Visiting Ohrid, Macedonia

One of the oldest human settlements in Europe

Lake Ohrid is 3 million years old and is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. It is positioned between Albania and Macedonia and is the perfect place to spend a weekend in one of the most peaceful places of the Balkans.

Ohrid is one of the most picturesque and charming towns of the Balkans and is known as “Jerusalem of the Balkans,” Ohrid was home to 365 churches, as many as the days of the year. Strolling through the city center and wandering through its narrow cobblestone streets lined with Ottoman-era houses is a recipe for the perfect afternoon.

Lake Ohrid has clear blue water and is surrounded by lush green hills and the shorefront is peppered with beautiful towns and villages all around the massive lake.

Take a hike up the beautiful cobblestone streets winding up the hill to look out over the stunning Lake Ohrid, stroll through the city park and spot the turtles sunning and eating berries, take a swim in the lake or have a coffee. Just a regular day in Ohrid.

CHURCH OF ST.JOHN AT KANEO

The Church of St.John at Kaneo is THE most iconic sight of Ohrid. Overlooking Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains this is undeniably a must see when visiting Ohrid. Built before the rise of the Ottoman Empire and it is estimated that the church was built in the 13th century.

TSAR SAMUEL’S FORTRESS

On the very top of the hill is Tsar Samuel’s Fortress, one of Ohrid’s most popular sights. The 10th century fortress offers the most stunning views over Ohrid.

CHURCH OF ST. SOPHIA

The Church of St. Sophia is located right in the heart of Old Town. It dates back all the way to the First Bulgarian Empire and is filled with beautiful frescoes from the 11th, 12th and 13th century. 

CHURCH OF SAINTS CLEMENT AND PANTELEIMON

Below Tsar Samuel’s Fortress you will find the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon. This church dates back all the way to the 9th century.

THE ANCIENT THEATRE OF OHRID

Dating back to 200 BC this theatre was not only home to performances but also gladiator fights. As well, it houses executions by both Romans and Christians which caused a strong dislike of the theatre and it ended up being abandoned.

THE OLD BAZAAR

The Old Bazaar starts at the main street of Ohrid and ends at the waterfront. It is lined with shops, small restaurants and a lot of ice creams shops and is the busiest place in Ohrid.

Please note that I have not received these products for free or at a discounted price in exchange for my opinion.  There may be links that are affiliate links but at the time of posting this review, I have not received any monetary kickbacks.

Exploring more hidden gems in Albania's gorgeous nature, time to go hiking at Bovilla Lake

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