa St. Sofija : A cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms, located in a quiet area of the city center. It offers a courtyard garden and a communal kitchen for guests.

Lakefront: If you prefer stunning lake views and easy access to the waterfront, consider staying in hotels or apartments along the shores of Lake Ohrid. These accommodations often provide direct access to the beach, water activities, and beautiful sunsets over the lake.

Hotel Belvedere : A lakeside hotel with spacious rooms and a private beach area. It features a restaurant overlooking the lake and offers various water sports activities.

Villa Swiss : A charming lakeside villa with comfortable rooms and apartments, offering a peaceful ambiance and a garden area with direct access to the lake.

Lagadin: Located a few kilometers from the city center, Lagadin offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere away from the bustling crowds. You’ll find a range of accommodations, including hotels and guesthouses, along with scenic views of the lake.

Villa Milka : A family-run guesthouse located in Lagadin, offering cozy rooms with lake views and a terrace. It’s within walking distance of the beach and a short drive from the city center.

Villa Veron : A boutique hotel situated in a quiet area of Lagadin, providing comfortable rooms and a garden terrace. It offers a tranquil setting and 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.

For affordable flights to Ohrid, Qatar Airways is currently offering a fantastic deal, allowing you to save up to 15% on your ticket price.

As for travel insurance, SafetyWing has some great options specifically tailored for trips to Ohrid, 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 Ohrid, be sure to take advantage of the incredible 15% discount available on all car rentals in Macedonia through our website.

To further maximize your savings, check out the exclusive special offer on accommodation bookings in Skopje provided by Booking.com that 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.

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

We start off this list of the best things to do in Ohrid with the city’s Old Town also known as Varosh. The Old Town of Ohrid is a captivating historic district that beckons visitors with its charming ambiance and rich cultural heritage. Its narrow cobblestone streets wind through centuries-old buildings, revealing fascinating architectural marvels at every turn.

Stroll along the promenade by the picturesque shores of Lake Ohrid, where you can soak in breathtaking views and witness stunning sunsets. Explore the ancient Ohrid Fortress, an imposing structure that offers panoramic vistas of the city and the shimmering lake below. Immerse yourself in the lively bazaars, bustling with shops, cafes, and local artisans.

Go Shopping At Old Bazaar

The Old Bazaar in Ohrid is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity that immerses visitors in the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Even though it’s smaller than the Old Bazaar in Skopje , Ohrid’s shopping street still offers a glimpse into the city’s past as a bustling trading center. Explore the maze-like streets lined with shops selling traditional crafts, jewelry, clothing, and local delicacies. From authentic souvenirs to aromatic spices, the Old Bazaar tantalizes the senses and provides a unique shopping experience. Indulge in delicious street food, sip traditional coffee at a charming café, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Walk The Promenade

Walking the Ohrid Promenade is a delightful experience that offers breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere. Stretching along the shores of Lake Ohrid, this scenic promenade is lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops. Take a leisurely stroll as you soak in the beauty of the crystal-clear waters and majestic mountains in the distance. Enjoy the fresh lake breeze, admire the picturesque boats, and capture stunning photos of the shoreline. As the sun sets, the promenade comes alive with a lively ambiance, making it an ideal spot to unwind, people-watch, and savor the enchanting atmosphere of Ohrid.

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. Perched on the hillside above Ohrid’s old town, Chinarot is an ancient Chinar tree, believed to have stood for over 1,000 years, casting its majestic shade over the surroundings. It is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, nature, and breathtaking views and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling streets, inviting you to relax, reflect, and soak in the serenity while enjoying a picnic or capturing unforgettable photographs.

Relax At The Springs Legends Are Made Of

Biljanini Izvori in Ohrid is a natural oasis that captivates visitors with its serene beauty and abundant greenery. Located near Lake Ohrid, it is a popular recreational area and a perfect escape from the bustling city. Take a leisurely walk through the park’s lush gardens, adorned with vibrant flowers and tall trees that provide shade and tranquility. Discover the natural springs that give the park its name, where crystal-clear water flows and forms small streams and ponds. In addition to being a great destination for relaxing, the springs are also often mentioned in local legends which also shows their cultural significance for the city of Ohrid.

Soak Up The Atmosphere At Saint John at Kaneo

Saint John at Kaneo is an iconic and breathtaking sight perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid. This 15-th century medieval monastery is a jewel of Ohrid’s architectural heritage, known for its picturesque setting and stunning views. With its Byzantine-style architecture and red-roofed charm, it stands as a symbol of cultural and historical significance. Step inside to admire the beautiful frescoes and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. From the church’s terrace, revel in panoramic vistas of the lake, the city, and the surrounding mountains. Saint John at Kaneo is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the beauty and charm of Ohrid, leaving visitors awe-inspired by its splendor.

Admire St. Sophia Church

Speaking of the best things to do in Ohrid, we can’t forget about St. Sophia, a magnificent testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. This ancient Byzantine church, dating back to the 9th century, showcases stunning architectural details and religious significance. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the interior adorned with beautiful frescoes, intricate woodwork, and Byzantine-style artwork. As you explore the church, you’ll discover a sense of reverence and awe. St. Sophia Church stands as a cherished landmark, preserving Ohrid’s history and captivating visitors with its timeless beauty.

Explore Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta

Sveta Bogorodica Perivlepta in Ohrid is a remarkable medieval church that showcases exquisite Byzantine architecture and religious significance (briefly, this was the seat of the Archbishopric of Ohrid). Built in the 13th century, this church is adorned with stunning frescoes that depict religious scenes and figures. The exterior features intricate stone carvings and a beautiful bell tower, adding to its charm and historical appeal. Step inside to be mesmerized by the richly decorated interior, adorned with colorful frescoes and intricate iconography.

Discover The Oldest Religious Complex In Ohrid

The Church of Saint Clement and Panteleimon in Ohrid is a remarkable religious complex that holds immense historical and spiritual significance. Built in the 9th century, this Byzantine-style church is dedicated to Saint Clement of Ohrid, a prominent medieval scholar and one of the most revered figures in Macedonian history. The complex consists of two main sections: the church itself and the Panteleimon, an underground burial chamber. Inside the church, visitors are treated to breathtaking frescoes, intricate stone carvings, and ornate iconostasis. The Panteleimon, on the other hand, houses the tombs of Saint Clement and other notable figures from the past.

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

Tzar Samoil Fortress is a majestic fortress that stands proudly on the hill overlooking Ohrid. Named after the medieval emperor Samuil, this historic landmark offers a glimpse into Ohrid’s rich past. Built in the 10th century, the fortress served as a strategic stronghold, protecting the city and its inhabitants. Today, visitors can explore its well-preserved ruins, including fortified walls, towers, and gates. Climb to the top of the fortress for panoramic views of Ohrid, Lake Ohrid, and the surrounding landscape.

Attend An Event At The Ancient Amphitheater

Attending an event at the Ancient Amphitheater in Old Town is one of the best things to do in Ohrid. A quick visit to the amphitheater is a truly remarkable experience that takes you back in time. This historic venue, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, offers a captivating setting for various performances and cultural events. Imagine sitting in the same seats where ancient spectators once gathered to witness gladiator fights and theatrical shows. Today, the amphitheater hosts concerts, plays, and festivals, bringing the past to life in a modern context. As you enjoy the event, you’ll be immersed in the awe-inspiring atmosphere, surrounded by ancient stone walls and breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid.

See Plaošnik, Europe’s First University?

Plaošnik, often referred to as Europe’s First University, is a historic site in Ohrid that holds immense cultural and educational significance. This archaeological complex is believed to have been a center of learning and spirituality during the early medieval period. It is associated with the renowned St. Clement of Ohrid, a scholar and educator who played a pivotal role in shaping Slavic literature and education.

Exploring Plaošnik allows you to walk in the footsteps of ancient scholars, as you encounter the remains of an early Christian basilica, a baptistery, and a reconstructed medieval university. Additionally, the complex houses the Church of St. Clement, which showcases beautiful frescoes and serves as a spiritual haven.

Admire Local Architecture At The Robevi Family House

A list of the best things to do in Ohrid wouldn’t be complete without the fascinating local architecture and the Robevi Family House is the perfect place to learn about and admire the traditional Ohrid building style. Built in the 19th century, this elegant house showcases a unique blend of traditional Macedonian and Ottoman architectural styles.

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by beautifully preserved rooms adorned with intricate woodwork, colorful frescoes, and traditional furnishings. The house serves as a museum, displaying artifacts and memorabilia that provide insights into the lives of the Robevi family and the local culture. Stroll through the different chambers, admire the ornate ceilings, and soak in the ambiance of a bygone era.

Drive To Saint Naum Monastery

Saint Naum Monastery is a revered religious and cultural site located just outside of Ohrid. Named after the medieval Saint Naum of Ohrid, this monastery holds significant historical and spiritual importance. The complex consists of a stunning church, picturesque courtyards, and peaceful gardens. Step inside the church to marvel at its beautiful frescoes and intricate iconography. Take a moment to visit Saint Naum’s tomb and pay respects to the revered saint. The monastery’s tranquil surroundings, including the nearby crystal-clear springs, create a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Eat On A Floating Raft

Indulging in a meal on a floating raft near Saint Naum Monastery is a truly unique and memorable dining experience. Nestled along the shores of Lake Ohrid, these floating restaurants offer a picturesque setting and a tranquil ambiance. As you sit down at a table on the raft, you’ll be surrounded by the sparkling waters of the lake, with panoramic views stretching in every direction.

