Ohrid

Ohrid is an attractive, low-profile city in North Macedonia and the hidden gem of the Balkans. At first sight, a luminous cascade of houses and sanctuaries strike visitors, reaching the shore of Lake Ohrid delicately. The city was once home to 365 churches, each dedicated to a day of the year. This versatile heritage earned Ohrid its title as a UNESCO Cultural and Natural Heritage site. Today, it is celebrated as an idyllic escape perfect for nature-watching and calming strolls.

The highlight of Ohrid is its many churches scattered all across the Old Town, ranging from petite to grand and sheltering the invaluable cultural values of the city. The most iconic one, the Church of Saint John, rests peacefully on a majestic cliff overlooking the lake and immediately draws visitors to capture the iconic panorama. In the cobbled alleys of the Old Town, you will stumble upon several other churches equal in beauty, and an amphitheater tucked in between the old settlements. The distinct North Macedonian residential architecture reflects in the houses with bright white facades and dark wooden frames. Walking tours become particularly joyful surrounded by the vintage cars and teahouses in the alleyways.

At night, seek a spot on the shore where you will have a panoramic view of the city. You will see the magical element that inspired the ancient Greek name meaning “city of light”. Ohrid’s reflection on the serene lake is dramatic as the entire city lights up in magnetic shades of magenta, silver, and green. At the top, Samuel’s Fortress shines in grandeur like a gold crown, bringing this ethereal view to completion.