Jerusalem of the Balkans
Ohrid is one of just 28 sites accepted as both Cultural and Natural World Heritage sites by UNESCO. The ancient city is the best kept secret of North Macedonia. Ohrid City has been referred to as a “Jerusalem of the Balkans”. Once home to 365 churches, one for each day of the year, the city offers an abundance of religious history.
Where is Ohrid?
Ohrid is located in the southwestern part of North Macedonia. It is set on the shores of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and largest lakes. The city is a three hour drive from Skopje, the capital (you can fly into Skopje and take the bus or rent a car to Ohrid). Also, the city has an international airport with non-stop flights scheduled to 13 destinations in 9 countries.
Explore Ohrid's Old Town
The starting point for any trip to Ohrid should be the Old Town. Home to its most significant historical landmarks, the Old Town is a well-preserved architectural ensemble, dating from between the 7th and 19th centuries. As you walk through the winding streets, check out the 11th-century Church of St. Sophia with its magnificent courtyard and beautiful Byzantine frescoes. Continuing uphill, among elegant villas and traditional houses (many of those are available for rent), you can stop for a coffee or lunch in one of the many cafes and restaurants.
Discover Byzantine architecture at Kaneo
Located on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains is the Church of St. John the Theologian at Kaneo. The church is the emblem of Ohrid, due to its picturesque location on a cliff over Kaneo Beach overlooking Lake Ohrid and its distinctive Byzantine architecture. This is what makes it one of the most photographed places in the whole of North Macedonia. Dating back to the 13th century, the church is dedicated to John of Patmos, the writer of the biblical Book of Revelation. After admiring the beauty of the church, head down the steep steps to the lake’s edge to reach Kaneo Beach and enjoy a dip in the lake. For those wanting to explore more of Ohrid’s history, continue uphill towards Samuil’s fortress.
Admire the view from Tsar Samuil’s Fortress
Sitting on the hilltop overlooking the Old Town, Samuil’s Fortress is named after Tsar Samuil, who ruled the First Bulgarian Empire from Ohrid at the turn of the 10th century. Today, 18 towers and four gates still remain from the original structure and serve as a popular vantage point for spectacular views of the city and Lake Ohrid.
Go back in time at Plaosnik
Plaosnik archeological complex is located between Samuil’s Fortress and the Church of St. John at Kaneo. Plaosnik hosts the multi-domed medieval Church of Saint Panteleimon, restored on the foundations of a monastery in the year 893, when Saint Clement arrived in Ohrid. This monastery was later used by Saint Clement and Saint Naum as a liturgical building and a place for teaching the Cyrillic alphabets, known as the Ohrid Literary School, which welcomed over 3,500 students and formed the first Slavic university.
Catch a performance at the Ancient Theatre
Ohrid is home to an open-air Hellenistic-type theatre built around 200 BC. The ancient site serves as one of the main entrances to the city and provides a magnificent view of the lake and the city. Once hosting Greek plays and Roman gladiatorial games, nowadays it hosts performances during the Ohrid Summer Festival, one of the biggest cultural events in the country. Performers, musicians and theatre groups entertain audiences throughout the summer, fusing ancient architecture with contemporary culture.
Relax on Lake Ohrid’s beaches
One of Ohrid’s main selling points are the beaches. While many are accessible on foot, there’s no better way to explore the options than by boat. Take a boat ride from the port of Ohrid and ask the captain to make a few stops along the way. First stop: Golden Beach, a popular spot home to many bars and restaurants. Next up is family-oriented Lagadin, followed by the buzzing Orevche Beach. Particularly popular among younger people, Orevche hosts DJs and parties. In the meantime, chill out here with music and cocktails.
However, there is one beach that you absolutely can’t miss when visiting Ohrid: Potpesh Beach. Located only a short walk away from the waterfront filled with restaurants you will find a boardwalk along the cliffs, a beautiful place to go for a walk and admire Ohrid’s beauty. Follow the boardwalk to the small Potpesh Beach and enjoy a refreshing swim during the warm summer days or simply go here to admire the sunset. Potpesh Beach truly is a must see when visiting Ohrid.
Try the local specialty at Trpejca
Trpejca is the Macedonian Saint Tropez. Historically a fishing village, Trpejca is famous for its tranquility and delicious food. The real beauty is the fantastic pebbled beach and its sparkling waters, utterly transparent and perfect for bathing. Once you have enjoyed the beach, head to Taverna Mrestilishte, order local specialties such as layered gjomleze (pie), garlicky makalo spread, freshly caught trout and belvica, or fish stew.
Shop for Ohrid pearls
Explore the Ohrid Bazaar
The Old Bazaar starts at the main street of Ohrid and ends all the way at the waterfront. Lined with shops, small restaurants and many ice creams shops this is one of the busiest places in Ohrid. Take a stroll through the bazaar, go shopping, grab some ice cream or admire some of the cities mosques situated around the bazaar. The Old Bazaar is the perfect place to go souvenir shopping, from Ohrid’s pearls to postcards and magnets, at Ohrid’s Old Bazaar you will find it all!
Spend the day at St. Naum
Plan a day trip to St. Naum. The Monastery of Saint Naum is situated along Lake Ohrid, 29 kilometres south of the city of Ohrid and only 1 kilometer (0.6 m) from the Albanian border. The area around St. Naum’s monastery is among the most beautiful sites along the shore of Lake Ohrid. The magnificent greenery, the two romantic little isles, surrounded by the Crn Drim river springs, the spacious sand beach, the monastery itself, and the panorama from the hill make it one of the most attractive picnic spots. There are buses going from Ohrid to Saint Naum every day, but the best way is to take a boat tour. You can find info at Ohrid City port (usually 10-20 Eur per person). If you really like to enjoy the ride and the beautiful scenery along the Ohrid Lake shore, rent a boat with Sailing Regatta.
Where to stay in Ohrid
Check out Booking.com to find accommodation in Ohrid and the best deals. If staying for a couple days, or off-peak season, stay downtown. You can book a villa in the Old Town of Ohrid to get a true expirience of the city. Or, book a room in one of the boutique hotels along the city shore. Front row hotels offer stunning views of the lake. If you are visiting in the summer months, stay in some of the hotels along the lake beaches.
We stayed at Mr. I Boutique Hotel & Bar. Perfect beachfront location to get amazing waterfront views and explore the most popular sightseeings.
Where to eat in Ohrid
Macedonian food has been influenced by a variety of cultures, but largely focuses on Mediterranean and Turkish flavours, with a hint of Italian zest. Local foods are made from scratch, focusing on quality and freshness, while the lake ensures that there is never a shortage of fresh seafood.
Eating out in Ohrid is very affordable and there are many restaurants to choose from. Experience dining at the waterfront in the old town. There are several cafes and restaurants that have amazing food and drinks. Coffees at Liquid Cafe and fish stew at Taverna Momir are some of our favourites. Also, check out The HarbouR Club. It offers amazing dishes along with stunning views of the waterfront. To try more of a local cuisine and get a vibe of a cafana, visit Restaurant Cun. If you looking for a fancier experience, with waterfront view as well as the old town, visit Su Tea Rooftop Restaurant.
Best time to visit Ohrid
Ohrid is beautiful all year round. If you would like to experience everything the city has to offer, you should visit between May and September. Just be aware, peak season is mid July to mid August, when the city can get overcrowded. Make sure to book your trip in advance to ensure a beautiful visit.
Have you visited Ohrid? What’s your favourite thing about the city? Let us know in the comments section.
