North Macedonia Car Hire

Guide to North Macedonia

Geography

North Macedonia is a landlocked nation that shares its borders with Kosovo to the northwest, Serbia to the north, Bulgaria to the east, Greece to the south, and Albania to the west. The city of Skopje is the country's capital and biggest outpost. It's a part of the broader area of Macedonia, which also includes Greek Macedonia and Bulgaria's Blagoevgrad Province in the southwest.

North Macedonia’s central valley is carved out by the Vardar River and mountain ranges around its boundaries. The landscape is largely rough, situated between the Šar Mountains and the Osogovo, which surround the Vardar River basin. The borders with Albania and Greece are divided by three huge lakes: Lake Ohrid, Lake Prespa, and Lake Dojran.

Climate in North Macedonia

North Macedonia has three distinct climate zones: a cool northern one, a warm southern one, and hilly terrain in the higher altitudes. It also has four distinct seasons, with hot, dry summers and harsh, icy winters. Temperature ranges have been observed from 20°C in the winter to 40°C in the summer.

The best time to visit North Macedonia is from June through September during the summer, but be aware that these are also the busiest travel months. From April on, it's quite safe to visit due to the country's mild seasonal environment.

Culture

Macedonia’s civilization goes back thousands of years. An Old European (Neolithic) culture thrived there between 7000 and 3500 BCE, according to archaeological data. The Balkan Peninsula was colonised by semi-nomadic groups speaking Indo-European languages. Macedonia was home to a diverse population throughout the first millennium BCE, including Dacian, Thracian, Illyrian, Celt, and Greek populations. Furthermore, North Macedonia's popular culture is a fascinating mash-up of indigenous customs and foreign influences. In addition to rock and pop, folk and dance music remain popular. It also has a strong tradition of icon painting and wood carving.

History in North Macedonia

Until September 1991, the nation was a part of the former Yugoslavia. To the displeasure of residents of Greece, the country became known as Macedonia upon its independence. The reason for this is because the historical territory of Macedonia is mostly in Greece. As a result of a deal between the governments of North Macedonia and Greece, the country's official name became North Macedonia as of February 12, 2019.

Macedonian wine

Did you know that North Macedonia has been making wine for almost 4,000 years? Cabernet and Pinot Grigio grow in abundance in the vineyards, but so are indigenous grapes that are seldom seen elsewhere. North Macedonia is home to 90% of the world's Vranec vineyards, and the country's main city, Skopje, has a wine festival and tastings every October to commemorate World Vranec Day. North Macedonia's wine tourism industry is booming, with more vineyards and wineries opening their doors to the public. Plan an itinerary that includes stops at Lazar Winery and Popova Kula Winery. Both provide vineyard tours, tastings, and lodging in picturesque locations.

Things to do in North Macedonia

Discover Skopje’s Old Bazaars

Since the 12th century, the Old Bazaar in Skopje has been a commercial nexus. It was along the Vardar River and a major commerce route connecting Sarajevo with Athens. For mediaeval traders, the Ottomans created an enormous network of open and covered market halls. It's an interesting section of town to visit despite the fact that it's been damaged by earthquakes, fires, and the passage of time. This historic market is now under government protection as a national historic landmark. There are several artisan workshops and traditional handicrafts to choose from, as well as other options for entertainment and accommodation in the region. While you’re here, you can also visit the Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia and the Museum of Modern Art.

Get a bird’s eye of Skopje from Mount Vodno

Skopje's adjacent mountain, which soars above the city, is the perfect spot to get away from it all. It is possible to conquer Vodno while still having a relaxing time in its lovely park forest, as long as you know your way around. Taking the cable car up is a great option if you're not a big lover of physical exertion. With a wide range of panoramic vistas, it'll take you all the way to the top of the mountain and back. Alternatively, you can consider renting a bike to take on the tougher terrain. There's nothing that gets your blood pumping like a long, winding ascent. From one trailhead to the next, you can see for miles and miles. Follow the asphalt road to Middle Vodno, where a lonely chapel awaits.

