It is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and is the “pearl” of North Macedonia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage City and is referred to by the locals as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans” because of its religious culture and 365 churches! Its Byzantine influences have turned it into a tourist destination. The lake of incomparable beauty, the elegant boutiques, the cobbled streets, its taverns and the red-roofed houses in the old town make up a magical landscape. Also, its monuments are of inestimable value.
Currency: Macedonian Denar
Calling Code: +389
Nearest airports from city center: Ohrid Airport (10km), Tirana Airport (147km), Skopje Airport (251km), Pristina Airport (257km), Thessaloniki Airport (318km), Sofia Airport (438km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** CHURCH OF ST. JOHN AT KANEO and SAMUEL’S FORTRESS (4Q6Q+CGR, Kocho Racin, Ohrid 6000)
Tsar Samuel built his fortress in 1018 on top of another fortress dating back to the 4th century BC. Take a tour and enjoy the incredible view. Also visit Church St. John which dates from the 13th century and is built on a rock.
*** ANCIENT THEATRE (Ilindenska, Ohrid 6000)
It dates from 200 BC. and only the lower part is preserved. Visit the Hellenistic-style theater and pay attention to its acoustics.
*** CHURCH OF ST. SOPHIA (Tsar Samoil 88, Ohrid 6000)
It dates from the 9th century. Step inside and see frescoes from the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries. Includes scenes from the Old Testament etc.
*** MUSEUM “THE BAY OF BONES” (Bay of Bones Museum,Р501)
It is a fantastic place and worth a visit to see houses on stilts. You will also find exhibits from the Bronze and Iron Ages.
*** NATIONAL WORKSHOP FOR HANDMADE PAPER LJUPCHO PANEVSKI (Car Samoil 72, Ohrid 6000)
In this workshop you will have the opportunity to see how paper is created and travel to the 2nd century BC!
*** LAKE OHRID
It will be unthinkable if you don’t pay a visit to the lake and enjoy the endless blue. It is one of the oldest lakes in the world!
*** ROBEVI FAMILY HOUSE (4Q6W+WFR, Ohrid)
It is a historical building that was built in 1863 and is now considered a protected cultural monument. It consists of 3 floors and functions as a museum. It houses exhibits from Antiquity and the Middle Ages.
*** HOLY CHURCH OF SAINTS CLEMENT AND PANTELEIMON (4Q7R+F5X, MK, Kuzman Kapidan, Ohrid 6000)
It has historical significance. It was built as a tribute to the disciple of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Clement. Also, according to history, the Glagolitic alphabet was taught for the first time in the monastery, which helped translate the Bible.
*** PLAOSHNIK (4Q7R+483, Kaneo Plaosnik Pateka, Ohrid 6000)
It is located at the foot of the Samuel’s fortress and it is an archaeological complex that will fascinate you. You will see buildings from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.
*** MOSQUE OF ALI PASHA (4R82+55X, St Clement of Ohrid, Ohrid 6000)
It is one of the first mosques built in North Macedonia and dates from the end of the 15th century.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** We would recommend taking a cruise on the lake.
*** It is worth a visit to the Icons Gallery to see important and unique religious icons.
*** Monastery of Saint Naum is also a church that deserves your attention.
*** Wander around the Old Bazzar which is the most lively spot of the city.
*** It is also worth visiting the churches of St. Petka, Saints Constantine and Helen, Holy Mother of God Bolnichka.
FOOD AND DRINK
The cuisine of Ohrid is fantastic! You can find restaurants with cuisines from all over the world, but we would recommend you to try the local delicacies. Try Sarma, Burek, Tavche Gravce which is made of the best-baked beans, Ohridska Pastmka, Veal Soup, Zelnik, Musaka, Kacamak, Shopska Salad, Falafel and the traditional Kebabs. You should definitely try the local Pastrmajlija pizza and the Turlitava stew. For dessert try Baklava, Ravanija and Tatlija. Local drinks are Rakija or Mastic. Accompany your food with beer or wine.
WHERE TO STAY
There are hotels and apartments for all prices, both in the city center and 5-6 kilometers away from the center.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** If you like extreme sports, then visit Tandem Paragliding Ohrid.
*** The Amam Shopping Center is an ideal place for your shopping.
*** Ohrid Mall is also a good place to do your shopping.
*** Also visit Old Bazaar Street for your shopping.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot.
CITIES NEAR OHRID
Major cities close to Ohrid are Elbasan (91km), Tirana (131km), Tetovo (132km), Skopje (181km), Pristina (256km), Thessaloniki (288km), Ioannina (315km), Sofia (432km).