Ohrid, Macedonia Guide: The Old Town on a Lake
Last Updated: August 2, 2026
UNVEIL THE MAGICAL TOWN OF OHRID, MACEDONIA, NOW?
HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY |Â THINGS TO DO |Â WHERE TO EATÂ | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE
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Marvel at Macedonia's Masterpiece
The vast and picturesque Lake Ohrid adjoins the two countries of North Macedonia and Albania.
Ohrid lies on the northeast of the lake, within Macedonia, and is a lakeside retreat with more history and beauty in one of its narrow and hilly cobbled streets than some whole countries can muster.
In this Ohrid travel guide, we will look at where to stay in Ohrid, what to do in Ohrid, and, of course, the best bars and restaurants in Ohrid.
If you're looking for a perfect beach holiday or an exploring city break with culture and history this is it.
All this and more from my short stay in September 2024.
You won't want to miss out, trust me!
What's Ohrid, Macedonia Like?
Ohrid can be separated into the maze-like Old Town, and the newer, less attractive, outer perimeter.Â
Ohrid old town gently caresses the crystal clear waters of the lake, which, in return, gently shines and polishes the pebbly shores.
Where the two meet, the best lakeside bars provide moments of heaven, and somewhere to enjoy a refreshing cold beer after a day of exploration.
A rickety wooden boardwalk dances over the lake, linking the old town to one of the most picturesque scenes I've ever witnessed at the Church of Saint John the Theologian.
Within the town, the slim, uneven, flawlessly clean, shiny cobbled streets rise and weave up the cliff, like a river's tributary through an eclectic mix of red-tiled buildings.
Colourful flowers gleam throughout, as historic landmarks dot Ohrid old town.
The narrow steps wind you up the cliff, where, once at the top, unrivalled views await. You'll look down on the almost edited bluey-green waters that disappear into the mist that never leaves the southern shores, while mountains tower on all three sides of Lake Ohrid.
Red-tiled roofs stagger down the mountain with the occasional grand building, often a church, taking centre stage.
From the old town square on the water's edge, you can walk the vibrant and busy Old Bazaar Street, where shops, bars and restaurants await.
In truth, Ohrid is worth visiting and is one of the best old towns I've had the pleasure of visiting.
How to Get To Ohrid, Macedonia
Ohrid, Macedonia is fast becoming a holiday hotspot, and travel links to Ohrid are only going to improve. As it stands, things aren't always easy, but Ohird is worth it.
Travel from Ohrid Airport to Ohrid
Despite being so small, Ohrid has an international airport, St. Paul The Apostle Airport, located about 6.5 miles (10.4km) north of Ohrid.
There are only a handful of airlines that fly direct to Ohrid, they are, Wizz Air, Turkish Airlines, Chair Airlines, Corendon Airlines and Edelweiss.
The airport only has a maximum of four to five flights a day. Normally, it's about two.
Nevertheless, if you take this route, there are two ways to get from Ohrid Airport to Ohrid.
They are; self-drive or taxis.
If you don't have a car and opt for the self-drive route, several companies around the airport rent cars - check who. The drive to the city will take roughly fifteen to twenty minutes.
Taxis will take around fifteen to twenty minutes and have a set price from the airport to Ohrid. As of 2024, that price is 730MKD (£10).
Travel from Skopje to Ohrid
Heads up, the train and bus station in Skopje are at the same location, just south of the river and about ten minutes walk southeast of Mother Theresa Bridge. If you're taking the train or bus, you must pay the mandatory station fee, 50MKD (£0.65) per person.
If you are travelling from Skopje to Ohrid you have two real options.
Frankly don't bother looking for a train from Skopje to Ohrid. It doesn't exist. You'll bounce around from town to town and then end up catching a bus from the nearest city to Ohrid Bus station. It takes way too long and will cost too much.
Hence, the two options are.
Firstly, you can get a taxi, which will take around two hours and forty minutes and cost about 6,500MKD (£90).
