From Skopje: Ohrid Full-Day Trip with Guided Walking Tour

Embark on a breathtaking full-day journey from Skopje to Ohrid, one of the most picturesque and historically rich destinations in North Macedonia. Known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans,” Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes, deep cultural heritage, and architectural wonders.

Your day begins with a comfortable morning departure from Skopje, traveling through the scenic countryside of North Macedonia. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes as you leave the capital behind and head towards the tranquil beauty of Ohrid.

Upon arrival, meet your professional local guide and set off on a fascinating walking tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets as you uncover centuries of history, from the ancient Illyrian and Roman times to the Byzantine and Ottoman influences that shaped Ohrid into the cultural gem it is today.

Highlights of Your Tour:

✔ Lake Ohrid – Admire the serene beauty of one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking panoramic views. Learn about its unique ecosystem and why it holds a special place in UNESCO’s list of Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites.

✔ Ancient Theatre of Ohrid – Step back in time at this well-preserved Hellenistic-era amphitheater, which still hosts performances today. Discover its fascinating history and strategic location offering stunning views over the city.

✔ Samoil’s Fortress – Climb up to this medieval fortress for a spectacular bird’s-eye view of Ohrid and the surrounding lake. Learn about Tsar Samoil and the region’s rich military past while standing atop the centuries-old walls.

✔ St. Jovan Kaneo – One of the most photographed spots in Ohrid, this 13th-century church sits on a cliff overlooking the lake, offering breathtaking vistas. Your guide will share insights into its impressive frescoes and significance in Orthodox Christianity.

✔ Plaošnik – Discover the site of an ancient Christian basilica and the reconstructed Church of St. Clement and Panteleimon, where the Cyrillic alphabet was once taught by St. Clement of Ohrid.

✔ Old Bazaar & Ohrid’s Traditional Architecture – Wander through the city’s lively old bazaar, where you can shop for authentic Ohrid pearls, local crafts, and souvenirs. Admire the preserved Ottoman-era houses that add to the city’s charm.

After your guided tour, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace. You may choose to relax by the lake, sample traditional Macedonian cuisine at a local restaurant, or take a short boat ride for a different perspective of Ohrid’s beauty.

In the late afternoon, regroup with your driver and begin your comfortable return journey to Skopje, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and scenic wonders of Ohrid.

Why Choose This Tour?

✅ Hassle-free transport with pickup and drop-off from Skopje
✅ Professional guide providing in-depth historical and cultural insights
✅ Visit multiple must-see attractions in a single day
✅ A perfect balance of guided exploration and free time
✅ Ideal for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to Ohrid

Join us on this unforgettable full-day adventure and experience the magic of Ohrid firsthand!

Ages 0-87, max of 50 per group

Duration: 8–10 hours

Start time: Check availability

Mobile ticket

Live guide: English

Air-conditioned vehicle
WiFi on board
Bottled water
Entry/Admission – St. Jovan Kaneo
Entry/Admission – Saint Sophia

What’s not included

Entry/Admission – Lake Ohrid
Entry/Admission – Ohrid

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Lake Ohrid, Ohrid Republic of North Macedonia

Macedonia’s side of Lake Ohrid was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979, with the site being extended to also include the cultural and historic area of Ohrid in 1980. In 2010, NASA named one of Titan’s lakes after it. In 2014, the Ohrid-Prespa Transboundary Reserve between Albania and North Macedonia was added to UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Albania’s side of Lake Ohrid was also designated UNESCO world heritage status in 2019

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, Old Town, Ohrid 6000 Republic of North Macedonia

Visiting the ancient theatre of Ohrid.

Duration: 10 minutes

Stop At: Samoil’s Fortress, Kështjella e Samoilit, Ohër 6000, North Macedonia

Ohrid Fortress know as ,,Samuilova tvrdina”, was build from Philip the 2 of Macedon. During the late 900s, Macedonian King Samuil restored the fortress by rebuilding it into a medieval style stronghold which still stands as is today.

Duration: 25 minutes

Stop At: St. Jovan Kaneo, Kaneo Plaosnik Pateka, Ohrid 6000 Republic of North Macedonia

Saint John at Kaneo is a Macedonian Orthodox church situated on the cliff over Kaneo Beach overlooking Lake Ohrid in the city of Ohrid, North Macedonia. The church is dedicated to John of Patmos, the writer of Revelation, who has been by some considered to be the same person as John the Apostle. The construction date of the church remains unknown but documents detailing the church property suggest that it was built before the year 1447. Archaeologists believe that the church was constructed some time before the rise of the Ottoman Empire very likely in the 13th century. Restoration work in 1964 led to the discovery of frescoes in its dome.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Saint Sophia, Naehe See, Ohrid 6000 Republic of North Macedonia

The current church was built on the foundations of a metropolitan cathedral demolished in the first decade of the 6th century by the Barbarian invasions.

Duration: 30 minutes

Start: Traveler pickup offered.