Everything you need to know for North Macedonia
Geographical Position and Climate of North Macedonia
North Macedonia is a landlocked country situated in the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It is bordered by Kosovo to the northwest, Serbia to the north, Bulgaria to the east, Greece to the south, and Albania to the west.
The climate of North Macedonia can be classified as continental with Mediterranean influences. The country experiences warm summers and cold winters, particularly in the areas that are elevated above sea level. In the lower regions, along the Vardar River, the climate is more temperate. Precipitation varies across the country, with higher levels in the western mountainous regions compared to the eastern areas. Snowfall is common in the winter months, especially in the mountainous zones.
Brief History of North Macedonia
North Macedonia has a rich and complex history that dates back to ancient times. It was once part of the Kingdom of Paeonia, which was later conquered by the Kingdom of Macedon. The region became an important territorial possession during the Roman and subsequently the Byzantine Empire.
Following centuries of Byzantine control, the area saw a series of invasions and rulers including the Bulgarians, Serbians, and Ottomans, with the latter establishing dominance for over 500 years. During the Ottoman period, the region was known as part of the larger geographic entity of Macedonia.
The early 20th century brought significant changes with the Balkan Wars and World War I, leading to the partition of Macedonia among neighboring countries. The territory that is now North Macedonia became part of Serbia and later the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
After World War II, the region became one of the constituent republics of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia under the name of the Socialist Republic of Macedonia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, the country declared independence in 1991 as the Republic of Macedonia.
The young nation faced challenges, including a brief conflict in 2001 and a long-standing dispute with Greece over its name. This dispute was resolved in 2019 when the country officially changed its name to the Republic of North Macedonia, paving the way for improved international relations and the prospect of European Union and NATO membership.
Religion
The majority of the population are Eastern Orthodox Christians. Some of the population are also Muslim Albanians.
Language
The national language in Northern Macedonia is Macedonian, which uses the Cyrillic alphabet. Turkish, Serbian and Albanian are used by the various ethnic groups in the country.
North Macedonia is an emerging tourist destination, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. The country’s tourism is characterized by its picturesque lakes, such as the famous Lake Ohrid, which is one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, boasting crystal-clear waters and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town on its shores.
Places You Must Visit In North Macedonia
Before you visit North Macedonia
Travel to North Macedonia
By Air:
- The main international gateway is Skopje International Airport (SKP), also known as Alexander the Great Airport. It offers flights to and from several major cities in Europe and beyond.
- Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport (OHD) serves the southwestern part of the country and provides seasonal flights, mainly catering to tourist traffic to Lake Ohrid.
By Road:
- North Macedonia has a good network of roads, and visitors can enter by car or bus through border crossings with neighboring countries: Kosovo, Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, and Albania.
- International bus services connect North Macedonia with various European cities, providing an alternative for those who prefer ground travel.
With Train:
- Train connections exist but are more limited. There are international train services that run from Belgrade in Serbia and Thessaloniki in Greece to Skopje.
By Water:
- Although landlocked, travelers can experience boat travel within North Macedonia by taking cruises on Lake Ohrid.
Visas for North Macedonia
The visa requirements for North Macedonia vary depending on the traveler’s nationality and the purpose of the visit. Here are some general guidelines:
Visa-Free Entry:
- Citizens of the EU, EFTA, and several other countries can enter North Macedonia without a visa for short stays (usually up to 90 days within a six-month period).
- Travelers holding Schengen visas, long-term visas, or residence permits issued by Schengen countries may also enter North Macedonia without a separate visa for the duration of their Schengen permit.
Visa Requirements:
- Visitors from countries that do not have a visa-free arrangement with North Macedonia must apply for a visa before arrival.
- The type of visa required (e.g., tourist, business, or transit) will depend on the nature of the visit.
- Visa applications should be submitted to the nearest North Macedonian embassy or consulate.
Best time to visit North Macedonia
The best time to visit the country largely depends on the activities you’re interested in:
Spring (April to June):
- The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
- Nature is in full bloom, and the countryside is lush and green.
Summer (July to August):
- This is the peak tourist season, especially in lake regions like Ohrid, where visitors can enjoy warm temperatures perfect for swimming and water sports.
- Cultural events and festivals are abundant during this time, offering a glimpse into the local traditions and arts.
Autumn (September to October):
- The weather remains warm in early autumn, but there are fewer tourists, which means more tranquility at major sites.
- It’s also the grape harvest season, which is an excellent time for wine enthusiasts to visit local vineyards.
Winter (November to March):
- Winter sports enthusiasts can head to the mountains for skiing and snowboarding, particularly in resorts like Mavrovo.
- The colder months are less suitable for those looking to explore the country’s natural landscapes, as some areas may be inaccessible due to snow.
Important Information
Capital – Skopje
Territory – 25,713 km2
Currency – Macedonian denar
Time zone – UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST)
Population – 1,836,713
Demonym – Macedonian