Ohrid, North Macedonia: Comprehensive travel guide (2025)
Ohrid, North Macedonia, blends history, nature, and lakeside charm. Explore medieval churches, cruise Lake Ohrid, hike Galičica National Park, and relax at Trpejca Beach. This comprehensive guide covers top landmarks, local cuisine, and essential travel tips.
Ohrid is a lakeside city famed for its ancient heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), it’s one of Europe’s oldest human settlements. It's also one of our favorite international travel destinations.
Once known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans” for its multitude of churches Ohrid offers visitors a rich mix of history, outdoor adventure, and local traditions. Below is a well-organized guide covering everything from landmarks and nature activities to food, festivals, and travel tips, with practical details to help you plan your visit.
Historical Landmarks and Cultural Attractions
The Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched above Lake Ohrid, is one of the region's many can't-miss landmarks. Explore our favorites below.
Tsar Samuel’s Fortress (Samuil’s Fortress)
This medieval fortress crowns Ohrid’s hill, with massive stone walls and towers dating back to the 10th century. Once the stronghold of Tsar Samuel’s empire, it dominates the skyline and offers spectacular panoramic views of the lake and town.
The fortress is open to visitors (approximately 9:00–18:00 in summer, shorter hours off-season) and charges a small entry fee (~60–120 MKD, about €1–2). Plan about an hour to explore the ramparts, and visit in the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and clear vistas. (Note: it’s usually closed on Mondays outside peak season.
Church of St. John at Kaneo
Perhaps Ohrid’s most photographed site, this 13th-century Orthodox church sits dramatically on a cliff above the lake. The Byzantine stone church is small but features well-preserved medieval architecture.
It’s free to view from the outside; a modest donation or fee (~100 MKD) may be requested to peek inside. The sunset views from Kaneo are legendary – many visitors hike or boat here in the evening to capture the lake and church in the golden light. Expect crowds at sunset, so arrive a bit early to find a good spot.
Church of Saint Sophia
An 11th-century cathedral in the old town, St. Sophia is one of North Macedonia’s most important medieval churches. Inside are beautifully preserved frescoes and icons from the Byzantine period.
The church often hosts concerts (it’s a venue for the summer festival). Opening hours are roughly 09:00–17:00 daily. Entry costs around 100–150 MKD (≈€2). No photography is allowed inside, and modest dress is expected (cover shoulders/knees) as with most religious sites.
Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon (Plaošnik)
Located on Plaošnik hill above town, this rebuilt church stands on the foundations of Ohrid’s earliest Christian basilica. Saint Clement of Ohrid founded a monastery and the first Slavic university here in the 9th century.
The site is an active archaeological complex – you can see early basilica mosaics and the tomb of St. Clement. Entry is about 100 MKD. It’s open during daylight hours, and a visit offers both historical insight and great views of the lake below.
Ancient Theater of Ohrid
A 2nd-century B.C. amphitheater built in Hellenistic times, later used by Romans. Rediscovered in the 1980s, it’s partially restored and now serves as a summer stage for concerts and plays.
The theater’s stone seats and stage are open to walk around freely (no ticket required). It’s an easy stop on the walk up to the fortress – imagine ancient performances here and enjoy the backdrop of hills and the lake. The Ohrid Summer Festival holds events at this venue, bringing the site to life with music and drama.
National Workshop for Handmade Paper
A small but fascinating cultural workshop in the old town where artisans demonstrate the traditional paper-making process by hand.
You can watch a live demo of paper being made from pulp and even see one of only a couple working replicas of Gutenberg printing presses in the world.
Entry is free, and you can buy unique hand-printed souvenirs on their handmade paper. It’s usually open daily; a quick 15-minute stop here is both educational and fun.
Robevci Family House (National Ohrid Museum)
This elegant 19th-century merchant’s house is now a museum showcasing traditional Ohrid architecture and artifacts.
The interior features period furnishings and exhibits of local archaeological finds. It provides a glimpse into how a wealthy Ohrid family lived in the 1800s. Opening hours are generally 9:00–16:00 (closed Mondays).
Tickets cost around 100 MKD. The wooden balconies and white facade also make it one of the most photographed historic houses in Ohrid.
