You’ll make a trip to Bitola, the country’s second biggest city and a place with deep historical roots in the Republic of Macedonia. During the Ottoman era, it earned the nickname ‘the city of the consuls’ because many European nations have consulates located here.
Upon your arrival in Bitola, immediately to your right, you’ll be greeted by the sight of Mount Pelister, rising to a height of 2,601 meters, alongside Pelister National Park. Despite being the smallest national park in Macedonia, it holds the distinction of being the oldest, established in 1948. The park is celebrated for its ancient Molika pines, a diverse array of plant and animal life, and the preservation of unique glacial lakes known as Pelisterski Ochi, or the Eyes of Pelister. Additionally, it’s a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering ski facilities, accommodations, and ski lifts.
In the city of Bitola, you’ll visit the Sveti Dimitrija Church, also known as St. Dimitri, which dates back to the 19th century and is noted as one of the largest churches in the Balkans. You’ll briefly observe the Yeni Mosque, constructed in 1559 and now serving as an art gallery, followed by the Yahdar-Kadi Mosque from 1562 and the Isak Mosque from 1508-09.
The city’s central feature is its Clock Tower, with the River Dragor flowing through Bitola. The Sirok Sokak, a lengthy pedestrian zone, is famous for its exquisite 19th-century homes. Bitola is also known as a city of consulates and as the birthplace of the Manaki brothers’ photographic legacy, who in 1905 established their Studio of Art Photography. In tribute to their contributions to photography and cinematography, the world’s first international film camera festival was inaugurated here in 1979 and takes place every September.
Subsequently, you will travel by bus to the ancient Macedonian city of Heraclea Lyncestis. Established in the 4th century BC in the fertile Pelagonia valley by Philip II of Macedon, Alexander the Great’s father, the city continues to be an archaeological hotspot. Excavations have uncovered a Roman Bath, an amphitheater, a courtroom, and two basilicas from the 5th century, adorned with some of the most exquisite and well-preserved mosaic floors in the Balkans, considered among the world’s most precious from that era.
You will then have some free time before returning to Skopje, where the tour concludes.
Points of Interest
- Skopje
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Private tour
- Professional guide
- Transport by private vehicle
- Gratuities
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- Food and drinks
- dress code is casual
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
