Road Trips 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

• The Lake Ohrid Loop: The Lake Ohrid Loop takes you on a scenic drive around one of North Macedonia's most beautiful destinations, Lake Ohrid. The route takes you through picturesque villages and along the lake's stunning shoreline. Along the way, you can stop at historic churches and monasteries, taste local wine and food, and take in breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

• The Tikves Wine Route: The Tikves Wine Route takes you through North Macedonia's largest wine region, Tikves. The route takes you through lush vineyards and picturesque villages, with opportunities to taste local wines and learn about the region's wine-making traditions. Along the way, you can visit historic sites like the Stobi archaeological site, and enjoy local cuisine at traditional restaurants.

• The Pelister National Park Drive: The Pelister National Park Drive takes you on a scenic journey through one of North Macedonia's most beautiful national parks. The route takes you through winding mountain roads, past glacial lakes and lush forests. Along the way, you can stop at historic sites like the Heraclea Lyncestis archaeological site, and hike to stunning viewpoints like the Pelister summit.

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 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. 

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. 

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.

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

• Road Conditions: While major roads in North Macedonia are generally in good condition, many rural roads can be narrow, winding, and poorly maintained. Be sure to exercise caution and drive defensively, especially on mountainous roads.

• Driving Culture: North Macedonians tend to drive aggressively and may not follow traffic rules and signals as strictly as drivers in other countries. Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for unexpected driving behaviors.

• Language: North Macedonia's official language is Macedonian, which uses the Cyrillic alphabet. Road signs may be in Macedonian, so it's a good idea to have a basic understanding of the language or to travel with a GPS system that can translate and give directions in English.

• Border Crossings: North Macedonia shares borders with several neighboring countries, including Greece, Albania, Kosovo, and Serbia. Be sure to have all necessary travel documents, including passports and visas, and be prepared for potential delays and security checks at border crossings.

• Weather: North Macedonia has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for extreme weather conditions, especially if traveling in the winter months when mountainous areas may experience heavy snowfall.

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.

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.

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.

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

• Lonely Planet North Macedonia: Lonely Planet is a well-known travel guide company that offers comprehensive information on destinations around the world. The Lonely Planet North Macedonia guidebook provides detailed information on the country's history, culture, and attractions, as well as practical advice on transportation, accommodation, and dining.

• Bradt Travel Guide: North Macedonia: The Bradt Travel Guide is another comprehensive guidebook that provides in-depth information on North Macedonia's history, culture, and attractions. It also includes practical information on travel logistics and tips for off-the-beaten-path experiences.

• Reise Know-How Macedonia Road Map: The Reise Know-How Macedonia Road Map is a detailed map that provides an overview of North Macedonia's road network, including major highways, secondary roads, and scenic routes. It also includes detailed city maps and information on top tourist attractions.

• National Geographic Adventure Map of North Macedonia: The National Geographic Adventure Map of North Macedonia is a topographic map that provides detailed information on the country's terrain and natural features. It also includes information on hiking and outdoor activities.

• Michelin Map of North Macedonia: The Michelin Map of North Macedonia is another comprehensive road map that includes detailed information on the country's highways, secondary roads, and scenic routes. It also includes city maps and information on top attractions.

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.