Icons Gallery (Icon Museum)
Adjacent to the Church of St. Bogorodica Perivleptos, this gallery houses a priceless collection of Byzantine icons from the 11th–14th centuries. Art lovers will appreciate the finely painted iconostasis pieces – some of the best in the Orthodox world. Entry ~120 MKD.
It’s typically open mornings and early afternoons. As it’s a quiet, uncrowded spot, it feels like a hidden gem where you can contemplate Ohrid’s spiritual art heritage in peace.
Old Bazaar and Chinar Tree
The historic Old Bazaar Street (St. Clement of Ohrid Street) is the heart of the town’s shopping district, lined with souvenir stalls, jewelers, and cafes. At its north end stands the Chinar, an ancient plane tree said to be over 1,000 years old.
This area has been a marketplace for centuries. Today you’ll find craftsmen, antique shops, and Ottoman-era sights like the Ali Pasha Mosque (15th c.) along the pedestrian street. It’s most lively in the evenings when both locals and tourists stroll the bazaar.
(Tip: Ohrid’s churches typically charge a small entry fee for tourists and have dual pricing for locals. Keep small denar coins handy. Also, remember to dress modestly when entering churches, though locals are understanding if you’re touring on a hot day).
Outdoor and Nature Activities
Ohrid’s natural setting provides plenty of outdoor adventures, from lake activities to mountain hikes.
Lake Ohrid Boat Trips:
One of the best ways to appreciate the lake is from the water. Numerous boat tours depart from Ohrid’s port to nearby attractions.
A popular full-day cruise goes to the Monastery of St. Naum, with a stop at the Bay of Bones museum en route. These 7–8 hour boat excursions cost about 600 MKD (~€10) round-trip. Boats usually leave at 10:00 AM and return by 5:30 PM daily in summer.
Shorter boat rides (30–60 minutes) are also available along the Ohrid coastline for sightseeing or reaching beaches. Enjoying the clear waters of the lake (visibility up to 22 meters in places) is a must. Swimming is popular from late June through September when water temperatures average a pleasant 18–24°C.
Beaches and Swimming
Ohrid has both city beaches and more remote swim spots. Near town, Potpesh and Kaneo Beach offer swimming with scenic views (Kaneo is right below the clifftop church).
For a livelier atmosphere with bars and music, visit Gradishte Beach, which has clear water and summer events. If you prefer a quieter cove, try Labino Beach, a bit further from the center, known for its tranquility.
Most beaches are free, though Gradishte may charge a small entrance in peak season. The best time for sunbathing and swimming is July–August; in shoulder season you can still swim, but beaches will be blissfully uncrowded.
Water Sports
Besides swimming, Lake Ohrid offers kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even scuba diving. Kayaks can be rented in town or at Gradishte beach (around 300 MKD per hour).
Guided kayaking tours take you along the scenic shoreline and often include a picnic stop. Ohrid’s scuba diving centers (like Diving Center Amfora) offer dives to the Bay of Bones underwater site and even a sunken WWII ferry.
The lake’s depth (up to 288m) and clarity make for unique fresh-water diving. If diving isn’t your thing, a snorkeling stop at the springs near St. Naum is a fun way to see bubbling springs in crystal water. Always ensure water activities are with licensed operators, and note that motorized jet-skis are not allowed on this UNESCO-protected lake.
Hiking in Galičica National Park:
Rising above Lake Ohrid to the east, Galičica National Park provides excellent hiking with breathtaking vistas.
The most popular trek is the Magaro Peak trail (2,255 m altitude) which offers a panoramic view of two lakes – Ohrid and nearby Prespa – from the summit. The hike is moderate (about 3 hours up and 2 down) and starts from the mountain pass road (which itself has an entrance fee ~200 MKD per person to the park).
At the top, you can see across into Albania, Greece, and all of Lake Ohrid sprawling below. Other hikes in the park lead to panoramic lookouts or alpine meadows filled with wildflowers (especially in spring). Always carry water, sun protection, and good shoes – summers are dry and sunny on the peaks.
Nature Reserves and Parks
Just south of Ohrid, the Spring of St. Naum (part of Galichica NP) is a peaceful nature reserve where the Black Drim river emerges from underground. Here you can take a rowboat through emerald-green springs shaded by willows (about 300 MKD per person for a 30-minute boat ride). It’s a serene experience gliding over water so clear you can see the plants and fish below. Birdwatchers might spot herons and cormorants around the reed beds.
visions
Another hidden gem for nature lovers is the Vevčani Springs (about 30 km from Ohrid near Struga) – a series of waterfalls and springs in a leafy canyon, completely free to visit. Pack a picnic and enjoy the cool microclimate there, especially on hot summer days.
