One day tour to Ohrid and Ohrid lake from Skopje

Explore Macedonia’s Hidden Treasure: Ohrid and Lake Ohrid from Skopje

This one-day tour from Skopje offers a well-rounded experience of Ohrid, a UNESCO-recognized city famous for its medieval churches and ancient ruins. For $172.37 per person, travelers enjoy 12 hours of sightseeing, including a comfortable transfer, guided commentary, and free time to explore at their own pace. The tour features a small group size of up to 15 people, ensuring an intimate atmosphere.

Highlights include a courtesy hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to Ohrid’s historic old town, and the Monastery of Saint Naum, one of Macedonia’s most iconic religious sites. An optional boat cruise on Lake Ohrid adds an extra layer of adventure—costing €10 per person—and offers a chance to see natural underwater springs and visit the Forgotten church. While the tour is generally praised for its insightful guides and beautiful scenery, some reviews point out concerns about safety during the drive, which is worth considering.

Key Points

• Small group size of maximum 15 travelers for a more personal experience
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off from Skopje
• Visit the UNESCO-listed city of Ohrid and explore its old town, churches, and ruins
• Tour duration approximately 12 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time
• Optional boat trip on Lake Ohrid available for €10, with advance notice
• Live commentary helps deepen understanding of the area’s history and culture

Convenient Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off in Skopje

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am with a courtesy pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Skopje. The air-conditioned vehicle facilitates a roughly 3-hour scenic drive towards Ohrid, giving ample opportunity to enjoy views of North Macedonia’s countryside. The small group setting ensures a relaxed pace and easy interaction with the guide.

This end-to-end transportation setup minimizes hassle, making the journey smooth and enjoyable. The return trip to Skopje starts in the late afternoon, completing the 12-hour itinerary. The tour is accessible for most travelers, provided they are comfortable with a full day of activity and some driving.

Discover Ohrid’s Old Town and Medieval Sites

Ohrid’s compact old town is the heart of this tour, where narrow cobbled streets lead to historic medieval churches, monasteries, and ancient ruins. The Ancient theatre of Ohrid and Samoil’s fortress are among the key sights, offering glimpses into the city’s past prominence.

As the guide explains the significance of each site, visitors gain insight into Ohrid’s long history as a religious and cultural hub. The red-tiled roof houses and lively open-air spaces create a charming atmosphere that invites exploration. There’s free time during this stop to wander, take photos, and absorb the scenic views, making it ideal for photography or simply soaking in the ambiance.

Visiting the Monastery of Saint Naum

Following the city tour, the group heads towards the Monastery of Saint Naum, located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. The one-hour drive offers more opportunities to enjoy the Macedonian landscape. This monastery is a highlight, renowned for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.

Visitors can choose to enhance their experience with an optional boat cruise on Lake Ohrid, which costs €10 per person. The boat trip includes visits to natural underwater lake springs and the Forgotten church, making it a memorable addition. It’s recommended to notify your guide in advance if interested, as this activity requires planning.

Lake Ohrid Boat Trip and Additional Attractions

The optional boat cruise on Lake Ohrid is a standout feature, offering a relaxing way to view the lake’s natural beauty. This extra enriches the visit, providing a different perspective of the area and access to secluded spots like the Forgotten church.

While the boat trip is not included in the base price, many find it well worth the €10 cost for the views and unique experience. The boat ride takes you through underwater springs and past scenic vistas, adding a peaceful contrast to the busy city tour.

The Guide’s Approach and Commentary

Throughout the day, the guide provides live commentary that adds context and depth to each stop. The knowledge shared helps clarify the historical importance of sites like Samoil’s fortress and the church of Perivlepta. The guides’ explanations make the experience more engaging and informative.

Many reviews highlight guides like Lena and Elena for their knowledgeable and accommodating demeanor. Their storytelling enhances the visit, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

Transport Safety and Group Size Considerations

One note of caution from some reviewers is safety concerns related to the vehicle. Reports mention small, uncomfortable cars and erratic driving behavior, with speeds reaching 165 km/h in some instances—significantly above the 80 km/h speed limit. Travelers should be aware and consider their comfort with road safety.

The small group size of up to 15 people helps maintain a more personalized experience, but the vehicle’s safety and comfort are aspects to keep in mind when booking. The driver’s professionalism appears to vary, with some guests feeling less secure during the journey.

Practical Information: Pricing, Booking, and Cancellation

The tour costs $172.37 per person, reflecting its inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, and entrance fees for the main sites. It’s advisable to book approximately 54 days in advance, as the tour tends to fill up early. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility if plans change.

Booking includes all taxes and fees, with the only additional expense being food and drinks, and the optional boat trip. The tour’s mobile ticket feature makes it easy to manage your reservation on the day.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This Ohrid day trip suits travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided experience that balances sightseeing with free time. Those interested in UNESCO sites, medieval architecture, and natural scenery will enjoy this trip. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group atmospheres and want the convenience of hotel pickup.

However, travelers sensitive to vehicle comfort and road safety should weigh these factors before booking. The tour is best suited for those eager to explore Ohrid’s historic charm and natural beauty in a single day.

This tour delivers a well-organized and insightful exploration of Ohrid’s highlights. Its small-group format and live commentary create a more engaging experience. The optional boat trip adds a special touch, making it a versatile choice for visitors.

While some concerns about transport safety are worth noting, the overall value and scenic appeal of the tour remain strong. It suits travelers wanting an efficient yet personalized day out, combining cultural discovery with natural beauty.

How early should I book this tour?
Booking around 54 days in advance is recommended as it tends to be popular and fills up quickly.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, all fees and taxes, and admission to sites like Ohrid’s old town and the Monastery of Saint Naum. The boat cruise is optional and costs €10.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those uncomfortable with long drives or vehicle comfort issues should consider this.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior, with no penalty.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase them during the day.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The visit to Ohrid’s UNESCO-listed old town and the Monastery of Saint Naum, along with the scenic lake views, are the key attractions.

Is the boat trip mandatory?
No, it is an optional activity that requires advance notice and costs €10 per person.

What should I be aware of regarding transportation?
Some reviews mention small, uncomfortable vehicles and erratic driving, so consider your comfort and safety preferences.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is offered by BulTrips, known for organizing guided tours in Macedonia.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is fixed, but you can opt for the additional boat cruise if you wish to extend your experience.