10 Things to Do in Ohrid: The Pearl of Macedonia

Tap to Read ➤ If you are planning to travel to the Balkans this vacation, spend a weekend in the quaint and laid-back city of Ohrid in the southwest of the Republic of Macedonia. Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, this city packs quite a punch. Sucheta Pradhan

Here are some of the most amazing things to do in Ohrid to make your vacation memorable! Did you know that Ohrid is regarded as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans”, owing to the sheer number of churches the city has?

#1: Admire the beauty of St. John the Theologian … … a 13th century church dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Popularly called “St. Jovan of Kaneo”, it was built in classic Byzantine-style and sits on a cliff overlooking lake Ohrid.

#2: Visit the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon … … on Ohrid’s Plaošnik hill. This impressive edifice has beautiful medieval frescos, early Christian mosaics, and imposing Byzantine-style architecture.

#3: Catch a Show at the Ancient Theater of Ohrid … … an open-air Hellenistic-style amphitheater constructed sometime in 200 B.C. Once a venue for gladiatorial battles, the theater is now for public shows and festivals.

#4: Head to the Robevci Family House Museum …

… for a slice of Macedonian history. Located in Old Ohrid, this historic landmark displays Roman and Greek artifacts from Ohrid, as well as memorabilia from the Robevci family that resided in the house for 35 years.

#5: Get to the top of Tsar Samuel’s Fortress … … and enjoy spectacular views of Lake Ohrid and the city itself. This is one of the most-visited tourist locations in the city and the most-photographed one too.

#6: Go boating on Lake Ohrid … … one of Europe’s oldest lakes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the city itself. You can also catch a ferry ride on the lake that will take you from Ohrid Marina to Sveti Naum.

#7: Go hiking at National Park Galičica … … while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid, Lake Prespa, and the surrounding Mecedonian towns. There are several marked hiking paths in the park, which lead to various vantage points for sightseeing and birdwatching.

#8: Take a stroll across the Old Town … … and marvel at the simplistic grandeur of its narrow alleys, cobblestone streets, and tiled-roof houses. Don’t miss going to its small beaches, lively cafés, and bustling shops – a perfect way to spend an afternoon.

#9: Go pearl shopping in Ohrid … … and bring back glittering memories of the city. Lake Ohrid pearls are known for their brightness and shine, and you can buy beautiful pearl jewelry in Ohrid’s local shops.

#10: Dine with your family by the waterfront … … while taking in awe-inspiring views of Lake Ohrid. There are plenty of good eateries by the lake, offering homely atmosphere, personable staff, and of course, great food.