Local Food and Dining Experiences
No visit is complete without indulging in Ohrid’s culinary offerings, which blend Macedonian, Mediterranean, and Ottoman influences.
Restaurants in Ohrid range from rustic lakeside taverns to family-run konobas in the Old Town.
Lake Ohrid Trout and Fish Dishes
Ohrid is famous for its Ohridska Pastrmka (Ohrid trout), an endemic trout species traditionally served grilled. It’s a delicacy – however, note that it’s protected due to endangerment, so some restaurants may serve farmed trout or the similar belvica fish instead. You can also try ribna čorba, a hearty fish stew made with local catch, commonly offered as a starter.
For an eco-conscious choice, opt for dishes made with carp or belvica which are more sustainable. A typical fish platter at a lakefront restaurant costs around 600–800 MKD, and pairs wonderfully with local white wine.
Macedonian Classics
Don’t miss Macedonia’s national dishes while in Ohrid. Tavče gravče (baked beans in a skillet), sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), and selsko meso (clay-pot meat and mushroom stew) are comfort-food staples, often on restaurant menus. You can also sample burek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach – a favorite local breakfast or snack.
For something quick, try gjomleze, a unique layered pancake-like pie cut into pieces, usually sold by street vendors. Nearly every meal is accompanied by fresh shopska salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and grated cheese) and a spread like ajvar – a roasted red pepper relish that Macedonians adore.
Where to Eat
In the Old Town, restaurants like Kaj Kanevche and Dalga are renowned for their fresh fish and traditional recipes.
For dining with a view, Kaneo Restaurant has a terrace overlooking the lake near the church, perfect for a romantic sunset dinner. Along the waterfront promenade, you’ll find plenty of cafes and konobas grilling meat and fish in the open air – follow the aroma of wood smoke.
Prices are quite reasonable: a full dinner with wine might be 1000–1500 MKD (€15–25) for two people at a mid-range restaurant. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favorite gjomleze or burek stall – they’ll point you to the best in town (one famous bakery is Burekdžilnica Igor for fresh burek).
Local Wineries and Cafés
Macedonia has excellent wines – try a Vranec (red) or Temjanika (aromatic white) from nearby wine regions.
In Ohrid, you can visit the Winery Mal Sveti Kliment, a small winery and wine bar near the Old Town gate, to sample regional wines in a cozy setting.
Coffee culture is also strong here: enjoy a Turkish coffee or Italian-style espresso at a café in the bazaar or by the harbor. In summer evenings,
Ohrid’s waterfront bars come alive – you can sip a cocktail or the local Skopsko beer with live music and a view of the illuminated lake.
(Tip: For an immersive experience, consider taking a Macedonian cooking class. There are local hosts who teach you to prepare dishes like komat (pie with cheese and greens), tavče gravče, pindjur (eggplant-pepper spread), and sutlijash (rice pudding) – a delicious way to bring a taste of Ohrid home with you.
Festivals and Cultural Events
Ohrid hosts numerous events year-round that showcase its culture, music, and traditions.
Time your visit to coincide with these festivals if you can:
Ohrid Summer Festival (July–August):
The largest event of the year, held annually since 1961. From July 12 to August 20, the city becomes a stage for international and local performances in music, theater, and dance.
Concerts are often held in stunning venues like the Ancient Theater and church courtyards under the stars. The festival features everything from classical orchestras to ballet and modern drama. Many shows are in the evenings; some are ticketed (prices vary, ~500–1500 MKD) while others are free community events. It’s a vibrant time to be in Ohrid, but also the busiest – book accommodations well in advance.
National Folk Dance and Song Festival
Also in summer (often in July), Ohrid hosts a folk dance festival celebrating traditional Macedonian culture. Troupes in colorful costumes perform centuries-old dances and songs. You’ll hear cheerful Macedonian oro music and see dancers form circles. The festival usually takes place over several days with free performances in the city square or Dolni Saraj (an open-air stage). It’s a wonderful way to experience local culture and even join in a dance.
