Ohrid, North Macedonia

Ohrid highlights

Known for archaeological park, fortress, historical center, lake, museum, old bazaar, promenade, viewpoint, orthodox church, orthodox monastery

historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ohrid is a charming town in the country North Macedonia (before it called just Macedonia), located at the edge of the stunning Lake Ohrid. Ohrid once had 365 churches, one for each day of the year, and has been referred to as a ＂Jerusalem of the Balkans＂. The city is rich in picturesque houses and monuments, and tourism is predominant. Ohrid and Lake Ohrid were accepted as Cultural and Natural World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Ohrid is one of only 28 sites that are part of UNESCO's World Heritage that are Cultural as well as Natural sites.

You understand, it is impossible to see North Macedonia just in a couple of days. Come with us to explore North Macedonia in a 1-2 week road trip. We will pass Ohrid, along with other North Macedonia' attractions, to discover the soul of the country, its way of life, culture and traditions, food and drinks. Browse our tours passing Ohrid, or contact us directly for a custom tour in North Macedonia. By the way, we charge nothing for a custom itinerary. Contact us directly, let's plan all the details of your trip and get it done!

Other places in North Macedonia that we are familiar with

Stobi - Known for archaeological site, historical center, mosaic, roman empire, winery

Last reviewed: 31 August 2025

Ohrid description

Ohrid is a charming town in North Macedonia, located at the edge of the stunning Lake Ohrid. It lies nestled against hills with the deep blue waters of the lake stretching alongside. The town enjoys a unique blend of natural beauty and rich historical heritage, making it a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Historically, Ohrid is known for its long and diverse past, dating back to ancient times. It was once inhabited by the Illyrians and later the Paeonians before becoming an important city during Roman and Byzantine rule. It has been called the ＂Jerusalem of the Balkans＂ due to its dense network of churches and thriving spiritual life.

In antiquity the city was known under the ancient Greek name of Lychnis and Lychnidos, probably meaning ＂city of light＂, literally ＂a precious stone that emits light＂. The town became capital of the First Bulgarian Empire in the early medieval period, and was often referred to by Byzantine writers as Achrida.

By 879 AD, the town was no longer called Lychnidos but was referred to as Ohrid, and in modern Greek as Ochrida and Achrida.

The earliest inhabitants of the widest Lake Ohrid region were the Illyrian tribes of Enchele and Dassaretii. According to a tradition the town was founded by the Phoenician king of Thebes, Cadmus who, banished from Thebes, in Boeotia, fled to the Enchele to the north and founded Lychnidos on the shore of Lake Ohrid. Lychnidos was the capital city of the Illyrian Dassaretii.

Bulgaria conquered the city around 840. Ohrid became one of the two major cultural centres of the First Bulgarian Empire. Ohrid was the capital and stronghold of the Bulgarian Empire at the turn of the 11th century, until the Byzantine reconquest of the city in 1018.

Ohrid was a cultural center of great importance for the Balkans. Almost all surviving churches were built by the Byzantines and by the Bulgarians, the rest of them date back to the short time of Serbian rule during the late Middle Ages.

Besides being a holy center of the region, it is also the source of knowledge and pan-Slavic literacy. The restored Monastery at Plaoshnik in what now called Plaoshnik Archaeological park was actually one of the oldest Universities in the western world, dating before the 10th century.

Ohrid was recognized as a cultural and religious hub in medieval times, serving as the seat of the Ohrid Archbishopric, a vital center of Orthodox Christianity in the Balkans. The Ohrid Literary School founded by St. Clement in the 9th century was instrumental in Slavic education and literacy.

The town's historical significance is deeply reflected in its many ancient landmarks. One key highlight is Tsar Samuel's Fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the town and lake. This medieval fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views and serves as a reminder of Ohrid's strategic importance in the past. Today the fortress is a historical monument. According to recent excavations by Macedonian archaeologists, it was contended that the fortress was built on the place of an earlier fortification, dated to the 4th century BC, which was probably built by King Philip II of Macedon.

Another renowned site is the Church of Saint John at Kaneo, dramatically situated on a cliff overhanging Lake Ohrid. Its picturesque setting and striking architecture make it one of the most photographed landmarks in North Macedonia.

Ohrid hosts over 365 churches, symbolizing one church for every day of the year, showcasing its religious importance. Among these are well-preserved Byzantine churches like the Church of Saint Sophia, Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon, and the Church of Holy Mary Peryvleptos, each with unique frescoes and historical stories.

