Welcome to Macedonia 😊

Quick Facts About Macedonia

Money and Finances

The currency used in Macedonia is the Macedonian denar. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 50 denars, whereas banknotes come in denominations of 10, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 5000 denars.

ATM Network

ATM networks can be found in most major cities and tourist destinations in Macedonia. However, it's recommended to carry some cash with you in case you run into any issues.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are generally accepted in larger businesses and hotels in Macedonia, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand as some smaller businesses may not accept them. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express.

Internet and Phones

In Macedonia, the average internet download speed is around 30 Mbps and the average upload speed is around 10 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The major telco companies in Macedonia are Makedonski Telekom and VIP Operator. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 1000-1500 MKD (20-30 USD) per month. There are no sim compatibility issues.

Dialling to Macedonia

To call Macedonia from another country, dial +389 followed by the area code and local number. The area codes in Macedonia range from 2 to 78.

Transport Around Macedonia

Air Travel

Macedonia has one major international airport, Skopje Alexander the Great Airport, which is located 17km southeast of the capital city, Skopje. There are also smaller airports in Ohrid and Stip.

Train Travel

Macedonia has a limited inter-city train network, with services running between Skopje and Bitola, and Skopje and Gevgelija. Ticket prices range from 200 to 500 MKD (3-8 USD) depending on distance, and journey times can range from 2 to 6 hours.

Metro / Local Trains

Macedonia does not have a metro system.

Buses

Macedonia has a well-developed bus network, with both inter-city and local buses available. Ticket prices are generally affordable, ranging from 50 to 200 MKD (less than 3 USD to 4 USD), and journey times vary depending on distance and traffic.

Rideshare

Rideshare companies such as Uber are not available in Macedonia, but there are local taxi companies that offer affordable prices. A typical taxi ride in Skopje costs around 100-200 MKD (2-4 USD) depending on distance.

Driving by Car

Driving in Macedonia can be challenging due to the narrow and winding roads, especially in mountainous areas. The speed limit on most roads is 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas and 80 km/h (50 mph) on highways. Macedonia uses right-hand drive, as in Europe.

Local Customs

In Macedonia, tipping is generally expected in restaurants and for other service providers. A tip of 10% is customary. Locals greet each other with a handshake. It is common to use formal titles when addressing people, especially for older people or those in positions of authority. Men and women usually address each other by their first name unless they are meeting for the first time or in a formal setting.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The healthcare system in Macedonia is comprised of both public and private facilities. Public healthcare is financed through social security contributions, while private facilities are fee-for-service. The cost for a visit to the doctor is approximately 100-150 Macedonian denars (1.6-2.4 USD). It is recommended to have travel insurance as the cost for treatment can be more expensive for non-citizens.

COVID Situation

Macedonia quickly implemented strict measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including closing borders and implementing a curfew. As of now, the country has seen a decrease in cases, but it is still recommended to adhere to safety measures such as wearing a mask and practicing social distancing.

Common Health Risks

Macedonia has a low risk of malaria, but it is still recommended to take precautions such as using mosquito repellent and wearing long clothing. Food and water-borne illnesses are also a common risk, so it is important to stick to bottled water and avoid street food.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Macedonia, the legal drinking age is 18. It is legal to consume alcohol in public places, but driving under the influence is strictly prohibited. There are no restrictions on purchasing alcohol, but alcohol sales are prohibited after 11 p.m. in stores and after 2 a.m. in bars and nightclubs.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Macedonia, and penalties for possession and distribution of drugs can be severe. Marijuana and party drugs such as ecstasy are strictly prohibited and can result in imprisonment or hefty fines.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no laws regulating pre-marital relationships in Macedonia, and cohabitation is not illegal. However, the country is conservative and public displays of affection may be frowned upon in smaller towns and villages.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Macedonia is conservative and homosexuality is not widely accepted. Same-sex relationships are legal, but discrimination and harassment towards LGBTQ individuals can occur. Same-sex marriage is not recognized in the country.

Firearms / Guns

The use of firearms is strictly regulated in Macedonia, and gun ownership is prohibited for most citizens. Only police officers and licensed security guards are allowed to carry firearms. Penalties for illegal possession or use of firearms can be severe.