Explore Skopje’s rich history and unwind in Matka Canyon’s natural beauty on a captivating day trip from Sofia.
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Old Bazaar, Skopje - The day tour to Skopje begins with a pick-up from a centrally located hotel or accommodation in Sofia at 08:00 am. After a guided journey of approximately 3 and a half hours, the group will arrive in Skopje. During the drive, participants will gain insights into the Bulgarian perspective on the region’s history. Upon arrival, a local Macedonian guide will lead a two-hour tour of the city, sharing stories about Yugoslavia and contemporary life in the country, enriching the experience. This tour offers a chance to compare historical narratives and form personal conclusions. Key attractions include the Old Fortress, Sultan Murat Mosques, and the Old Bazaar, where visitors can see Caravanserais (inns) from the Ottoman era, when Skopje was a major trade hub in the Balkans.
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Skopje Fortress Kale - This historical fortress, located at Skopje’s highest point, offers breathtaking views of the city.
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Sultan Murad Mosque - An Ottoman-era mosque built in the 15th century, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the early Ottoman Empire.
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The Stone Bridge - The tour crosses the Vardar River via the Stone Bridge, the only surviving bridge from the Middle Ages, to explore the city’s modern section.
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Macedonia Square - The tour visits the new neo-classical Macedonia Square, featuring the largest statues of Alexander the Great and his father, Phillip II. Here, participants will learn about the history of ancient Macedonians and the exploits of their rulers.
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Memorial House of Mother Teresa - The tour continues to the Mother Teresa Memorial House, honoring the most renowned person born in Skopje. Her global contributions are highly respected. The museum offers a glimpse into her life through an extensive photography collection. The walking tour concludes at the Gate Macedonia, a newly constructed triumphal arch.
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Matka Canyon - The itinerary does not allow for a lunch break in Skopje, so it is advisable to have fast food during the walking tour or bring sandwiches, which can be purchased at a petrol station before reaching the city. After the walking tour, the local guide will drive the group to Matka Canyon, where there will be approximately an hour and a half to appreciate the natural beauty. A boat trip through the canyon will pass by what is likely the world’s deepest underwater cave. At 16:00, the group will reconvene and depart for Sofia. During the return journey, there will be an opportunity to discuss impressions and ask questions.
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- All fees and/or taxes
- English-speaking professional Macedonian guide
- English-speaking professional Bulgarian guide/driver
- Lunch
- Gratitude to the guides
On this day excursion, we will explore the two critical landmarks of Northern Macedonia – Skopje, the capital city, and the awe-inspiring natural beauty – Matka Canyon. We journey back in time as we delve into the elderly section of Skopje, absorbing its genuine charm, and uncover the contemporary historical interpretation embraced by the Macedonians as we traverse the city’s newer region renovated during the ‘Skopje 2014’ project. As a finale, we will retreat from the whirlwind of history and fresh information to find solace in the divine natural setting of Matka Canyon.
- We understand your concerns in relation to COVID 19, therefore we’ve taken the needed measures for you to feel safe. All our guides and drivers go through regular medical checks, wear masks during the tours and in each vehicle, we have a disinfectant spray. Furthermore due to the situation nowadays we organize tours only for small groups (up to 7 persons) and we have the option for private tours.
- Please note that due to the current COVID situation you need to have any of the mentioned so that you can cross the border from North Macedonia to Bulgaria: negative PCR test (made up to 72 hours before you cross the border), negative antigen test (made up to 48 hours before you cross the border) or vaccination card (proving that you are fully vacinated).
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
