Skopje and Matka Canyon Full Day Cultural and Scenic Tour

8 hours Free CancellationPickup availableInstant confirmationGuided Operated by BulTrips Ltd 4.6 from 36 reviews

Why we love it?

The Full Day Tour of Skopje and Matka Canyon offers an immersive experience into the cultural and natural highlights of North Macedonia. Lasting eight hours, this tour is ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, as it combines a guided exploration of Skopje's rich heritage with a scenic boat trip in the stunning Matka Canyon. Participants will visit key sites, including the vibrant Bazaar and the historic Ottoman-era mosque, before ascending to the highest hill in the city for panoramic views. The tour's distinctive feature lies in its blend of urban exploration and serene natural beauty, making it a comprehensive introduction to the region.

Inclusions

  • Boat trip in Matka canyon
  • Entrance fees
  • Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions

  • Lunch

Itinerary

Stop 1

At 9:00 our guide will pick you up from your hotel/accommodation in Skopje. Your first stop will be in the Old Bazaar area of the city. You will have the chance to hear the stories about Yugoslavia and the modern way of life in the country from a native, which will make your experience much more fulfilled. In addition, you will compare the two historical interpretations and make your own conclusions. The highlights you will visit are the Old fortress, Sultan Murat Mosques, and the Old Bazaar, where we will have the chance to see Caravanserais (inns) from the Ottoman period when Skopje was one of the main trade centers on the Balkans.

Stop 2

After the Bazaar, you will climb on the highest hill of the city where the old fortress was situated. The remains of the fort are from the Middle Ages and the Ottoman period. You will learn about the history of those times and turbulences of the region.

Stop 3

A mosque from the Ottoman-era, built during the 15th century. It is a masterpiece of the architectural achievements of the early Ottoman empire.

Stop 4

To enter the new part of Skopje we will cross the Vardar River by the Stone bridge, the only preserved bridge from the Middle Ages. We will visit the new neo-classical square Macedonia. There we will admire the biggest statue of Alexander the Great and his father Phillip II. You will stop and learn the history of the ancient Macedonians and the adventures of their rulers. Despite that these rulers have never ruled from the lands of modern North Macedonia, the heritage of those famous people is in the foundations of the modern nationality of the Macedonians.

Stop 5

We will continue to Mother Teresa memorial house. She is the most famous person born in Skopje. Her work and contribution to the world deserve huge respect. In the house museum, you will learn about her story and will track her life by the big photography collection. The walking part of the tour will finish at the Gate Macedonia (newly built triumphal arch).
After the walking tour, you will have 2 hours of free time during which you will have the chance to have lunch and taste the traditional Macedonian cuisine. Feel free to ask your guide for recommendations.

Stop 6

After finishing with Skopje your guide will drive you to Matka Canyon. The driving time is around 40 minutes. This is one of the most beautiful places in Macedonia. You will admire it on a boat trip inside the canyon. The boat will stop us at the entrance of a beautiful and unique cave. Your guide will show you the inside of it. After that, we start our boat journey back to the car. During it, we will pass by probably the deepest underwater cave in the world. Unfortunately, you will not be able to see it in detail. When you get to the car our guide will drop you at your hotel in Skopje.

Please Note

  • Stroller or pram accessible
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Infants must not sit on laps

Know Before You Go

  • Public transportation nearby
  • Infant seats available

Cancellation Policy

Fully refundable until 1 day before start

Non-refundable after 1 day before start