Accommodation options in North Macedonia

There are many, many 3-5 star hotel options throughout the country. Some are newly built establishments with all modern fixtures and infrastructure, with many international brands present in the larger cities.

Others are local hotels situated in refurbished historic buildings, providing appropriate amenities for their star rankings.

Casino hotels

Gambling is big in Macedonia, and with it come dozens of large, luxurious 4 and 5-star hotels. All-inclusive upscale stays are perfect for treating yourself while you try your luck at the tables. Most of these properties have expansive casinos, restaurants, spas, and entertainment.

Each region of the country has several casino/hotel options to choose from, with those in Skopje, the capital city, and those in Gevgelija, on the border with Greece, being favorites.

Note: Even if you’re not into gambling, these hotels are enjoyable for their comfort and amenities… and many visitors opt to just stop by for a meal in their restaurants, which are usually open to the public.

Resort spas

The landscapes and abundant natural resources in Macedonia providebreathtaking backdrops for R&R. While some resorts are upscale hotels that offer first-class, exclusive spa services, Macedonia is also known for its mineral rich healing natural thermal springs that attract guests in every season.

Some visit specific spa resorts for medical and therapeutic purposes, plus pampering and relaxation. Many resorts offer couples massage and private couples soaking pools for an intimate getaway.

Self-catering apartments are by far the most popular housing choice for tourists to Macedonia. There are literally hundreds of options available, from simple studios to large multi-bedroom apartments or villas, and everything in-between. Many are newly redone with shiny, first-rate appliances, stylish decor, and modern bathrooms. There’s a wide range for every budget.

When booking, be sure to note how the property is accessed, as many are in walk-ups with no elevator. Or, they might have elevators that look dodgy, especially if you’re not used to the older European style of elevator that feels more like a cage than a mode of transportation. Never fear, just check the reviews, and you’ll see that other travelers enjoyed their stay, with no issues.

Other apartments are spiffy, ultra-modern and spacious, with shiny chrome and glass elevators. Just read the fine print on your booking page! Also, if you have lots of luggage, take note of which floor the apartment is on – if it lists the ground-floor or the first floor, you may have to negotiate stairs to reach even a lower level flat. 

Bonus: When booking a self-catering apartment, you’ll often get more personal interaction than if you stay at a hotel. Your host may become your first Macedonian friend, who will arrange an airport pick-up, offer local advice, introduce you to reliable vendors, meet you for a coffee, or even make an initial money exchange for you, if you’re lucky!

With so many churches and monasteries in Macedonia, it’s no wonder that some of them have opened their doors for visitors to stay and get a glimpse of traditional monastery life. The accommodations may vary in comfort levels, with some offering lovely rooms.

Walking the sacred grounds is uplifting, and waking to a serene monasterial environment is an experience that leaves lingering memories most visitors never forget.

These monasteries offer hotel/room stays:

• Hotel St. Naum – St. Naum, Ohrid

  The Fifteen Holy Hieromartyrs of Tiberiopolis – Strumica

• Saint John the Baptist Monastery - Slepce Village, Demir Hisar

• Monastery of St. George – Negotino (it's a bit of an adventure - you have to go there to get in touch - however they do offer simple rooms in the lovely monastery environment).

These accommodations are very near to nearby monasteries:

• Bigorski Monastery – Guest Mansion, Rostusa

• Kalishta Monastery – Villa Eros Apartments, Struga

Family owned guesthouses are a blend of hotel professionalism and a more down-home feeling, where your host family will usually help guide you with inside info, if you ask.

Be sure to check room access and amenities, as some of these facilities may offer shared bathrooms and shared kitchens, or upper rooms that can only be reached by stairs.

Agritourism is not a huge “thing” in Macedonia, but there are a few farm stays, if you fancy a salubrious getaway among the trees, animals, and nature.

In the spirit of agritourism, you will find more wineries that also offer hotel/guesthouse stays than actual “farms.” You’ll be able to combine a leisurely wine tour/tasting and scrumptious home cooked meals featuring local organic ingredients with a comfy stay right onsite; so you don’t have to think about driving after sampling all that wine and food!

Some wineries with accommodation are:

• Kokino Winery & Hotel

• Chateau Kamnik

• Popova Kula Hotel & Wine

Even though accommodation in Macedonia won’t break your wallet, travelers who are minding their pennies can save even more by staying in hostels throughout the country.

Hostels are also great options for solo travelers (especially women) who would love to connect with other travelers or are looking for traveling companions for day trips or hiking.