You have probably never considered traveling to the Republic of Macedonia , but this country located on the Balkan Peninsula has many more attractions than you imagine. For example, it offers a different nature, with huge mountains, beautiful lakes and spectacular natural parks. In addition, here you will find colorful cities full of tradition. Of course, we cannot forget to mention its amazing history and cultural heritage.
Part of the former Yugoslavia until 1991, Macedonia is a mixture of civilizations, a kind of crossroads between East and West. Today at Vuela Viajes we move to this country in southeastern Europe to visit some of its most important cities . As always, we are going to base ourselves on the number of inhabitants, so we apologize in advance if we have left an important municipality in the pipeline.
Skopje
First of all, we want to talk about Skopje, the capital and the largest city in Macedonia. It is located on the upper reaches of the Vardar River, on one of the main Balkan routes . Although it developed rapidly after the Second World War, in 1962 it was shaken by a strong earthquake. Despite this, it retains notable vestiges of its past. Today it is the political, economic, cultural and academic center of the country.
Bitola
The second most populous city in Macedonia is Bitola, which is located in the southwestern part of the country. It is an important administrative, cultural, industrial, educational and commercial center, as well as being an important communications hub . It is important to note that since the Ottoman period it has been known as the “city of consuls”, since some European countries had their consulates in the city.
Kumanovo
Another important city in Macedonia is Kumanovo, which is located in the northeastern part, near the capital. Surrounded by many mountains , the city has several monuments dating from prehistoric times.
Prilep
We continue our tour of the most important cities of the Republic of Macedonia in Prilep, known as “the city under the Marko Towers”, since it is located very close to the Prince Marko Towers.
Tetovo
The fifth most populous city in the country is Tetovo, which is located in the northwest, in the foothills of the Šar mountain. Divided by the river Pena, it houses important monuments , such as the Lešok monastery, with the churches of St. Athanasius and the Holy Virgin, which is an excellent example of the Byzantine style.
Veles
We also have to talk about Veles, a city located in central Macedonia, on the banks of the Vardar River. It is considered a city of culture, history, tradition and poetry. In addition, it is important to note that it hides old centuries-old churches and an important cultural heritage.
Štip
The seventh most populous city in Macedonia is Štip, which stretches along the Bregalnica River in the west of the country. If you have the opportunity to visit this place you will find a 14th century monastery and the ruins of a castle.
Ohrid
We also have to talk about Ohrid, which sits on the shores of the lake of the same name. It is important to note that the city and its surroundings have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its natural, cultural and historical values.
Gostivar
Another important Macedonian city is Gostivar, which is located in the Upper Polog Valley region. Nearby is the village Vrutok , which is home to the gorge of Macedonia’s largest river, the Vardar.
Strumica
Finally, we must talk about Strumica, an important administrative, cultural, industrial and commercial center of Macedonia, as well as being one of its main tourist centers. Located on the banks of the river of the same name, it is very close to Bulgaria.