Skopje Experience: Between Ancient Charms and Modern Life

NOTE: Please be mindful about the length of the excursions should you wish to select more than one option.

Day 1 – Arrival & Skopje City Experience: Old Town and Modern Sights

Upon arrival at Skopje Airport, the transfer to your hotel awaits. In the evening, indulge in a six-course wine and food pairing experience in the heart of Skopje.

Taste six local Macedonian wines, including Zhilavka, Smedervka, Stanushina rose, Prokupec, Vranec Reserva, and aromatic Temjanika, each paired with avant-garde interpretations of traditional dishes. Sample specialties such as filo-pastry with Macedonian cheese and figs, wild mushroom risotto, pork filet with leeks, and finish with a signature apple dessert, all perfectly matched with the region’s finest varietals.

This culinary experience offers a perfect introduction to Macedonia’s flavors and wine culture, setting the tone for your upcoming adventures. Return to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 2 – Optional Excursion: Kokino Ancient Observatory & Osogovo Monastery (aprox. 6h)

After breakfast, join an optional full-day excursion to explore Macedonia’s ancient history and beautiful countryside.

Travel in a private vehicle from Skopje to Kokino, the ruins of an ancient astronomical observatory, and discover the mysteries of this remarkable Bronze Age site with your guide. Continue to Osogovo Monastery, a historic spiritual center, where your guide will share insights into the monastery’s history and cultural significance.

Pause for a traditional local lunch, then return to Skopje in the afternoon.

Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your hotel ensure a comfortable and relaxing journey.

Day 2 – Optional Excursion: Matka Canyon & Tetovo Cultural Heritage Tour (approx. 7–8h)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey combining natural beauty and cultural discovery.

Begin at Matka Canyon, one of Macedonia’s most breathtaking landscapes. Stroll along the emerald lake, rent a kayak, or join a boat ride to explore the mysterious Vrelo Cave, among the deepest in Europe. For those preferring a slower pace, relax by the water and enjoy local cuisine at a lakeside restaurant.

Continue to Tetovo, a lively city set beneath the Šar Mountains. Visit the remarkable Painted Mosque, famed for its vivid floral and geometric designs, and the serene Arabati Baba Tekke, a Sufi monastery offering insight into centuries-old traditions.

This excursion offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and history—an ideal day out from Skopje.

Inclusions:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• English-speaking guide
• All fees and taxes

Day 2 – Optional Excursion: Full-Day Wine & Heritage Tour to Stobi and Demir Kapija (approx. 8–9h)

After breakfast, set out for a relaxing and flavorful day exploring Macedonia’s ancient heritage and celebrated wine region.

Begin with a visit to the archaeological site of Stobi, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Balkans. Wander among Roman ruins, intricate mosaics, and early Christian basilicas as your guide shares stories of this once-thriving crossroads of civilizations.

Continue your journey to Demir Kapija, the heart of Macedonia’s wine country. At a renowned local winery, an expert oenologist will lead you through the vineyards and cellars, explaining the process of winemaking. Enjoy a private wine tasting featuring several authentic Macedonian varieties, paired with fresh, organic local dishes.

Take in the peaceful surroundings, bask in the sunshine, and savor the rich aromas of the region before returning comfortably to your hotel in Skopje.

Inclusions:

• Air-conditioned private vehicle
• English-speaking driver/guide
• Wine tasting with local bites
• All fees and taxes

Day 3 – Departure Day

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Skopje Alexander the Great Airport for your return flight.

End of services — taking with you wonderful memories, Macedonian flavors, and unforgettable experiences from Skopje and beyond.