Ohrid Essence: The Pearl of the Balkans

Day 1 – Arrival and Ohrid City Introduction

Upon arrival at Ohrid Airport, you’ll be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Later, embark on a guided walking tour of Ohrid — a UNESCO World Heritage gem often called the “Jerusalem of the Balkans.” Explore its cobblestone streets and timeless charm as you discover:

• The Ancient Theatre, a remnant of classical antiquity.
• The Church of St. Sophia, one of Macedonia’s most important medieval monuments.
• The Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched above the lake with one of the most iconic views in the Balkans.
• The Old Bazaar and Ohrid Fortress, offering breathtaking vistas over the lake and town.

After the tour, enjoy free time to relax or join a sunset cruise on Lake Ohrid — a serene experience that lets you take in the glowing skyline and the peaceful beauty of the surrounding mountains as the sun dips below the horizon.

Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Ohrid.

Day 2 – Optional Excursion: Bigorski Monastery & Duf Waterfalls (approx. 7–8h)

After breakfast, embark on a full-day journey through the spiritual heart and natural beauty of western North Macedonia.

Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide as you venture deep into the Mavrovo National Park, the largest in the Balkans.

Highlights include:

• Bigorski Monastery (St. John the Baptist): Nestled in the lush, forested hills, this 11th-century monastery is one of Macedonia’s most revered spiritual sites. It’s home to the world-renowned hand-carved wooden iconostasis — a masterpiece of artistry and devotion.
• Duff (Duf) Waterfalls: Continue through the dramatic canyon of the Rostushka River to reach this hidden natural wonder, surrounded by steep cliffs and vibrant greenery. Enjoy a short scenic walk while your guide shares fascinating stories about local legends, flora, and fauna.
• Local lunch in a traditional restaurant, offering authentic Macedonian flavors.

A perfect blend of spirituality, nature, and culture, this excursion reveals a quieter, soul-stirring side of Macedonia.

Return to Ohrid in the late afternoon for an overnight stay.

Day 2 – Optional Excursion: Full-Day Private Bitola Tour from Ohrid (approx. 8–9h)

After breakfast, set off on a private full-day excursion to Bitola, North Macedonia’s elegant “City of Consuls,” where history, culture, and cosmopolitan charm blend beautifully.

Travel comfortably with your private guide and explore some of the most significant landmarks in southern Macedonia.

Highlights include:

Heraclea Lyncestis: Founded by Philip II of Macedon in the 4th century BC, this ancient city boasts remarkably preserved Roman mosaics, baths, and an amphitheater — a true archaeological gem.

• Shirok Sokak Street: Stroll down this lively promenade lined with neoclassical buildings, cafés, and boutiques, where the city’s timeless atmosphere comes alive.
• Old Bazaar & Green Market: Experience Bitola’s bustling heart as you browse local produce, handicrafts, and traditional delicacies.
• Clock Tower & Yeni Mosque: Two of Bitola’s iconic landmarks reflecting its Ottoman heritage.
• Kemal Atatürk Memorial House: Visit the former military school attended by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. The small museum dedicated to his early years is a point of pride and historical connection between Turkey and Macedonia.

Enjoy a traditional Macedonian lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to Ohrid.

Return in the late afternoon, filled with stories from ancient times and the echoes of Bitola’s rich Ottoman past.

Day 2 – Optional Excursion: City Trip to Struga and Independent Vevchani from Ohrid (approx. 6–7h)

After breakfast, embark on a fascinating day tour exploring the local charm and cultural richness of the Ohrid region.

Begin your journey in Struga, a serene town where the Drim River flows directly from Lake Ohrid.

Stroll through the vibrant local market, where friendly vendors offer fresh produce grown in the fertile surrounding gardens — a true taste of Macedonian daily life. Continue to the source of the Drim River and the city center, before visiting the Nezlobinski Museum, home to an impressive collection of regional flora and fauna, offering insight into the biodiversity that defines this UNESCO-protected area.

Before leaving Struga, stop by the Brother’s Miladinovci Memorial House, dedicated to the poets and educators who shaped the region’s cultural identity.

The tour continues toward the self-proclaimed “Republic” of Vevchani, a village famous for its strong spirit of independence and its natural beauty. Visit the Vevchani Springs, where crystal-clear mountain water gushes from the rocks — pure, fresh, and drinkable straight from nature.

Enjoy free time to wander through the village’s stone streets or indulge in a traditional Macedonian lunch at the renowned Kutmichevica restaurant, where authentic flavors meet sweeping views of the valley below.

Return to Ohrid in the late afternoon, enriched with memories of village life, natural beauty, and the humorously proud independence of Vevchani.

Day 3 – Departure

After breakfast at your hotel in Ohrid, a private transfer will escort you to Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport for your departure.

Take with you unforgettable memories of Macedonia’s lakes, mountains, historic towns, and cultural treasures from your city break and optional excursions.