How to get to Ohrid

Ohrid is a picturesque gem of the Balkans and the premier tourist treasure of Macedonia. Located on the shores of one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes, this city captivates travelers with its unique blend of natural beauty and rich historical heritage.

Thanks to its authentic architecture, numerous Byzantine churches, and crystal-clear waters, Ohrid and its lake have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. A walk through its winding cobblestone streets offers unforgettable impressions and allows you to touch living history frozen in stone.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Ohrid is by direct flight. The St. Paul the Apostle International Airport (OHD) is located just 9 kilometers from the city center. It accepts regular and charter flights from many European countries, making travel extremely convenient, especially during the high tourist season.

If a direct flight is not available for your dates, airports in neighboring major cities are excellent alternatives. Tourists often fly into the capital of Macedonia — Skopje (SKP). When planning your route, it is important to note that the actual road distance to the lake is about 175 km, so the transfer will take some time (usually around 3 hours due to the mountainous terrain).

You can also consider flying into Tirana (Albania). The distance by road from there to the resort is approximately 135 km. From both cities, you can reach your destination by bus, taxi, or rental car, but it is wise to allocate extra time for the journey and potential border crossings.

There is no direct rail connection to the lake coast, as there is no train station in Ohrid itself. Due to the region's mountainous terrain, trains do not run here, so rail travel enthusiasts will need to plan a combined route with a transfer to road transport.

The nearest accessible stations are located inland. Travelers can take a train from Skopje to the cities of Kichevo or Bitola. It is most convenient to travel via Kichevo, which is located approximately 60 kilometers from the resort. From the railway station, the journey to the lake must be continued by intercity bus or taxi. This option takes longer than a direct transfer but allows you to enjoy the serene views of Macedonia from the carriage window.

Bus services connect the resort with many cities in the region, making the trip accessible and scenic. The most popular route leads from the country's capital, Skopje: covering the 175-kilometer journey takes about 3–3.5 hours, allowing you to enjoy views of mountain passes. For travelers coming from Albania, it is convenient to travel from Tirana, from where buses cover 135 kilometers in approximately 3 hours, although times may vary depending on border procedures.

You can also plan a route from Kastoria in Greece, located approximately 160 kilometers away; such a trip usually lasts about 3–4 hours and offers excellent panoramas of the Balkans. The bus station in Ohrid is located relatively close to the center, so after arrival, you will find yourself near the famous lake quite quickly.

A car trip from Skopje to Ohrid takes about three hours: the 175-kilometer route passes through picturesque mountain passes, turning the drive into a true aesthetic pleasure. Travelers heading from Tirana will have to cover about 135 kilometers, which usually requires a similar amount of time, taking border control into account.

Equally fascinating is the route from Kastoria, Greece: the distance of about 160 kilometers can be comfortably covered in 3–3.5 hours while enjoying Balkan panoramas. If you prefer not to drive, taxi services on these routes are widely available, and the cost of an intercity transfer usually varies from 80 to 130 euros depending on the vehicle class.

Preparation for a trip to Ohrid is the key to a comfortable and carefree holiday. We have compiled useful recommendations to help you better plan your visit to this hospitable part of Macedonia and avoid common tourist mistakes.

1. Clothing and Essentials: For walking along the cobblestone streets of the old town and climbing to the fortress, be sure to bring comfortable flat-soled shoes — heels are not suitable here. In summer, light clothing and a hat are useful, but if you plan to visit active churches and monasteries, please bring a scarf or shawl to modestly cover your shoulders and knees.
2. Transport: The historical city center is compact and best explored on foot. For trips to distant beaches or the Monastery of Saint Naum, it is convenient to use water taxis or tour boats — this serves not only as transport but also as a beautiful excursion. Regular taxis are affordable, but it is best to confirm the price before boarding.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). Major hotels and supermarkets accept cards without issues, but cash is preferred in souvenir shops, markets, and small cafes. You can exchange Euros or Dollars at numerous exchange offices (Menjačnica) in the city center.
4. Health and Safety: The city is very calm and safe for tourists and families, even in the evening. Tap water in Ohrid is considered some of the cleanest as it comes from mountain springs; however, tourists with sensitive stomachs are recommended to purchase bottled water. Do not forget sunscreen — the mountain sun can be quite strong.
5. Communication: The official language is Macedonian (Cyrillic). In the tourism sector, staff speak English well. Locals are known for their warm hospitality and will make every effort to communicate and assist you.
6. Local Etiquette: Macedonians are famous for their hospitality and unhurried nature. The rhythm of life here follows the principle of "polako" (slowly), so there is no need to rush waiters in restaurants. It is customary to greet people when entering small shops and to respond to greetings with a smile.
7. What to Avoid: Try not to raise complex political topics or historical disputes involving neighboring countries in conversation. This is a sensitive subject for locals. Also, avoid "wild" guides on the street offering services at inflated prices — it is better to contact official information centers.
8. Extra Tip: If you wish to buy the famous Ohrid pearl, do so only in certified shops (for example, the Filev or Talev families). Authentic Ohrid pearls are made using a secret technology from the emulsion of the Plashica fish scales, and they always come with a lifetime guarantee.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient city. May your introduction to Ohrid leave only pleasant memories and a desire to return.