Feast on a delectable selection of local and regional dishes, including freshly caught fish, grilled specialties, and traditional Macedonian cuisine. Savor the flavors while enjoying the gentle sway of the raft and the soothing sounds of the water. Dining on a floating raft near Saint Naum Monastery combines gastronomic delights with a serene atmosphere, providing an unforgettable culinary experience in the heart of nature.

Check Out Macedonia’s First Water Museum

The Bay of Bones, also known as the Museum on Water, is a fascinating archaeological site located on the shores of the lake and one of the most popular things to do in Ohrid. This unique attraction takes visitors back in time to the prehistoric era, offering a glimpse into the ancient civilization that once thrived in the region. The Bay of Bones is renowned for its reconstructed pile-dwelling settlement, featuring a network of wooden platforms and houses built on stilts above the water. Explore the site and marvel at the intricate construction and craftsmanship of the ancient dwellings. Gain insights into the daily lives, customs, and traditions of the people who inhabited this area thousands of years ago.

Go Hiking At The Galicica National Park

Embarking on a hiking adventure at Galicica National Park is an exhilarating way to explore the natural beauty of the region. Nestled between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa, this national park boasts breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Lace up your hiking boots and traverse the well-marked trails that wind through lush forests, meadows, and rocky terrain.

As you ascend higher, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and picturesque villages.

The park is home to a rich array of flora and fauna, offering opportunities for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers to spot endemic species, including the Pelagonia lizard, the Macedonian Brown Bear, and more than 250 species of birds. In addition, we share a few of our favorite routes in the national park.

Hike To Ramne Village

Hiking to Ramne Village is an exhilarating outdoor adventure that takes you through the pristine natural beauty of the Ohrid region. Ramne Village is nestled in the picturesque Galicica National Park, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling tourist areas.

The hike to Ramne Village takes you along scenic trails that wind through lush forests, across meadows adorned with wildflowers, and along the slopes of the majestic Galicica Mountains. As you ascend higher, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding landscapes.

Ramne Village itself is a charming and authentic mountain settlement, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the traditional way of life. The village exudes a sense of tranquility, with its stone houses and narrow streets, allowing you to escape the crowds and enjoy a serene environment.

Hike To Velestovo

Embarking on a hike to Velestovo is a thrilling outdoor experience that takes you through the stunning landscapes surrounding Lake Ohrid. Velestovo is a charming village situated on the slopes of Galicica National Park, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil ambiance.

The hike to Velestovo allows you to traverse picturesque trails that meander through lush forests, meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers, and along the slopes of the majestic Galicica Mountains. As you ascend higher, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding countryside.

Velestovo itself is a hidden gem, tucked away from the bustling tourist areas. The village showcases traditional architecture, with its stone houses and narrow winding streets, giving you a glimpse into the local way of life. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with friendly villagers and experience the authentic culture of the region.

Get The Best View In Macedonia

One of the most spectacular viewpoints in Galicica National Park that 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, Magaro provides an awe-inspiring panoramic view that stretches across the vast landscape. The spot still has the status of a hidden gem because most tourists either don’t know about it or don’t know how to get there which is what makes this place one of our favorite things to do in Ohrid.

From this viewpoint, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking sight. On one side, you’ll witness the glistening waters of Lake Ohrid, shimmering under the sunlight, surrounded by rugged mountains and picturesque shoreline. The deep blue hues of the lake create a stunning contrast against the lush greenery that blankets its shores.

On the other side, you’ll be enchanted by the beauty of Lake Prespa. With its serene and tranquil aura, the lake stretches out, framed by rolling hills and a rich tapestry of wetlands and vegetation…

Visit The Fishing Village Of Peshtani

Visiting the fishing village of Peshtani is a delightful experience that offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life along the shores of Lake Ohrid. Nestled on the eastern coast of the lake, Peshtani exudes a charming and rustic charm, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.

As you wander through the village, you’ll be greeted by colorful fishing boats bobbing in the clear waters of the lake and the bustling activity of local fishermen going about their daily routines. The village is known for its long-standing fishing heritage, and you’ll have the opportunity to witness firsthand the traditional techniques and practices that have been passed down through generations.

Stroll along the waterfront promenade, lined with quaint cafes and restaurants offering freshly caught seafood dishes and some delicious local wines . Sample the delectable flavors of the region, including grilled fish, local delicacies, and traditional Macedonian cuisine, all prepared with the freshest ingredients sourced directly from the lake.

Get Away From Everything In Trpejca

Trpejca is a charming village located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Visiting Trpejca offers a peaceful and idyllic escape, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.

As you arrive in Trpejca, you’ll be greeted by a postcard-worthy scene of traditional stone houses nestled against the backdrop of the sparkling blue waters of Lake Ohrid. The village exudes a laid-back vibe, inviting you to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of lakeside living.

Trpejca is renowned for its picturesque beach, where you can relax on the pebbles or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. The beach offers stunning views of the lake and the distant mountains, providing a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun.

Hike To Labino Beach

Hiking to Labino Beach is a delightful adventure that combines the beauty of nature with the allure of a hidden gem. Located near the village of Trpejca on the shores of Lake Ohrid, Labino Beach is a secluded and pristine stretch of shoreline that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds.

The hike to Labino Beach is perfect for people looking for relaxing things to do in Ohrid. The route takes you along scenic trails that wind through the surrounding hills and forests. As you make your way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the shimmering lake and the breathtaking landscapes that surround it. The trail itself is relatively moderate, making it accessible to hikers of various skill levels.

Upon reaching Labino Beach, you’ll be rewarded with a serene and untouched paradise. The beach boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft sandy shores, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and taking a refreshing swim in the pristine lake waters.

Go Camping At Gradishte

Camping at Gradishte is a thrilling outdoor experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Ohrid region. Situated in the Galicica National Park, Gradishte offers a picturesque camping area surrounded by stunning landscapes and breathtaking views.

Setting up your tent at Gradishte gives you the opportunity to wake up to awe-inspiring vistas of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains. The campsite is nestled amidst lush greenery, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

During your camping adventure, you can explore the hiking trails that wind through Galicica National Park, providing opportunities to discover hidden waterfalls, explore ancient ruins, and witness the diverse flora and fauna of the area. The park is also home to numerous scenic viewpoints that showcase the beauty of Lake Ohrid from different perspectives.

Take A Jet Ski Ride

Jet ski rentals are available at various locations around the lake, particularly in popular tourist areas and beach resorts and it’s one of the most exciting things to do in Ohrid for adrenaline junkies. Renting a jet ski provides an exhilarating way to explore the vast expanse of Lake Ohrid and enjoy the thrill of gliding across the water.

There are several places around Lake Ohrid where you can rent a jet ski. Here are a few popular locations:

Ohrid City Beach: Located in the heart of Ohrid, this beach area often has rental services available, including jet skis.

Gradishte Beach: Situated near the village of Trpejca, Gradishte Beach is known for its stunning scenery and water sports activities. Jet ski rentals can be found here during the summer season.

Struga City Beach: Struga, another lakeside town, also offers opportunities for jet ski rentals. The city beach area is a good place to start your search.

Pogradec (Albania): If you’re open to exploring beyond the Macedonian side of Lake Ohrid, you can also find jet ski rentals in Pogradec, a town located on the Albanian side of the lake .

Stand-Up Paddle Board On The Lake

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is a popular water activity on Lake Ohrid, offering a unique way to explore the lake’s beauty while enjoying a fun and engaging experience. The calm and clear waters of Lake Ohrid make it an ideal location for SUP enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers.

You can find SUP rental services and tour operators in various locations around Lake Ohrid, particularly in tourist areas and beach resorts. Some popular spots for stand-up paddle boarding include Ohrid City Beach, Gradishte Beach, and Struga City Beach. These locations often offer rentals by the hour or for full-day use.

Stand-up paddle boarding allows you to glide across the tranquil waters of Lake Ohrid, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the historical sites that dot the coastline. Whether you prefer a leisurely paddle along the shore or want to venture out to explore the hidden coves and secluded beaches, SUP provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of the lake.

Go Kayaking

Kayaking on Lake Ohrid is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region while enjoying a fun and active water adventure. With its crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere, Lake Ohrid offers an ideal setting for kayaking enthusiasts of all levels.

There are several options for renting kayaks and exploring the lake but our two favorite spots for this activity are Lagadin (one of the most beautiful beaches in Ohrid) and the previously mentioned pristine village of Trpejca.

Take A Boat Cruise

Embarking on a boat cruise in Ohrid offers a memorable journey on the shimmering waters of Lake Ohrid. Enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque shoreline, ancient monasteries, and the majestic Galicica Mountains. Learn about the lake’s history and myths while capturing stunning photos. Some cruises even allow stops at secluded beaches or the famous St. Naum Monastery. It’s a unique way to explore the beauty and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site .

Discover Wild Beaches

Discovering the wild beaches of Ohrid is an exciting adventure that takes you off the beaten path to secluded and unspoiled stretches of shoreline. These hidden gems offer a unique and tranquil escape from the more crowded tourist areas and if you’re a fan of places like this, discovering these beaches will be one of the best things to do in Ohrid for you. As you venture along the lakeshore, you’ll stumble upon pristine beaches nestled amidst untouched nature. With their crystal-clear waters and soft sandy or pebbly shores, these wild beaches invite you to relax, unwind, and soak up the sun in a serene setting.