Appreciate the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, North Macedonia's capital, is a mash-up of styles and architectural elements. The marble came from Munich, the metal was obtained in Berlin and fabricated in Vienna, and the mosaics came from Venice. With a Neo-Byzantine style exterior and a seating capacity of 10,000 worshippers, this Eastern Orthodox cathedral is the largest in the world. Despite the fact that the inside is world-renowned for its beauty, photography is not permitted. Seeing a location through a camera lens isn't the same as seeing it in person. Visit the church and there's a good chance you'll hear the choir sing.

Relax on the shores of Lake Ohrid

North Macedonia and Albania share Lake Ohrid, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This lake, one of Europe's oldest and deepest, is an important biosphere reserve as well as a beautiful spot to unwind. If you're a traveller, you're probably going to stay in one of the lakeside towns of Ohrid or Struga. Lake Ohrid is considered the spiritual centre of North Macedonia, a captivating hue of blue surrounded by nature and peppered with historic monasteries, such as the Church of Saint John at Kaneo and St Naum Monastery, one of North Macedonia's oldest and wealthiest monasteries. In addition to the lake's stunning aesthetics, the surrounding landscape is also impressive. Snuggle up on a grassy hillside with a good view of it and take in the scenery.

Learn about the ancient Macedonian Empire at Heraclea

Heraclea, the best-preserved Macedonian Empire ruin, is known for its magnificent mosaics, old amphitheatre, and bathhouses. Strabo and Polybius both discussed it in their writings. It was in the control of Caesar's army when he attempted to capture it. This magnificent fortress town. met the same demise as Stobi, but this one was well-preserved, making it one of the most fascinating artefacts from the Roman period. Roam among the eerie ruins which may be found on the hills below the settlement of Bukovo, just south of Bitola. The ruins include a modest museum with a few artefacts, but wandering around them and finding hidden gems like the Episcopal church and the Roman baths is much more enjoyable.

Go in search of exotic fauna at Mavrovo National Park

In terms of size and beauty, Mavrovo is a standout candidate in North Macedonia's National Park System. It's an excellent area to take a vacation between Lake Ohrid and Skopje, with its gorges, pine woods, karst fields, and waterfalls. It has some of the top ski slopes in the nation in the winter. Summer, on the other hand, is when the park is at its best. Many interesting places can be found inside the park's limits, including monasteries, cheese producers, and picturesque towns like Jane and Galinik, which are well-known for their traditional village wedding celebrations, one of the country's most unique summer festivities. You can find bears, lynx, wolves, deer, and rare species of birds here.

Kayak through the spectacular Matka canyon

Any trip to North Macedonia should include kayaking through the breathtaking canyon of Matka. The craggy rocks seem much more intimidating when seen from the ocean. The play of sunlight on the faces of the mountain at various times during the day is absolutely stunning. Only kayaks are permitted here, and the most popular paddle is up to Vrelo Cave and back in a kayak. It's easy to get started; simply rent a kayak from the Canyon Matka Hotel's front desk and go. Kayaking to the cave and back takes around two hours, so plan on spending some time exploring the cave's dimly lit pathways and wooden stairways, which lead to a succession of subterranean lakes. The best part is that Skopje is just around 10 kilometres away from the canyon.

Awe at the technicolour Painted Mosque of Tetovo

A must-see in North Macedonia is the Painted Mosque in Tetovo, 43 kilometres from Skopje. Built in the 15th century and demolished in the 17th, and then rebuilt again in the 19th century with every colour in the artist's palette, this mosque is not only an art-lover’s paradise but also an architectural marvel. With just a few brilliantly coloured rectangles enclosing the lattice windows on the mosque's southern side, visitors get a little taste of what's within. The interior is adorned with colourful paintings painted in floral, geometric, and arabesque designs on every inch of the walls and balconies. Step inside with your shoes removed and be ready to have your senses assaulted.

Eating out in North Macedonia

North Macedonian cuisine is a wonderful combination of Turkish, Mediterranean, and Balkan cuisines. Burek, often known as “salty pie,” is a common food in the region. This warm, doughy spinach or cheese delight may be found all over the place. Then there's ajvar, a spicy red pepper and garlic sauce, and shopska, a tomato, onion, cucumber, and green pepper salad topped with sharp sheep cheese, all of which are prevalent in Macedonian cuisine. And that's just the beginning. Tavče gravče, a substantial bean stew, stuffed peppers, sarmi (stuffed cabbage), and other grilled meats are also popular dishes. When paired with one of the country's 84 wineries, a North Macedonian feast is absolutely delicious.

