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Skopje

Official language

Macedonian and Albanian

Language capabilities

English, German and French

230 volts, 50 Hz; type C and F sockets. Two-pin Europlugs are compatible; an adapter is required for three-pin Swiss type J plugs.

Banks

8.00 am - 4.00 pm (Mon - Fri)
Most banks are closed on Saturdays, although some branches have shorter opening hours, often in the morning.

Shops

8.00 am - 8.00 pm (Mon - Fri)
 8.00 am - 4.00 pm (Sat)
Opening hours vary. Supermarkets and shopping centres often remain open longer and may also open on Sundays.

• 1 January: New Year's Day (Нова Година)

• 7 January: Orthodox Christmas Day (Божиќ)

• Ramadan Bayram, first day (Рамазан Бајрам)

• Orthodox Easter Monday (Втор ден Велигден)

• 1 May: Labour Day (Ден на трудот)

• 24 May: Saints Cyril and Methodius Day (Св. Кирил и Методиј)

• 2 August: Republic Day (Ден на Републиката)

• 8 September: Independence Day (Ден на независноста)

• 11 October: People's Uprising Day (Ден на народното востание)

• 23 October: Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle Day (Ден на македонската револуционерна борба)

• 8 December: Saint Clement of Ohrid Day (Св. Климент Охридски)

If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following working day is generally observed as a non-working day. Additional religious holidays apply to members of specific religious communities.

The following information applies to Swiss citizens resident in Switzerland:

• A valid Swiss identity card or Swiss passport. Travel documents must be valid for at least 90 days upon arrival.

• No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

• Travellers may be asked to show a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds.

• Minors: Check with the relevant authorities before departure regarding the formalities for minors travelling alone, with only one parent or with another accompanying person. Further information: Authorisation for children travelling abroad.

Foreign nationals must register with the local authorities within 48 hours of arrival. Hotels normally complete this registration for their guests. If you are staying in private accommodation, you or your host must take care of the formalities.

Information last updated in September 2026

Central North Macedonia (Skopje and surrounding area)

• Summer (June to August): Hot and dry, with temperatures generally between 25°C and 35°C. Rainfall is limited and humidity moderate.

• Winter (December to February): Cold, with temperatures generally between -2°C and 6°C. Occasional snow and many clear days.

• Spring/autumn (March to May and September to November): Mild, with temperatures generally between 10°C and 20°C. Changeable weather and spring rainfall.

Western North Macedonia (Lake Ohrid and mountain regions)

• Summer (June to August): Warm and pleasant, with temperatures generally between 20°C and 30°C. Breezes from Lake Ohrid provide some cooling, while the mountains remain cooler.

• Winter (December to February): Cold, with temperatures generally between -5°C and 5°C. Snow is frequent in the mountains.

• Spring/autumn (March to May and September to November): Mild, with temperatures generally between 10°C and 18°C. Spring tends to be wetter, while autumn often brings clear days.

Southern North Macedonia (Bitola and surrounding area)

• Summer (June to August): Warm and dry, with temperatures generally between 25°C and 35°C. Nights can be noticeably cooler.

• Winter (December to February): Cold to moderately cold, with temperatures generally between -1°C and 8°C. Snow is possible.

• Spring/autumn (March to May and September to November): Pleasant, with temperatures generally between 10°C and 20°C.

Eastern North Macedonia (Strumica and surrounding area)

• Summer (June to August): Hot and dry, with temperatures generally between 25°C and 35°C and many sunny days.

• Winter (December to February): Moderately cold, with temperatures generally between 0°C and 7°C. Cold winds are possible.

• Spring/autumn (March to May and September to November): Mild, with temperatures generally between 10°C and 20°C. Spring is usually wetter than autumn.

Your ideal time to visit North Macedonia:

• Lakeside holidays: June - September. Lake Ohrid is particularly pleasant during these months, with warm weather suitable for swimming.

• City breaks: April - June and September - October. Temperatures are usually comfortable for sightseeing and visitor numbers are often lower than in midsummer.

• Winter holidays: December - February. The mountain regions may offer suitable conditions for skiing and snowboarding, depending on snow cover.

• Roaming: Mobile phone use in North Macedonia may incur roaming charges, depending on your Swiss provider and subscription. Check the rates before travelling and consider purchasing a suitable roaming package.

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public areas.

• Prepaid SIM cards: Local prepaid SIM cards for calls and mobile data are available. The two established network operators are Makedonski Telekom and A1 Makedonija; additional virtual operators also offer services.

• Lake Ohrid: One of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes, known for its clear water, exceptional biodiversity and the historic city of Ohrid.

• Church of Saint John at Kaneo, Ohrid: A medieval church in a spectacular position on a cliff above Lake Ohrid.

• Matka Canyon, near Skopje: A dramatic canyon with hiking trails, caves, monasteries and a reservoir that can be explored by boat or kayak.