Most of these beaches are not named and don’t have any tourist infrastructure but they also rarely have visitors except for a few unsuspecting locals here and there. However, to get there, the only way is to rent a car and drive on your own but finding some of these beaches can be a challenge since most of them are not even marked on Google Maps.

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: This lakeside bar and restaurant is renowned for its stunning sunset views. Relax on the outdoor terrace, savor a delicious drink, and watch as the sun paints the sky with vibrant colors over Lake Ohrid.

Cuba Libre: Situated near the Old Town, Cuba Libre is a popular spot to enjoy a sunset cocktail while taking in panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The relaxed atmosphere and scenic backdrop make it an ideal spot to unwind and capture memorable sunset moments.

Kaneo: The iconic St. John at Kaneo Church offers an incredible vantage point for sunset viewing. Perched on a cliff above the lake, this location provides a picture-perfect setting to witness the sun sinking below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water.

Trpejca: The tranquil fishing village of Trpejca offers a serene and picturesque setting for watching the sunset. Head to one of the lakeside restaurants or find a cozy spot on the pebbly beach, and enjoy the mesmerizing view as the sun sets over the lake.

Buy Ohrid Pearls

When visiting Ohrid, you have the opportunity to purchase exquisite Ohrid Pearls, a unique and precious local treasure. Ohrid Pearls are renowned for their exceptional beauty and craftsmanship, and they make for a meaningful and elegant souvenir.

To buy Ohrid Pearls, head to the jewelry shops located in the Old Town area. These shops specialize in authentic Ohrid Pearls and offer a wide selection of jewelry pieces such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings, all adorned with these lustrous pearls.

Ensure that you purchase Ohrid Pearls from reputable and licensed jewelers to guarantee their authenticity and quality. Look for certified sellers who provide detailed information about the pearls and offer a certificate of authenticity with your purchase.

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.

Take a short trip to the nearby city of Struga, located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Stroll along the Struga Promenade, known as the “Bridge of Poetry,” which offers scenic views of the lake and the river flowing through the city. Visit the charming Old Town area, explore the local markets, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural hub.

Take a trip to the charming village of Vevcani, known for its natural springs. Explore the picturesque surroundings, stroll along the cobblestone streets, and enjoy the traditional architecture. Don’t forget to taste the refreshing spring water and visit the famous Vevcani Carnival Museum.

Heraclea Lyncestis & Bitola

Venture to Bitola, a historic city located a short distance from Ohrid, and explore the remarkable ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis. Wander through ancient streets, marvel at well-preserved mosaics, and discover the rich history of this archaeological site.

Prespa Lake

Drive along the scenic routes surrounding Prespa Lake, stopping at viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the lake and its picturesque surroundings. Take in the tranquility and beauty of the area, capturing memorable photos of the stunning landscapes.

Take a trip to the village of Oteshevo, located on the shores of Prespa Lake. Enjoy the laid-back rural atmosphere, visit the local fishermen’s harbor, and take a boat ride on Prespa Lake to explore its serene beauty. The lake is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

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.

Like it? Save it for later.

What To Do In Ohrid: Macedonia’s Best Kept Secret

Have you ever stumbled upon an unheard of destination that blows your mind? That’s how Ohrid was for me. Less than 2 weeks prior to arriving in Ohrid, I had never heard of this lakeside beauty. We were doing a  work exchange program  in Kosovo where our host was telling us it was his favourite holiday destination. My curiosity was spiked and I had to find out more – not long after we were on our way. If you’re wondering  what to do in Ohrid  this guide will help you plan the best things to do, where to eat and which 4-star lakeside accommodation is under $50/night.

Surrounded by nearby mountains and national parks, Ohrid itself gives off an atmosphere of peace, history and beauty. The Medieval old town is filled with mosques, churches and unique architecture. Known to locals as Jerusalem of the Balkans, Ohrid was once home to 365 churches. One for every day of the year! There are 54,000 permanent residents and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural and natural sites. Come and discover this hidden gem and find out why it made my list of  top destinations  for 2019.

Disclaimer:   Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information on my disclaimer  click here .

• 1.1 SKOPJE TO OHRID
• 1.2 TIRANA TO OHRID
• 2.1 WANDER THE BEAUTIFUL COBBLESTONED STREETS
• 2.2 ENJOY A TOUCH OF LUXURY
• 2.3 CHILL OUT ON POTPESH BEACH
• 2.4 VISIT THE CHURCHES
• 2.5.1 SOME OF THE OHRID ATTRACTIONS YOU WILL STOP AT
• 2.6 WALK ALONG THE LAKE
• 2.7 ENJOY SCENIC DINING OPTIONS
• 2.8 VISIT THE BAY OF BONES MUSEUM
• 2.9 FIND THE BEST VIEWS IN OHRID
• 2.10 GO KAYAKING ON THE LAKE
• 2.11 SEE THE OLD BAZAAR COME TO LIFE IN THE EVENING
• 3.1 VISIT THE ROBEVI FAMILY HOUSE
• 3.2 HANDMADE PAPER MUSEUM
• 3.3 VIEW THE MONUMENTAL TREE
• 3.4 EXPLORE PARK GALICICA
• 4 WHERE TO STAY IN OHRID

WHERE IS OHRID & HOW TO GET TO OHRID

Ohrid is a town located in the south of North Macedonia and on the eastern shores of the lake which goes by the same name – Lake Ohrid. The lake is divided by the border of Albania and North Macedonia making it an easy destination to reach from either country. There are daily buses running from many locations, however, as a traveller, the easiest places to reach Ohrid from are Skopje and Tirana. There is a small international airport nearby and the Greek border is 1 hour to the south.

SKOPJE TO OHRID

Getting to Ohrid from Skopje is extremely easy and is the same way we reached the town. Make sure to buy tickets early in the summer months as the small minivans fill up quickly. Unless you have a car you will need to travel between Skopje and Ohrid by bus as this is the only transport means.

From the central bus station in Skopje, there are three bus companies that run the daily route. Buses leave almost hourly between 6 am and 7:30 pm and take 3.5 hours. Take a look at  this website  for up to date schedule information. A one-way bus ticket ranges from 450 to 520 Denar ($8-9.50 USD). The trip goes quickly and uneventfully through small villages and the Mavrovo Nationa Park.

We bought our tickets at the bus station although you can also compare prices and buy online at  Balkan Viator .

TIRANA TO OHRID

If you’ve searched for how to get from Tirana to Ohrid you’ll see there is a lack of bus departures online. We departed Ohrid for Tirana and found this to be the case in this direction also. There are more local buses which run this route that aren’t online and it’s best to ask at the bus stations. Although the direct distance between the 2 cities are quite close, buses will head visa Durres which is on the Albanian coastline

If you cannot find a direct bus to take you to Ohrid, take a bus to the nearby Struga and then a local bus to Ohrid. The best way to buy tickets from Tirana to Ohrid is from the bus station directly. At the Tirana Central Bus Station, find the office which sells tickets to Macedonia and buy your tickets there. You can also take a look at  Get By Bus  for routes during summer.

Related –   Albania’s best hike – Valbona to Theth

WHAT TO DO IN OHRID, NORTH MACEDONIA

Wander the beautiful cobblestoned streets.

The streets in Ohrid are beautiful. We visited Ohrid during the springtime which made it even more picturesque. You’ll follow narrow cobblestoned laneways past stone walls overflowing with bushes of bougainvillaeas and roses. Interspersed with these are large pine trees where you’ll get to smell that perfect scent.

Due to the topography, the streets have steep stone stairwells carved out next to them offering glimpses at the lake. The buildings beyond have a unique architecture. Some are typical stone homes while others have a very oriental feel about them. You will find buildings dating back to the 7th Century and also Byzantine style structures.

ENJOY A TOUCH OF LUXURY

Well, budget travellers, this is your time to splurge a little and get a lot! Ohrid is a cheap destination. While walking around you’re fooled into thinking you’re in an expensive destination. You can enjoy lakefront dining, incredible accommodation with front-facing views of the lake and other treats typically saved for luxury travellers. Except you get them for a fraction of the price that you’d be paying even for budget travel in a major European city.

We chose not to splurge on accommodation, but what we got for less than we would usually pay gave us a huge balcony with unobstructed views of the lake just 2 streets from the water’s edge. If you do choose to splurge a little here, you can find 4 and 5-star accommodation for under $100/night for double occupancy.

The same goes for restaurants. Normally places we would avoid due to looking (and being expensive) we happily patronised. Restaurant  Kaneo  has a large balcony extended over the lake and is a great place for you to eat if you have been travelling on a budget for a while and want somewhere a little fancy. Everything from the service to the atmosphere and the food was perfect and meals come in at under $10.

CHILL OUT ON POTPESH BEACH

Also called Potpes, I personally found this to be one of the cutest little beaches. Although not a sandy beach, the pebbles are soft enough to not hurt your feet. You will need to pay for a sunlounger to stay here for the day but this is only a couple of dollars. Get here by mid-morning to secure a spot with an umbrella otherwise it can get very hot in the sun. The water is very fresh and perfect for cooling off.

