Ohrid… the hidden gem of the Balkans, a city that enchants visitors with its azure lake and historical charm. Especially during the summer months, Ohrid transforms into a summer dream. It’s hard to find a better place than Ohrid to cool off in hot weather, embark on historical explorations, and have unforgettable experiences.
Soak Up the Sun and the Lake: Ohrid Lake, with its turquoise waters and clarity, offers an ideal setting for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports in the summer months. You can relax on the beaches, take a lake tour, or enjoy a leisurely canoe or boat trip.
Embark on a Historical Journey: Ohrid has been inhabited since ancient times and is therefore quite rich in historical artifacts. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and takes you back in time with its cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and churches. The most important historical sites in the city include the Church of Saint Sophia, the Church of Saint Mary Peribleptos, and Samuil’s Fortress.
Discover Culinary Delights: Ohrid cuisine is a fusion of Balkan and Mediterranean flavors. Fresh fish, grilled meats, cheeses, and vegetables form the basis of Ohrid cuisine. To taste the local flavors, you can visit the restaurants and taverns located on the streets of the city. I recommend trying Ohrid’s famous taranas soup and trout.
Festivals and Entertainment: Ohrid hosts many festivals and events during the summer months. The Ohrid Summer Festival, the Balkan Folklore Festival, and the Struga Poetry Evenings are among the most important festivals. At these festivals, you can listen to traditional music, watch folk dances, and get to know the local culture up close.
One with Nature: Ohrid enchants not only with its history and lake, but also with its nature. You can go hiking in the mountains around the lake, take bike tours, or have a picnic in the National Park. The Monastery of Saint Naum, located in Ohrid Lake National Park, is also definitely worth seeing.
Before You Go to Ohrid:
- The best time to visit Ohrid is between May and September.
- There are no direct flights from Turkey to Ohrid. You can fly from Istanbul to Skopje and then reach Ohrid by bus or train.
- The official currency of Ohrid is the Macedonian Denar. Euros and Turkish Liras are also accepted in some places.
- There are many accommodation options in Ohrid. You can find a place to suit your budget and taste among hotels, guesthouses and apart hotels.
Are you ready to be captivated by the summer magic of Ohrid and have an unforgettable vacation?