Welcome to North Macedonia

Don’t try to define North Macedonia – it will be a futile effort. This Balkan, Mediterrean, Greek, Roman and Ottoman country embraces its rich cultural diversity, complemented by a wealth of natural beauty.

Explore the charming old town of Skopje. Wander for days in the national parks of Mavrovo, Galičica and Pelister. Swim and sail on Lake Ohrid. Widely undiscovered, North Macedonia is attractive to those seeking an off-the-beaten-path European adventure, where finding the hidden gems and secret destinations is the icing on the cake.

Unique Facts

• If you love mountains, North Macedonia should be on your wanderlust. There are more mountain peaks here than in any other country, including 34 that have never been visited by people.
• Lake Ohrid is the oldest and one of the deepest in Europe. It’s estimated to be about 4 million years old and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Echoing its Ottoman past, there are several notable mosques in North Macedonia, including the Painted Mosque from 1495.
• Kokino is the fourth-oldest astronomy observatory in the world, according to NASA.
• The biggest cross in the world – the Millennium Cross – is 216 feet high and sits atop Vodno Mountain in Skopje.

Language

North Macedonia’s official languages are Macedonian and Albanian.

When To Go

The best time to go to North Macedonia is June to September.

Airports

Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stay of up to 90 days

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting North Macedonia: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive the Hepatitis A vaccine. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Macedonian Denar

Getting Around

Be aware that road conditions may differ significantly from those in the United States. Most major highways are in good condition. Secondary urban and rural roads may not be well maintained and are poorly lit.

There is not a reliable public transportation system. Taxis are well maintained.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Skopje
Samoilova 21
1000 Skopje
Republic of North Macedonia
Telephone: +(389) (2) 310-2000
Fax: +(389) (2) 310-2499
SkopjeACSmailbox@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Police: 113
Ambulance: 118
Fire: 115

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in North Macedonia. Theft and petty street crime are the most common. Take standard safety precautions. Do not leave belongings unattended.