I found myself in Albania during the middle of a very hot summer. The heat was intense, and I needed a cool place to escape. I looked at a map and saw a large blue area on the border. That was Lake Ohrid. It is the oldest and largest lake in the Balkans.
I saw that the water was clear and the prices were fair. I made a quick choice to head there with my dog. It was one of the best choices of my life. Pet Friendly Travel in Ohrid, North Macedonia is a dream for any animal lover.
This place is a hidden treasure. Local people say there is a different church for every day of the year. You can see many old buildings and cobble streets everywhere. Fig trees grow in the yards. Tiny kittens hide in the shade. From my balcony, I watched children sell watermelons from door to door. The whole town has a magic feel to it. You will love it.
Getting There and Safety
You might ask, what airlines fly to ohrid macedonia? The airport is small but busy in the summer. Wizz Air is the main budget airline that flies there. They have flights from London Luton, Vienna, and Milan.
You can also fly from Zurich with Chair Airlines or Edelweiss Air. TUI fly Netherlands goes to Amsterdam and Eindhoven. If you are already in the region, you can take a bus from Skopje. The trip takes about four and a half hours. It costs around 830 denars for a one-way ticket.
Safety is a common worry for many travelers. I often hear people ask, is north macedonia safe to travel? My answer is a loud yes. The people are very kind and helpful. I felt very safe walking the streets at night. Children play on their bikes late into the evening.
Shop owners do not even use heavy shutters on their windows at night. They just lock the door and go home. It is a very peaceful place for a vacation.
Pet Entry Rules for North Macedonia
You must prepare before you leave your home. First of all, your pet needs an identification chip. This microchip must have 15 digits to meet the rules. It must be put in before the rabies shot. Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old for the vaccine.
You should get the rabies shot at least 21 days before you travel. However, some rules say it should be done six months before you enter. I suggest you check with your vet to be sure.
Additionally, you need a health certificate. A licensed vet must sign this paper. If you come from the United States, a USDA vet must also sign it within 10 days of your trip.
You do not need a rabies titer test if you come from a country that is low in rabies. Plus, you should treat your pet for fleas, ticks, and worms before you go. This keeps your pet safe and follows the law. Finally, remember that you must enter through Skopje International Airport if you fly.
Finding a Place to Stay
Finding pet friendly accommodation ohrid was quite simple for me. I looked for pet friendly hotels ohrid and found many great spots. I stayed at Bogdanoski Studios. It is a very short walk to the lake. The host, Zoran, is a wonderful man.
He even carried my heavy bags to the room himself. He gave me a map and a book about the country. The rooms are clean and have small kitchens. You can even see the lake from some balconies.
On top of that, there are many other options. Villa Elza is right on the water in the old fisherman area. It has three bedrooms and a private beach area. Similarly, Villa Serenity offers a cozy retreat with a fireplace and lake views.
If you like being high up, Apartment Cityview is on the mountain slope. It is 900 meters above sea level. The sunsets from there are amazing. Most of these places have free Wi-Fi and parking.
Exploring the Old Town
The Old Town is the heart of the city. It is a UNESCO heritage site. I spent many hours just walking around. The streets are narrow and made of stone. You will see old houses that hang over the street. These houses are white to reflect the sun.
First of all, you should visit the Ancient Theater. It was built in the year 200 BC. People used it for gladiator fights in the Roman times. Now, they have concerts and plays there in the summer.
Later, you can walk up to Samuel’s Fortress. It sits on top of the hill like a crown. It was built in the 10th century. The walls are very strong and offer the best views of the lake. From the top, you can see all the way to Albania. It costs only 30 denars to go inside. Though the climb is steep, it is worth the effort. Your dog will love the walk through the forest paths that lead there.
Spiritual Beauty and Churches
Ohrid is often called the Jerusalem of the Balkans. At one time, it had 365 churches. The most famous one is the Church of Saint John at Kaneo. It sits on a cliff right over the blue water. It is the most photographed spot in the country. I walked there in the morning when it was quiet. The view is peaceful and beautiful. You can pay 100 denars to go inside.
Also, you must see the Church of Saint Sophia. It dates back to the 9th century. It has very old paintings on the walls called frescoes. One rare painting shows a baby Jesus without shoes. Similarly, the Plaoshnik site is very important.
This is where the first Slavic university started. You can see old mosaic floors with patterns of animals and sun symbols. It is a place where history feels very close.
Fun on the Water
The lake is the main reason people come here. The water is fresh and very clear. I went swimming every single day. The lakeside has many small coves and platforms for diving. Freshwater is much better than the sea because it is calm and not salty. I found a secret beach by walking along a wooden boardwalk. It was the perfect spot for a quiet dip with my dog.
Additionally, you can try kayaking or paddleboarding. I hired a kayak and paddled out at sunset. The water turned a warm amber color. It was very relaxing. If you want a bit more speed, you can take a boat tour. Many boats leave from the harbor every day.
A full day trip costs about 15 to 25 Euros. You can visit the Monastery of Saint Naum. It is near the border of Albania. The monastery has gardens with beautiful peacocks.
Adventures in Nature
If you love the outdoors, you must go to National Park Galicica. It sits between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. The entry fee is 200 denars. You can pay with a credit card. There are many trails for hiking and mountain biking. I saw many tortoises and big frogs during my walks. The park is very large and quiet. You can even go paragliding from the mountain tops.
