Firmly locked in the heart of the Balkans, North Macedonia is one of the smallest European countries at the same time inhabited by one of its oldest nations.
Numerous ancient and medieval monuments and sights prove the long line of history here. From churches and monasteries, ancient towns and fortresses, megalithic remains and rocks called Stone Dolls, to Romans baths and Ottoman bazaars every nook and cranny of the country is a proof of its rich cultural and historical heritage.
Magnificent country of wild mountain peaks, fruitful farmlands and big beautiful lakes. The country is emerging fast as a popular destination for leisure travellers after having dropped of the Balkan sentiment relatively recently.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Natural and Cultural heritage of Ohrid Region, three national parks Pelister, Mavrovo and Galicica as well as caves and waterfall provide plenty of activities to fill your day in this marvellous country.
Electricity
The plug of choice is 220 Volts, AC, 50 Hz, two-pin socket supply.
Money
On 5 May 1993, the currency was reformed, with one new denar (MKD) being equal to 100 old denari (MKN). No coins were issued for the first denar. In May 1993, coins for the second denar were introduced in denominations of 50 deni, 1, 2, and 5 denari. 10 and 50 denari coins were introduced in November 2008. The 50 deni coin was withdrawn in 2013.
Credit cards
Macedonia is mostly a cash society, and although debit and credit cards are on their way, at the moment only some hotels and restaurants accept them. There are plenty of banks and exchange offices for exchanging cash, but ATMs are widespread and generally the best way to get denars as the interbank rate is better than those for cash transactions..
Religion
The most common religion is Orthodox Christianity.
Safety
Violent crime is rare, but keep track of your belongings against the pickpockets and the bag-snatchers. The best advice may be to employ your common sense.
Smoking
The habit of smoking in Macedonia is widespread, however, the non-smoking sections have been shyly emerging as of recently.
Visas
Citizens from most European countries, New Zealand and the USA and a handful of others don’t need a visa for stays of generally up to 90 days. All others, including Canadians and Australians, need to apply for a visa in advance at one of Macedonia’s embassies abroad.
National holidays
| January 1 | New Year’s Day |
| January 7 | Christmas Day |
| --- | Easter Sunday and Monday |
| May 1 | International Workers' Day |
| May 24 | St Cyril and Methodius Day |
| August 2 | Day of the Republic |
| September 8 | Independence Day |
| October 11 | Revolution Day |
| October 23 | Day of Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle |
| December 8 | Saint Clement of Ohrid Day |