The beach is between the Old Town and the St. John Kaneo monastery. From the town centre, you are required to follow a charming old wooden boardwalk over the lake to reach it. This boardwalk sits out from a cliff and is extremely insta-worthy. Potpesh has a connected beach bar and restaurant with the same name offering some much-needed shade and meals throughout the day.

If you prefer fewer crowds continue north along the lakefront to a few of the lesser-visited beach areas. The first beach around the bend is Beach Labino and if you continue even further you will reach the public city beach.

VISIT THE CHURCHES

Luckily for you, there are no longer 365 churches around Ohrid. A few of the must-visit ones are the13th-century Saint Jovan Kaneo Monastery. This monastery is the perfect place to go for sunset and take a few photos as the sun is going down over the lake.

Another church to visit is St. Clement’s. From behind St. John Kaneo there trails in the forest will take you up to St. Clements. For a small entrance fee, you can go inside the grounds, but I personally believed the exterior to be the most beautiful.

I didn’t visit the St. Naum Monastery, but this popular attraction is at the southernmost point of the lake. Many tourists will head down there by boat on a day trip and visit the Monastery and the nearby natural springs. Find out more about the  St Naum day trip . You can catch a water taxi or jump on the ferry leaving from the Ohrid marina. A return trip costs 10 Euros and takes 2 hours each direction.

Finally, the Orthodox Church of Saint Sophia is the oldest home to art from the middle ages and is surrounded by a square of restaurants. If you join one of the free tours, you will likely be lead past here and taught more about its history.

TAKE A FREE WALKING TOUR IN OHRID

There are no free guided walking tours in Ohrid, however, the next best thing is to do a self-guided audio tour. For some of you, this may even be better, you can do the tour at your own pace, stop and take as many breaks as possible. Recently, I have really been getting into audio tours and did an amazing guided drive through  Durmitor National Park in Montenegro .

GPS My City  offers 4 different tours of Ohrid. All you need to do is download the app and then download the desired tour to your phone. This works offline and you have access to the map and each of the tour stops and information. I would recommend taking the Ohrid introduction walk as it gives you a general overview of the city’s history and main attractions. The estimated time to complete is 3 hours.

SOME OF THE OHRID ATTRACTIONS YOU WILL STOP AT

• Church of Saint Sophia
• Lower and upper gates
• The ancient theatre of Ohrid
• The Robevi House

If you have particular interests, there is a tour which visits just the places of worship and a museum and art gallery walk. The final tour is the Ohrid daily life tour and will take you through the main town centre. Or if you prefer a guided tour, take a look at this  half-day guided tour of Ohrid .

WALK ALONG THE LAKE

I hope by now you have come to realise that the pace in Ohrid is going to be slow. While there are a few tours you can join and destinations around the lake, you don’t come to Ohrid for an action-packed vacation.

After being on the road for over 6 months, Ohrid came at the perfect time for us to take some much-needed downtime. Something I enjoyed doing was being able to wake up and go for a morning walk along the waterfront.

People in Ohrid don’t rise early, so you will have the calm untouched waters and peaceful surrounds all to yourself. Starting at the lower gate – a remaining medieval entrance point, the walk is 1.3 km to Dutch Park.

ENJOY SCENIC DINING OPTIONS

As I already mentioned, Ohrid is a great place to enjoy some finer dining options without the price tags. Another plus is that in the Ohrid Old Town the restaurants and cafes along the main strip all extend over the lake. The food is good and the views are out of this world. Enjoy lazy lunches and long dinners with a few drinks while sitting on the decks overlooking the water.

The service in these restaurants (or anywhere in the Balkans) definitely isn’t the fastest. Just try to remember you aren’t in a hurry and will have more time for relaxing. Are you travelling alone? Perhaps take a book also.

Make sure you try the local fish. You can usually get brown trout, plasica and belvica. These fish species are endemic to Lake Ohrid – which makes them something you won’t try fresh anywhere else in the world!

VISIT THE BAY OF BONES MUSEUM

Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to visit the Bay of Bones museum either. It is located between Ohrid and the St Naum Monastery, which makes it a perfect combined day trip to visit the two.

The museum is a reconstruction of a prehistoric settlement next to an archaeological site. The settlement has been accurately erected over the lake and gives visitors a look into life between 1200 and 700 BC.

As I didn’t visit myself, I can’t give you much more information than that. Take a look at the  Discovering Macedonia website  to find out more information and see pictures of the unique settlement.

FIND THE BEST VIEWS IN OHRID

For unobstructed lake views and a piece of history, climb through the Old Town until you reach the 10th Century Tsar Samuil’s (Samuel’s) Fortress. The entry fee to the fortress is 60 Denar (~1 USD) and while the interior isn’t all that exciting, what you are really paying for is the view. You are able to walk around the entire perimeter of the fortress walls and on a clear day, we were told you can see all the way to the other side of the lake. From the eastern side walls, you can see out over the old town of Ohrid.

GO KAYAKING ON THE LAKE

What better way to change your vantage point of the lake than to be on it. I don’t know what it is but for me, doing anything on the water instantly has a calming effect. Whether I am paddleboarding, kayaking or boating I love getting out on the water. I did search for paddleboard hire in Ohrid and was unable to find one.

Hire kayaks from  My Way  for 20 Euros for the day for a single or 30 Euros for a double. You may be able to negotiate half-day rates as you probably won’t be on the water that long.

My Way also offers full-day kayak tours which are perfect for beginners or those wishing to explore more of Ohrid on the water.

SEE THE OLD BAZAAR COME TO LIFE IN THE EVENING

The Old Bazaar meanders from the waterfront up to the main road leading into Ohrid. The entire street is lined with cafes, clothing stores, souvenir shops and oh so yummy ice cream. The ice cream shops have so many flavours and the scoop size is generous. So grab an ice cream to help keep cool while wandering down the Old Bazaar.

During the evening this street comes to life and even though Ohrid felt fairly quiet when we visited, nighttime here made me believe differently.

On this walking street, you will find shops selling the  famous Ohrid pearls . The pearls are made from the scales of the plasica fish scales and have been made by local families since the early 1900s. Visit the Talev family workshop to gain a real insight into this industry.

Do you want to know the best budget travel tips? Download the FREE ebook!

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN OHRID

Visit the robevi family house.

This home turned museum was built in the 19th Century and is a great example of the unique architecture of the area and houses original artefacts including clothing, artworks and homewares. A self-guided tour takes around 30 minutes to complete and costs 100 MKD (<$2 USD).

HANDMADE PAPER MUSEUM

A popular thing to do in Ohrid is visit the paper museum. This building has been producing paper by hand since the 16th Century. You can wander in and watch live demonstrations. Entry is free.

VIEW THE MONUMENTAL TREE

If you’re into trees (like me) you can’t go past checking out the  Oriental Plane . Located at the lakeside entry to the Old Bazaar this tree is super unique. The base of the tree is actually shrinking in size but at last measurement was 14metres in circumference. It is said to be over 1000 years old but some sources date it back [only] 800 years.

EXPLORE PARK GALICICA

Although you’re getting your nature fix at the lake maybe you’ll be craving more tree action.  Galicica National Park  is to the west of Ohrid and sits on the border of North Macedonia and Albania. There’s plenty of hiking and some of the peaks in the Galicica range reach over 2,000m in height.

WHERE TO STAY IN OHRID

We stayed at  Accommodation J&T . We had a lovely view of the lake and while the room was clean and spacious with a great balcony the entry area was very messy and had furniture stacked against the walls. The building had a locked gate as well as a locked entry so it was very secure. For under $70 for 3 nights though it was hard to complain.

I would recommend you staying anywhere in the Old Town. This ensures you are within walking distance to the main sites and restaurants in Ohrid and also is the most beautiful area.

Spoil Yourself . If you’re after a little R&R without the price tag – Ohrid is the place for it. Stay at the  4-star Tino Hotel and Spa . Set right off the waterfront you’ll feel like you’ve spent a million bucks but really rooms start at just $50/night. It’s within walking distance to everything you need and I love that they offer single rooms for us solo travellers.

My name is Erin, the lady behind Curiously Erin. After more than 10 years of travelling and working abroad, I wanted to create a platform where I could share my stories and travels. My goal is to help you live the life you desire and inspire you to travel more.

Similar Posts

Slovakia Facts & Things To Know Before Your First Visit

Slovakia is a small country located in Central Europe with five and a half million residents. Slovakia is a great destination for the budget traveller…

Izmir To Antalya Road Trip – The Perfect Guide To Driving The Turkish Riviera

Are you planning a trip to Turkey and looking for the best way to see the country? Driving the Izmir to Antalya road trip was…

3 Magical Christmas Markets In Romania To Visit This Year

Last years holiday season couldn’t be any more different to this one. While I’m currently sitting in the humid tropics of Myanmar, last year I…

20 Essential Travel Tips For Planning The Valbona Theth Hike

Ilove hiking. One of the things I was most looking forward to about our European adventure was all the hiking we would be doing during…

Visiting Ephesus: A Complete Guide

Visiting Ephesus is a must for any traveller. Ephesus is one of the largest complete ancient ruin sites in the world. Currently, only 20% has…

The Complete Guide To Skiing In Jasna, Slovakia

Skiing in Jasna, Slovakia may not be the first place to pop into your mind when you think about skiing and snowboarding. Although if you’re…

• Destinations
• Work With Me

Budget Travel , Hidden Gems , Macedonia , Travel Guides

Best things to do in ohrid, europe’s hidden gem.