The ancient theatre of Ohrid, dating back to the Hellenistic period, offers insight into the town's classical past. Though partially restored, it is still used for cultural events and performances, linking modern-day Ohrid with its ancient roots.

The vibrant old town of Ohrid features cobbled streets, traditional architecture, and markets selling handmade jewelry, especially freshwater pearls from the lake. The lively waterfront promenade invites visitors to enjoy picturesque evening strolls beside the water.

Ohrid's Archaeological Museum displays artifacts unearthed from the area, including pottery, sculptures, and items from ancient Macedonia, enriching the visitor's understanding of the town's historical depth.

The National Museum of Ohrid, housed in the 19th-century Robevci family residence, showcases local history, ethnography, and archaeological finds, making it a must-visit cultural institution in the town.

The Bay of Bones Museum outside Ohrid offers a reconstructed prehistoric village on the lake, highlighting the area's early human history and archaeological significance. This unique open-air museum adds variety to Ohrid's tourist offerings.

Ohrid also features lively cultural festivals and religious celebrations that bring together locals and tourists, celebrating its heritage and Orthodox traditions, especially during summer months.

The town enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination. Summer attracts beachgoers and festival lovers, while spring and autumn are perfect for walking around Lake Ohrid's peaceful environment and exploring nearby natural parks.

Lake Ohrid itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, under the formal inscription named ＂Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid Region＂. The lake's unique biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, and the town's historic charm collectively contributed to this designation, attracting eco-tourists and history buffs alike.

Visitors frequently take boat trips on the lake, exploring secluded beaches, nearby monasteries such as St. Naum, and enjoying the calm, pristine nature. These excursions complement the cultural experiences in Ohrid.

The town's blend of history, nature, spirituality, and hospitality creates a welcoming atmosphere for tourists seeking authenticity as well as beauty. From ancient ruins to contemporary local life, Ohrid offers a memorable travel experience.

In conclusion, Ohrid is a diverse destination combining centuries of history, religious significance, scenic lakeside views, and vibrant traditions. Its cultural treasures and natural wonders have made it one of North Macedonia's crown jewels, appealing to a broad spectrum of travelers.

  

Ohrid pearl

Ohrid has many sights and it can not be described briefly. One of these sights is a gemstone filled with intrigue and mystery that has made North Macedonia famous beyond these shores. It is valued because it is handmade from natural origin. It's production is an art. Natural pearls last 150 years, but Ohrid pearl lasts forever.

The Ohrid pearl, which is widely popular in Europe and the world. Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, Princess Catherine (of Wales) and Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, all of them own Ohrid pearls.

Ohrid pearls is not ordinary pearls. They are not formed inside oysters or mussels but rather handcrafted using a special emulsion formed from the scales of the Plasica, a small, silvery fish with a slender body. It is one of hundreds of endemic species in Ohrid, regarded as one of the world's most diverse lakes. And yet only two families, the Filevs and the Talevs, are the sole protectors of the pearl-making secret.

Ohrid related tours

We at Monterrasol Travel welcome you to see Ohrid during multi-day private car tour. Contact us if you would like to customize your tour to Ohrid.

We have developed several private tours that visiting beautiful Ohrid. But, if you have a special conditions or any from these tours fit you, please do not hesitate to contact us, we can organize a tour exactly as you would like. We charge nothing for develop a custom itinerary. And remember, we have no problems to take you from almost any place where you stay, hotel or private accommodation.

Discover Bosnia Montenegro Macedonia in 14 days tour. Balkans roadtrip from Sarajevo to Thessaloniki via UNESCO sites, old towns, monasteries and fortresses. off-season only tour 14 days Price from € 3,159 View tour details Request this tour tour starts in: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina tour finishes in: Thessaloniki, Greece tour duration: 14 days (13 nights) tour countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia tour destinations: Bar, Blagaj, Bosnian Pyramids, Budva, Dajbabe, Jajce, Kotor, Kravica, Mostar, Ohrid, Pella, Perast, Podgorica, Počitelj, Radimlja, Sarajevo, Stobi, Travnik, Trebinje, Tunnel of Hope, Tvrdoš, Vjetrenica, Zavala, Šćit Balkans discovery 14 days tour will open for you 3 countries: Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro and Macedonia. Together with mentioned countries, you will also briefly meet Albania and will able to enjoy great time in beautiful coastal city Thessaloniki in Greece. With this tour we will pass over wonderful hilly Bosnia-Herzegovina, coastal venetian towns of Montenegro, unexpected panoramas of Albania, and visit roman sites of Macedonia. In all 3 countries we will visit most of must-see places. We will walk venetian towns in Montenegro; medieval towns in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; will see famous Orthodox monasteries in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; ancient roman settlement in Macedonia; fortified towns in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; archaeological places in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Macedonia; medieval fortresses of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; UNESCO sites in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Macedonia and Montenegro.

