Old Town:
We start our tour at 8.30 am! We drive to Ohrid and we start our visit from the Old Town, a charming and historic part of Ohrid, North Macedonia, known for its well-preserved architecture, cobbled streets, and cultural landmarks. The old town formed between the VIIth and XIXth centuries on the shores of Lake Ohrid. It developed on archaeological remains that dated back from the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages. Wander through narrow cobbled streets that wind their way through the Old Town. The architecture reflects a mix of medieval, Ottoman, and traditional Macedonian styles.
Robev Family House:
The Robev House is a famous and historic building in Ohrid, North Macedonia. It was built in its current state in 1863–1864 by Todor Petkov. Today the house is a protected cultural monument and belongs to the Institute for Protection of Cultural Monuments and National Museum. Epigraphical monuments from Ohrid are placed on the ground part of the house including precious objects as the "Milokas" (found on the Via Egnatia) road. The upper part of the house serves as exhibition space for objects made by the Ohrid carving school, creations of famous artists from Ohrid and the county. In the eastern part of the house some objects from the Robevi family are exhibited.
Church of Saint Sofia
The Church of Saint Sophia is located in the city of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has a long history, dating back to the 11th century. It was built during the reign of Tsar Samuil, a ruler of the First Bulgarian Empire, and it is considered one of the most important medieval monuments in the city. The church features a combination of Byzantine and traditional Macedonian architectural styles. It has a basilica layout and is adorned with frescoes, some of which are well-preserved.
Ohrid Theatre:
Discover the ancient theater of Ohrid, an ancient venue with a capacity for around 4,000 spectators. It is believed to date back to Roman times and is occasionally used for cultural events. Built in 200 BC is the only Hellenistic-type theatre in the country. The open Ohrid theater has a perfect location: the two hills that surround it keep it protected from winds that could interfere with acoustics during performances.
Samuel's Fortress:
The fortress dates back to the 4th century and offers a glimpse into Ohrid’ s rich past. It has a towering presence above Ohrid, and a mysterious past that has deep roots starting from the ancient Macedonian kingdom and continuing as the seat of Tsar Samuel’s Macedonian based medieval empire. The fortress was used in the Roman and Byzantium period, and during the Samuel’s reign was considerably enlarged and rebuilt. Nowadays, 18 towers and 4 gates have been preserved from the Fortress, which is a protective symbol of Ohrid and it an utmost tourist attraction.
Saint Jovan Kaneo:
Saint John at Kaneo is a Macedonian Orthodox church situated on the cliff over Kaneo Beach overlooking Lake Ohrid. We will have magnificent views over Ohrid lake as well as the old town, from there. This stunning 13th-century church is dedicated to John of Patmos, the writer of Revelation, who has been by some considered to be the same person as John the Apostle. The construction date of the church remains unknown but documents detailing the church property suggest that it was built before the year 1447.
Kaneo Beach:
Relax at Kaneo Beach, a popular spot with a small church overlooking the lake. It's a great place to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
Academy complex Plaoshnik:
Explore the Plaoshnik archaeological site, which includes the remains of an ancient early Christian Basilica and the Church of St. Clement. The site offers historical insights into the region. The church was built by St. Clement in the year 893 on the foundation of an early Christian Basilica, and dedicated to St. Panteleimon. It was here that the Ohrid Literary School, a center of Slavonic literary and cultural activity where more than 3,500 disciples were educated.
Ohrid Lake:
Lake Ohrid is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its natural beauty, historical sites, and recreational opportunities. Situated in the southwestern part of North Macedonia and the eastern part of Albania, the lake is believed to have been formed as a result of tectonic and geological processes. Covers an area of approximately 358 square kilometers (138 square miles) and It is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the Balkan Peninsula.