Ohrid Pearls and Crafts Festival
Early each August, artisans gather to celebrate Ohrid’s famous pearl-making tradition. The Ohrid Pearls Festival showcases jewelers who craft Ohrid pearls (made by a secret method coating shells with emulsion from fish scales).
You can watch demonstrations and purchase unique pearl jewelry directly from the makers. Alongside pearls, other handicrafts like filigree silverwork, woodcarving, and embroidery are on display. It’s usually held along the waterfront or main square, creating a bazaar of local art.
Even if you’re not buying, it’s fascinating to learn how these coveted pearls are made – a craft passed down through generations in only a few local families.
Lake Ohrid Summer Fair
Throughout the summer months, a recurring open-air fair takes place by the lake, highlighting regional food, wine, and arts. You can sample local honey, dried fruits, and homemade pastries, or grab street food like grilled kebapi and sweet lokum.
Folk music and dancing often accompany the fair, making it a lively social scene. It’s a great chance to taste local flavors – don’t miss the fresh fish dishes being grilled, a fair specialty. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, usually starting in late afternoon and going into the night.
Religious and Traditional Events:
Ohrid observes Orthodox Christian holidays with much fanfare. Orthodox Easter (usually April) is especially beautiful – churches host midnight vigils and on Easter Sunday families picnic by the lake.
At Epiphany (Jan 19), locals participate in a ritual dive into the chilly lake waters to retrieve a holy cross, a tradition watched by crowds on the shoreline. In spring (around February or March before Lent), Ohrid holds a Carnival featuring masked parades, music, and street food, adding a dose of fun and satire to the town’s cultural life.
Meanwhile, just 15 km away in Struga, the renowned Struga Poetry Evenings take place every August, drawing poets from around the world for readings on the Drim River bridges. Visitors are welcome to attend these poetry sessions – a unique cultural experience if you appreciate literature.
(Tip: Check the Macedonia Timeless tourism website or local tourist office for an events calendar. Many festivals have fixed date ranges annually – for example, Ohrid Summer Festival opening on July 12 – but specific schedules vary. Tickets for major performances can be purchased online in advance or at the Ohrid Culture Center box office.)
Shopping and Local Markets
Ohrid offers a variety of shopping experiences, from lively markets to specialty craft shops.
Old Bazaar Street
The main pedestrian street (Čaršija) in the old town is lined with shops selling traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local goods. Strolling here is a treat – you’ll find everything from handmade filigree jewelry to colorful woven textiles.
Ohrid pearls are the signature souvenir – look for reputable family-run jewelers (like Filevi or Talevi) and ask about the unique process that creates these lustrous pearls from fish scales. A simple pearl pendant might cost around 1200–2000 MKD (€20–30), depending on size and quality. Haggling is not common in formal shops, but some flexibility exists in open market stalls.
Farmers’ Market (Green Market)
Located near the center (close to the Chinar tree area), Ohrid’s daily market is where locals buy fresh produce. Stall after stall is filled with seasonal fruits (juicy peaches, grapes, figs in summer), vegetables, nuts, and fragrant herbs. Don’t miss trying the local walnuts – Ohrid’s are particularly tasty.
You’ll also find stands selling village cheese, cured sausages, homemade ajvar, and jars of wildflower honey. It’s a fantastic spot to pick up picnic supplies or edible souvenirs (vendors will vacuum-pack items like ajvar for travel). The market typically runs every morning until early afternoon. Local tip: Early morning (8–10 AM) is when produce is freshest and selection best; by noon things wind down.
Art and Handicraft Galleries:
Scattered around Ohrid are small galleries/workshops. The National Workshop for Handmade Paper (mentioned earlier) doubles as a shop for hand-pressed paper, prints, and books – a unique memento.
There’s also a woodcarving studio near the Ali Pasha Mosque where artisans sell intricate carvings and Ohrid frames (a traditional carved wooden frame). In the bazaar, look for filigree jewelry shops – delicate silver filigree earrings or brooches can be found at fair prices (500–1500 MKD). Always ensure you get a receipt and any needed certificates (for pearls, an authenticity certificate is often provided).
