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Skopje's Iconic Landmarks: Stone Bridge, Skopje 2014, and the Old Bazaar

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/03 .. stone-bridge-skopje-2014-and-the-old-bazaar.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, December 3rd 2025 at 8:16 GMT by CNN

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Skopje and Beyond: A Comprehensive Guide to North Macedonia’s Growing Tourism Scene

North Macedonia, a landlocked Balkan gem, has recently taken its place on the world map as a cultural, culinary, and historical destination. At the heart of this transformation lies Skopje, the capital city whose blend of Ottoman relics, 20th‑century socialist architecture, and bold “Skopje 2014” aesthetic projects creates a uniquely layered urban tapestry. CNN Travel’s feature on North Macedonia’s tourism—and particularly on Skopje—offers a vivid snapshot of the city’s allure, its key attractions, and practical travel tips that make it an ideal springboard to the country’s broader offerings.

1. Skopje’s Iconic Landmarks

The Stone Bridge (Stolen Most)
Perhaps the most photographed structure in the city, the Stone Bridge links the Old Bazaar with the newer part of town across the Vardar River. Its Roman‑style arches and contemporary stone façade invite leisurely strolls, while the surrounding cafés serve the perfect backdrop for a coffee break.

Skopje 2014’s Monumental Vision
A hallmark of the city’s recent makeover is the controversial “Skopje 2014” program—a sweeping initiative that replaced many of the socialist‑era buildings with classical façades, marble columns, and a parade of marble statues. Visitors can’t miss the giant statue of Alexander the Great (the “Macedonian Alexander”) standing guard over the city’s center, or the towering Millennium Cross that glows in the night sky, symbolizing the city’s Orthodox heritage.

The Old Bazaar (Stara Ruda)
Beyond the gleaming marble, the Old Bazaar exudes a more humble charm. Its narrow, winding lanes are lined with shops selling silver jewelry, hand‑woven carpets, and local crafts. The bustling bazaars are a great place to taste traditional Macedonian street food, such as ajvar (a pepper-based spread), tavche gravce (stewed beans), and fresh goat cheese.

National and Contemporary Museums
The Macedonian National Museum of Contemporary Art, housed in a repurposed Soviet research institute, showcases avant‑garde works that challenge traditional narratives. The Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia (formerly the National Museum) offers an expansive overview of the country’s history, from prehistoric settlements to the independence movement in 1991.

2. Culinary Highlights

North Macedonia’s cuisine is a mosaic of influences: Ottoman, Greek, Serbian, and Italian. Skopje’s food scene reflects this mix.

• Tavernas: Traditional eateries such as Caffe 13 and Tavernata offer hearty dishes like čevapi (grilled minced meat) and pita (filled pastry).
• Burek: A flaky pastry filled with cheese or minced meat—perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
• Macedonian Wines: The country has a long winemaking tradition; tasting local varieties such as Mavrud and Krastavci is a must.

CNN’s article emphasizes how the local markets, especially the Vardarska bazar near the Stone Bridge, are ideal for sampling fresh produce and spices.

3. Getting Around: Practical Travel Information

• Transportation: Skopje’s compact city center is best explored on foot, but the city also boasts a well‑connected bus network. Taxis and ride‑share apps such as TaksiApp are plentiful.
• Airport: The city’s international airport, Skopje International Airport (SKP), receives flights from many European capitals. The distance to the city center is only about 8 km, making a taxi or a local bus a convenient option.
• Currency: The North Macedonian denar (MKD) is used throughout the country. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
• Visas: Visitors from the EU, US, Canada, and many other countries can enter visa‑free for up to 90 days. Check the latest requirements on the official tourism website (tourism.gov.mk) before departure.

4. Extending Your Journey Beyond Skopje

CNN Travel encourages tourists to use Skopje as a base for exploring the rest of North Macedonia.

• Lake Ohrid: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the lake’s clear waters and historic monasteries make it a top day‑trip. The nearby town of Ohrid is home to the Macedonian National Theatre and the St. John the Baptist Church, both renowned for their frescoes.
• Mavrovo National Park: Located in the north‑eastern part of the country, this park offers skiing in winter and hiking, cycling, and river rafting in summer.
• Bitola: Known as “the city of roses,” Bitola boasts the Aristotelous Square and the Macedonian National Library, a striking modernist building.
• Southeast: The Stobi Archaeological Site in the Skopska Crna River Valley gives a glimpse into Roman, Byzantine, and Illyrian cultures.

5. Cultural Events and Festivals

North Macedonia’s calendar is peppered with events that showcase its vibrant traditions.

• Skopje Marathon: An annual event drawing runners from around the globe, celebrating the city’s newfound global profile.
• Skopje Fest: A music festival featuring local and international acts, typically held in the summer.
• Ohrid Summer Music Festival: Classical concerts performed in the stunning setting of St. John the Baptist Church.

CNN’s piece highlights how these events provide a “living museum” experience, letting visitors engage directly with Macedonian art and culture.

6. Why Skopje and North Macedonia Should Be on Your Radar

• Cultural Depth: From the stone‑pierced Old Bazaar to the marble‑clad monuments, Skopje is a living showcase of the country’s layered history.
• Accessibility: With a small geographic footprint and a robust transport network, it’s easy to navigate and to connect to other attractions.
• Affordability: Compared to many European capitals, the cost of accommodation, food, and activities remains reasonable, making it a budget‑friendly destination.
• Warm Hospitality: According to many travelers cited in the article, the friendliness and helpfulness of Macedonians add an unquantifiable value to the visit.

7. Further Reading and Resources

The CNN article links to several supplementary sources that enrich the reader’s understanding:

• Official Tourism Site (tourism.gov.mk): Offers visa information, travel itineraries, and an updated list of festivals.
• Macedonia Tourism Blog: Features personal accounts and insider tips on hidden gems.
• UNESCO List: Provides deeper insight into Ohrid’s heritage status.
• Travel Forums (e.g., Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor): Where recent travelers discuss accommodations, safety, and local tips.

In Sum

North Macedonia’s Skopje is not merely a stopover—it’s a vibrant hub that encapsulates the nation’s historical resilience and contemporary ambition. Whether you’re drawn by the grandeur of marble statues, the cozy charm of the Old Bazaar, the flavors of Macedonian cuisine, or the promise of exploring Lake Ohrid’s crystalline waters, the city offers an inclusive, memorable experience. CNN’s feature distills this multifaceted destination into an accessible guide that invites travelers to dive deeper into the country’s culture, geography, and spirit. Plan your trip, and discover how Skopje and its surroundings can transform a simple vacation into a lifelong memory.