Welcome to Ohrid, Macedonia’s most iconic destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Set on the shores of one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, Ohrid blends Byzantine heritage, Ottoman influences, and a relaxed summer atmosphere.

Stone houses cascade down the hillside towards the lake, while narrow cobblestone lanes open onto church courtyards, viewpoints, and waterfront terraces. Beyond the town itself, the wider Ohrid area offers some of the country’s most important landmarks, from Saint Naum and its springs to the Bay of Bones and the dramatic landscapes of Galičica National Park. We hope this guide helps you explore and enjoy it to the fullest!

Ohrid Old Town
Historic centre · Accessible 24 h · Free
The heart of Ohrid is best explored on foot. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional houses, small churches, cozy courtyards, viewpoints over the lake, and cafés tucked into old stone buildings.

Church of St. John at Kaneo & the Ohrid Boardwalk

Perched dramatically above the lake, St. John at Kaneo is the most photographed landmark in Ohrid. The wooden boardwalk leading towards Kaneo is also one of the loveliest walks in town, especially in the early morning or around sunset.

Samuel’s Fortress

Above the Old Town · Accessible 24 h · Entrance to the walls usually ticketed
A walk up to Samuel’s Fortress rewards you with sweeping panoramic views over Ohrid, the lake, and the rooftops of the old town. It is one of the best places to understand the layout of the town and its setting between water and mountains.

Plaošnik & Sts. Clement and Panteleimon

Near Kaneo · Ticketed archaeological site
One of Ohrid’s most important historic and spiritual sites. Plaošnik combines archaeological remains with the reconstructed church associated with Saint Clement of Ohrid, making it both visually striking and deeply significant for the region’s history.

Church of St. Sophia

Old Town · Ticketed
One of the most important medieval monuments in North Macedonia and the wider Balkans, especially known for its architecture and remarkable Byzantine frescoes.

Ancient Theatre of Ohrid

Near the Upper Gate · Ticketed/seasonal access
Dating back to Hellenistic times, the Ancient Theatre is the only one of its kind in North Macedonia and is still used today for summer performances and events.

Saint Naum Monastery & Springs

~40 min by car from Ohrid · Church ticketed · Boat rides available
*For those participating in Day 3 of the Wedding (Boat&Brunch) – we will take you to St. Naum Monastery by boat and you will have an hour to explore it on 13 September.
Located near the Albanian border, Saint Naum is one of the most important destinations the region. The monastery complex sits above vivid blue-green springs that feed into the lake, and the surrounding landscape is beautiful in every season. Make sure to enjoy a (small) boat trip on the springs. Departures happen from Ostrovo restaurant.

Bay of Bones

~20 min by car from Ohrid · Ticketed
This reconstructed prehistoric settlement on stilts is small but atmospheric, and easy to combine with a wider lake drive towards Saint Naum. It offers a different perspective on the long history of the Ohrid area.

Galičica National Park

Between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa · Park entry fee may apply
For those who want a broader sense of the region, Galičica National Park is essential. The mountain roads and viewpoints offer extraordinary vistas over both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. Also, suitable for hiking and trecking.

For your convenience, here are a few highly rated hotel recommendations across different price points to help you plan your trip.

Top Hotels

• Inex Olgica Hotel (€€€): A classic lakeside hotel just outside the town centre and the wedding venue itself, offering beautiful views and a peaceful setting right on the water.
• SU Hotel (€€€): A stylish, modern option right on the promenade, ideal if you want to stay close to the centre while keeping a boutique feel.
• Hotel Tino (€€€): A well-known lakeside hotel with a convenient location and easy access to the town centre.
• Villa & Winery Mal Sveti Kliment (€€): A charming boutique stay in the Old Town with character, warm hospitality, and beautiful views.
• Villa Varoš (€€): A lovely option in the historic quarter, ideal for those who want to stay within the atmospheric old part of Ohrid.

Ohrid cuisine is generous, fresh, and very enjoyable in summer, with a strong focus on grilled dishes, salads, and fish from the lake. Meals at sit-down restaurants are generally very affordable compared with most of Europe.

Traditional Macedonian & Lakeside Restaurants

• Kaj Kanevche: A long-time favourite known for good local food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a beautiful setting above the water.
• Dalga: A classic Ohrid choice by the lake, particularly good for fish and familiar Macedonian dishes.
• Kaneo Restaurant: A scenic option if you want a meal with one of the best views in town.
• Belvedere: A more polished, dependable option popular with both visitors and locals.
• Ostrovo restaurant within the Saint Naum Monastery territory (beautiful! And delicious) – definitely worth a visit.

Modern & International Cuisine

• Restaurant Cubar: A smart option for a more contemporary meal in town.
• Nova Riviera: A central lakeside restaurant with a broad menu and a convenient location.
• Lakeside café-bars: Good options for drinks, lighter food, and an easy summer atmosphere by the water.

Fresh fish!

Shopska salata: Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onion under a generous layer of grated white cheese.

Tavche gravche: Slow-baked beans in a clay pot – simple, comforting, and unmistakably Macedonian.

Burek: A flaky filled pastry, best enjoyed warm with yoghurt for breakfast or as a late snack.

Ajvar: A red pepper spread that appears on almost every Macedonian table.

Rakija: The region’s fruit brandy, traditionally sipped slowly before or with a meal.

If you need to pick up essentials, snacks, beach items, or a last-minute outfit, Ohrid has plenty of small supermarkets, pharmacies, and convenience shops throughout the town.

• Old Town Shops: The best area for souvenirs, handmade jewellery, local crafts, and Ohrid pearls.
• Supermarkets: Look for Tinex, KAM, and other local minimarkets for daily groceries, toiletries, and drinks.
• Promenade & Centre: The central pedestrian area has a mix of fashion boutiques, cafés, ice cream spots, and practical shops.
• Watch out for famous Ohrid pearls!

Getting Around: The town centre and Old Town are highly walkable, but the streets can be steep and uneven, so comfortable shoes are strongly recommended.

Taxis: Taxis are generally very affordable and useful, especially if you are staying outside the centre or heading to places such as Saint Naum.

Parking in Town: Parking in central Ohrid can be limited in summer, especially in the evenings. If you are driving, it is usually easiest to leave the car parked and explore the centre on foot.

Swimming & Beaches: The lake is exceptionally clear and lovely for swimming in warm weather. Some beaches are pebbly or have platforms rather than sandy entries, so bring some water shoes useful.

Day Trips: Saint Naum, Bay of Bones, and Galičica are the most important places to include beyond the town itself if you want a fuller sense of the Ohrid region.