However, if you're travelling solo or on a budget, the best way is to get the Skopje to Ohrid bus. Again, don't mess about with lots of local buses, they take too long and will again, cost more than if you take the direct approach with a well-known company.
There are several out there. However, I recommend FlixBus, they may use Makedonija Soobrakaj AD. Either way, they complete the journey from the bus/train station in three and a half hours (including a rest stop). Prices start at around 900MKD (£12.33).
Travel from Tirana to Ohrid
If you're travelling from Tirana to Ohrid, the only option is to take the Tirana to Ohrid bus.
Like Skopje, don't bother taking numerous local buses. Take the direct, and frankly, quicker and cheaper option of FlixBus.
They operate via two bus companies Nela Travel and Euro Bus. If you can, get the Nela Travel bus, they're much more relaxing, comfy, friendly and better organised.
They leave regularly from TEG - Tirana East Gate, about half an hour south of the Tirana centre via the number 8 bus. From the TEG the bus takes around three hours (including a rest stop and the border crossing) and costs roughly 1,100MKD (£15). Have your passport with you.
Where is Ohrid Bus Station?
The buses from Skopje and Tirana arrive at Ohrid bus station, a good twenty-minute walk north of the old town, where you should be looking to stay. Sadly, there are no viable buses to or from Ohrid Bus Station to Ohrid old town.
Also, when you end your trip in Ohrid and leave via Ohrid Bus station you will have to pay the mandatory station fee of 50MKD (£0.65) per person before you're allowed on the bus (cash or card).
However, there are taxis, which will take less than five minutes.
If you ask the Flixbus driver nicely, they may drop you at the Ohrid bus stop, a short walk from the old town and Old Bazaar Street.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Ohrid, Macedonia?
Ultimately, I'd say stay as long as possible. A vibe of pure happiness in Ohrid makes it worth visiting, and there's always something to see or do.
However, being sensible, three nights is long enough to explore Ohrid old town. In that time frame, you should be able to visit many churches, take a boat ride and enjoy some lakeside bars. Who knows, maybe even a quad bike adventure or a paragliding experience???
The Best Time of The Year For Discovering The Beauty of Ohrid, Macedonia
Honestly, any time of the year is the best time to visit. Just make sure you do.
Yet, I am told by the locals, that May is the best time of year to visit Ohrid. If you can't make May, June should be just perfect too. During May, the mosquitos disappear, the weather in Ohrid makes the lake ideal for swimming and the sun glistens high in the sky.
Where do I sign up?
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Ohrid, Macedonia
Ok, so when we talk about accommodation in Ohrid, Macedonia, what we really mean is Ohrid old town. Don't look outside of that.
The old town is a small area surrounded by Lake Ohrid to the south, Old Bizaara Street to the east and the c-shaped wooded area curving from the north around the west.
It's as simple as that. Anywhere within that area is the best place to stay in Ohrid.
Nevertheless, if you're looking for a lake view, you'll want to be slightly higher up the cliff. Yet still within a few minutes walk of the tiny harbour, lakeside bars and restaurants.
Hence, I think my suggestion is pretty much perfectly located.
Important Heads up: If you book accommodation in Ohrid, Macedonia with an international booking agent, like Booking.com, you don't pay them. They will secure your booking. However, you pay cash to the property owner on the day you move in. It may sound strange or a little off-putting, but that's how it works here.
Ines Apartments
- What: Gorgeous one-bed apartment overlooking the lake.Â
- Where: In Ohrid old town and only a four-minute walk up the hill from the main square. (map)
- Why: It's the cleanest apartment I've ever stayed in and has a balcony to die for. Plus, it's comfy and in the perfect location.
- Why Not: There are more than two of you.
Where to start? There's too much to talk about.
Angela is the ideal host, and couldn't do enough for us. She was amazing. She went out of her way to make everything perfect for us.
And everything was just that: perfect.
The apartment was so clean I could eat my dinner off the floor. Likewise, the decor and levels of comfort were impeccable. Everything felt warm, cosy and inviting - especially that big fluffy bed.