On top of that, you can visit the Bay of Bones. This is a museum on the water. It is a remake of an ancient village built on stilts. The water there is clear as glass. You can see the poles in the water. It is a very strange and cool place to see. It costs only about two dollars to enter. I suggest you go early to avoid the big crowds from the tour boats.
Food and Local Treats
Eating in Ohrid is a great experience. The food is fresh and cheap. I loved the Shopska salad. It has cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and local white cheese. You should also try the Ohrid trout. However, be careful because it is rare and protected. Many restaurants also serve Burek, which is a flaky pastry with meat or cheese. It is perfect for breakfast with a cup of yogurt.
For a sweet treat, go to the Old Bazaar. You can find many shops that sell baklava. I met a man whose grandfather started his sweet shop. His baklava was very juicy and full of nuts. It cost only about three dollars for a big box. Also, try the Macedonian pearls. They are not real pearls from the sea. They are made from fish scales using a secret method. Only two families in town know how to make them.
Tips for Pet Owners
Traveling with a dog requires some extra care. Though the town is pet friendly, you should watch out for stray dogs. Most of them are not mean, but it is good to be careful. Always keep your dog on a leash in the city. You should also carry extra poop bags because they are hard to find in shops. The summer sun can be very hot, so avoid walking on the pavement at midday.
Additionally, make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water. You can find many public taps with clean spring water in the town. One family I met had a natural spring right outside their house. Many people came with bottles to fill up there. This water is very cold and good to drink. Plus, if you need a vet, there are good clinics in the bigger cities like Skopje or Bitola.
Nightlife and Culture
The evenings in Ohrid are full of life. The waterfront buzzes with music and street food stands. During the summer, there is a big festival. You can see folk dancers in traditional costumes. I saw a jazz club where even dogs seemed to wait in line. There are many bars with live bands. People sing and dance along to popular hits. It is a very happy atmosphere.
Therefore, you will never be bored. You can sit at a cafe and watch the world go by. The Old Bazaar street is the busiest place in town. It is lined with shops and gelato stands. I sat at My Grandparents House Cafe in the old town.
The coffee was the best I had in the Balkans. The owners were so friendly and gave us local biscuits to taste. It is these small moments that make the trip special.
Statistics and Practical Info
Here is some data to help you plan. The lake is over three million years old. It is 288 meters deep at its deepest point. The town was first mentioned in 353 BCE as the “city of light”. In the summer, temperatures are usually around 25 to 26 degrees Celsius.
Prices for a room start as low as 10 Euros per night. A simple meal can cost about five to seven dollars.
On top of that, currency is the Macedonian Denar. One Euro is worth about 61 Denars. You can find many ATMs in the town for cash. Most big shops and hotels take credit cards. However, small cafes and boat taxi drivers often want cash. It is always smart to carry some Denars in your pocket for small things like ice cream or a quick boat ride.
Why You Should Visit
Ohrid is a place that stays in your heart. It has the perfect mix of history, nature, and kindness. I felt very relaxed during my whole stay. The air is fresh, and the views are like a dream. Whether you are swimming in the clear water or walking the old walls, you will feel at peace. It is truly the jewel of the country.
additionally, your pet will have a great time too. There is so much to see and smell. The forest paths and lakeside walks are perfect for a dog. I saw many people traveling with their furry friends. It made me feel very welcome. I plan to go back again very soon. You should definitely put this place on your travel list.
FAQ
Is Ohrid Macedonia worth visiting?
This town is a true jewel and it is worth every second of your time. You will find clear water and a lot of history here. It is one of the most beautiful places in the world. You should definitely go.
What is the most dog friendly country?
Slovenia stands out as a very dog friendly country in this region. People there welcome pets in many cafes and shops. It is a great place for a dog to live.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
The Balkans are a top choice for a trip with your pet. You can find great trails and beaches in places like Slovenia and Macedonia. These countries offer a lot of outdoor fun.
How many days do I need in Ohrid?
You should plan to stay for at least four nights to see the town well. Many travelers stay for a full week to see all the churches and the lake. Time goes by fast when you have fun.
Is Macedonia cheap or expensive?
Macedonia is very cheap for travelers. You can get a boat tour for about 15 to 25 Euros. Rooms can cost as little as 10 Euros for each night. Plus, food is quite affordable in the markets.
Which European country loves dogs the most?
Slovenia is a country that really loves dogs. You will see pets in parks and outdoor cafes all the time. It is a very friendly place for animals.
Is Slovenia dog friendly?
Slovenia is very dog friendly. You can take your pet to Lake Bled for a long hike. The capital city has many dog parks and waste bins.
Which city is the most dog friendly?
Ljubljana is often called one of the best cities for dogs. You can walk with your pet through many shops and cafes.
Concluding Words
I want to repeat that this country is very safe. I never felt worried even once. The local people are some of the most hospitable I have ever met. They love to share their culture and their food. Even if you do not speak the language, you can get by with English in most tourist spots. Plus, most people are very patient and will try to help you if you are lost.
Therefore, do not let any worries stop you. Pack your bags, get your pet’s papers ready, and head to the lake. You will find a world of beauty waiting for you. The “city of light” is ready to welcome you with open arms. It is an adventure you will remember forever. Safe travels to you and your pet!
