Skopje Skopje is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Macedonia. It is the nation’s cultural, political, economic, and academic center. Skopje is relatively unknown, but is slowly becoming a major tourist destination in the Balkans. It has a distinct traditional charm while also being a modern and urban metropolitan.
Geography
Skopje is located in the southeast of Europe. The city can be found on the upper course of the Vardar River, between Belgrade and Athens. Its surroundings are filled with hills and mountains of the Vardar Valley.
How to Reach (Modes of Transportation)
By Plane – The Skopje Alexander the Great Airport is the main point of entry for many of Skopje’s visitors. It provides both domestic and international routes, and is a major transport hub in southeast Europe. The airport is found in the Petrovec municipality, 22km from the city center.
By Train – Skopje has a Central Railway Station located 2km east of the city, with 10 platforms and daily trips to nearby cities and international destinations such as Belgrade in Serbia.
By Bus – The city has a vast and efficient bus network with most bus lines operating within the city. Public buses are colored red, while private buses are in other colors. There are also over 200 double decker buses in the city, with the capacity to carry up to 80 passengers each. International destinations are also offered to Istanbul, Austria, Zagreb, and a few other European cities.
By Taxi -There are plenty of taxis available in the city center of Skopje. When getting the services of a cab at night, passengers should never ride a cab with the meter off as fixed pricing is not allowed.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Skopje is in the spring and summer seasons. The months of July and August have the most sunlight, making these months the perfect season to go sightseeing. The worst months to go the Skopje are from November to March, when the weather is at is worst and coldest.
Culture (Fairs and Festivals) and Traditions
Skopje Jazz Festival – An annual event held in the city since 1982, it has become one of the most prestigious jazz events in the Balkans and even throughout Europe. Prominent names from the world of jazz have performed in this festival held every October, making it an event that musicians in and around the city look forward to every year. It lasts for 4 days and performances are held in closed venues such as the Macedonia Opera and Ballet Theater and the City Hall Center.
Skopje Cultural Summer Festival – What began in 1972 as a presentation of the city’s artists and musicians has now become a yearly celebration of all kinds of performers. Concerts happen in a number of locations and open places in the city, as well as film screenings, theater performances, art exhibitions, and a whole range of multimedia performances.
Basker Fest – Another annual Skopje festival, this international gathering of street performers perform shows and presentations at the Macedonia Square in the heart of the city. Expect to see magicians, acrobats, jugglers, clowns, puppeteers, and musicians perform in the streets.
Points of Interest (Places to Visit)
Alexander the Great in Macedonia Square – The square is the biggest in Skopje and is the place to find the dominating sculpture of Alexander the Great or Warrior on a Horse. It stands at 22 meters high on a fountain pedestal – making this bronze structure a must-see attraction in Skopje.
Kale Fortress – Built in the 6th century AD, the fortress offers the best place for the best overlooking views of the city.
Stone Bridge – Found across the Vardar River, this iconic symbol of Skopje connects the Macedonia Square to the Old Bazaar of the city. It is a fantastic structure made of solid stone blocks that are supported by firm columns connected by 12 semicircular arcs.
Old Bazaar – This area of the city was the center of trade and merchants in the 12th century. An iconic heritage site, it is the best example of Macedonia’s inheritance from the Ottoman empire. You can find an old clock tower, a covered market, and the Contemporary Art Gallery within the Old Bazaar. Authentic shops for jewelry and crafts fill the historic buildings, as well as charming coffee and tea shops that give this area its vintage charm.
Accommodation
Youth hostels can be found between Skopje’s bus and train stations. The area of the Madzar Maalo quarter is also another place to find budget places to stay. For pricier options, luxury hotels are found in the city center, while midrange hotels are abundant in the Debar Maalo neighborhood.