8 Days – North Macedonia Pilgrimage Tour

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, begin your day surrounded by nature and spiritual tranquility with a visit to the breathtaking Matka Canyon — one of North Macedonia’s most treasured natural gems. Stroll along the canyon’s serene pathways and visit St. Andrew’s Monastery, beautifully nestled by the water and adorned with centuries-old frescoes.

From here, embark on a peaceful boat ride through the canyon to Vrelo Cave, believed to be one of the deepest underwater caves in the world — an unforgettable experience of calm, nature, and wonder. This afternoon, continue to St. Panteleimon Monastery in Gorno Nerezi, a sacred 12th-century site renowned for its exceptionally expressive Komnenian-era frescoes — considered masterpieces of Byzantine art. Take a quiet moment to reflect in this spiritual sanctuary overlooking the city.

Conclude the day atop Mount Vodno at the Millennium Cross, offering sweeping panoramic views across Skopje and the surrounding valleys — the perfect place to end a day filled with nature, history, and contemplation.
Overnight in Skopje

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, depart Skopje for a day filled with spiritual heritage, natural curiosities, and medieval charm.

Begin with a visit to the Church of St. George in Staro Nagoričane, a 14th-century Serbian-Byzantine masterpiece renowned for its exceptional medieval frescoes. Admire its expressive biblical scenes, rich iconography, and serene monastic surroundings — a true treasure of Orthodox art. Continue to the geological phenomenon of Kuklica, famously known as the “Stone Dolls.” Wander among these naturally formed stone pillars, surrounded by legends of weddings turned to stone — a blend of nature, mystery, and local folklore that sparks the imagination.

Your journey then leads to Kratovo, one of North Macedonia’s oldest towns, tucked into an ancient volcanic crater. Explore its charming bridges, stone tower-houses, and narrow alleys that tell stories of medieval trade, miners, and centuries-old craftsmanship. Enjoy some free time to relax, taste local specialties, or simply soak in Kratovo’s unique atmosphere.

As the afternoon unfolds, settle into your accommodation for a peaceful evening and well-deserved rest.
Overnight in Kratovo

After a delightful breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin a day that blends ancient history, culinary tradition, and spiritual heritage.
Travel to the archaeological site of Stobi, once the capital of Roman Macedonia Secunda and one of the most important early Christian centers in the Balkans. Walk through its remarkably preserved ruins — the Roman theatre, early Christian basilicas, mosaics, and ancient streets — as the story of this once-thriving city unfolds.
Continue to the heart of North Macedonia’s wine country, the Tikveš region, famous for centuries of winemaking tradition. Enjoy a relaxed lunch paired with a light wine tasting at a carefully selected local winery, discovering the region’s authentic flavors and signature varietals.

In the afternoon, your journey leads toward the slopes above Prilep, where the Treskavec Monastery sits dramatically perched among rugged golden rocks. If road access permits, admire the monastery’s serene setting and exterior, a place long treasured by monks, pilgrims, and poets alike for its breathtaking views and spiritual tranquility.

Arrive in Bitola in the early evening, check in to your hotel, and enjoy free time to unwind in this elegant city known as “The City of Consuls.”
Night over in Bitola

After breakfast, begin your morning with a journey through the ancient history of North Macedonia at Heraclea Lyncestis, founded in the 4th century BC by Philip II of Macedon. Explore its beautifully preserved Roman theatre, early Christian basilicas, intricate floor mosaics, and remnants of baths and colonnades — a remarkable window into the ancient world.
Continue to the heart of Bitola for a guided stroll along elegant Širok Sokak, the city’s most charming promenade lined with cafés, boutiques, and 19th-century architecture from its diplomatic era. Wander into the Old Bazaar and historic quarter, where time-worn streets and artisan shops echo Bitola’s vibrant past.

Your journey then continues toward Ohrid, stopping at the 12th-century Church of St. George in Kurbinovo — admired for its exceptional Byzantine frescoes, considered masterpieces of medieval art.
Cross the stunning Galičica National Park, pausing at panoramic viewpoints overlooking both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa — a breathtaking natural highlight of the day.

Arrive in Ohrid in the early evening, check into your hotel, and enjoy the remainder of the night at leisure by the lakeside.
Overnight in Ohrid

After breakfast, set off on a beautiful day on the water as you board a boat and glide along the peaceful shores of Lake Ohrid — one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes.
Your first stop is the remarkable Bay of Bones Museum, a reconstructed prehistoric pile-dwelling settlement built on stilts above the lake. Step back in time and discover how ancient communities lived over 3,000 years ago.
Continue to the secluded lakeside chapel of St. Zaum — accessible primarily by water. Admire its serenity, 14th-century frescoes, and the peaceful setting where history, nature, and spirituality blend in perfect harmony.

Your journey then continues to the iconic St. Naum Monastery, a jewel of Macedonian heritage. Explore the monastery complex, home to legends of St. Naum, listen to the calming sound of natural springs that feed the lake, and enjoy the presence of graceful peacocks wandering the grounds.

Return to Ohrid in the afternoon for a guided Old Town walking tour, where cobblestone lanes, ancient churches, and lakeside viewpoints reveal why Ohrid is known as “The Jerusalem of the Balkans.”
Overnight in Ohrid

After breakfast, begin your journey into one of North Macedonia’s most spiritual and naturally rich regions.
Your first stop is the charming mountain village of Vevčani, famous for its crystal-clear Vevčani Springs. Enjoy a gentle walk through the village’s pathways, where fresh spring water flows from the Jablanica mountain range — a refreshing start to the day in a place known for tradition, folklore, and strong cultural identity.

Continue through the scenic landscapes of Mavrovo National Park to the revered Bigorski Monastery of St. John the Baptist, one of the country’s most significant Orthodox sites. Admire its breathtaking setting, rich spiritual heritage, and the exquisite hand-carved wooden iconostasis, a masterpiece of sacred art that draws pilgrims and admirers from around the world.
Travel onward along Mavrovo Lake, a serene alpine-style reservoir framed by forested mountains — a perfect moment for photos and reflection.
Your final visit is to the iconic Painted Mosque (Šarena Džamija) in Tetovo, a true architectural treasure. Its vibrant exterior and richly decorated interior showcase a stunning fusion of Ottoman artistry and local craftsmanship, making it one of the most unique mosques in the Balkans.

Arrive in Skopje by evening, check into your hotel, and enjoy a restful night after a day filled with nature, culture, and spiritual heritage.
Overnight in Skopje

Breakfast and private airport transfer.