Are you dreaming of a European lake getaway but you don’t want the crowds of Lake Como or Lake Geneva? Macedonia has your back with it’s pristine Lake Ohrid.

But it’s way more than just a pretty lake – it has a great display of Macedonian culture, and archaeologists claim that Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. That, along with its picturesque villages, lakeside restaurants, and beautiful architecture make Lake Ohrid a relaxing weekend getaway packed with fascinating things to see and do.

Here is my Lake Ohrid travel guide, including practical information to plan your stay + all the best things to do in Ohrid. Whether you’re a history buff type of traveler or a nature lover, there’s a reason for everyone to fall in love with Ohrid!

A brief history of Ohrid

Like I said earlier, Ohrid is one of the oldest known human settlements in the whole of Europe, dating back to the 2nd century (100-200 AD)! During this time, it was an important stopping point on the Via Egnatia, the ancient Roman road that connected Rome to Constantinople.

A devastating earthquake hit Ohrid in the year 526 and was later rebuilt by the Romans. So much of the old, impressive architecture you see in Ohrid (like the Ancient Theatre) is from this time period forward.

Lake Ohrid sitting next to the town is one of the deepest and oldest lakes in Europe with a maximum depth of 945 feet (288 meters) and an age of around 3 million years (!!!). When taking its surface area into account, Lake Ohrid is actually one of the most diverse ancient lakes in the world because of the high amount of endemic species (these are species that are unique to a certain geological area).

Because of its extraordinary history and biodiversity, the entire city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.

How to get to Ohrid

Macedonia’s natural wonder is easily reachable by bus from nearby Balkan destinations. A bus from Skopje (the capital) to Ohrid takes around 3 and a half hours and costs 520-750 Macedonian denars (roughly $10-12 USD) depending on the season. There is also a bus from Tirana to a Macedonian town called Struga, where you can take a really quick, cheap taxi to Ohrid for around 300 Macedonian denars ($5 USD).

If you’re coming from other cities in the Balkans, the best bet is to connect through Skopje. For example, I was traveling from Sofia, Bulgaria to Ohrid, and instead of a direct bus, I had a stopover in Skopje.

The bus station is about a 30-minute pleasant walk outside of the city center, or a $2 taxi ride. Be wary that taxi drivers may try to upcharge you (I don’t blame them – I’d want to get paid more than $2 for a ride!) so agree on a price before getting in the car!

Ohrid has a small international airport called St. Paul the Apostle, which is only 7 km away from the city. It would be convenient to fly in, but very limited cities in Europe fly there. You’re in luck if you’re coming from Amsterdam, Belgrade, Brussels, Tel Aviv, Zurch, and London as they do fly to Ohrid. If you’re arriving from elsewhere, you can always fly into Skopje (a much bigger and more-serviced airport) and take the bus ride to Ohrid.

Many people also visit Lake Ohrid as part of a day tour from Skopje, so transportation is set up in advance. Here’s a list of tour providers if you’re interested in such a tour. But, I hope I can convince you by the end of this article that Ohrid deserves at least a few nights’ stay!

Where to stay in Ohrid

As a pretty under-the-radar destination, it’s really easy to find places to stay in Ohrid that fit lower budgets (perfect for backpackers!). There are also some more upscale places to stay for a high-end trip.

It’s best to base yourself in the Old Town or as close to it as possible.

Best hostels in Ohrid:

I stayed at Sunny Lakes Hostel which is very well-located for exploring the city and the nearby lake. It was pretty clean and comfortable for Balkans hostel standards.

There is also the option of Old Town Hostel . Both are around the $15 mark for a dorm bed. There’s no glitz or glamour to these hostels (not like that one time I slept in a converted 747 airplane hostel) but they do the trick!

Best mid-range hotels in Ohrid

Villa Varosh is a well-rated lakefront guesthouse with beautiful balcony views for only around $40 per night. I would honestly look no further for a mid-range property – this is the best in town.

Villa St. Sofija is another option, though it’s more understated than Villa Varosh. $44 per night.

Best luxury hotels in Ohrid

You’re not going to get peak luxury like you could in Miami or London for example, but Ohrid does have some more upscale places to stay. Bonus: they’re CHEAP!

Aleksander Villa & Spa Ohrid is a beautiful resort located just 500 meters away (1/4 of a mile) from the crystal clear waters of the lake. And it only costs around $100 a night!

Another option is Villa Bisera , a stunning property with updated, lake-view rooms, but without the luxurious price-tag. It’s only around $85 a night! Gotta love the Balkans, you can find such nice properties for such a cheap price.

Things to do in Ohrid

There are a couple specific things to do in Ohrid that should be on everyone’s to-do list. They appeal to all types of travelers too, whether you want to do cultural activities, be lazy by the water, or be active in nature.

1. Church of St. John at Kaneo (aka St. John the Theologian)

This picturesque Byzantine church from the 13th century is a must-see in Ohrid. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the lake, it’s the quintessential postcard image for Macedonia and one of the top photographed places in the country. Entrance is free!

To get there, all you have to do is walk from Old Town toward the lake and turn right along the boardwalk path. After about a 15 minute pleasant walk (and a bit of a hill climb), the church is there. Put “St. John the Theologian” in your Google Maps to find it.

2. Tsar Samuel’s Fortress (aka Samoil’s Fortress)

My personal favorite thing to do in Ohrid was the fortress, boasting massive fortified walls. It’s always fun to explore fortresses, but the real treat here is the view from the top. Almost 360-degree views of the blue-green lake and cute town can be seen from atop the fortress walls.

To get there is about a 20-minute walk through winding streets from Ohrid Old Town. You can take a cheap taxi (expect a fee of less than $5), or put “Samuil Fortress” in your Google Maps and enjoy the walk! The fortress is only 120 Macedonian denars to enter (about $2).

3. See the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid

Less than a 10-minute walk from the fortress is the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid. History buffs will especially love this. It’s a Hellenistic (aka Greek cultural influence) theatre built in 200 B.C. 200 B.C.!!!! How many times in your life can you say you explored a structure from 200 B.C?!

Once the Romans came to Ohrid a few hundred years later, they started using the theatre for gladiator fights. But then they decided to use it as an execution site for Christians, which made it an unpopular location. The theatre was eventually abandoned as a result.

Fun fact: When the Roman Empire fell, the locals of Ohrid buried the theatre I guess because they wanted to reject Roman influence. It remained buried like that all the way until the 1980s when it was accidentally uncovered. Because it was buried for so long, it was able to stay super well-preserved.

4. Marvel at the beauty of the Church of St. Sophia (aka Sveti Sofia)

The Byzantine-style church was built in the 9th century. Today, it’s considered one of the most important monuments in the entire country. Particularly because the inside has frescoes from the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries that represent very significant achievements of the Byzantine times.

To get there, face the lake with the old town behind you and walk about 5 minutes to the right. There are street signs leading the way as well. It’s a must-see in Ohrid if you’re into religious history!

5. Visit St. Clement Church

A lot of churches on this list, I know! But did you know Ohrid has 365 churches in the small town alone, one for every day of the year?

St. Clement Church was constructed in the 13th century has the Byzantine-style architecture that is widespread in Macedonia and the rest of the Balkans. The inside has a nice collection of medieval frescoes.

To get here, it’s a windy 15-minute walk through Ohrid town. Use Google Maps so you don’t get lost. Honestly though, if you’re short on time I’d say you can skip this church. St. John at Kaneo and the Church of St. Sophia are more impressive.

6. Hike at the National Park Galičica

By now, you’ve seen a lot of impressive Macedonian architecture. If you want to get out in nature, don’t worry, there’s a lot of that here too!

National Park Galičica is a mountain area that separates Lake Ohrid from Lake Prespa. So when you hike up, you get panoramic, breathtaking lake views in any direction you look.

There are several hiking routes to choose from. I recommend either getting yourself a tourist map with a detailed depiction of the trails, or arrange your hike with a tour agency. Here are a few that do hikes up to National Park Galčica.

If you happen to rent a car, you can also enjoy the views by driving up the mountainous area to several different viewpoints. In any case, to get here, you’ll need to drive or take a taxi. It’s about an hour drive away from Ohrid town.

7. Hit the beach!

The best beaches in Ohrid are:

• Cuba Libre Beach. Located very close to the city center so it’s a popular, lively beach atmosphere. There’s a fun bar here too, right on the beach.
• Potpesh Beach. This is a little further out from the Old Town (near St. John at Kaneo Church) so it’s more secluded. It’s small, private, and beautiful here.
• Gradiste Beach. This beach has got the reputation of being the party, hippie beach. People sometimes camp out here for the entire summer. There’s DJs, bars, and restaurants – it’s a lot of fun! You have to drive here since it’s not located within walking distance from Ohrid town.

8. Water sports + activities

In the heart of Ohrid town, you’ll find lots of tour agencies advertising all sorts of water activities. You can take a boat tour around the lake, go paragliding over it, kayaking and canoeing, scuba diving and snorkeling – you name it, they’ve got it here.

No need to book anything in advance, just head to the tour agencies and see what they’re offering!

9. Take a day trip to the Monastery of Saint Naum (aka Sveti Naum)

Situated 30 km (18 miles) away from Ohrid, this Eastern Orthodox monastery is a popular spot to take a day trip from Ohrid. It was built in the 10th century during Bulgarian rule in Macedonia.

