From Skopje: Private Full-Day Tour of Ohrid and Saint Naum

Explore Ohrid’s Historic Old Town and Iconic Landmarks

This full-day private tour from Skopje takes you on a journey through the most celebrated sights of Ohrid, a city renowned for its beauty and historical significance. The tour begins with a 2.5-hour guided walk through Ohrid’s old town, where you’ll see the church of Saint Sophia, the Roman amphitheater, and the Icon Gallery. The gallery houses some of the world’s most famous icons, providing a fascinating glimpse into religious art.

Next, you’ll visit the Saint Clements Church of the Holy Mother of God Most Glorious, known for its 13th-century frescoes. The Tsar Samuels Fortress offers panoramic views of the lake and city, named after the first Macedonian Slavic tsar. The highlight for many is the Church of Saint Jovan at Kaneo, perched on cliffs above the lake, offering a stunning photo opportunity.

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Scenic Drive and Comfortable Transfers

The tour features an air-conditioned transfer in a private minivan or car, ensuring a smooth journey from Skopje to Ohrid. The 12-hour itinerary is designed for comfort and efficiency, with direct hotel pickup and drop-off in Skopje included. The transfer allows you to relax en route, while the guide provides informative commentary about the region’s history and culture.

Traveling in a private group means the experience is tailored to your pace, and the guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Turkish. The comfortable transport and attentive guides make this tour accessible even for those who prefer a leisurely exploration.

Visiting Saint Naum Monastery and Its Sacred Springs

After exploring Ohrid, the journey continues to the Monastery of Saint Naum, located where the Black Drin river meets Lake Ohrid. The monastery is part of the National Park Galicica, and its chapel houses the tomb of Saint Naum, decorated with frescoes depicting his life and miracles.

The monastery grounds provide a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views of the lake and surrounding nature. The springs at Saint Naum are a notable feature, adding to the spiritual and natural appeal of this site. Visitors often enjoy walking around the monastery complex and taking photos of the scenic landscape.

The Bay of Bones Neolithic Settlement

A unique aspect of this tour is the visit to the Bay of Bones, a Neolithic settlement that shows how early inhabitants lived around 1,200 B.C. This stop provides insights into ancient life and offers a different perspective from the religious sites, highlighting the region’s archaeological importance. The site is a short break but enriches the overall experience with a glimpse into prehistoric times.

Lake Ohrid Boat Cruise and Clifftop Views at Kaneo

One of the tour’s distinctive features is the option to cruise the waters of Lake Ohrid by boat, providing a relaxing way to experience the lake’s vast beauty. Travelers often choose to return from the Church of Saint Jovan at Kaneo by boat, which offers a different view of the cliffs and the old town.

The Church of Saint Jovan at Kaneo itself is a favorite stop, known for its stunning location on the cliffs above the lake. This spot offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to absorb the tranquil atmosphere with the lake stretching out below.

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Visiting the Monastery of Saint Naum and Its Frescoes

The monastery complex, located at the confluence of the Black Drin and Lake Ohrid, is notable for its frescoes illustrating Saint Naum’s life and miracles. The chapel is a central feature, housing his tomb and adding spiritual significance to the visit. The surrounding nature and spring waters enhance the tranquil and sacred feel of the site.

Practical Details: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The tour includes a licensed guide who shares insights into the history and culture of each site visited. The transport is in a private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility. Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided in Skopje, making the logistics straightforward.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking through historic streets, archaeological sites, and monastery grounds. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems, due to the physical nature of some stops.

While entrance tickets and food or drinks are not included, the tour offers excellent value considering the comprehensive itinerary and personalized guide service. Cancelation is flexible, allowing for a refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

The Experience and Customer Feedback

This tour receives a perfect 5-star rating based on eight reviews, with comments highlighting the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value. Guides like Ivana and Robert receive praise for their friendliness, expertise, and attention to guest needs, including re-routing walks for those with mobility issues.

Reviewers appreciate the balance of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights, describing the experience as fantastic and varied. Many mention the safety, comfort, and informative nature of the trip, making it an appealing choice for visitors staying in Skopje.

Final Thoughts on the Private Full-Day Tour of Ohrid and Saint Naum

This private tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Ohrid’s most famous sites, combined with a scenic drive and a visit to the monastery of Saint Naum. The guided walks are informative and manageable in duration, with the option of boat rides adding a special touch.

It is especially suitable for those who value comfort, personalized attention, and culture. The 12-hour itinerary covers a lot without feeling rushed, thanks to the efficient transport and attentive guides.

While entrance fees are not included, the overall experience delivers excellent value given the quality of sites, guides, and convenience. This tour is ideal for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and lake lovers eager to see Ohrid’s highlights in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Skopje.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 12 hours.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides can speak English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Turkish.

What should I bring for the tour?
Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes and any personal items needed for a full day of exploring.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets are not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Guides can re-route walks, but the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, so it may not be ideal for everyone with mobility limitations.

Is this tour appropriate for pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women.

Can I visit Saint Naum and Ohrid by boat?
Yes, there are options to return by boat from Kaneo, providing a scenic view of the lake and old town.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized guided experience, scenic stops, and visits to key sites like Saint Naum and Kaneo make this tour a comprehensive way to explore Ohrid and its surroundings in one day.

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