Again, the bathroom continued in the same vein and was beautifully finished with great facilities, including a lovely rain shower.
However, that balcony won us over the most. It was heavenly. Views over Lake Ohrid and the sunrises and sunsets were sublime.
I wanted to stay there forever.
All in all, I wouldn't book any other accommodation in Ohrid, Macedonia. I'd wait until this place was free and go then.
In September 2024, I paid 4000MKD (£55) a night, for two people.
Further Accommodation
Luckily, if Ines Apartments is fully booked, there are many other places to stay in Ohrid, Macedonia.
The most common styles of accommodation on Lake Ohrid are villas and apartments. They're scattered everywhere.
Nevertheless, if you're not looking for an apartment, fear not.
Numerous hotels line the lakefront, and despite being just outside the old town, they are close enough to call it a good location to stay in Ohrid.
Lastly, there are hostels and homestays. A few are in or on the fringes of the old town and are the cheapest way to stay in Ohrid.
Whichever style you go for, book early to avoid disappointment.
Below are my trust trio of links to accommodation in Ohrid.
Best Things to do in Ohrid, Macedonia
In this part of my travel guide to Ohrid, Macedonia we will look at all the best things to do in Ohrid, and even a few things I have earmarked for my next visit.
I wouldn't normally mention things I am yet to do. Nonetheless, I didn't do them, because I had no idea they were here, hence, I want to tell you about them.
That way you won't miss out like I did. Likewise, you might want to book them before you travel to Ohrid.
Firstly, everything I mention in full below is accessible and easily reachable from within the old town. That is, as long as you don't require a wheelchair. While the old town is small, it is steep, uneven and more often than not, there are steps.
That said, one of the best things about Ohrid is exploring the old town and checking out the narrow streets and insane architecture. And, of course, a cheeky cocktail or beer on the water's edge.
Now for those things to do in Ohrid, that I didn't do and never expected to find here.
Believe it or not, there are options for paragliding, quad biking and horse riding.
Secondly, you can paddleboard on Lake Ohrid within certain locations in the old town. I should have brought my board with me. Doh!
Finally, there are around twenty different churches within the old town. Let me know how many you visit, and which was your favourite in the comments at the bottom of the Ohrid blog.
So, let's look at what I think are the best things to do in Ohrid, Macedonia.
Discovering Ohrid: The Highlights
Uncover the Church of Saint John the Theologian
- Why: The views are spectacular and the architecture is simply wow.
- Where: On the southwest tip of the old town. (map)
- How long: Including a twenty-minute walk to and from the main square, an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes.
- How much: It's free to look and walk around, but it costs 150MKD (£2.05) to enter.
Whilst petit and tucked slightly out of the old town, the Church of Saint John the Theologian, aka Church of Saint John at Kaneo, is possibly the most influential image that brings people to Ohrid, Macedonia.
The exquisite brick building, with a multi-leveled red-tiled roof and a central column topped with a small white cross amid a backdrop of crystal clear waters and green Cypress trees, is enchanting and pulls at your heartstrings.
Yet, when you see it in person, the photos pale into insignificance.
The church makes you stop and stare, it demands your attention, and, without knowing it, you do exactly that.
Instantly, you feel like a weight is lifted from your shoulders. The church has magical powers and you can sense it.
Inside is small, and possibly a bit plain. Nevertheless, there is a small altar and a few frescos which are worth a look. However, for me, it's all about the outside. At night it all lights up giving the church a whole new vibe.
Likewise, it's immaculately clean and the best thing to do in Ohrid, North Macedonia.
Walk the walks of Samuel's Fortress
- Why: The views are the best in town.
- Where:Â On top of the hill, northwest of Ohrid old town. (map)
- How long: No more than forty-five minutes.
- How much: A very reasonable 150MKD (£2.05) per person.
If you only have 24 hours in Ohrid, combine Samuel's Fortress with the Church of Saint John the Theologian. They're fairly close, with a lovely wooded walk joining the two.