Distrikt Bar and Kitchen fuses Eastern European and Mediterranean influences and their local specialities like kraski smoked pork and korab kačkaval sheep's cheese are out of this world. Gostilnica Dukat's comforting riblja orba is the pinnacle of North Macedonian comfort cuisine. Known for its Kantina burger, which is topped with local kačkaval cheese and aioli, Kantina is a hipster hangout, which is especially popular in the summer, when local street artists decorate it with graffiti. Visit Tutto in Mavrovo National Park for their Macedonian specialities like slow-roast lamb and pita (coiled filo pastry pies filled with spinach and cheese). Letna Bavča Kaneo in Ohrid has the perfect mix of ambience, great cuisine, and friendly service. Trout is served both fresh and smoked, while courgettes are packed with a fragrant herb and rice.

North Macedonia Transport

Airport

North Macedonia has two international airports: Skopje International Airport (SKP) and Ohrid St. Paul The Apostle Airport (OHD). MAT Macedonian Airlines is the national flag carrier.

Getting around North Macedonia

Getting around by train is a cheap option, despite the country's rugged terrain limiting the extent of the rail network. Macedonia's public bus service becomes better and better every year. There are two bus terminals in Skopje, and they provide a wide network of local buses.

Taxis are the most common mode of transportation in Macedonia. Renting a vehicle in Macedonia is also quite simple because of the country's well-developed road system. Airports and tourist regions include car rental agencies, including local branches of multinational corporations, with rates comparable to those in the US and UK.

Top Tips when hiring a car in North Macedonia

● Rental Car: Consider renting a car for convenient transportation during your stay in North Macedonia.

● Cheap Car Hire: Look for affordable and budget-friendly car hire options to save money on your travel expenses.

● Car Rental Agencies: Research various car rental agencies in North Macedonia to compare prices, vehicle options, and customer reviews.

● Car Hire Locations: Identify convenient car hire locations in North Macedonia, such as airports, train stations, or city centers, to easily pick up and drop off your rental vehicle.

● Car Rental Companies: Explore different car rental companies operating in North Macedonia to find the one that offers the best rates and service quality.

● Car Hire Deals: Keep an eye out for special car hire deals and promotions that can help you secure a cost-effective rental package.

● Car Hire Deal: Compare multiple car hire deals to find the most suitable option for your needs, whether it's based on price, vehicle type, or included features.

● Car Hire Company: Choose a reputable car hire company with a solid track record of customer satisfaction and reliable vehicles.

● Best Car Hire Deal: Conduct thorough research and compare prices, terms, and conditions to secure the best car hire deal that meets your requirements.

● Popular Car Hire Locations: Consider renting a car from popular locations in North Macedonia, such as Skopje or Ohrid, as they are likely to have a wider selection of vehicles and better service.

● Car in North Macedonia: Ensure that you are familiar with the local driving regulations and traffic rules in North Macedonia before getting behind the wheel.

● Hire Cars: Select a suitable car type based on your preferences and needs, whether it's a compact car for urban driving or a larger vehicle for more extensive exploration.

● North Macedonia Car: Look for car hire options specifically tailored for North Macedonia to ensure that your rental vehicle is suitable for the local terrain and climate.

● Rental Cars: Book your rental car in advance to secure availability, especially during peak travel seasons or for popular events and festivals.

● Surprice Car Rental: Consider Surprice Car Rental as one of the reputable car rental agencies in North Macedonia, known for its competitive rates and quality service.

● Car Rentals: Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of the car rental agreement, including insurance coverage, fuel policy, mileage restrictions, and any additional fees.

● Luxury Cars: If you're looking for a more upscale experience, inquire about luxury car rental options available in North Macedonia.

● International Driving Permit: Check if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive in North Macedonia and obtain one in advance if required.

● Van Hire: If you're traveling with a larger group or carrying substantial luggage, consider renting a van to accommodate your needs.