Modern Shops:
For those looking for contemporary shopping, Ohrid has boutiques along the boulevard and a few malls. The main street through the modern town (Boulevard Turistichka) has fashion boutiques, shoe stores, and pharmacies, in case you need any essentials. Prices in Macedonia are generally lower than Western Europe for clothing and cosmetics. Also, note that many shops close for an afternoon siesta (around 14:00–17:00) especially outside the peak summer season.
(Tip: Carry cash (Macedonian Denar) when shopping in markets and smaller shops. While credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and hotels, local markets and street vendors are cash-only. ATMs are widely available in Ohrid to withdraw Denars.)
Nearby Day-Trip Destinations
The surroundings of Ohrid are filled with worthwhile excursions, all doable in a half or full day
In Ohird, you can venture to monasteries, archaeological sites, and charming nearby towns:
The Bay of Bones “Museum on Water” is a reconstructed prehistoric settlement on Lake Ohrid – a unique archaeological park often visited on day trips from the city.
Monastery of Saint Naum
About 29 km south of Ohrid (roughly a 40-minute drive or a 2.5-hour boat ride along the lake), this 10th-century Eastern Orthodox monastery is a must-see. Saint Naum, a contemporary of St. Clement, founded it in the year 905. The monastery complex features a beautiful church with Byzantine frescoes and the tomb of St. Naum – visitors follow the local custom of pressing an ear to the tomb, hoping to “hear” the saint’s heartbeat. The grounds are spectacular, with peacocks freely roaming the lawnsg and stunning views across the lake into Albania.
Near the monastery, you can dine at traditional restaurants and take a rowboat tour of the spring pools of the Black Drim River (approximately 300 MKD per person). Entrance to the monastery church is free (donations welcome), and there’s a parking fee of 50 MKD if driving in. In summer, frequent buses also run from Ohrid bus station to St. Naum (about 110 MKD each way). Plan to spend a relaxing half-day here – many people swim at the sandy beach below the monastery after ex ploring the spiritual sites.
Bay of Bones Museum
Located 16 km south of Ohrid on the eastern shore, the Bay of Bones (also called the “Museum on Water”) is an open-air museum reconstructing a prehistoric pile-dwelling settlement above the lake. Wooden walkways connect a cluster of huts built on stilts over the water, recreating how people lived during the Bronze and Iron Ages (1200–700 B.C.).
It’s a fascinating step back in time, complete with artifacts displayed in each hut. The site also includes remains of a Roman fort on the hill above. Opening hours are typically 8:00–16:00 (longer in summer until 19:00).
Entrance is 100 MKD for adults (about €1.5). Note that the museum is closed on Mondays in the off-season (Oct–Apr). You can reach Bay of Bones by car (20 min drive) or by joining a boat tour. Spending about an hour is sufficient to see everything. For an extra thrill, certified divers can actually dive the archaeological site beneath the museum – local dive operators offer an underwater tour of the original pile dwelling remains.
Struga
This pleasant town at the north end of Lake Ohrid (15 km from Ohrid) makes for a laid-back excursion. Struga sits where the Black Drim River flows out of the lake, earning it the nickname “City of Poetry” for its scenic riverbanks and bridges. Unlike hilly Ohrid, Struga is flat, with a calm stretch of riverside cafes and a long pebble beach on the lake where locals swim.
A highlight is walking along the Drim River promenade to the spot where the clear river water rushes out of the lake – one side of the bridge has lake water, the other side a fast-moving river.
Each August, Struga hosts the Struga Poetry Evenings, one of the world’s largest poetry festivals, attracting renowned poets and artists. Even outside the festival, Struga offers a more authentic local vibe, with a bustling weekly market (Fridays) and eateries serving the local specialty eels (Drim River was famous for eel fishing).
You can reach Struga by bus or taxi (20-minute ride). It’s enjoyable to spend an afternoon here, have a coffee by the river, and perhaps visit the Nikola Koneski House of Poetry museum if you’re interested in the literary heritage.
Bitola and Heraclea Lyncestis:
For history enthusiasts willing to go a bit further (about 70 km east, ~1.5 hours by car), the city of Bitola and the adjacent Heraclea Lyncestis archaeological site are rewarding trips. Bitola is Macedonia’s second city, known for its elegant neoclassical architecture and café-lined Širok Sokak pedestrian street.