The Fortress is from the 4th century and towers over Ohrid. The thick stone walls can be seen from the old town and peer above the treeline like a meerkat checking for danger over the African savanna.
Within Samuel's Fortress, you can climb the walls and check out the best views over Ohrid, the surrounding towns, mountains and Lake Ohrid.
It looks as if archaeology is still being conducted within the fortress, with many walls still being discovered and uncovered.
You get a sense of history and the power the many empires that have previously called Samuel's Fortress home must have felt.
Walking the walls is an absolute steal at that price and something you must do in Ohrid.
Visit the Church of Saint Sophia and Check out the Turtles that Live There
- Why: Turtles roam the gardens and the interior is beautifully decorated with frescos.
- Where: In Ohrid old town: a hop, skip and jump from the boardwalk and a short walk west of the main square. (map)
- How long: Around fifteen to twenty minutes. Unless you really like turtles. I like turtles.
- How much: It's free to see the turtles around the small gardens, but costs 150MKD (£2.05) to enter and see the frescos.
Firstly, within the well-trimmed and simple gardens, numerous turtles roam freely, so keep an eye out, they are easily missed and accidentally kicked or worse.
The styling of the church is inkeeping with the town, and despite its much greater size, is of a similar design to the magical Church of Saint John the Theologian and the captivating Church of Holy Mary Peryvleptos.
Again, with the entry price of only a couple of quid, why wouldn't you go in?
Numerous frescos don the interior walls, and a large altar hides behind a wall and small gate.
I'm not sure why the frescos of the saints have had their eyes scratched off, but they have.
Likewise, some of the artwork is fading back to the bare wall. However, it still has that grandeur, colour and beauty you want from a church of this elk.
Jump aboard a Sunset Cruise on Lake Ohrid
- Why: A boat ride around the lake with a fully stocked bar and spectacular scenery.
- Where: Jump aboard in the harbour, just off Ohrid old town square. (map)
- How long: An hour and a half cruise around the lake.
- How much: The cruise costs 630MKD (£8.60) per person with Viator. If you book locally it's 600MKD (£6.18).
And now for something completely different.
Numerous boats come and go from the small harbour until late evening. Some were simple sightseeing tours around Lake Ohrid, others were party boats and the one I did, was a sunset cruise.
No matter what you do, or whichever one floats your boat (literally), you have to do at least one.
Being out on Lake Ohrid, Macedonia is sensational.
The waters are calm and the views of the surrounding mountains and small towns are sublime.
The sunset cruise left the harbour, went around the church of Saint John the Theologian and across to Lagadin on the eastern shores. From there it followed the coast back to Ohrid. Or at least ours did.
Despite our bad luck with the stormy weather the second we left the harbour, as you may have seen on our Instagram, we had a great time and even managed a bit of a sunset through the clouds.
The complementary glass of champagne was a lovely touch, and the bar was well-stocked with some cool, chilled music.
It was the perfect way to relax after a day exploring Ohrid.
Discover the history of the Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid
- Why: Because it's a piece of history.
- Where: Just down the road from Samuel's Fortress, just inside the Upper Gate. (map)
- How long: You only need five or six minutes.
- How much: A holiday favourite - free.
Another item that you can quickly tick off your list if you only have 24 hours in Ohrid, Macedonia.
The Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid was built around 200 BC and stands pristine in the heart of Ohrid.
Sitting on the old stone seats, you can imagine what it must have been like during the many events held here, including Gladiator fights during the Roman rule.
It is also a beautiful spot to sit and enjoy the stunning views over the town and Lake Ohrid.
Events are occasionally still held in the theatre. But these days, they're more musical than gladiatorial.
Where to Eat in Ohrid, Macedonia
Ohrid, Macedonia isn't known for its food.
However, what is on offer in Ohrid generally has a fantastic, flavoursome mix of Bulkan and Greek influences. Also, many dishes revolve around fish, meat and or cheese.
