Part of the Balkans, partly Mediterranean and rich in Greek, Roman and Ottoman heritage, Northern Macedonia has a fascinating past and a complex national identity. The glittering lake of Ohrid and its historic city have sculpted a place for Northern Macedonia on the tourist map, but there is a wealth of natural beauty in this small country.
The dramatic mountains have quiet hiking trails, lakes and horseback riding opportunities. The national parks of Mavrovo, Galicica and Pelister are cultivating some excellent cultural and culinary tourism initiatives; these wonderful regions are still little explored, so if you want to get off the beaten path in Europe – this is the place. The tourist infrastructure is scarce, but the locals are infinitely useful.
The center of Skopje has suffered from a construction fun with grotesque faux-neoclassical grotesque monuments, buildings and fountains, funded by the previous government. Fortunately, its old Ottoman city and modern noisy areas are intact and remain charming and authentic.
