Skopje is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Macedonia. It is the country's political, cultural, economic, and academic center as well as being home to a quarter of the population.

The city center is particularly impressive with huge classical style buildings and statues telling the tumultuous history of Macedonia. The most famous monument is the 22 meter high Alexander the Great Fountain in Macedonia Square. Skopje is said to be the town of many squares, bridges and taverns and it certainly lives up to its reputation.

Vodno Mountain is just 2 kilometers from the city center and its thick forests are a great escape from the city. One trail at the foot of the mountain leads to Nerez a Church dating back to 1164. It is famous for its Lamentation of Christ fresco which depicts the Virgin Mary lamenting over the body of her dead son. At the top of the mountain you will find the Millenium Cross dedicated to 2000 years of Christianity in Macedonia. If you prefer not to walk you can also take a cable car to the top for awe inspiring views of the city and valley.

The Old Bazaar is 7 centuries old and is the biggest bazaar in the Balkans apart from the one in Istanbul. One these narrow cobblestone streets history blends with the modern style of living. There are excellent turkish coffee houses as well as sweet shops and restaurants serving authentic turkish cuisine and de. Most of the craft workshops are preserving some of the oldest handmade artistry such as filigree craftmanship which is becoming increasingly rare. The Bazaar is bordered by the Stone Bridge which is built on Roman foundations between 1451 and 1469. This is where Karposh the anti-Ottoman rebel was executed in 1689. On the other side of the Bazaar stands the 1500 year old Kale Fortress which overlooks the Vardar River.

Skopje is also the birthplace of the modern day saint Mother Teresa. The Memorial House of Mother Teresa contains numerous letters and artifacts from her life which give a wonderful insight into who she was as a person. You will leave feeling uplifted and inspired.

Matka Canyon is 15 kilometers south-west of Skopje and is a popular day trip for alpine hiking, fishing, swimming and kayaking on the Treska River. There are 10 caves here with the Vrelo Cave being the most visited due to its amazing stalactites. At the end of the cave there are two lakes, the larger one is 35 meters long 18 meters deep. You will find several historic monasteries here including St. Nicholas Monastery located on a cliff which offers a unique view high above the canyon.