Ohrid travel guide
Ohrid Tourism | Ohrid Guide
You're Going to Love Ohrid
Also known as the "Jerusalem of the Balkans," the exceptionally beautiful Ohrid brings out the best of nature and archaic architectural heritage.
Discover captivating landscapes, historical monuments, and the 365 churches dotted throughout town and the tranquil waters of Lake Ohrid.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Ohrid
1. Festivals
Ohrid has several festivals such as the Ohrid Summer Festival, which features performances from leading musicians and world music centers.
2. Attractive Sites
From Lake Ohrid to the city's 365 churches and the iconic Plaosnik Hill, Ohrid boasts a wide variety of sites that will completely mesmerize you.
3. Mouth-Watering Delicacies
Treat yourself to the fish at KANEO - Letna Bavcha and Restaurant or sample the crisp, mouthwatering pizzas as well as the excellent assortment of wines at the Via Sacra.
4. The Old Town's Architecture
The tall white houses with the typical dark edges, situated in narrow streets make this place quite distinctive.
5. Wine-Making Hub
There is a myriad of quality wine to choose from while in Ohrid at a relatively low price. Mid-range wines cost about ден200.
What to do in Ohrid
1. Samuil's Fortress: The Limestone Fortress
Located in the heart of the old town of Ohrid is the well-known Samuel's Fortress. Since its renovation in 2003, this historical monument is the perfect holiday destination. It is believed to have been established upon an already-existing fortification by Phillip II of Macedonia. Research has shown that it dates back to circa 4th century BC, and its entire facade is built entirely of Limestone. Discover ancient history that lurks within the interior of the fortress. Alternatively, you could enjoy the magnificent view of the Ohrid Lake from the fortress.
2. Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon: Uniting the People
Situated in Plaosnik District in Ohrid, Macedonia, Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon is believed to have been designed by Saint Clement of Ohrid. The main component used in the construction of this Byzantine church was marble. In the process of reconstruction and excavation on October 10, 2007, around 2,383 Venetian coins were discovered. These were of special significance as they symbolized trade between Ohrid and Venice. It is believed by some archaeologists that the Church was built on the site used to educate the first students of the Glagolitic alphabet, which was later used to translate the bible.
3. Church of St. John at Kaneo: The Perfect Blend of the Spiritual and Natural
On the edge of the Kaneo Beach cliff that overlooks Lakes Ohrid in Ohrid city lies the Church of St. John at Kaneo. It was built in honor of John of Patmos (one of Jesus' disciples) who is also referred to as John the Apostle. It was built before 1447, prior to the Ottoman Empire uprising. The view from the cliff is simply breathtaking. Witness the glorious skyline as it meets with the still waters and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this artistically constructed historical landmark.
4. Ohrid Amphitheater: Where Public Performances Come Alive
Surrounded by two hills in the old town of Ohrid is the Ancient theater of Ohrid. It was established in 200 BC and serves as the sole Hellenistic-type theater in the whole country. The theater was once known as an execution site of Christians by the Romans, which gave locals and tourists alike a negative outlook on the site. In the late 1980s, the theater was reopened, but this time not to execute Christians. Locals, as well as tourists, are treated to a set of public performances such as concerts and plays. Be part of the crowd and experience amphitheater entertainment like never before.
5. Church of Saint Sophia: Explore Art from the Middle Ages
Located in Ohrid city, the Church of Saint Sophia is one of the most prominent monuments in Macedonia today. It houses a number of relics, including art and architecture dating back to the Middle Ages. The time of its establishment is unclear, however, sources date it back to the reign of Knyaz Boris, which is about is 1852-1889. Through the years, there have been a series of adjustments and reconstructions so as to improve its appearance. A brief tour of the church will reveal ancient and artistic frescoes on the ceiling from the 11th-13th century.
1. Samuil's Fortress: The Limestone Fortress
Located in the heart of the old town of Ohrid is the well-known Samuel's Fortress. Since its renovation in 2003, this historical monument is the perfect holiday destination. It is believed to have been established upon an already-existing fortification by Phillip II of Macedonia. Research has shown that it dates back to circa 4th century BC, and its entire facade is built entirely of Limestone. Discover ancient history that lurks within the interior of the fortress. Alternatively, you could enjoy the magnificent view of the Ohrid Lake from the fortress.
2. Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon: Uniting the People
Situated in Plaosnik District in Ohrid, Macedonia, Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon is believed to have been designed by Saint Clement of Ohrid. The main component used in the construction of this Byzantine church was marble. In the process of reconstruction and excavation on October 10, 2007, around 2,383 Venetian coins were discovered. These were of special significance as they symbolized trade between Ohrid and Venice. It is believed by some archaeologists that the Church was built on the site used to educate the first students of the Glagolitic alphabet, which was later used to translate the bible.
