North Macedonia travel guide for Britons

UK passport holders do not need a visa for tourism, business or family visits of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least three months after the date you plan to leave North Macedonia. No proof of funds or onward ticket is formally required, but border officers may ask for travel plans.

If you intend to stay longer than 90 days, work, study or volunteer, you must obtain a visa from the Macedonian embassy before travel.

The United Kingdom does not have a resident embassy in North Macedonia. British consular services are provided by the British Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria.

In Skopje you can reach the British Consular Assistance Team for emergencies; they operate out of the British Embassy in Sofia but have a local contact point.

Accommodation: £30‑£70 per night for mid‑range hotels in Skopje or Ohrid; hostels start at £12.

Meals: £8‑£15 for a main course in a restaurant; street food cheaper.

Transport: Intercity bus £10‑£20 between Skopje and Ohrid; local buses £1‑£2.

Entry fees: major museums and sites £2‑£5 each.

Direct flights to Skopje are seasonal; most travellers connect via major hubs such as Istanbul, Vienna or Doha. Typical total travel time from London to Skopje is 5–9 hours including layover.

Check the flight‑time planner tool for exact durations from your city.

Plugs: type C and F, 230 V, 50 Hz – bring a UK‑to‑EU adapter.

Tipping: round up the bill or leave about 10 % in restaurants; small change for taxis is appreciated.

Emergency numbers: 112 (EU), 192 police, 193 fire, 194 ambulance.

Currency: Macedonian denar (MKD); ATMs widely available, credit cards accepted in most hotels and restaurants.

The country is generally safe for tourists; keep usual precautions, avoid isolated areas at night and watch personal belongings.

Emergency numbers: 112 (EU), 192 police, 193 fire, 194 ambulance.

Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.