Regardless of those ingredients, the veggies among you will find many dishes to enjoy. Sadly, however, vegan options are still very limited in Ohrid.
Frankly, there aren't many dishes that can be called traditional or local to Ohrid.
However, there are a couple.
Firstly, Gjomleze - a layered, crispy sweet or savoury pie. Give it a try. No two are the same.
Secondly, Ribna Corba; a fish soup which can, and is, served in some places for breakfast. No thanks, not for me. Yet, if it's your thing, let me know what it's like in the comments.
Now, let's look at where, I think, you'll find the best food in Ohrid, Macedonia.
Kaneo Restaurant and Letna Bavcha
- What: Elegant and classy restaurant.
- Where: Under the watchful gaze of the Church of Saint John the Theologian. (map)
- How much: Meals vary dramatically, from 600MKD to 2000MKD (£8-£27.10). However much you pay, it's worth it. (menu)
Welcome to style, sophistication and class, but with a McDonalds price tag.
If you picked Kaneo up and put it in London or Paris, you'd easily and happily pay quadruple the bill.
The staff buck the trend in the area and are quick and attentive.
The views are of the enchanting Lake Ohrid and the Church of Saint John the Theologian.
While the setting and staff are fantastic, the taste steals the show. The flavours are incredible and far greater than the sum of their parts. The dishes are smaller than I'd like, yet filling. In truth, I would have liked a little more, but what I had was probably the best meal I had on my trip around Albania and North Macedonia.
You cannot visit Ohrid, Macedonia without a meal here.
Noa Lounge Bar
- What: Chilled waterfront restaurant.
- Where: A few minutes walk west from the main square. (map)
- How much: Traditional foods cost between 400MKD and 650MKD (£5.40 to £8.80). (menu)
Life couldn't get more relaxed if it tried.
Grab a table overlooking Lake Ohrid, soak up the sun, and enjoy the relaxed vibes and gentle acoustic remixes over the speakers.
Whilst friendly and smiley, service isn't always quick, but when the vibes are so chilled, you don't care.
The food is basic, and will never win awards for style and presentation. However, if you eat traditional, which you should, you are in for a treat. I highly recommend the Kebabs with cream.
Insane flavours from a simple dish.
Where to Party in Ohrid, Macedonia
Firstly, Ohrid isn't somewhere you'd come for a stag or hen do. The nightlife isn't about getting mashed up, smashed out your head or running and diving into the lake naked at 3am.
It's more about a relaxing beer or glass of wine with lake views. Maybe, some local music or even, led back with shisha.
Talking of smoking something, people still smoke inside bars and clubs here in Ohrid. If you are not a smoker and or have Asthma, and are used to only smoking outside, nightlife in Ohrid is a smelly and dry-throated affair.
Luckily, when the weather is warm enough - most bars are outdoors or, at least, well-ventilated.
When looking at where to party, the majority of bars and nightlife in Ohrid, Macedonia revolve around the waterfront or Old Bazaar Street.
Keep an eye out for the local drink, rakija a fruity brandy. If you have a few, watch out when you get up.
Below are three very different bars that could be contenders for the title of best bars in Ohrid, Macedonia.
Liquid
- What:Â Relaxing Bali-esque beach bar.
- Where: On Lake Ohrid, south of the old town. (map)
In truth, the inside isn't anything special. However, the second you step out of the building and onto the decking over Lake Ohrid, paradise awaits.
The comfy chairs, beanbags, whitewashed umbrellas and colour flowers blowing against the clear turquoise waters are like a scene from Bali.
They even have a small area to dangle your feet into Lake Ohrid or a set of steps to climb in, for a refreshing dip.
Outdoor lighting adds to the beach vibes with a gentle melody wafting over the sound of chatter, cold beer bottles clinking and the heat of the midday sun overhead.
After exploring Ohrid, this is where you come to unwind and enjoy the laidback beachy side of your trip to Ohrid.
Pectopah
- What:Â A traditional restaurant bar with local music.