• Skopje Fortress (Kale), Skopje: A historic fortress above the Vardar with views across the city and archaeological layers from several periods.

• Stone Bridge, Skopje: One of the city's best-known landmarks, linking Macedonia Square with the Old Bazaar across the Vardar.

• Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia, Skopje: A museum complex devoted to the country's archaeology, history and ethnology.

• Heraclea Lyncestis, Bitola: The remains of an ancient city founded by Philip II of Macedon in the 4th century BC, noted for its mosaics.

• Galičica National Park, between lakes Ohrid and Prespa: A protected mountain landscape with diverse flora and fauna and wide views over both lakes.

• Monastery of Saint Naum, near Ohrid: A historic monastery founded at the end of the 9th century on the southern shore of Lake Ohrid.

• Marko's Towers, Prilep: Medieval fortress ruins on striking rock formations above the city, with panoramic views of the surrounding area.

• Stobi, near Gradsko: An important archaeological site with Roman and late antique buildings, mosaics and a theatre.

• Mavrovo National Park: A large national park with mountains, forests and Lake Mavrovo, offering hiking and seasonal winter sports.

• Treskavec Monastery, near Prilep: A secluded medieval monastery in the mountains above the Pelagonia plain.

• Old Bazaar, Skopje: One of the largest historic bazaar districts in the Balkans, with Ottoman-era buildings, craft shops, cafés and museums.

• Lake Prespa, on the borders with Greece and Albania: A quieter lake region with wetlands, islands and rich birdlife.

North Macedonia has a varied culinary tradition shaped by Balkan, Mediterranean and Ottoman influences. Typical specialities include:

• Ajvar: A spread made mainly from roasted red peppers, sometimes with aubergine, served with bread or as a side dish.

• Tavče gravče: A popular national dish of beans baked in an earthenware dish with onions, peppers and spices.

• Šopska salad: A fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and peppers, topped with grated white cheese.

• Ćevapčići / kebapi: Small grilled rolls of seasoned minced meat, often served with onions, ajvar and flatbread.

• Burek: A savoury pastry filled with meat, cheese, spinach or other vegetables, popular for breakfast or as a snack.

• Maznik: A traditional layered pastry with fillings such as cheese, spinach or meat, often prepared for celebrations.

• Macedonian wine: North Macedonia has a long wine-growing tradition. Vranec is the best-known red grape variety, while Smederevka is widely used for white wine.

• Rakija: A strong fruit spirit, commonly made from grapes or plums and often served as an aperitif.

• Greetings: A handshake accompanied by a friendly “Zdravo” (hello) or “Dobar den” (good day) is customary. Friends and acquaintances may greet one another with cheek kisses.

• Please and thank you: Politeness is appreciated. “Molam” means please and “Blagodaram” means thank you.

• Clothing: Dress is generally modern and informal in cities. When visiting churches, mosques or monasteries, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

• Dining culture: Sharing several dishes is common, especially during larger meals. When food is offered in a private home, accepting at least a small portion is considered courteous.

• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public places, although enforcement and arrangements for terraces may vary. Look for local signs and ask if in doubt.

• Tipping: In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary for good service if no service charge is included. In taxis, fares are often rounded up.

• Other: Hospitality is highly valued. If you are invited to someone's home, a small gift is a considerate gesture. Punctuality is appreciated, particularly for formal occasions.

• Drinking water quality: Tap water is generally treated in larger towns, but quality may vary by region and after disruptions to the supply. Bottled water is a sensible option in rural areas or for travellers with a sensitive stomach.

• Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are normally required for entry. Travellers should keep routine vaccinations up to date, including diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis and measles. Obtain individual medical advice before travelling.

• Medical care: Medical care is limited outside the larger cities. Hospitals may require advance payment in cash or by credit card. Comprehensive travel health insurance, including repatriation cover, is advisable.

• Medicines: If you rely on medication, carry an adequate supply in your travel pharmacy. Special rules may apply to controlled medicines, including medicines containing narcotics and certain substances used to treat mental health conditions. Check with the relevant representation before departure if necessary.

Information last updated in September 2026

Stay informed through the media before and during your trip and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• More information on the current security situation is available from the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• The political situation is generally relatively stable. Demonstrations can occur in Skopje and other cities. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings and follow the instructions of the local authorities.
• The risk of terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out.
• Border and remote areas: Observe basic safety precautions, particularly near the border with Albania. Seek local advice and consider travelling with someone familiar with the area when visiting remote places north-west of the Tetovo-Kumanovo line.

Information last updated in September 2026

• Driving licence: A valid Swiss driving licence is recognised for temporary stays. Car-hire companies may impose their own requirements concerning the driver's minimum age and how long the licence has been held.

