Ohrid is one of North Macedonia’s most appealing destinations, especially when it comes to exploring on foot or in small groups. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town, along with the stunning Lake Ohrid, offers a wealth of sights packed into a compact area. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply curious about this cultural treasure, Ohrid’s tours provide a variety of ways to experience its charms. Among our favorites is the small group tour Discover Ohrid’s Hidden Gems for its intimate atmosphere and in-depth visits, and the private tours that allow you to tailor your experience. The city’s blend of ancient ruins, churches, and scenic views makes it a perfect place for a well-rounded tour. For a more comprehensive day trip, the full-day group tour from Skopje takes you to Ohrid’s key sights and even includes a boat ride.
If you prefer exploring at your own pace, the city walking tours offer a personal touch, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories behind every corner. Whichever option you choose, Ohrid promises an engaging sightseeing experience that combines history, architecture, and beautiful lakeside scenery.
1. City Tour: Discover Ohrid’s Hidden Gems
This small group tour is a fantastic way to get familiar with Ohrid’s most remarkable sights in just two hours. Priced at only $15 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on highlights. The tour begins at St. Clement of Ohrid and includes stops at the Church of St. John at Kaneo, with its cliffside location offering iconic views perfect for photos. You’ll visit the Ancient Theatre, a well-preserved amphitheater still used for performances today, and even make a quirky stop at the Ohrid Pearls Museum.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on capturing Ohrid’s essence in a short time, perfect for travelers on a tight schedule. The itinerary weaves through the Old Town’s most photogenic spots, with guided insights that bring historical sites like the Saint Sophia Church and Upper Gate to life. The tour’s reviews are glowing, with a perfect rating of 5/5 from 24 previous travelers. People often mention how well-organized and friendly the guides are, making the experience both informative and fun.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want an authentic glimpse of Ohrid’s main sights without an all-day commitment.
2. Ohrid City Walking Tour
For around $74, this private walking tour offers a personalized exploration of Ohrid’s most important landmarks. Lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours, it gives you time to absorb the stories behind the UNESCO World Heritage Site, including St. Sophia, the Ancient Theatre, and the Robevci House. Your guide provides detailed context about Ohrid’s significance as a religious and cultural hub.
One of the tour’s highlights is climbing Samiul Fortress for panoramic views of the city and lake, an experience many visitors find memorable. The itinerary is flexible, with options to choose your preferred times, and the private format means your guide can tailor the discussion to your interests. Reviews are excellent, with top comments noting how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are—”Ljubica made the city come alive,” said one traveler. The tour is best suited for those who want a deeper understanding and more personal attention.
Bottom Line: If you value a tailored experience and want to explore at a relaxed pace, this private tour is an excellent choice.
3. From Skopje: Full-Day Group Tour to the UNESCO City of Ohrid
This full-day trip is perfect if you’re based in Skopje and want to see Ohrid without worrying about logistics. The tour lasts about 10 hours and includes visits to the Old Town, the Samuel Fortress, and the Church of St. John at Kaneo. It also features a scenic lake cruise—a highlight that allows you to relax while soaking in the views.
Led by an experienced guide, this tour strikes a balance between sightseeing and downtime. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy group outings, as the reviews praise the guide’s thorough explanations and friendly demeanor. At around $119, it offers great value considering transportation, multiple sites, and a full day of exploring. The itinerary is designed to give you a rundown of Ohrid’s main attractions, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: If you want a hassle-free, all-in-one day trip from Skopje, this tour delivers a complete Ohrid experience at a reasonable price.
4. Private City Tour: Discover Ohrid’s Hidden Gems
This private 2.5-hour tour offers an intimate look at Ohrid’s most photogenic spots and lesser-known corners. Starting from the main square, you’ll visit the Robevi House, a stunning example of traditional Macedonian architecture, and enjoy a guided walk through the Old Town. The highlight is a visit to St. John at Kaneo, perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid—perfect for snapping those iconic photos.
The guide shares stories about the city’s history while taking you to Samoil’s Fortress and the Ancient Theatre. At just $70.88 per group (up to 9 people), this experience offers great value for small parties seeking a personalized, relaxed sightseeing experience. The reviews reflect satisfaction, with one reviewer calling the guide “very knowledgeable and accommodating.” Since it’s a shorter tour, it suits travelers with limited time or those who want a quick, immersive walk.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups wanting a personalized tour without a long schedule, this option combines sightseeing with flexibility.
5. Ohrid City Tour – The Best of Ohrid
Spanning about 6 to 8 hours, this comprehensive tour covers Ohrid’s major sights, including the Bay of the Bones Museum and the monastery of Saint Naum. Starting from the museum of water and ending at the monastery, the itinerary offers a full day of exploration. You’ll enjoy walking through historic streets, visiting churches, and marveling at the lake’s beauty.
The tour is priced at $118.68 per person, which reflects its all-day scope and rich content. Travelers highlight the guide’s storytelling and the mix of indoor and outdoor activities. The visit to Bay of the Bones provides insight into ancient craftsmanship, while the monastery adds a spiritual touch. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see a broad range of Ohrid’s most famous attractions without rushing.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want an all-encompassing day that combines history, scenery, and a taste of local culture.