Here you can enjoy both religious heritage and nature. The monastery is situated right on a cliffside with sweeping views of the lake.

You can get here by boat from Ohrid’s harbor. It takes an hour and a half each way and costs around $12 USD for a return ticket. Or you could get a taxi, which takes around half an hour and should cost somewhere under the $20 mark.

10. Tour the Robevci Family House Museum

Last but not least, this structure is a great example of 19th-century traditional Macedonian architecture. It was originally built for the wealthy Robevci family. It’s lavish, intricately detailed both on the outside and inside, and an interesting look into how the wealthy lived in Macedonia in the 1800s.

To get here, it’s just a 4-minute walk from the main street in Ohrid Old Town. Follow the signs, ask a local how to get there, or input it into your Google Maps.

Where to eat in Ohrid

Your trip to Ohrid wouldn’t be complete without enjoying yummy Macedonian dishes with the beautiful atmosphere of Lake Ohrid around you. Here are my recommendations on where to eat in Ohrid.

• Letna Bavča Kaneo . Considered by many as the best restaurant in the Ohrid region. It overlooks the crystal clear waters of the lake and has a wonderful selection of traditional Macedonian food. Order the Polneti Piperki (stuffed bell peppers).
• Restoran Čun. Located in a traditional house right in the heart of Ohrid town. They have outdoor seating right next to the lake in the summer season. Lots of traditional food here as well, especially good is the fish.
• Terrazza Aquarius. If you’re looking for the best coffee in Ohrid, this is your place! It’s atmospheric as well, with views overlooking the lake.
• Taverna Momir. If you’ve already tried all the Macedonian food you wanted to, head to Taverna Momir for Mediterranean fare. They’re known for being quite creative with their dishes.
• The Gladiator. While you’re at the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, this restaurant next door is the perfect place to stop for food and an interesting view. The same family has owned this restaurant for hundreds of years.

Food is CHEAP in Macedonia! I believe I paid around $6 for each very filling dish at a sit-down restaurant.

Don’t forget to try the local Macedonian beers , too ;). The most popular are Vergina (huh, funny name :P), Zlaten Dab, and Skopsko.

FOR TIPPING : rounding up the bill is common practice. In nicer restaurants, you should tip 10-15%.

The best part about Ohrid is that you get to enjoy all of the above with relatively few people. Lake Ohrid still remains off the general Europe-travelers’ radar. It’s got all the makings of a mega tourist destination, though: beautiful nature, ancient architecture, and cultural sights to marvel at. Don’t make a trip to the Balkans without visiting Ohrid!

I thank you if you’ve read this far, and I sure hope this travel guide to Ohrid helped you plan your visit there!

Share this:

cassiethehag

11 Things to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia

In this post, I’ll take you through the best things to do in Ohrid, based on my amazing trip in North Macedonia.

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

Staying in the old town while exploring the beautiful Lake Ohrid offered so many wonderful things to do nearby! During my time here, I discovered there are many unique places to visit in Ohrid, each historic and beautiful in its own way. It remains one of my favourite cities in Europe.

When it comes to planning an itinerary here, where do I start? Ohrid in North Macedonia was one of my favourite stops while backpacking The Balkans for four weeks. It was calming, easy to get around and totally picturesque. Visiting the Balkans in the off-season meant it was pretty empty too!

Famously home to hundreds of churches despite its small size, Ohrid’s star attraction is Lake Ohrid itself. This serene body of water will be the backdrop for your activities in this area. I stayed in the Old Town which was the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere.

Table of Contents

What is Ohrid known for?

• Lake Ohrid is located largely in North Macedonia, but one-third of the lake crosses the border into Albania.
• Lake Ohrid is 300m deep and 34km wide.
• It’s one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes at 3 million years old
• Lake Ohrid is on the UNESCO Natural World Heritage List, and Ohrid city is on the UNESCO Cultural World Heritage list!
• Ohrid once had 365 churches and was referred to as the ‘Juraseleum of the Balkans.’ That’s one church for every day of the year!

Now you know a little bit about what makes this Balkans gem so special, let’s continue on with the best things to do in Ohrid!

Best Things to do in Ohrid

1. ohrid boardwalk.

Could there be a more peaceful spot for a quick stroll? This was the first place I came to in Ohrid, and it was deserted in the off-season. There are some lovely water-view restaurants at the end of the walk, or continue on to the Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo.

There is also a ‘city beach’ further along the shore which is popular for sunbathing in the summer months.

2. Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo

A wonderfully photogenic scene set against the edge of Lake Ohrid, this 13th-century church is an ideal sunset spot. In fact, the sunset here was probably the most calming and serene experience I had while backpacking the Balkans .

The Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo is generally agreed to be a must-see place to visit in Ohrid! As with many free tourist attractions, it is a very popular spot for photos, and I can imagine it gets crowded in high season. I advise photography enthusiasts to come for sunrise or early morning before the tour groups arrive.

There are many Byzantine-style Orthodox churches across the Balkans, but this one stands out due to its clifftop position. Definitely not a view you’ll forget in a hurry!

3. Walk around Lake Ohrid

I loved this unexpected walk around Lake Ohrid! After viewing the church, you can follow the path which snakes around the lake for as long as you like. I just went 20-minutes or so before heading back though you could go much further, either walking back on yourself or taking a taxi one way.

It was particularly lovely in the late afternoon light, although I made sure not to be walking in the dark. As you can see from the photos below, the constant lake views make this a beautiful walk.

4. Visit Plaosnik

Built in 893, Plaosnik looks alright for its age, eh?

St Clement Church on Plaosnik hill is a familiar architecture if you’ve been in the Balkans for a while, and due to nearby building work during my arrival, it was not as attractive as some other spots. But worth the stop all the same! I walked through the woods from the Church of Sveti Jovan at Kaneo. Its close proximity to Ohrid’s other attractions makes it an easy addition to my Ohrid itinerary.

5. Samuel Fortress

While minding my own business, strolling around Ohrid’s old town, I couldn’t help but notice this 10th-century fortress dominating my view. Once you climb up to the fortress, as you can imagine, the views of Ohrid are gorgeous. Samuel Fortress is one of the best things to do in Ohrid for the panoramic views!

In the 11th century, Ohrid was briefly under the Slavic rule of Car Samuel, and the city was an important city within the Balkans. Today, though far from the fierce fortress it once was, the location is striking. If you walk around the ramparts, you’ll essentially have a panoramic view.

This is the only attraction on this list that must be paid for! The cost is just 60 denar… that’s just 0.80 GBP, 1.08 USD or 1.58 AUD!

6. National Workshop for Handmade Paper

Although this was a tiny shop, considering Ohrid has one of only TWO copies of the Gutenburg Press in the world, it’s firmly on the tourist radar. Since the 16th century, Ohrid’s been printing paper, and this cramped shop is what remains of this legacy.

The staff are friendly and will give you a short demonstration, answering any questions you may have. You can also buy handmade paper here, often in the form of diaries or unique gift cards.

If you’re wondering what to do in Ohrid when it rains, this is probably you’re best bet.

7. Ancient Theatre of Ohrid

According to local tourism, this site was built in 200BC and was once a place of performance, gladiator fights and the execution of Christians by Romans. Locals did not like this and buried the site after the demise of the Roman empire. It was accidentally rediscovered in the 1980s!

The amphitheatre is one of the top things to see in Ohrid for history lovers, but anyone will be transformed back in time by this beautifully maintained site.

8. Sunbathe or enjoy a coffee overlooking the water

I arrived at Ohrid in November, so definitely no sunbathing for me, thanks! Though I can imagine it’s a serene spot to enjoy the sun in high season. You can swim in the lake then too.

Instead, I sat with a coffee and watched the waves lap against the shore. Still lovely even from the other side of a window on a cold day.

9. Take a boat trip across Lake Ohrid

There are various short trips from Ohrid, the most obvious being a boat trip across the lake. Though there were not many boat trips running during my visit in November, this is usually a key activity with various tour options available.

You can combine a boat trip with Sveti Naum Monastery and get a round-trip ferry ticket too.

10. Visit Sveti Naum Monastery

Sveti Naum Monastery is a must-see for anyone travelling by car at only 29km from Ohrid, though personally, I didn’t go in favour of attractions I could reach by foot. However, there is a bus schedule or else taxis can take you there and back. The monastery is a vast Orthodox monastery complex rebuilt in the 16th century. Visitors enjoy its stunningly detailed architecture and serene natural setting, nearby forests and the lake.

For more information, see all OHRID tour recommendations on GetYourGuide here: https://www.getyourguide.com/ohrid

11. Hiking in Galicica National Park

Speaking of nearby trips, I’d have loved to go hiking in Galicica National Park if I’d had more time! Many local hikes have amazing views over Lake Ohrid, and the hikes here are famous for stunning panoramas.

You can arrange hiking trips here with a guide from Ohrid Pass – I spotted their stall was open in the old town in November, and it’s one of the city’s main places for tourist information. The stall came up on google maps, so it was easy to find.

Of course, you can also take a taxi and go independently; just make sure you’ve checked your route with a local first!

Information on hiking and other activities nearby Ohrid from Ohrid Pass: http://www.freepassohrid.mk

12. Soak up Ohrid’s fascinating history

Ohrid has a varied history and archeologists believe it’s one of the oldest settlements in Europe. This means that, throughout the centuries, many different empires have had their hand in shaping the city. Ohrid

Ohrid was first mentioned in Ancient Greek documents and later became the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire. During the Byzantine period, Ohrid was a prominent centre for trade and culture. Its historical affiliations can also be seen in the Roman Empire and have been ruled at some point by the Serbian Empire, the Albanian, the noble Gropa family, the powerful Ottoman empire, and more, alongside its roots within Christianity!

