Ohrid is not only famous for its stunning lake and historic sites but also for its vibrant wine scene. Unlike many other destinations, Ohrid offers a unique blend of local winery visits, boat cruises with tastings, and intimate private experiences. What makes these tours stand out is their focus on authentic Macedonian wines, often paired with regional delicacies, and the chance to visit picturesque vineyards and monasteries. We especially love the Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting because it combines a peaceful setting with a detailed look at Macedonian winemaking traditions, all in the tranquil surroundings of a monastery.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and scenic outing, the Ohrid: Wine Tasting Boat Cruise offers a luxurious hour on the water, with breathtaking views of the old city and unlimited local wines. For those who prefer a more personalized experience, private tastings at a cozy wine bar or a family distillery give a taste of Macedonian hospitality and craftsmanship. Below, you’ll find the most detailed and enjoyable options we’ve selected to help you choose the perfect wine adventure in Ohrid.
1. Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting
At number 1, the Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting leads our list for its serene setting and comprehensive experience. This 3 to 4-hour journey takes you to the heart of the St. Cosmas and Damian Monastery, where the winery’s production is explained by knowledgeable staff. You will visit the wine cellar and enjoy tasting some of the estate’s best vintages, paired with local Macedonian products.
What makes this tour special is the combination of wine tasting with a cultural visit to the monastery, making it a perfect choice for those interested in both wine and history. The tour includes a guided explanation of traditional Macedonian winemaking philosophy, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Many visitors praise the warm hospitality and beautiful setting, with reviews emphasizing the friendly staff and the quality of wines sampled. The optional visit to the monastery adds a peaceful spiritual touch, making this a well-rounded afternoon.
Bottom Line: If you love combining nature, history, and wine, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience in a tranquil setting.
2. Ohrid: Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting
Second on our list, the Ohrid: Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting is a bit shorter at around 3 hours and surrounds you with the lush landscape of steep forested hills and a small river valley. This tour includes tasting 5 wines and 2 brandies paired with a local cheese and charcuterie platter.
The highlight here is the visit to the hidden St. Cosmas and Damian Orthodox monastery, a peaceful spot away from crowds. The winery’s remote location offers a quiet, authentic atmosphere, and the transportation from your accommodation makes logistics simple. The guide’s storytelling and the detailed explanation of regional wine-making are often praised, with visitors noting the sincerity and friendliness of the staff. The delicious pairing with local products elevates the experience, making it a perfect choice for wine lovers who appreciate regional flavors and scenic tranquility.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a combination of scenic beauty, regional wines, and authentic atmosphere, this tour provides excellent value with a personal touch.
3. S&S Winery – Wine Tasting Experience in Ohrid
Next, the S&S Winery – Wine Tasting Experience in Ohrid offers an intimate 2.5-hour session at their winery and vineyard. This tour stands out because of its spectacular views of Ohrid Lake and the surrounding nature, providing a peaceful backdrop for your tasting.
Guests are welcomed with local Macedonian wines and traditional food, creating a cozy, authentic vibe. The guide Bosko receives high praise for being informative and gracious, sharing insights about the wines and the land. The focus here is on handmade wines and regional cuisine, making it ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, genuine experience. The setting allows you to savor nature and wine simultaneously, with many reviewers stating they enjoyed the delicious wines and excellent food.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, scenic wine tasting with a focus on local food and wine craftsmanship, this experience is a top pick.
4. Ohrid Wine Tasting Boat Cruise – Unlimited Wine
For around an hour on the water, the Ohrid Wine Tasting Boat Cruise combines luxury with scenic views. The cruise begins at the ÐÐµÑ ÐакедониÑа 2 and includes sampling premium wines along with cheese while drifting past the old city’s sights.
The passenger experience is enhanced by the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy unlimited local wines. The boat’s craftsmanship and the informative narration from the captain make it more than just a tasting—it’s a scenic, social experience. Guests rave about the friendly captain Nikola, who makes the trip informative and fun. Sunset views on the water make this trip particularly memorable.
Bottom Line: If you want a luxurious, scenic experience with plenty of wine and beautiful vistas, this cruise is hard to beat.
