Konrad Warzecha, a full-time traveller and house-sitting expert, has visited 43 European capitals. Among them, he names Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, as his top choice. He describes it as under the radar, not overrun with tourists, and possessing a real charm that vanishes when a city becomes a major tourism destination.
Why Skopje Stands Out
Warzecha notes that while Rome and Warsaw are impressive, Skopje sits at the top of his list. He was blown away by the city centre, with its white marble, sculptures, elegant bridges, and well-kept beauty. The city is extremely walkable, and public transport is cheap, with a weekly pass costing around eight to ten pounds, including the cable car to the Millennium Cross. He also felt it was one of the safest cities he has visited, making walking at night no issue.
An Emerging Destination
North Macedonia welcomed just 1.4 million international visitors last year, compared to Belgium's 10 million. Warzecha highlights that Skopje recently got its first digital speed cameras, and their tour guide was proud he hadn't been fined yet. He adds that you sometimes share highways with cows, which adds to the adventure.
Exploring Beyond the City
The surrounding countryside is spectacular. Matka Canyon is within 20 minutes, and Lake Ohrid is a three-hour drive. North Macedonia borders Kosovo, Serbia, Greece, and Albania, all reachable in a couple of hours. Warzecha recommends starting in the main square and booking a tour for around £15 per person, opting for the cheapest package.
Food and Accommodation
Traditional Macedonian food is hearty and cheap, with excellent grilled meats. He recommends trying ajvar and tavce gravce, and grabbing a burek for breakfast. Local spots include Skopski Merak, Spajz, and Old House. For accommodation, he stayed in an Airbnb for £85 for four nights, a 15-minute walk from the centre. Higher-end options include Marriott Skopje with rooms from £95.