Just outside Bitola lie the ruins of Heraclea, an ancient city founded by Philip II of Macedon. You can see beautiful Roman mosaics, a well-preserved amphitheater, and early Christian basilica remains. The site is open 9:00–16:00; entry ~150 MKD. Combining Bitola and Heraclea makes a full-day trip (there are direct buses from Ohrid to Bitola as well). You’ll experience a different slice of Macedonian history and urban life beyond Ohrid.
Other nearby gems:
Vevčani Village (30 km away) is famed for its natural springs and the quirky Vevčani Carnival each January.
Richard Collett
Also, across the lake in Albania, the town of Pogradec can be visited for a cross-border day trip – in summer, a ferry connects Ohrid to Pogradec once daily, making it possible to have lunch in Albania and be back by evening!)
Transportation and Travel Tips
From flights to local transport, here’s everything you need to know about getting around.
Getting to Ohrid
Ohrid is accessible by air, road, and even boat.
The city has a small international Airport (OHD) with seasonal flights from European cities (mainly summer charters from places like London, Amsterdam, Brussels, Belgrade, etc.).
Most international travelers fly into Skopje (the capital) or Tirana (Albania) and then travel overland. From Skopje, regular buses run to Ohrid approximately every hour; the journey is ~3.5 hours and costs around 800–900 MKD (≈€13).
From Tirana, there are a few direct minibuses taking about 3–4 hours. Driving is another great option – roads to Ohrid are scenic and in decent condition. If renting a car, note that some routes cross into Albania or Greece briefly, so check with the rental company about border permissions. Parking in Ohrid can be tight in the old town; look for public lots (pay by the hour, usually ~50 MKD/hour) or ensure your accommodation has parking.
Getting Around Ohrid
The old town of Ohrid is compact and best explored on foot. Its narrow cobblestone streets and steep lanes mean walking is often the quickest way to get between attractions.
Taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap for longer hops (e.g. from the center to outlying hotels or to Sveti Naum). Always negotiate a price or insist the driver uses the meter, as some may quote high rates to tourists. A typical taxi ride within town should be 100–150 MKD.
To visit nearby villages or beaches, you can also use the local bus or van (“kombi”) services – for instance, buses to Struga or Resen depart from Ohrid’s bus station regularly and cost just a few dozen denars. Another fun way to get around is by bicycle; some guesthouses offer bike rentals, and there is a biking trail partly around the lake (though not complete).
Best Time to Visit
The peak season is July and August when the weather is hot and ideal for swimming, and all festivals are in full swing – however, this is also when Ohrid is most crowded with tourists from across the region.
For a more relaxed experience, consider the shoulder months of May–June or September–early October, when the weather is warm (mid-20s °C), the summer crowds have thinned, and prices for accommodation may be lower.
April and October can be cooler with some rain, but still pleasant for sightseeing and hiking (and the landscape is lush green in spring).
Winter (November–March) is off-season – it’s quiet and many restaurants or tour services operate on limited hours, but you’ll have the historical sites nearly to yourself. Snow is rare in Ohrid town (though mountains get snow), and temperatures stay around 5–10°C in daytime. If you come in winter, bring a warm jacket and enjoy the tranquil side of Ohrid.
Local Tips and Etiquette
The local currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). While credit cards are accepted at hotels and many restaurants, smaller businesses and market vendors deal in cash – keep some denars on hand.
ATMs in Ohrid dispense denars (and sometimes euros) easily; exchange offices are also available. The primary language is Macedonian (written in Cyrillic), but in tourist areas most people (especially younger) speak at least some English.
You’ll also hear Albanian spoken (Ohrid has an Albanian minority and is close to the Albanian border). Learning a couple of greetings in Macedonian – “Zdravo” (Hello) or “Blagodaram” (Thank you) – is appreciated, but not required. When visiting Orthodox churches or monasteries, remember to dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees); some places may provide wrap skirts or shawls at the entrance if needed. Photography inside churches is often prohibited or requires permission – look for signs or ask the attendant.
Safety
Ohrid is generally very safe for travelers. The old town is well lit and lively at night, especially in summer. Still, take normal precautions: watch your step on uneven old-town stairs, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded markets. The lake water is clean and safe to swim; just pay attention to posted signs about depth or boat lanes. Tap water in Ohrid is potable (many locals boast of its taste coming from mountain springs).