6. Ohrid Half-Day City Tour
Aimed at travelers with limited time, this half-day tour offers a focused look at Ohrid’s key sites in about four hours. It includes stops at the Cathedral of St. Sofia, the Ohrid Hill with views of the lake, and the Robevci House. The pace is relaxed, making it suitable for seniors or those wanting a gentle introduction.
Reviews mention the “slow pace” as a plus, and guides are praised for their clarity. The tour covers all the essentials—churches, the fortress, and scenic viewpoints—with enough time for photos and brief strolls. It’s a good choice if you’re in Ohrid for just a few hours but still want depth and context.
Bottom Line: A great option for time-starved travelers seeking a concise yet rich tour experience.
7. City of Ohrid Sightseeing Tour
This two- to three-hour tour is a quick overview of Ohrid’s highlights. It visits landmarks like the St. Kliment monument, the Old Bazaar, and the Hagia Sophia Church. It’s a good way to get a sense of the city’s layout and history in a short time.
Rated 5/5 from two reviews, the tour is praised for its informative guide and manageable pace. Perfect if you’re in Ohrid on a tight schedule but still want to see the main sights, this tour balances efficiency with depth.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a brief but meaningful introduction to Ohrid’s core attractions.
8. Private City Tour: Discover Ohrid’s Hidden Gems
This private 2.5-hour tour takes you through iconic sites like Kaneo Beach, Samoil’s Fortress, and the Ancient Theatre. Visiting the main square and other scenic spots, your guide provides a relaxed, personalized experience tailored to your interests.
With a price of about $89 for up to 10 people, it offers excellent value for groups seeking a flexible and intimate exploration. Guests note that the guide is “very knowledgeable” and that the tour provides a good overview of the city’s most photogenic corners. This tour is perfect if you want a quick, customized walk with time for photos and stories.
Bottom Line: Best for groups wanting an efficient, private introduction to Ohrid’s most scenic and historic sites.
9. City tour Ohrid
This 3.5-hour tour offers a compact look at Ohrid’s most important monuments, including St. Kliment, Saint Sofia, and the Ancient Theatre. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without a full day’s commitment.
Rated 4.5/5, it emphasizes a relaxed pace and detailed explanations. The tour covers key architecture and history, making it a good option for those with limited time but still wanting depth.
Bottom Line: A well-balanced option for a short, enriching introduction.
10. City Trip Struga and Vevchani from Ohrid and Struga
This 7-hour trip combines visiting Struga’s famous springs and Vevchani’s village and market. It’s for travelers curious about both natural beauty and local crafts. Highlights include tasting local products, exploring the Nezlobinski museum, and walking through the Vevchani springs.
Rated 4.5/5, reviews mention the tour’s well-organized nature and the beauty of the springs. It’s best suited for active travelers who want a full day of varied experiences, including some walking and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: An engaging way to see multiple small towns and enjoy local food and scenery in one day.
11. City Trip Skopje from Ohrid
A longer, nine-and-a-half-hour journey, this tour takes you from Ohrid to North Macedonia’s capital. Visit landmarks like Kale Fortress, the Old Bazaar, and the Macedonia Square. The trip offers a mix of history, architecture, and urban charm.
Reviews are mixed, with some noting the long drive but generally praising the guide’s storytelling. Perfect for those wanting a full day of sightseeing in Skopje, it’s best for travelers with ample time and a curiosity for North Macedonia’s modern capital.
Bottom Line: Great for history and city lovers eager to see Skopje’s highlights in a single day.
12. Ohrid: Old City Walking Tour with Local Guide
This 3-hour walking tour is a relaxed way to discover hidden courtyards, legendary sites, and local artisan shops. You’ll visit the Church of St. Sophia, admire frescoes from the 11th century, and enjoy panoramic views from Samuel’s Fortress. An optional boat ride from Kaneo Beach adds a scenic touch.
Rated without specific reviews, the tour is valued for its local insights and intimate pace. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a deeper, more personal connection with Ohrid.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in a leisurely, culturally rich exploration with options to extend their experience.
$89 per group up to 10
How to Choose Your Ohrid Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time available, and interest level. For a quick overview, the City Tour: Discover Ohrid’s Hidden Gems offers great value. If you want more depth and personal attention, the private tours are excellent, especially Discover Ohrid’s Hidden Gems. For a full immersion, the full-day group tour from Skopje covers a lot, including the boat ride and monastery visit.
Travelers on a tight schedule might prefer the half-day tour to see the main sights without rushing. Those seeking cultural insights should look at tours with detailed itineraries like the Ohrid city tour or the Old City Walking Tour.
Booking early is always a smart move, especially in peak season, to secure the best times and availability. Think about whether you prefer a small group, private experience, or guided group—each offers a different vibe.
To sum it up, Ohrid offers a wide range of city tours that suit every type of traveler. Whether you want a budget-friendly quick tour, a private experience, or a full-day exploration, the city’s rich history and stunning scenery won’t disappoint. For history and culture lovers, the Discover Ohrid’s Hidden Gems and private tours shine brightly. If you’re traveling with family or in a group, options like the full-day group trip and small private tours provide excellent value and flexibility. Be sure to pick a tour that matches your schedule and interests, and book early to make sure you secure your spot in this enchanting lakeside city.