• Car hire: Depending on the company and vehicle category, the minimum age is often between 21 and 23. Many providers require the licence to have been held for at least two years and may charge a young-driver fee.

• Insurance: Carry the International Motor Insurance Card and check before departure that North Macedonia is covered. The country code used for vehicles is “NMK”; older insurance documents may still show “MK”.

• Mandatory equipment: Carry a warning triangle, reflective vest and first-aid kit. Requirements for additional equipment should be checked with the automobile association or insurer before departure.

• Winter equipment: Prescribed winter equipment must be carried from 15 November to 15 March. Cars up to 3.5 tonnes require either winter tyres on all four wheels with at least 4 mm tread, or summer tyres with at least 4 mm tread plus suitable snow chains for the driven wheels. Studded tyres are prohibited.

• Lights: Dipped headlights must be used during the day.

• Drink-driving limit: 0.5‰. Lower or zero limits apply to certain driver categories, including novice and professional drivers.

• Tolls and accidents: Some main roads and motorways are tolled. In the event of a traffic accident, notify the police so that an accident report can be issued. Since 1 February 2026, outstanding fines for speeding offences committed during the stay may be collected at the border upon departure.

• Long-distance trains: Passenger rail services are limited and timetables may change. Current services from Skopje include selected connections towards Veles, Gevgelija, Bitola and Tabanovce; check the timetable shortly before travelling.

• Regional trains: Regional rail services are infrequent and do not provide comprehensive coverage. Buses are usually more practical for travel between many towns and tourist regions.

• Buses and coaches: Buses are the main form of public transport between towns and cover a much wider network than trains. Numerous companies operate domestic and international routes.

• Underground/tram: North Macedonia has neither an underground nor a tram system. Skopje and other larger towns have urban bus networks.

• Tickets: Train and bus tickets can generally be purchased at railway stations and bus terminals. Online booking is available on selected routes and from selected operators. Buy tickets for popular long-distance services in advance where possible.

• Other: Taxis are widely available in towns and comparatively inexpensive. Use licensed taxis and make sure the meter is switched on or agree the fare in advance. A hire car may be the most practical option for remote rural areas.

• Long-distance trains: Passenger rail services are limited and timetables may change. Current services from Skopje include selected connections towards Veles, Gevgelija, Bitola and Tabanovce; check the timetable shortly before travelling.

• Regional trains: Regional rail services are infrequent and do not provide comprehensive coverage. Buses are usually more practical for travel between many towns and tourist regions.

• Buses and coaches: Buses are the main form of public transport between towns and cover a much wider network than trains. Numerous companies operate domestic and international routes.

• Underground/tram: North Macedonia has neither an underground nor a tram system. Skopje and other larger towns have urban bus networks.

• Tickets: Train and bus tickets can generally be purchased at railway stations and bus terminals. Online booking is available on selected routes and from selected operators. Buy tickets for popular long-distance services in advance where possible.

• Other: Taxis are widely available in towns and comparatively inexpensive. Use licensed taxis and make sure the meter is switched on or agree the fare in advance. A hire car may be the most practical option for remote rural areas.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• European emergency number: 112

• Police: 192

• Fire brigade: 193

• Ambulance: 194

• Roadside assistance: 196

Embassy of Switzerland
Maksim Gorki Street 19
1000 Skopje
North Macedonia

Tel. +389 2 310 33 00
Email: skopje@eda.admin.ch

All consular services and visa support for people residing in North Macedonia are provided by the Regional Consular Centre Western Balkans in Pristina.

Natural hazards

• Earthquakes: North Macedonia is in an earthquake zone.

• Floods and landslides: Heavy rainfall can cause flooding, landslides and infrastructure damage.

• Forest fires: There is a risk of forest fires in many areas, particularly during hot and dry periods. Follow warnings, closures and evacuation instructions issued by the local authorities.

• In an emergency: If a natural disaster occurs during your stay, contact your relatives as soon as possible and follow the instructions of the local authorities. If international communications are disrupted, contact the Swiss Embassy in Skopje.

Special information

• Registration: Foreign nationals must register with the local authorities within 48 hours of arrival. Hotels normally register their guests; for private accommodation, travellers or their hosts must complete the formalities themselves.

Special legal provisions

• Photography: It is prohibited to photograph military facilities and installations of strategic importance, including airports. Observe signs and ask the local security forces for permission if in doubt.

• Road traffic: Special rules, including lower speed limits, apply to drivers during the first two years after obtaining their licence. Ask the relevant authorities for current details.

• Unknown passengers: Transporting refugees in a private vehicle can constitute people smuggling and may result in imprisonment. Do not give lifts to unknown persons, even for short sections within North Macedonia.

• Drugs: Violations of drug legislation are punishable by lengthy prison sentences.

• Detention conditions: Prison conditions are harsher than in Switzerland.

Information last updated in September 2026