A highlight of visiting North Macedonia, Ohrid is just as popular among tourists to this Balkan country as its capital, Skopje. This quickly makes sense once you consider the wealth of things to do in Ohrid that make it enjoyable for both sightseeing and relaxing. Between dips in Lake Ohrid, visitors can dive into the city’s history and culture at Byzantine churches covered in frescoes, large hillside archaeological sites, and various spots along its pretty Old Bazaar Street.
Summer is when Ohrid comes alive, with domestic and international visitors coming to cool off by the lake. July and August aren’t just a great time to swim in Lake Ohrid, though: This is when the Ohrid Summer Festival takes place, and musical and theatrical performances can be enjoyed in places such as the Ancient Macedonian Theatre of Ohrid and Samuel’s Fortress. To see these attractions without a stage in the middle of them, visit instead in May or June.
Prepare for a lot of walking when visiting Ohrid, as it's the main way to get around the city. Most of Ohrid’s attractions are located together around Old Town; however, this historic precinct covers the hillside below Samuel’s Fortress, so expect a lot of uphill walking. Driving in the narrow streets of Old Town isn’t advisable because there is nowhere to park. Renting a bicycle is another way to get around, particularly for exploring around the lake.
Restaurants are easy to find around Ohrid Old Town, especially down by the port and Ohrid City Park. But for a quiet meal with unobstructed views of the lake, walk further around the waterfront to a small cluster of restaurants between Potpesh and Kaneo beaches. There, you can sit by the water and try typical North Macedonian dishes, including a slice of the local dessert, Ohrid cake (Ohridska torta), made with caramel, walnuts, and chocolate.
