Skopje Diaries

I wanted to choose Skopje as my first post as it has been my latest travel. Especially for Turkish travelers, Skopje is an optimal destination for a quick weekend getaway or a long travel experience. I had the pleasure to visit Skopje in February 2020 before we all got under lock down as the whole world. But more of that later, I’ll write about more jolly stuff here. 😊

Skopje is the capital of Macedonia and has the essence of a classical Balkan city. Old bazaars, grand churches, wonderful foods and very friendly people...

Let’s talk about; Where to visit? What to look out for? What to do in general?

Lots of grand sculptures

Skopje has lots of great sculptures to view while roaming around the city. In the winter times because of the icing the water features are closed of, however in spring and summer times the water shows create a beautiful festivity.

Take a stroll over the Stone Bridge

The Stone Bridge connects the city center with the older parts of the city. Take a stroll over the Stone Bridge and travel in time.

Taste Turkish cuisine in Turkish Bazaar

Take a tour in the old Turkish Bazaar, visit Turkish baths which were turned into art galleries, experience the bustle of the daily lives of people, take a lunch break and taste traditional Turkish food. It is always a better idea to eat a meal you've never experienced before when travelling a new country. My suggestion would be have "köfte" in the famous restaurant Destan.

Visit the Old Skopje Castle

Even tough now it has lost a big volume of its structure, the old castle is a good place to visit to take a view of the city from a high point. Walk through the old bazaar and visit the castle. Let the view of the city sink in and see the contrast between the modern and ancient times.

Light a candle in enchanting churches

There are many small and very old churches throughout the city. It is always a good idea to enter and breathe in the most fascinating atmosphere. If you'd like don't forget to donate to light a candle.

Visit the house of Mother Theresa

If you look at many travel blogs you'll see that it is a must to visit the house of Mother Theresa. It'll be a great idea for those who'd like to learn about her life and get fascinated once more.

Have a great beer and listen to live music

It wouldn't be a travel blog if the writer doesn't write about the night life. In the winter sadly there were not many options however the bar in the city center was an optimal choice for us. My suggestion would definitely be that bar to taste many different draft beer options (my choice was a lemon flavored one) and listen to really good live music; Craft Brewery Temov.

Travel to Matka Canyon

One of the best places to visit before you leave Skopje.

The valley is approximately half an hour away from the city center. As there as shuttles that go there, you can always take a cab or rent a car.

The valley welcomes you with a majestic dam. Behind the dam, there is a trail reaches where it is also breathtaking and calming to have an hour long stroll while soaking in the beautiful scenery. After on the way back, take a quick break and drink a cup of hot wine (If you’re also visiting in winter months like me) or a cold beer. You’ll notice that small boats also run along the river every half an hour for those you’d rather tour the valley by boat rather than walking.

Millennium Cross

Even tough we weren’t able to visit the Millennium Cross because the hill was closed due to overcrowding. Definitely try to visit during your travel.

In summary, Skopje is a definite yes for a travel option. Choose your season wisely to experience the city the way you like it. Skopje would also be a great destination in a long Balkan journey.

See you in another journey...

Travel Recommendations:

Hotel: Alexandar Square Boutique Hotel

Restaurants:

For lunch: Destan

For dinner: Craft Brewery Temov