Day trip to Skopje and the Matka Canyon from Ohrid

Matka Canyon

Our journey begins at Matka Canyon, a breathtaking slice of Macedonia’s natural beauty. This site features the country’s oldest man-made lake, nestled among rugged cliffs and forested slopes. The area boasts over ten caves, including one that may be the deepest on Earth. We’ll take a scenic boat ride through the canyon, soaking in the dramatic views. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch right by the water.

Vrelo Cave

Hidden within Matka Canyon lies Vrelo Cave—Europe’s deepest known cave, and possibly the deepest in the world. Much of it remains submerged, making its full depth a mystery. We’ll venture inside to admire its surreal formations and colorful lighting that transforms the cave into a glowing underground wonder.

Skopje

Next, we head to Skopje, Macedonia’s vibrant capital and largest city. With roots dating back to 4000 BC, the city is a patchwork of ancient ruins, Ottoman relics, and modern reinventions. After a devastating earthquake in 1963, Skopje underwent a dramatic facelift in 2014, resulting in a cityscape that’s as eccentric as it is grand.

We’ll stroll through the heart of the city, visiting iconic landmarks both old and new—from Ottoman-era buildings to flamboyant Baroque-style constructions. Expect to encounter an astonishing number of statues along the way. To wrap up the day, we’ll indulge in a hearty meal featuring classic Macedonian flavors.

Skopje might just be the quirkiest capital you’ll ever visit. From the surreal architecture to the canyon views, you’ll experience everything from the Mother Teresa memorial and the historic Turkish bazaar to grand government buildings and monumental sculptures.