What are the best tourist attractions in North Macedonia?

Odyssey’s Macedonian tours offer a route through the country’s fascinating history, via some of the most beautiful vistas in Europe. The Ohrid region, in the southwest of the country, is a superlative UNESCO world heritage site. The region sits around one of Europe’s deepest and most ancient lakes. The freshwater lake has existed since the pre-glacial period. The biological continuity has left the lake with a unique ecosystem that is one of the most diverse on Earth. Hundreds of species of wildlife, flora and fauna can be traced back to ancient times, much of which cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. On the shores of the lake lie multiple archaeological sites, easily covered on a walking tour, revealing some of the oldest human settlements ever found on the European peninsular. Whilst the ancient flora and fauna has survived almost unchanged since those first settlers, the human archaeological remains reflect the history of development in the Balkans. Around the lake sits the oldest Slavic monastery and university. The ring of surrounding mountains has guarded the towns against many of the tides of history, and so much of the town exists in beautiful inertia. This state extends to the collection of Byzantine structures, with 2.5 kilometres of frescoes and over 800 monuments. These monuments include the Holy Mother of God Perivleptos and St. John Kaneo, reflecting the pinnacle of Byzantine culture. North Macedonia is easily accessible through Skopje airport, with regular international flights to most countries.

What to visit in Albania?

Albania is home to two cities of UNESCO World Heritage Site pedigree. Albanian tours can start in, Berat a 2,4000 year old city, which was once the home of the ancient Illyrian peoples from whom modern Albanians trace their descent. The city is one of the hidden gems of Europe and stands as a remarkable monument to the various civilisations that have made their mark on the Balkan region. Sitting in the foreground to a rugged mountain range, the Ottoman architecture, including their iconic white houses, stands out in brilliant contrast. Another World Heritage Site is the archaeological park of Butrint, located in the southernmost part of Albania. Butrint, known in ancient times as Buthrotum, was an important settlement for the Greeks and the Romans due to its proximity to the Greek island of Corfu on the route to Italy along the Ionian Sea. The coastal town of Saranda, known for its deep, blue waters and bustling nightlife, is a popular entryway to Albania for travellers coming from Greece, and a great jump-off point for nearby beaches. The travel experience of Albania is not restricted to archaeological sites. The natural scenery is immense, and Lake Skadar, glittering in its own national park, is a must visit. Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkan region, with its turquoise waters and sloping beaches, is often the centerpiece of Albanian tours.