Today, visitors can explore numerous Ohrid tourist attractions and historical sites that have been preserved from these different eras such as the ancient theatre, fortress walls, medieval churches and monasteries that are scattered throughout this charming town.

Walking through the historic Ohrid places to visit in the old town is definitely a memorable part of any trip to Ohrid.

13. Enough a sunset cruise over Lake Ohrid

In terms of tours, this is one of the cheapest things to do in Ohrid, at only US$9 at the time of writing. The cost even includes a glass of champagne.

You’ll soar past the Old Town and the gorgeous St Kaneo Church while enjoying a glass of juice or sparkling wine. The boat is comfy with cushions and plenty of space, alongside the onboard bar.

Take the 1.5 Ohrid Lake Sunset Cruise.

14. Take an ATV tour through Galicica National Park

If you’re not in the mood for hiking but want to explore the stunning nature around the city, then this ATV adventure tour to Galicica National Park is one of the most fun things to do in Ohrid.

The tour winds through tiny local villages before heading up to 1600-metre-high peaks with wonderful views over the wilderness and coastline. Your ATV will take you through the Asandjura highlands where you’ll stop for a picnic lunch, before heading under Tomoros Peak.

This is a great way to have wonderful views of Lake Ohrid that go all the back into Albania, as well as see Lake Prespa, on your 70km loop tour of the national park. Definitely one of the best Lake Ohrid things to do for adventurous travellers.

15. Visit Skopje on a day trip

Skopje is a three-hour bus from Ohrid, so this is one to fit in only if it easily fits in with your route! For example, if it’s cheaper to fly into Ohrid and out of Skopje. Or perhaps you’re backpacking the Balkans and will be arriving at Ohrid via Kosovo, Bulgaria, or Serbia, potentially making Skopje a natural stopover.

Although Skopje is North Macedonia’s capital, many people I spoke to skipped it in favour of Ohrid. And, to be fair, I can understand why… Ohrid is bloomin’ gorgeous!

However, Skopje surprised me. I only went for an afternoon before getting the bus to Ohrid the following day, and it was a pretty exciting place.

Below you can see photos of the city centre with its New But Made To Look Old Architecture. Walking around the city centre, you’ll see SO MANY statues! Too many to count… Apparently, in the naughties, the government’s tourism strategy was to spend millions on (not good infrastructure, transport etc) but statues?!

Whilst it’s sort of fun spotting them as you walk around, you can understand why this expenditure didn’t go down well with the locals. This statue on the right is the most controversial of all. Some say it’s meant to be Alexander the Great, but the government can’t call it that because there’s an argument over whether he’s Greek or Macedonian. So instead, people call it… warrior on a horse.

The Old Bazaar and Kale Fortress are far less controversial.

The main structure of Kale Fortress was built in the 10/11th century, although it was initially built in the 6th century. Due to earthquakes, much of North Macedonia has been rebuilt over the years, with the fortress most recently being renovated after the earthquake in 1963.

If you only have a short stopover in Skopje, I recommend visiting the fortress for sunset. You also get a lovely view from here over the city.

Next to the fortress is the Old Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest marketplaces in the Balkans and dates back to the 12th century. It’s a great place to try some delicious Macedonian food , explore a vibrant local market, and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.

Things to do in Ohrid FAQ

How to get around ohrid.

The easiest way to get around Ohrid is on foot! At no point did I visit anywhere in Ohrid using anything other than my feet! Most significant attractions are closely located to one another and are only a short walk.

If you’re visiting Sveti Naum Monastery, you can take a bus, boat, or tour.

How to get to Ohrid

There are regular flights into the Ohrid airport from specific European cities. Alternatively, fly into Skopje – which has far more connections – and take the bus from there.

Is visiting Ohrid worth it?

Visiting Ohrid is definitely worth it – it’s one of the most charming, beautiful, and utterly underrated cities to visit in Europe! Not to mention the fact that it’s budget-friendly, too.

Nestled in the southwestern corner of North Macedonia, Ohrid is a Balkans hidden gem that really stands out from other European cities, due to its tranquil setting and charming historic streets. With its expansive lake, quaint cobblestone streets, and rich history dating back to ancient times, Ohrid is a fascinating place. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural immersion, this picturesque town is definitely worth the visit.

Decided to travel the Balkans by bus? Perhaps these posts will help:

How to get from Sarajevo to Belgrade by bus

A scenic bus journey between Mostar and Sarajevo (+ how it compares to the train)

Kotor to Dubrovnik by bus – What to expect

Getting from Prizren to Skopje by bus

Getting from Belgrade to Pristina by bus

More on the Balkans:

Backpacking the Balkans in Off-Season – What to expect

How I spent one day in Sarajevo (Bosnia & Herzegovina)

One week Montenegro itinerary

Solo Travel in Kosovo

Complete Balkans Guide

Share this:

Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

What to read next

Packing List for Europe in Winter

Vegan and Vegetarian Romanian food + costs and where to eat in Transylvania.

Balkans Travel Guide. Expectations, Tips, Budget + car rental vs public transport

Thanks so much Ann, hope it comes in handy

Ahh is a very relaxing spot if you need a little calming place to add in! Though probably a lot busier in the summer months:)

It was a great spot ☺️

Ohrid is such a beautiful place. The views alone have me planning a trip there already! Thanks for the perfect guide I can go back to when I start to plan my trip!

This place is amazing! I am planning a trip through Eastern Europe for this summer and I am soaking in all information I can. And somehow I managed to skip Ohrid. Thank you so much for sharing and I can assure you this place goes straight to my itinerary!

It seems like a great place to visit. Thanks for sharing it.

Join the discussion Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Cities and Regions

Geographic position of Ohrid

Ohrid is a city in the southwestern part of Macedonia, on the northeast coast of Ohrid Lake . Ohrid and Lake Ohrid are one of the main tourist destinations in Macedonia. This city is located in the southwestern part of Macedonia, on the north-eastern coast of the Ohrid Lake. In terms of traffic it is linked to roads leading to Skopje, Bitola, Debar and Republic of Albania. The old road Via Egnatia, linking the Adriatic and the White Sea, also passed in its vicinity, which was an important circumstance for the development of Ohrid in the past. Near the city is the Ohrid Airport , through which air traffic takes place with certain destinations outside the Republic of Macedonia. Traffic on the waters of the Ohrid Lake is of little importance. It is used in the function of fishing and for tourist purposes. The only disadvantage is the absence of rail traffic.

History of the name of the city of Ohrid

Due to the large number of churches and monasteries, the city of Ohrid is known as Balkan and European Jerusalem. It is also known as the " City of Light ", a literal translation of its old name, Lychnidos. The Ohrid region is included in the UNESCO World Heritage. According to one legend, written by the Miladinov Brothers, when the Ohrid fortress was made, Emperor Justinian climbed the hills on which the city lies, and, looking at the beautiful surroundings, exclaimed "oh-hill", which means - a beautiful hill. Since then, the city is called Ohrid. Modern Ohrid is the heir of the ancient Lychnidos. According to the data, the city was first mentioned 2,400 years before the new era. Lihnidos was on the Via Egnatia road, the oldest and most significant Roman traffic route in the Balkans.

Historical data for Ohrid

As early as in the second half of the 8th century the Ohrid region became an attractive area for the Bulgarian state. During the Bulgarian tsar Boris I Mihail, the Macedonian territories in a military-administrative respect were included in several "komitats". Ohrid was in the komitat which covered the Ohrid - Devol areas. In 886, Clement, after a short stay in the Bulgarian court, was sent to Macedonia with an important state mission. As a teacher and bishop Clement together with Naum laid the foundations of the so-called Ohrid glagolic literary school. Owing to the activities of Clement and Naum, the city of Ohrid, in the second half of the 9th century, became a Slavic cultural centre, and the emperor Samuil converted it into a religious centre and the capital of the kingdom. His fortresses still stand high above the city today.

Samuil's Fortress in Ohrid

The shape of the Samuil’s Fortress dates back to the time of Samuil, although there are also data about demolitions and repairs of the fortress by the Turks and Byzantines. It features walls with a height of 10 to 16 metres and a thickness of several metres. On all sides, with the exception of the south, which is facing the lake, the hilly part of the city was protected by high walls and towers, three kilometres long, near the port of Ohrid. With its fortifications and walls it covers the entire Ohrid Hill. Today, 18 towers and four gates are preserved on the fortress. Parts of the fortress extend to the lake and to the lower hill of the old part of Ohrid. In the old part of the city, there were three gates, from which only the Upper Gate was preserved. Many stones with Greek inscriptions are built in its walls. Under a partially demolished outer layer in the inner walls, horizontal layers of bricks of Byzantine format are noted.

Today, 18 towers and four gates are preserved on the fortress. Parts of the fortress extend to the lake and to the lower hill of the old part of Ohrid. In the old part of the city, there were three gates, from which only the Upper Gate was preserved. Many stones with Greek inscriptions are built in its walls. Under a partially demolished outer layer in the inner walls, horizontal layers of bricks of Byzantine format are noted.