- Where: Again, in Ohrid old town - overlooking the harbour. (map)
Outside, the beautiful decking sprawls onto the road, while the upper level provides calmness and views of the exquisite Lake Ohrid.
Inside is where the tradition begins.
Beautiful wooden beams frame the ceiling with numerous small chandeliers delivering the perfect ambient lighting.
The waiting staff are phenomenal too, they work hard and are speedy to assist, which is unlike a lot of places in Ohrid, or the Bulkan states as a whole.
Furthermore, they offer a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including local beers. Likewise, there was a tasty cocktail menu, and each one was fantastic. We had a few... oops!
Regardless of all the brilliance, the main reason for recommending this bar is due to the nightly live traditional music.
Traditional instruments, music and singing rip through the bar providing one of the best atmospheres in Ohrid nightlife. You must experience it during your visit to Ohrid, Macedonia.
Shilla
- What: Coffee bar by day, student'y cocktail bar by night.
- Where: Halfway down Old Bazaar Street. (map)
Shilla has a contemporary and natural feel with brick walls, mosaic ceilings, and, in places, raw factory-esque lighting.
It's a hard one to describe as each segment of the bar has a new look, style and vibe. The only continual theme is the screens showing sports from around the world.
Yet, the overall feel is of a student uni hangout, and I'm down with that.
After all, who knows how to do cocktails? Yeah, that's right, students.
You come here for the cocktails. Ask the bar staff for their recommendation, they know their stuff. I think mine was called something like the Shilla special, and it was fantastic.
Enjoy!
Is Exploring Ohrid, Macedonia Safe?
100% yes, Ohrid is safe to travel to, be in and explore, even for loan travellers.
Due to its position Ohrid, Macedonia has the potential for natural disasters, like earthquakes, flooding and landslides. Nevertheless, they are unlikely.
Ultimatley, wherever you get faultlines, lakes and towering cliffs, there is a potential for something to go wrong. However, the level of activity in Ohrid is considered low. I wouldn't let any of that stop me from returning to Ohrid.
Often, tourist hotpots are hit with low-level crime such as pickpocketing. However, here in Ohrid, that's not the case.
Crime is so low in Ohrid old town, that it shouldn't be a factor in your decision to visit Ohrid, Macedonia.
Likewise, there are very few cars in the Ohrid old town, so even the threat of being injured on the roads is low. The journey from Skopje to Ohrid or Tirana to Ohrid can sometimes be a little hairy. But, once you're here, I don't think I've been anywhere safer.
Even Lake Ohrid is clean and calm meaning a swim is as safe as your local pool. That is unless you've had a few beers.
The biggest issue I foresee is tripping over the cobbled streets or slipping on the beautifully smooth Old Bazaar Street. Take care when walking, and Ohird will be the safest trip you've had.
Leave a comment
Thanks for checking out my travel guide to Ohrid, Macedonia. Hopefully, you'll agree that this is Macedonia's Masterpiece.
You may have guessed I think that Ohrid is worth visiting, and feel it's the perfect place to explore. Whether you have 24 hours in Ohrid or a week, you will find plenty to do and still have time to relax.
Have you been? If so, I'd love to hear your thoughts on Ohird. Does my Ohird guide match your thoughts?
Likewise, those of you planning a trip to Lake Ohrid, and have read the guide, please let me know what you think - was it useful?
I'd appreciate your input in the comments below.
Overall, Ohrid is worth visiting and sells itself, it doesn't need my help.
All that's left for me to say is... when are you visiting Ohrid?
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Very informative, Greg.
You pretty much covered the best places in Ohrid
Thanks
Very interesting write up. We have just visited the whole area. Whilst everything you say is spot on, may I add that if you can afford a car hire, it is also well worth visiting the whole areas around the lake as well. Some great views and eateries. Beautiful place, kind, lovely people.
Thanks
Thank you for your comment. I agree, I expect there are so many amazing places to see around the lake. I wish I had more time there. I will certainly be going back to see more like you said.