14 day itinerary for Macedonia

Itinerary

A 14-day working holiday in Macedonia sounds like a fantastic adventure! With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, you’ll have plenty to explore during your downtime. Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances work and leisure:

## Day 1: Arrival in Skopje

• Morning: Arrive in Skopje, the capital city. Check into your accommodation and get settled.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the city center. Visit the iconic Stone Bridge and Macedonia Square.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Macedonian dishes like tavče gravče (baked beans) or ajvar (pepper spread).

## Day 2: Work & Explore Skopje

• Morning: Settle into your workspace. Find a cozy café with Wi-Fi, like Café Squeeze.
• Afternoon: After work, visit the Old Bazaar for some shopping and to soak in the atmosphere. Don’t miss the Mustafa Pasha Mosque.
• Evening: Grab dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city, like Restaurant 14.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Ohrid

• Morning: Early start! Drive or take a bus to Ohrid (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the Ohrid Lake and visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo. Enjoy lunch by the lake.
• Evening: Return to Skopje. If you have time, enjoy a quiet evening walk along the river.

## Day 4: Work & Culture in Skopje

• Morning: Work from your favorite café or co-working space.
• Afternoon: Visit the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle to learn about the country’s history.
• Evening: Dinner at Old City House, known for its traditional ambiance.

## Day 5: Explore Matka Canyon

• Morning: After work, head to Matka Canyon (about 30 minutes from Skopje). Rent a kayak or take a boat tour.
• Afternoon: Explore the stunning caves and enjoy the natural beauty.
• Evening: Have dinner at Restaurant Matka, overlooking the canyon.

## Day 6: Work & Relax

• Morning: Work from your accommodation or a café.
• Afternoon: Treat yourself to a spa day at a local wellness center.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at Vodenica (Watermill) for a unique dining experience.

## Day 7: Travel to Bitola

• Morning: Check out and travel to Bitola (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the city’s historical sites, including the Heraclea Lyncestis ruins.
• Evening: Dinner at a local tavern, trying out sarma (cabbage rolls).

## Day 8: Work & Discover Bitola

• Morning: Find a nice café to work from.
• Afternoon: Visit the Bitola Museum and stroll along the Shirok Sokak street.
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at Caffe Bar 7.

## Day 9: Day Trip to Pelister National Park

• Morning: After work, head to Pelister National Park for some hiking.
• Afternoon: Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. Pack a picnic!
• Evening: Return to Bitola for dinner.

## Day 10: Travel to Ohrid

• Morning: Depart for Ohrid again, but this time stay for a couple of days.
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax by the lake.
• Evening: Dinner at Restaurant Belvedere with stunning views of the lake.

## Day 11: Work & Explore Ohrid

• Morning: Work from a lakeside café.
• Afternoon: Visit the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid and the Samuil’s Fortress.
• Evening: Enjoy a lakeside dinner at Café Bar Dva Ribara.

## Day 12: Relaxation Day in Ohrid

• Morning: Take a leisurely morning. Maybe do some yoga by the lake.
• Afternoon: Explore the local markets and shop for souvenirs.
• Evening: Dinner at Taverna St. Naum, famous for its fish dishes.

## Day 13: Return to Skopje

• Morning: Head back to Skopje.
• Afternoon: Work from a café or your accommodation.
• Evening: Celebrate your last night in Skopje with a special dinner at Restaurant 14 or Skopski Merak.

## Day 14: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do any last-minute shopping.
• Afternoon: Check out and head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check local Wi-Fi availability for your work needs.
• Embrace the local culture and try to learn a few phrases in Macedonian; the locals will appreciate it!
• Don’t forget to take lots of photos; Macedonia is incredibly picturesque!

Enjoy your working holiday in Macedonia! It’s a beautiful country with so much to offer, and I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time balancing work and exploration!