Lastly, sustainable tourism is valued here – the lake is a fragile ecosystem, so avoid littering, don’t pick endemic plants, and consider using eco-friendly tours or renting electric boats/kayaks to reduce pollution. By respecting the local environment and customs, you’ll help keep Ohrid as charming as you found it.
Unique Experiences and Hidden Gems
For those who like to go off the beaten path, Ohrid hides plenty of small delights beyond the typical tourist spots:
Biljana’s Springs
Just outside the city center on the road to St. Naum, you’ll find Biljanini Izvori (Biljana’s Springs). According to local legend and a famous folk song, a girl named Biljana once washed clothes in these clear springs. Today it’s a peaceful park with stone wells and flowing spring water.
It’s free to enter, open all hours. Locals fill up bottles with the spring water (you can too – it’s clean and cold). Come in the morning to see the springs in the quiet light and perhaps catch locals singing the Biljana song.
Trpejca Village
Further down the lake (about 20 km from Ohrid, accessible by car or boat) lies Trpejca, a small fishing village often called “the St. Tropez of Macedonia” (tongue-in-cheek, as it’s much more low-key and quaint).
Trpejca boasts a beautiful secluded beach with exceptionally clear water and a backdrop of steep hills. It’s a hidden gem for swimmers and sunbathers seeking tranquility away from Ohrid’s busier beaches. There are a couple of simple waterfront restaurants (like Ribar) known for delicious fresh fish and other homemade dishes – an ideal spot for a lazy lunch by the water.
The village is best reached by car (around 30 minutes drive) or in summer by excursion boats that stop there. Spend a few hours to relax, snorkel, and mingle with friendly villagers.
Cave Churches
Around Lake Ohrid’s shores, especially on the western side and south toward St. Naum, are several cave churches – small chapels built into cliffside caves. These ancient hermitages often require a little hike or boat to reach, and reward with mystical atmospheres and old frescoes.
Notable ones include Saint Erasmus (4th century burial cave west of Ohrid) and the cave church at Kalista Monastery near Struga, which has 14th-century frescoes. These spots are less visited, so you may have them to yourself. Be respectful at these sacred sites (some are still used for occasional worship).
If you’re an adventure-seeker, ask locally about hiring a small boat to visit the Zaum Monastery (St. Zaum), which is only accessible by water or a long hike – it’s a tiny 14th-century church nestled in a cliff south of Trpejca, truly off the beaten path.
Ancient Tree and Ottoman Monuments
We mentioned the 1,000-year-old Chinar Tree in the Old Bazaar – around it, you’ll often see an impromptu farmers’ market or elderly men playing chess under its shade. Nearby stands the Zeynel Abedin Tekke, a 16th-century dervish monastery with a tranquil garden, and the Halveti Tekke which has a beautifully decorated interior (usually open on request).
While Ohrid is famous for churches, exploring these Ottoman-era sites gives a fuller picture of the city’s diverse history. Another hidden spot is the old Turkish Hammam (bath) ruins, locally called Deboj. Though in semi-ruined state and not an active museum, it’s visible behind the Ohrid Bazaar – a quick peek transports you to Ottoman times.
Sunset Points
Besides the well-known Kaneo church cliff, a few other lookout points offer magical sunsets over Lake Ohrid. One is the hill by Upper Gate (the old city gate) – from there you can see the sun dip behind the mountains and cast golden light on the lake. Another secret viewpoint is from the terrace of Church of St. Clement (Plaošnik) – after touring the site, linger till evening when tour crowds leave, and you’ll have a panoramic view of red-tiled roofs and shimmering water below.
Photographers may also hike up to the fortress walls around closing time to catch the sunset from the top (confirm closing time – in summer it’s open until about 19:00). The combination of ancient architecture and natural beauty at dusk is an experience unique to Ohrid.
By covering historical treasures, enjoying the lake’s natural wonders, savoring local flavors, and venturing to nearby gems, you’ll truly grasp why Ohrid is often called Macedonia’s crown jewel. Its blend of history, culture, and nature is accessible yet endlessly fascinating – whether you’re wandering through a 1,000-year-old church, cruising on the lake’s glassy waters, bargaining for pearls in the bazaar, or just watching the sunset paint the sky above this timeless lake. Enjoy your travels in and around Ohrid, and sreḱen pat – have a good journey!