5. Private Wine Tasting Ohrid
At number 5, the Private Wine Tasting Ohrid provides a tailored experience lasting about 3 hours. Hosted at a cozy wine bar called Bacchus, this tasting features North Macedonian wines paired with a delicious local platter.
This experience is perfect for those who want a less formal, more intimate setting, and enjoy learning about regional wines directly from an expert. The wines are described as hidden gems of Europe, and the guide’s presentation makes the tasting both educational and fun. Reviewers highlight the generous platter of cold meats and cheese and the friendly atmosphere. The expert presentation allows you to understand the nuanced flavors of Macedonian grapes, making it ideal for curious wine enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, in-depth look at Macedonian wines with excellent food, this private tasting offers great value.
6. Private Ohrid Wine Tasting Experience
Number 6, the Private Ohrid Wine Tasting Experience is a short, 2-hour session that emphasizes relaxed, social vibes. The host welcomes you with a local drink, then guides you through three rounds of wine tasting, describing each wine’s origin, taste, and quality.
This tour is suited for travelers who want a quick yet high-quality introduction to Macedonian wines, paired with local bites. The reviews mention the knowledgeable sommelier and the delicious charcuterie platter. It’s especially good for those new to wine tasting or looking for a casual, friendly atmosphere. The cost makes it appealing for budget-conscious travelers wanting a quality experience without extra frills.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a short, social, and informative tasting, this private experience delivers excellent value.
7. Ohrid: S&S Winery Tour and Wine Tasting Experience
Number 7 brings you the Ohrid: S&S Winery Tour and Wine Tasting Experience, a 2.5-hour visit that combines a tour of the production premises with tasting local Ohrid wines. This experience emphasizes domestic products and offers a chance to enjoy homemade snacks while sampling.
It’s ideal for those who want to see the wine-making process firsthand and enjoy a relaxed, friendly tasting session. The setting is tranquil, and the views of Ohrid Lake add to the appeal. The guide’s warm demeanor and focus on local products make it a memorable visit. The tour’s shorter duration makes it suitable for travelers with tight schedules but still eager to learn about Macedonian wine-making.
Bottom Line: For educational wine tasting combined with a scenic view, this tour hits just the right notes.
8. Careva Distillery: Taste Macedonian Brandies, Wines & Nature
Finally, the Careva Distillery: Taste Macedonian Brandies, Wines & Nature offers a 3.5-hour experience in the picturesque village of Klimestani. Here, you’ll learn the art of making Rakija and wine, and sample some of the finest homemade products.
This tour is great for travelers interested in authentic, handcrafted Macedonian spirits and wines. The walking tour through natural surroundings adds a leisurely, scenic element. Many visitors enjoy the warm hospitality and the chance to see how traditional distilling is done. The homegrown products are very well regarded, making this experience a unique look into Macedonian traditions.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a hands-on, cultural journey into Macedonian distilling, this tour offers a flavorful and authentic experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour in Ohrid
When selecting the best wine tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For a full-day, culturally rich experience, the Monastery Winery Tour offers a blend of history and wine. If you prefer a more relaxed, water-based outing, the Ohrid: Wine Tasting Boat Cruise provides scenic beauty and unlimited tastings. Budget travelers may enjoy the Private Ohrid Wine Tasting, which balances affordability with quality. Those wanting a deep dive into Macedonian spirits should not miss the Careva Distillery.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred date and time. Think about your time constraints and what experience appeals most—whether it’s a scenic boat cruise, a private tasting, or an educational visit to a winery. All of these options showcase Ohrid’s commitment to quality and tradition, making it a fantastic stop for wine lovers.
Final Thoughts
Ohrid’s wine tours range from peaceful monastery visits and scenic boat cruises to intimate private tastings and traditional distillery experiences. For those wanting an immersive cultural experience, the Monastery Winery Tour shines by combining spirituality, history, and wine. Travelers seeking relaxation along the lake should consider the Wine Tasting Boat Cruise. Budget-conscious visitors will find value in the private tasting options, while adventurous spirits may enjoy exploring Macedonian brandies at Careva Distillery.
Whatever your taste or schedule, Ohrid’s wine offerings promise an authentic, enjoyable experience—so don’t wait too long to book your favorite tour and toast to your visit.