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Road Trips in North Macedonia

North Macedonia is a hidden gem that offers a unique and rewarding experience for road trippers. This small Balkan country is full of stunning landscapes, rich history, and welcoming people. Here are a few reasons why North Macedonia is a great destination for a road trip:

Overall, North Macedonia offers a unique and unforgettable road trip experience. With stunning scenery, rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, it's a destination that should not be missed.

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Best months to drive

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Discover Road Trips in North Macedonia

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629 km 35 km/h 6 days roadtrip

Road Trip Highlights in North Macedonia

Skopje is the capital of Macedonia. It offers a great insight into the cultural and historical background of the country with plenty of tourist attractions, such as the Archaeological Museum of Macedonia, Tvrdina Kale Fortress, Sveti Spas Church, and the National Gallery of Macedonia.

Travellers seeking a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere should choose one of the smaller cities. In Bitola, you’ll be delighted with local architecture, in Prilep, you’ll admire the medieval Old Town, and in Kruševo, you’ll learn more on the local ingredients and cuisine.

The fans of natural wonders will be satisfied with a trip to Ohrid and the nearby Ohrid Lake. It is considered one of the most scenic places in the whole country. For even deeper contemplation of natural jewels, you can also visit the Mavrovo National Park. Thanks to being a great showcase of Macedonia’s flora and fauna, it is willingly visited by the lovers of birdwatching.

Among the most unique places in North Macedonia, you’ll also find the Pelister National Park, one of the most popular places for hikers, Stobi, a treat for archaeology fans, and Gevgelija, the Las Vegas of Macedonia.

Suggested Road Trips in North Macedonia

These road trips are perfect for first-time visitors to North Macedonia, as they showcase the country's stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Each route offers a different experience, but all are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of this beautiful Balkan country.

North Macedonia: traffic rules and road state

North Macedonia can boast a diversity of road surfaces. These less well-maintained are pretty rough, especially for the less experienced drivers. The greatest danger on these roads are uneven surfaces, bumps, and stray animals. That’s why it’s best to avoid driving at night.

Don’t worry, the driving conditions in most areas are similar to the ones prevailing in other European countries. You need to stick to the right side of the road and overtake other vehicles on the left. What’s more, avoid using horn in built-up areas unless there’s an emergency situation that you want to prevent. 

The age restrictions aren’t that different from other European countries as well. You need to be 18 years old in order to drive in North Macedonia; however, some car rental companies may require you to be a little older, or even 25. Don’t be surprised if you are asked to pay an additional fee for being an inexperienced motorist.

Both drinking and driving and driving and texting may result in heavy fines. In North Macedonia, you’ll be considered to be under the influence of alcohol with a level of blood alcohol of 0.05% or higher. That’s why it is best to avoid drinking anything alcoholic before hitting the road as even a small amount will take you beyond the limit. When it comes to mobile phones, always use a hands-free device to avoid severe penalties. 

North Macedonia: required documents

While travelling around North Macedonia, it’s important to carry the following documents: your driver’s licence, ID or passport, registration documents, and a proof of insurance. 

Speed limits in North Macedonia

Just like in any European country, you’ll be charged with high penalties for speeding in North Macedonia. The simplest way to avoid them is to stick to the prevailing speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h in rural areas, 100 km/h on expressways, and 120 km/h on highways. While driving near schools and residential areas, you’ll be obliged to reduce your speed to what’s indicated on the road signs.

When taking a Road Trip in North Macedonia

Here are a few things to be aware of when taking a road trip in North Macedonia:

By being aware of these potential challenges, road trippers can have a safe and enjoyable journey through North Macedonia. It's always a good idea to plan ahead, stay informed, and be flexible when traveling in a new country.

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in North Macedonia

The best time to take a road trip in North Macedonia is during the spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) months. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and less rainfall than in the summer months. The scenery is also beautiful during these seasons, with the countryside coming alive with blooming flowers and autumn foliage.

However, it's worth noting that summers in North Macedonia can be hot and humid, with temperatures sometimes reaching over 30°C (86°F). This can make driving long distances uncomfortable, especially without air conditioning. Winter months (December-February) can also be challenging due to snowfall, especially in mountainous areas, and icy road conditions.

Ultimately, the best time for a road trip in North Macedonia depends on personal preferences and interests. If you're interested in outdoor activities like hiking and exploring national parks, the spring and fall months offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. If you prefer to enjoy the beaches and lake areas, the summer months may be ideal. If you're interested in winter sports like skiing, the winter months may be your best bet.

How expensive is a Road Trip in North Macedonia

The cost of a road trip in North Macedonia can vary depending on several factors, including the season, mode of transportation, and level of accommodation and dining.

Renting a car in North Macedonia is relatively affordable, with prices starting at around 20-25 EUR per day for a small car. Larger vehicles or luxury cars can cost more, up to 50-60 EUR per day. Gasoline is also relatively inexpensive, with prices around 1.2 EUR per liter.

Accommodation costs in North Macedonia can range from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts. On average, expect to pay around 20-30 EUR per night for a budget-friendly option, while luxury hotels can cost upwards of 100 EUR per night.

Dining options in North Macedonia are also varied, with street food and local cuisine available at affordable prices, while higher-end restaurants and international cuisine can be more expensive. On average, expect to pay around 5-10 EUR for a meal at a local restaurant, and upwards of 30 EUR for a fine dining experience.

Overall, the cost of a day/week/month per person on a road trip in North Macedonia can range from around 50-100 EUR per day, depending on the level of accommodation, dining, and transportation chosen. With relatively affordable car rental prices and low gas prices, North Macedonia can be a budget-friendly destination for a road trip.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Macedonia

There are several guidebooks and road maps available for a road trip in North Macedonia. Here are some recommendations:

By using a combination of guidebooks and road maps, road trippers can plan their route, learn about the country's culture and history, and discover hidden gems along the way.

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