Discover Bosnia Montenegro Albania Macedonia in 15 days panoramic tour. Balkans roadtrip from Dubrovnik to Thessaloniki: UNESCO sites, fortresses, monasteries and old towns. off-season only tour 15 days Price from € 3,581 View tour details Request this tour tour starts in: Dubrovnik, Croatia tour finishes in: Thessaloniki, Greece tour duration: 15 days (14 nights) tour countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia tour destinations: Bar, Blagaj, Budva, Dajbabe, Durrës, Elbasan, Kotor, Kravica, Krujë, Lezhë, Međugorje, Mostar, Ohrid, Ostrog, Pella, Petrelë, Podgorica, Počitelj, Preza, Radimlja, Skopje, Stobi, Trebinje, Tvrdoš, Vjetrenica, Zavala Balkans discovery 15 days tour will open for you 4 countries: Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and Macedonia. Together with mentioned countries, you will also briefly meet famous Dubrovnik in Croatia and enjoy great time in beautiful coastal city Thessaloniki in Greece. With this tour we will pass over wonderful hilly Bosnia-Herzegovina, coastal venetian towns of Montenegro, fortresses and castles of Albania, and old roman sites of Macedonia. In each country we going to discover we will visit most of must-see places. We will walk venetian coastal towns in Montenegro; medieval towns in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; will see famous Orthodox monasteries in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro and Macedonia; ancient roman settlements in Macedonia and Greece; fortified towns in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania; archaeological places in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Macedonia; medieval fortresses and castles in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania; UNESCO sites in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Albania, Macedonia and Montenegro.

Discover Croatia Bosnia Montenegro Macedonia Greece in 17 days tour. Balkans roadtrip from Zagreb to Thessaloniki via UNESCO sites, old towns, monasteries and fortresses. off-season only tour 17 days Price from € 5,328 View tour details Request this tour tour starts in: Zagreb, Croatia tour finishes in: Thessaloniki, Greece tour duration: 17 days (16 nights) tour countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia tour destinations: Bar, Blagaj, Budva, Dajbabe, Dubovac, Durrës, Elbasan, Kotor, Kravica, Krujë, Lezhë, Mostar, Nehaj, Ohrid, Omiš, Ostrog, Podgorica, Počitelj, Preza, Radimlja, Split, Stobi, Trebinje, Trogir, Tvrdoš, Zadar, Zavala, Šibenik This 17 days Balkans discovery tour will open for you 4 countries: Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro and Macedonia. Together with mentioned countries, you will briefly meet Albania and can spend great time in beautiful coastal city Thessaloniki in Greece. With this tour we will pass over Adriatic coast and Dalmatian Riviera of Croatia, wonderful hilly nature of Bosnia-Herzegovina, coastal venetian towns of Montenegro, unexpected panoramas of Albania, and visit roman sites of Macedonia. In all 4 countries we will visit most of must-see places. We will walk in medieval and venetian towns in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; will see famous Orthodox monasteries in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; ancient roman settlement in Macedonia; fortified towns in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; archaeological places in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Macedonia; medieval fortresses of Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; UNESCO sites in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Macedonia, and Montenegro.

