A week in Ohrid

Ohrid, formerly known as Lihnid, the “City of Light” or the “European Jerusalem,” is one of the most beautiful towns in Macedonia and is located in the southwestern part of the country. Ohrid is famous for Lake Ohrid, the largest lake in Macedonia.

An aerial view of the stunning Ohrid Lake with the old town and mountains in the background

The Ohrid region is rich in untouched nature and is protected by UNESCO. An interesting fact is that there are 365 churches in Ohrid, so you can visit a different church every day of the year.

It is best to visit Ohrid during the summer, as the city is full of tourists during this time and becomes incredibly lively.

Organize your trip and… WELCOME TO OHRID! There are so many things waiting for you to explore.

When it comes to accommodation, I want to recommend a comfortable and affordable place. The place where we stayed is called “Vila Frasoro” and is located in the centre of the town.

The charming Vila Frasoro accommodation in the center of Ohrid with comfortable rooms and warm hospitality

The place will make you fall in love with it from the very beginning. It has everything you need, and the owners are very hospitable and friendly people who will help you with anything you need.

The beautiful terrace at Vila Frasoro overlooking Ohrid with cozy seating and a welcoming atmosphere

A bright and comfortable room interior at Vila Frasoro in Ohrid with everything you need for a perfect stay

The lush garden area at Vila Frasoro perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Ohrid

In the evenings, the Old Ohrid Bazaar is the most lively place. There are many shops and restaurants where you can meet people from different places and enjoy late-night walks. However, if you don’t like crowds, you can simply walk along the coastline and breathe in the fresh lake air.

The old town has a special charm that will steal your heart. Walking through the narrow streets and admiring the unique houses with outstanding architecture creates an indescribable feeling that will stay in your memory.

Traditional houses with outstanding architecture along the narrow streets of Ohrid old town

One of Ohrid’s most famous historic buildings is the Robevi House, located in the old town.

The historic Robevi House one of Ohrids most famous buildings located in the heart of the old town

If you want to watch the stars or the most beautiful sunsets, the perfect place is Kaneo, one of the most famous churches in Ohrid, along with the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon. You can also visit the Church of Saint Sofia.

A breathtaking sunset viewed from Kaneo with golden light illuminating Ohrid Lake and the surrounding mountains

From there, you can see the entire town and the lake, and the view is simply wonderful. You can also visit Samoil’s Fortress, which offers the same breathtaking panorama.

The panoramic view from Samoils Fortress overlooking Ohrid Lake and the entire old town below

A stunning bird-eye view of the town of Ohrid with red rooftops and the deep blue lake stretching beyond

A wide panoramic view of Ohrid Lake from the hilltop showing the crystal-clear water and scenic shoreline

We also had a boat ride. The boat we took is called Armada, and I can say it is extremely comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience. Drinking your Raffaello coffee, listening to the waves, and feeling the gentle breeze, you will feel like you have found heaven on Earth.

Enjoying a relaxing boat trip on the crystal-clear waters of Ohrid Lake with mountains in the distance

A Rafaello coffee held up against the sparkling Ohrid Lake during a scenic boat ride

The comfortable Armada boat cruising across Ohrid Lake with passengers enjoying the stunning views

Gentle waves on Ohrid Lake seen from the boat with the sun reflecting off the deep blue water

When in Ohrid, you must visit St. Naum, where a monastery of the same name is located. In the monastery, St. Naum is buried, and it is believed that you can still hear his heartbeat.

Another amazing place is the Bay of Bones. It is now a museum on water, where prehistoric people once lived. You can see reconstructed wooden houses and their interiors with various artefacts.

The peaceful grounds around St Naum monastery at the southern shore of Ohrid Lake

The Bay of Bones open-air museum on water with reconstructed prehistoric wooden houses on stilts over Ohrid Lake

Inside one of the reconstructed prehistoric houses at the Bay of Bones showing ancient artifacts and straw walls

Wooden walkways connecting the prehistoric houses at the Bay of Bones museum over the turquoise Ohrid Lake

A view of the Bay of Bones prehistoric settlement from the shore with Ohrid Lake stretching behind

When it comes to beaches, here are some recommendations. If you want crowds, young people, and beach parties, then Jungle Beach is perfect for you. Gradiste Beach 1 is also a good choice.

The lively Jungle Beach in Ohrid packed with young people enjoying cocktails music and summer fun

The sandy Gradiste Beach along the Ohrid Lake shoreline with clear water and sun umbrellas

However, if you want to relax in complete silence, hearing only the waves and enjoying endless blue views, then you should go to Trpejca or Ljubaništa Beach. These beaches are also ideal for families with small children. St. Naum Beach is another perfect choice for all generations.