Day trip to Skopje and Matka Canyon from Sofia

By this day trip, you will visit two of the most important sites of Northern Macedonia – its Capital Skopje, and one of the breathtaking natural wonders – Matka Canyon. We will dive into the past, while exploring the old part of Skopje with its authentic sites, get to know the modern understanding of the history which the Macedonians have while walking in the new part of the city - rebuilt during the “Skopje 2014” project. In the end, we will take a break from all the history and new facts and rest our minds in the heavenly nature of Matka Canyon.

Our day tour to Skopje will start with pick up from your centrally located hotel/accommodation in Sofia at 08:00 am. After approximately 3 and a half hours guided trip we will reach Skopje. During the long drive, you will learn the Bulgarian point of view regarding the history of the region. Then you will have two hours guided tour of the city made by a local Macedonian guide. You will have the chance to hear the stories about Yugoslavia and the modern way of life in the country from a native, which will make your experience much more fulfilled. In addition, you will compare the two historical interpretations and make your own conclusions. The highlights you will visit are the Old fortress, Sultan Murat Mosques and the Old Bazaar, where we will have the chance to see Caravanserais (inns) from the Ottoman period when Skopje was one of the main trade centers on the Balkans.

Historical fortress located at the highest point in Skopje from where you will have the chance to admire the stunning view of the city.

A mosque from the Ottoman-era, built during the 15th century. It is a masterpiece of the architectural achievements of the early Ottoman empire.

We will cross the Vardar River by the Stone bridge, the only preserved bridge from the Middle ages and start our exploration of the new part of the city.

We will visit the new neo-classical square Macedonia. There we will admire the biggest statue of Alexander the Great and his father Phillip II. You will stop and learn the history of the ancient Macedonians and the adventures of their rulers.

We will continue to Mother Teresa memorial house. She is the most famous person born in Skopje. Her work and contribution to the world deserve huge respect. In the house museum, you will learn about her story and will track her life by the big photography collection. The walking part of the tour will finish at the Gate Macedonia (newly built triumphal arch).

Unfortunately, the itinerary will not allow you to have free time for lunch in Skopje. It is good to take some fast food during the walking tour or bring some sandwiches with you. You can buy it from a petrol station before arriving in the city. After the walking tour, your local guide will drive you to Matka Canyon where you will have approximately an hour and a half to admire the beauty of nature. You will have a boat trip inside the canyon you will pass by probably the deepest underwater cave in the world. After that at 16:00, you will meet with the rest of the group and depart back to Sofia. During driving, you will be able to discuss your impressions and ask your questions.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• We understand your concerns in relation to COVID 19, therefore we've taken the needed measures for you to feel safe. All our guides and drivers go through regular medical checks, wear masks during the tours and in each vehicle, we have a disinfectant spray. Furthermore due to the situation nowadays we organize tours only for small groups (up to 7 persons) and we have the option for private tours.
• Please note that due to the current COVID situation you need to have any of the mentioned so that you can cross the border from North Macedonia to Bulgaria: negative PCR test (made up to 72 hours before you cross the border), negative antigen test (made up to 48 hours before you cross the border) or vaccination card (proving that you are fully vacinated).

• Day trip to Skopje and Matka Canyon from Sofia
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  Pickup included

• English-speaking proffessional Macedonian guide
• English speaking professional Bulgarian guide/driver

• Gratitude to the guides

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• This Tour is Provided by BulTrips.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Sofia.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 4.5 Stars based on 29 valid reviews on VIATOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.