Discover Croatia Bosnia Montenegro Albania Macedonia Greece in 23 days tour. UNESCO sites, old towns, monasteries and fortresses on Balkans roadtrip from Zagreb to Igoumenitsa. off-season only tour 23 days Price from € 7,176 View tour details Request this tour tour starts in: Zagreb, Croatia tour finishes in: Igoumenitsa, Greece tour duration: 23 days (22 nights) tour countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia tour destinations: Aigai, Apollonia, Bar, Blagaj, Budva, Dajbabe, Dodoni, Dubovac, Ioannina, Kalampaka, Kotor, Krujë, Loreto, Meteora, Metsovo, Međugorje, Mostar, Ohrid, Pella, Perast, Podgorica, Radimlja, Saint Naum, Shkodër, Split, Stobi, The Bay of Bones, Trebinje, Trogir, Tvrdoš, Veria, Vjetrenica, Zadar, Šibenik Come with us to travel the Balkans with our 23-day road trip from Zagreb to Igoumenitsa. The tour will pass through 6 Balkan countries: Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece. We will pass over the Adriatic coast and Dalmatian Riviera of Croatia to see its coastal Venetian towns, the wonderful hilly nature of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the coastal Venetian towns of Montenegro, the unexpected panoramas and old castles of Albania, discover a lake town and huge monastery in North Macedonia, and visit famous UNESCO places in Greece. In each country of this tour, we will visit must-see important attractions, UNESCO sites, and through cultural heritage places will understand and feel each country's spirit. Passing Croatia, we will pass beautiful coastal roads and see the coastal Venetian towns Zadar, Sibenik, Trogir, Split, and their main attractions. In Bosnia-Herzegovina, we will see ancient bridges, towns known from the Ottoman era, a famous Orthodox monastery with its own wine cellars, and all that by scenic roads of hilly landscapes. Traveling Montenegro, we are going to see Venetian fortified towns, the remains of an old town destroyed by an earthquake, a Roman aqueduct still in great shape, a cave monastery, and a beautiful coastline. In Albania, we will visit a few impressive fortresses, an impressive old bazaar still full of locally made goods, a huge archaeological site, and we will admire beautiful nature. North Macedonia will show us a lively lake town that once had 365 churches, according to legend, and was referred to as the Jerusalem of the Balkans. Here we will see an impressive lake monastery and a large archaeological site still showing beautiful frescoes. In Greece, we will see several historical museums and archaeological sites in Aegae, Pella, and Dodoni. We will visit the amazing Meteora monasteries sitting on huge stone boulders, walk streets famous among locals in a mountain town known for its wine and cheese, see the Silversmith Museum located in the Ottoman fortress, and enjoy Greek hospitality and cuisine every day. With this tour you will get an initial understanding of each country. If you wish, you can come with us to explore each country in-depth with the next tours.

Explore Croatia Bosnia Montenegro Albania Macedonia Greece by cultural tour 26 days. Balkans roadtrip from Zagreb to Athens via UNESCO sites, medieval towns, fortresses, monasteries. off-season only tour 26 days Price from € 8,613 View tour details Request this tour tour starts in: Zagreb, Croatia tour finishes in: Athens, Greece tour duration: 26 days (25 nights) tour countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia tour destinations: Aigai, Apollonia, Bar, Blagaj, Budva, Dajbabe, Delphi, Dubovac, Durrës, Elbasan, Hosios Loukas, Kalampaka, Kotor, Kravica, Krujë, Livadeia, Loutra Ypatis, Meteora, Mostar, Nehaj, Ohrid, Omiš, Perast, Podgorica, Počitelj, Radimlja, Shkodër, Skopje, Split, Stobi, Stolac, Thermopylae, Thessaloniki, Trebinje, Trogir, Tvrdoš, Veria, Zadar, Šibenik We welcome you to come with us to explode 6 the Balkans countries with our extended 26 days Balkans cultural tour passing though Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece. The tour will pass Adriatic coast and Dalmatian Riviera of Croatia, wonderful hilly nature of Bosnia-Herzegovina, coastal Venetians towns of Montenegro, unexpected panoramas and castles of Albania, meet truly Roman sites of North Macedonia and rich historical places in Greece. We will visit medieval and venetian towns in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; will see famous Orthodox monasteries in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Greece; ancient Roman theaters in Macedonia and Greece; fortified towns in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro; archaeological places in Bosnia-Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Greece; medieval fortresses in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Albania and Montenegro; UNESCO sites in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania and Greece. This tour will open for you the Balkans as important part of the civilization, full of dramatic history and great achievements.

Transfers to Ohrid

Currently we know prices for these transfers to Ohrid:

Transfers to Ohrid from Bosnia and Herzegovina

• transfer from Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Ohrid, North Macedonia

• transfer from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Ohrid, North Macedonia

Transfers to Ohrid from Montenegro

• transfer from Kotor, Montenegro to Ohrid, North Macedonia

• transfer from Perast, Montenegro to Ohrid, North Macedonia

Unable to find your transfer?

If the transfer you need not exist in the list of our transfers, feel free to ask us for custom transfer by this form: Order a transfer