Beaches on the Ohrid Lake

Along the city beaches in Ohrid and Struga , on the line from Ohrid to St. Naum stretches the Ohrid Riviera: Gorica

• 4 km from Ohrid
• Beach surrounded by high rocks
• Ideal view of the whole Ohrid riviera
• 4 km from Ohrid, in the area of Sveti Stefan
• One of the most frequent beaches, arranged and clean

Metropol and Bellevue

• 8 km from Ohrid, 100 m from the lake
• Two hotels with modern equipped rooms with lake view
• The longest beach - 285 metres
• Various snow parties are organized - foam, rain and balloons
• Autocamp 10 km from Ohrid
• 700 beds in bungalows and camp - trailers

Ohrid trout

One of the endemic species is the Ohrid trout, freshwater fish in Europe and is the closest ancestor of the species that lived in this area since the Tertiary. It differs from the stream trout by the flattened body, the small head and the stary grey spots on the body. The colour of the meat in some of them is white, and in some pink. The maximum length ranges from 25 to 60 cm, and the maximum weight is up to 15.8 kg. The crossbreeds created by crossing the stream and Ohrid trout along the body have alternately red circular and gray stellar spots like the letnica. Ohrid trout is tasty to eat. As one of the trademarks of Macedonia, it is also found on Macedonian coins.

St. Clement's Monastery St. Pantelejmon, Plaoshnik in Ohrid

Near the Early Christian Episcopal Basilica in Plaoshnik area, in 2002, the newly built temple dedicated to St. Pantelejmon was consecrated. St. Clement, was a great builder of churches and monasteries, the most famous of which is the Plaosnik monastery. The latest archaeological research in 2000 confirmed that in this place he renewed a former monastery in the form of trikonos (three-leaf clover). It testifies to the Christian church life in Macedonia from the 1st century of the new era. 500 graves of monks were discovered, as well as other rich findings: golden garments, crosses, icons, relics ...

At the site of the monastery of St. Clement, a new church was built in the 14th century, which the Turks converted into a mosque in the 15th century. Then the remains of St. Clement were transferred to the church of H. Bogorodica Perivlepta in Ohrid, and after 530 years, they were returned. Here was the Ohrid School, a focal point of Slavic literacy, spirituality and culture, considered the first Slavic university in the world.

Monastery St. Naum Ohridski in Ohrid

Built on a high rock above Lake Ohrid itself, at its southernmost point. The monastery church dedicated to the Council of the Holy Archangels, which in 905 was built by St. Naum and in it is also the grave of St. Naum, built in the southeastern part of the narthex, in the same place as the tomb of St. Clement.

The church was built with a foundation in the shape of a trikonos (a leaf of clover). In the period from the 10th to the 13th century it was completely destroyed. As late as in the sixteenth century on its foundations the current church was built, upgraded and expanded in several phases. In the second half of the 18th century the dome was built above the church's porch, and the last significant renewal was carried out towards the end of the 18th century (1799). The inscription above the western entrance from inside mentions that the fresco painting of the church occurred in the time of the abbot Stevan in 1806. Then the chapel with Naum's tomb was also painted. The present church has the form of an inscribed cross with a square area with a dome, placed on four pillars. The tomb of St. Naum is an attached building with a wide and low dome. In the monastery today there are still pillars with engraved Glagolic and Cyrillic letters.

St. Jovan Bogoslov, Kaneo in Ohrid

This medieval church is known for the name of the former fishing village of Kaneo, which in Latin means "shine", one of the most photographed Ohrid symbols. The monastery St. John Kaneo was built and frescoed in the 13th century, and the founder of the church and painters of the frescoes are not known. The frescoes are preserved in the cube and the altar space and are severely damaged, because the church for a long period between the 17 th and the 19th century was partially destroyed and abandoned. Then most of the frescoes were destroyed.

In the recent history of this church, several restoration and upgrades were established, and in 1889 a new wooden iconostasis was placed and some parts of the old paintings were repainted. The original appearance of the church St. Jovan Kaneo, one of the symbols of ancient Ohrid, was restored after the conservation work in 1963 and 1964, when the bell tower narthex was demolished, which were built in the 19th century. Then the frescoes in the cube were discovered. There are only parts of the 13th century frescoes in the dome and apsis. Great and specific are the two angels of the Apostles' purification, who are in royal clothes, which is a rarity in the fresco painting.

Cathedral Church H. Sofija (11th)

This cathedral church, in which the Ohrid Archbishops were enthroned, where the renewal of the Ohrid Archbishopric in 1958 was proclaimed, as a cathedral church is one of the largest complexes of fresco painting of Byzantine art in Europe from the 11th century. The frescoes of the 11th and 14th centuries are of exceptional importance and they find their place in all scientific publications. The grand narthex dates back to 1313/14 and is one of the most beautiful buildings of that kind in the Byzantine and Macedonian building cultures.

The church with a decorative facade, built of bricks and mortar, is dedicated to H. Sofija, which means to God's Wisdom - the Lord Jesus Christ. It was built in the 10th century on the foundations of an early Christian basilica. In the deaconicon are depicted the Six Roman Popes, which expresses the relationship between the Constantinople and the Roman Church before 1054. H. Sofija in the second half of the 15th century was converted into a mosque. The frescoes were painted, the dome was ruined and leveled with the roof, the altar marble barrier removed, and a minaret was erected above the northwest cube. Today, the church has a permanent religious service, and is also used as a concert hall and a museum.

Church H. Bogorodica Perivlepta in Ohrid

The year of building (in the time of Byzantine Emperor Andronicus II Paleologus) is established from the text in the inscription above the entrance. The church is a wonderful whole of a beautiful building and a rich fresco-painting. Among the people it is known under the name St. Clement. It is from the 15th century, when the Turks destroyed the St. Clement's monastery on Plaoshnik to the ground, and the remains of St. Clement were transferred here. It became a cathedral church, that is, it became a temple of the Ohrid Archbishops at the time when the cathedral Archbishop Church of H. Sofija was converted into a mosque. In addition to the first head of the MOC, the following three heads were enthroned in this church (Angelarij, Gavril and Mihail). The fresco painting is the work of the painters Mihail and Evtihij, the most famous names of their time, who also worked in the monasteries St. Nikita in Banjani, Skopje region and St. Gjorgji in Staro Nagorichani, Kumanovo region.

Cave Monastery St. Erasmus in Ohrid

In the Middle Ages, the cult of St. Erasmus, an Antiochian bishop preacher, was spread in the East and the West, and especially in Italy, France, and even to Spain. In Macedonia, his cult was developed in the Ohrid region, because he retained a long period of his life in Ohrid and realized significant missionary activity in the Macedonian regions. Ohrid devoted a beautiful monastery, built in a cave along the road Ohrid-Struga, near the very shore of the lake to his early Christian preacher. The frescoes, including the character of St. Erasmus, originated from the 12th century. An early-Christian basilica from the 3rd-4th century, dedicated to St. Erasmus was discovered in the vicinity.

St. Konstantin and Elena in Ohrid

The Church St. Konstantin and Elena in Ohrid is located in the immediate vicinity of the Church of H. Bogorodica Perivlepta. It was built by Hieromonk Parthenius. It is a one-aisled building and has frescoes from the time of its construction, but also from the next periods, more precisely from the 14th , 17th and 18th century.

Bay of Bones in Ohrid

This is actually a reconstructed prehistoric pile settlement from the 12th-7th century BC, placed above a platform held by wooden piles. It is the newly opened water museum, where the remains of an ancient habitat, a diving base and reconstructed fortresses from the Roman Empire from the 2nd century are located in the water.

At this site, at a depth of three to five metres, remains of 6,000 wooden piles were found, which probably relied on a common platform with 20 wooden houses. According to the surveys, the area of the settlement extended to 8,500 m2. Given that they were built of trees, reeds and mud, the habitats were susceptible to fires and were frequently renewed, due to the large density of the piles (remains of burnt wood and coal were found). The platform with the mainland was connected with a movable bridge, which during the night was raised for the protection of animals and enemies. Currently a part of the settlement, with seven houses built on a platform that has been installed over 1,200 piles prepared to be more resilient and more durable has been reconstructed. The interior of the houses has also been reconstructed, which offers an interesting experience for the way of life at that time.

More information about Ohrid can be found on this website .

Event Calendar

Video gallery, accomodation, promote your service, promote your service.

Service type: Select your service type Adventure Tourism Rural Accommodation Accomodation Rent a car Taxi service Restaurants Wineries Travel agencies Tours Events Tourist Guides

Activity: Select activity type Hotel * Hotel ** Hotel *** Hotel **** Hotel ***** Hostel Resort Camping Villa House Cottage Apartment Room Restaurant Trade Culture Education Animals Art Backpacking Bungy Canyoning Climbing Cycling Diving Free fall Hiking Homestay Horseback riding Hot air ballooning Kayaking Overlanding Paragliding Rafting Safari Sailing Skiing Skydiving Snowboarding Surfing Trekking Ziplining Season tour: Please select tour type Season tour - Spring Season tour - Summer Season tour - Autumn Season tour - Winter Adventure tour City tours Cultural tours Generation tours - Youth Generation tours - Senior Name of service: Email:

Telephone: Website:

Address: City: Languages:

Description of event: Date of event: Website (link):

Add up to 3 images.

Please enable JavaScript to use file uploader.

Image file: Image file: Image file:

Description of your service: