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: Inland Albania Day Tour (approx. 9h)

Step beyond the usual lakefront routes and discover a different side of Albania with this inland day trip from Ohrid. While most tours stick to the shoreline or head straight to Tirana, this journey dives deeper into the country’s contrasts—cultural, historical, and visual.

First Stop: Pogradec

Once we cross the border, our first destination is Pogradec—the only Albanian city on Lake Ohrid. We’ll pause for a coffee break and take a relaxed stroll through the town and its lively market. Even here, you’ll begin to notice the distinct cultural and architectural differences compared to Macedonia.

Exploring Korçë

Next, we head to Korçë, one of Albania’s most historically rich cities. We’ll walk through its streets and neighborhoods, where the contrast between old and new, wealth and hardship, is striking. It’s a city of layers—each corner tells a different story. After exploring, we’ll sit down for a well-deserved meal and recharge before continuing.

Village Life by Lake Prespa

Our final stop takes us to a quiet village near Lake Prespa, where time seems to have paused. We’ll meet a local grandmother, hear her story, and visit a traditional home that’s been lovingly preserved as a private museum. This is a rare chance to witness how life once was—and in some cases, still is—in rural Albania. The simplicity and resilience of village life will leave a lasting impression.

Scenic Return via Galicica

On our way back to Ohrid, we’ll drive through the stunning Galicica National Park. The route offers panoramic views of both Lake Prespa and Lake Ohrid. We’ll make a few stops along the way so you can capture the beauty of the landscape with unforgettable photos.

This day trip offers a deeper look into Albania’s soul—its contrasts, its stories, and its natural beauty. A journey that’s as thought-provoking as it is scenic.

Day 2 – Optional Excursion: Four Village Cultural Tour (approx. 8–9h)

Curious about how people live across Macedonia’s diverse communities? This immersive day trip takes you through four distinct villages—and three more along the way—offering a rare glimpse into everyday life, traditions, and the cultural mosaic that defines the country. You’ll hear honest stories about the joys and challenges locals face, and see how different ethnic groups coexist across the region.

Starting in Struga

We begin in Struga—not a village, but a vibrant town where many of Macedonia’s cultures intersect. It’s the perfect introduction to the day ahead. You’ll learn about Struga’s layered history and witness how it’s evolved over time. We’ll kick things off with a coffee by the peaceful Drin River before heading into the hills.

A Forgotten Mountain Village

Our first village lies high in the mountains, nearly deserted but rich in character. Here, we’ll visit a remarkable old church—one of the most authentic in the region—and explore a beautifully preserved home. You’ll meet a few remaining locals and hear their stories, offering a poignant look at rural life and resilience.

Vevčani and Its Springs

Next, we travel through scenic mountain roads to reach Vevčani, a village known for its natural springs and strong local identity. On the way, we’ll pause in another village for photos and fresh air. In Vevčani, we’ll explore the springs, stroll through the village, and sit down for a traditional Macedonian meal that’s sure to impress—many say it’s the highlight of the tour.

A Final Surprise

Our last village is unlike any of the others—expect something unexpected and memorable. It’s a fitting end to a day full of contrasts, insights, and cultural discovery.

By sunset, you’ll have a vivid understanding of village life in Macedonia—how people live, what they value, and how history and modernity shape their daily experiences. This tour is a deep dive into the soul of the country, wrapped in hospitality, storytelling, and stunning landscapes.

Day 2 – Optional Excursion: Bitola Day Trip (approx. 9h)

Bitola stands apart from every other city in Macedonia. With its distinctive architecture and vibrant cultural rhythm, it offers a glimpse into a world shaped by centuries of history. On this day trip, we’ll uncover its most fascinating landmarks and hidden stories.

Our journey begins with a scenic drive through Galicica National Park, skirting the shores of Lake Prespa before arriving in Bitola. Along the way, nature sets the tone—calm lakes, forested hills, and panoramic views.

Heraclea Lyncestis

Just outside Bitola lies Heraclea, an ancient city founded around 400 BC by Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. For nearly a millennium, it served as a strategic hub in the region. Though only a fraction has been excavated, the site reveals stunning mosaics and remnants of temples, baths, and public buildings that whisper stories from the past.

Bitola: City of Consuls

Bitola is Macedonia’s second-largest city and once served as the European capital of the Ottoman Empire. Its streets are lined with elegant buildings in Renaissance and Baroque styles, giving the city a unique charm. It’s also where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, studied at military school. As we walk through the city center, you’ll feel the blend of cultures and eras that make Bitola so captivating.

Folklore Museum by Lake Prespa

Our final stop is a one-of-a-kind museum near Lake Prespa. What began as one man’s personal passion for traditional costumes has grown into the largest collection in the Balkans. With no government funding, he’s spent nearly two decades preserving and expanding this treasure trove of cultural heritage. It’s not your typical museum—but it’s guaranteed to surprise and inspire.

This day trip offers a rich mix of history, architecture, and heartfelt storytelling. From ancient ruins to living traditions, Bitola invites you to see Macedonia through a different lens.

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.