3. Church of St. John at Kaneo: The Perfect Blend of the Spiritual and Natural
On the edge of the Kaneo Beach cliff that overlooks Lakes Ohrid in Ohrid city lies the Church of St. John at Kaneo. It was built in honor of John of Patmos (one of Jesus' disciples) who is also referred to as John the Apostle. It was built before 1447, prior to the Ottoman Empire uprising. The view from the cliff is simply breathtaking. Witness the glorious skyline as it meets with the still waters and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this artistically constructed historical landmark.
4. Ohrid Amphitheater: Where Public Performances Come Alive
Surrounded by two hills in the old town of Ohrid is the Ancient theater of Ohrid. It was established in 200 BC and serves as the sole Hellenistic-type theater in the whole country. The theater was once known as an execution site of Christians by the Romans, which gave locals and tourists alike a negative outlook on the site. In the late 1980s, the theater was reopened, but this time not to execute Christians. Locals, as well as tourists, are treated to a set of public performances such as concerts and plays. Be part of the crowd and experience amphitheater entertainment like never before.
5. Church of Saint Sophia: Explore Art from the Middle Ages
Located in Ohrid city, the Church of Saint Sophia is one of the most prominent monuments in Macedonia today. It houses a number of relics, including art and architecture dating back to the Middle Ages. The time of its establishment is unclear, however, sources date it back to the reign of Knyaz Boris, which is about is 1852-1889. Through the years, there have been a series of adjustments and reconstructions so as to improve its appearance. A brief tour of the church will reveal ancient and artistic frescoes on the ceiling from the 11th-13th century.
1. Samuil's Fortress: The Limestone Fortress
Located in the heart of the old town of Ohrid is the well-known Samuel's Fortress. Since its renovation in 2003, this historical monument is the perfect holiday destination. It is believed to have been established upon an already-existing fortification by Phillip II of Macedonia. Research has shown that it dates back to circa 4th century BC, and its entire facade is built entirely of Limestone. Discover ancient history that lurks within the interior of the fortress. Alternatively, you could enjoy the magnificent view of the Ohrid Lake from the fortress.
Where to Eat in Ohrid
Sample wood fired pizza for ден328 at Aleksandrija. Stop by Restoran Gladiator and enjoy your coffee or meal as you savor fantastic views.
When to visit Ohrid
The best time to visit Ohrid is from June to October when the weather is good, and rainfall is at its minimum.
How to Get to Ohrid
Plane
Wizz Air arrives into TAV Ohrid Airport (OHD), which connects Ohrid with Tel Aviv, Zurich, Amsterdam, Brussels, and Belgrade. Buses are available for transport from the airport to the city.
Car
Travelling by car from Skopje takes about three hours at a distance of 123 miles. There's a direct route from Ohrid to Skopje via Kičevo, but also a more scenic road via Debar and through Mavrovo National Park.
Bus
Balkanviator offers bus service from Skopje, which is the easiest way to get to Ohrid. Buses from Skopje take 3.5 hours and cost ден520 one way.
Airlines serving Ohrid
Where to stay in Ohrid
Kosel - Kosel is a village near Ohrid that is situated not far from the volcano Duvalo.
Popular Neighborhoods in Ohrid
Struga - Struga is a quieter town lying on the shore of Lake Ohrid and is home to the Struga Old Bazaar.
Elani - Elani is located 6.2 miles south of the city of Ohrid and extends over the slopes of Galičica Mountain, a short distance away from Lake Ohrid.
Where to stay in popular areas of Ohrid
Most booked hotels in Ohrid
How to Get Around Ohrid
Public Transportation
Travel conveniently by Balkanviator bus for short trips to the city of Ohrid or areas adjacent to it. Bus fares can start anywhere from ден520.
Taxi
Taxis can be found almost anywhere in the city and the fares commonly cost ден40 for the first 0.62 miles covered and ден25M per subsequent 0.62 miles covered.
Car
Having a vehicle gives you the liberty to explore and discover Ohrid at your pace. Budget and Avis are available in town. You can get a car starting at ден1149.54 per day.
The Cost of Living in Ohrid
Shopping Streets
Get a selection of handicrafts like leather wallets at the Knigovez Workshop and Gift Shop. Also, you can buy food and groceries at the famed Old Bazaar.
Groceries and Other
A bag of fresh food produce at the local grocery stores costs about ден300.