Full day tour of Skopje and Matka canyon

Exploring Skopje and Matka Canyon in a single day offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and nature. This full-day tour from BulTrips costs $97.44 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours, making it an ideal option for those wanting a comprehensive experience without rushing. With small-group sizes of up to 8 travelers, the tour provides a more personalized feel, and pickup from your hotel is included, adding convenience to the day.

You’ll visit key sites in Skopje, including the Old Bazaar, Skopje Fortress Kale, and the Memorial House of Mother Teresa. The tour also includes a scenic drive to Matka Canyon, where a boat trip and a visit to a cave highlight the natural beauty of North Macedonia. Despite some mixed reviews about guide enthusiasm and organization, the overall experience is well-regarded and offers a great way to see both the city and its nearby natural wonder.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $97.44, this 8-hour guided tour covers Skopje’s top sights and Matka Canyon.
• Popular Stops: You visit the Old Bazaar, Skopje Fortress, Sultan Murad Mosque, and Macedonia Square, plus Mother Teresa House.
• Natural Highlight: The boat trip through Matka Canyon includes a stop at a cave and a glimpse of the world’s deepest underwater cave.
• Small Group Advantage: With up to 8 travelers, the tour offers more attention from guides and a more intimate experience.
• Flexible Free Time: After the city tour, enjoy about 2 hours to relax, explore independently, or try local cuisine.

From the Old Town to the Skopje Fortress

The tour starts at 9:00 am with pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Skopje. The first stop is the Old Bazaar, a lively area full of Ottoman-era Caravanserais and historic buildings. Here, the guide shares stories about Yugoslavia and local life, giving a personal touch to the history. Admission to this area is free, but you get plenty of context about Skopje’s past and present.

Next, the Skopje Fortress Kale sits atop the highest hill in the city, offering panoramic views. The fortress dates back to the Middle Ages and Ottoman times, with remains that tell stories of turbulent history. The guide explains the region’s past and the significance of this historic site during a one-hour visit.

Exploring Ottoman Architecture at Sultan Murad Mosque

The Sultan Murad Mosque is a highlight for its stunning 15th-century architecture. Built during the Ottoman era, this mosque demonstrates early Ottoman design achievements. The guide provides insights into its history, and the visit lasts about 20 minutes, offering a quick but meaningful glimpse into the Ottoman influence on Skopje.

Discovering Modern Skopje at Macedonia Square

Crossing the Vardar River via the Stone Bridge, travelers enter the newer part of Skopje. The neo-classical Macedonia Square features the largest statue of Alexander the Great and his father, Philip II. The guide discusses the history behind these figures and their connection to Macedonian identity, despite their ruling lands being outside modern North Macedonia. This stop is an hour long, allowing time for photos and understanding the blend of history and modernity.

Honoring Mother Teresa in the Memorial House

The Memorial House of Mother Teresa celebrates the city’s most famous native. Visitors learn about her life and global humanitarian work through a collection of photographs at the museum. The tour ends this segment at Gate Macedonia, a recently built triumphal arch, marking the end of the walking tour.

Free Time and Macedonian Cuisine

After the city stops, travelers have approximately 1 hour to enjoy lunch and sample local Macedonian dishes. Guides are available to recommend restaurants, making this a relaxed moment before heading to Matka Canyon.

Journey to Matka Canyon and Cave Exploration

The drive to Matka Canyon takes about 40 minutes. This natural area is renowned for its striking scenery and tranquility. The boat trip inside the canyon lasts around 2 hours, providing spectacular views of cliffs and water.

A highlight of this part of the tour is the visit to a cave, accessible via boat stop. The guide shows the interior, and during the return journey, you pass by what is probably the deepest underwater cave in the world — although it remains out of reach for detailed viewing. The boat trip ends back at the starting point, and your guide will then transport you back to your hotel.

Practical Details: Transport, Inclusions, and Limitations

The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transportation and all entrance fees, making it straightforward to enjoy the day without extra costs. Lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The maximum group size of 8 ensures a comfortable pace and more personalized interaction. Confirmations are received immediately upon booking, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with some flexibility needed for physical accessibility.

Tour Reviews and Insights

With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 8 reviews, the tour receives praise for its knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery of Matka Canyon. Guides like Lena and Boris are commended for their friendliness, expertise, and ability to keep the group engaged.

Some reviews mention minor organizational issues or overly enthusiastic guides, but these do not detract significantly from the overall positive experience. The boat ride and the cave visit are frequently highlighted as tour highlights, especially for nature lovers.

Final Thoughts on the Skopje and Matka Canyon Tour

This tour offers a balanced combination of historical sites and natural scenery, perfect for those wanting to experience Skopje’s cultural layers and the impressive landscapes nearby. The small group size and personalized guide service enhance the experience, though some may find the pace a bit quick or the enthusiasm levels vary among guides.

The $97.44 price includes all major activities, with two hours of free time for lunch or personal exploration. It suits travelers who appreciate a structured yet intimate overview of Skopje’s highlights combined with a scenic boat trip in Matka Canyon.

If you’re interested in seeing both the historic and natural charms of North Macedonia on a well-organized day, this tour provides a practical and enjoyable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers all entrance fees, boat trip in Matka Canyon, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Lunch is not included.

How long is the free time for lunch?
After visiting the main sites, you have about 1 hour for lunch, during which you can explore local restaurants and try Macedonian cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
The tour involves walking around historic sites and a boat trip, so travelers should be comfortable with some walking. It is designed for most travelers, though physical accessibility specifics are not detailed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are available otherwise.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by BulTrips, with a contact email at [email protected] and phone number +359888898318.