Struga - Discovering North Macedonia

Travelling to Struga

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Struga, a pretty good destination in North Macedonia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Struga and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Struga, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through North Macedonia, here's everything to know about Struga for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Struga

Struga is a town located in the southwestern part of North Macedonia, situated on the banks of Lake Ohrid. With a population of around 16,000 people, Struga is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful natural surroundings, clean beaches, and well-preserved cultural heritage. The town is also known for its famous poetry festival, which brings together poets from all around the world every August. Struga is easily accessible by road or by boat, with regular transportation options available from nearby towns and cities.

What to visit in Struga

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Struga, North Macedonia: 1. Lake Ohrid: Located just a few kilometers away from Struga, Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. It is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the nearby St. Naum Monastery, which is located on the lake's eastern shore.
2. The Bay of Bones Museum: This museum is located on the shores of Lake Ohrid and features the remains of a prehistoric settlement that was built on stilts over the water. It offers visitors an insight into the daily life of the people who once lived there, as well as their customs and traditions.
3. Kalishta Monastery: A beautiful 14th-century monastery complex on the shore of Lake Ohrid. The monastery features several chapels and a natural spring, which is said to have healing properties.
4. The Old Bazaar: The Struga bazaar is a historic market located in the heart of the city. It is one of the oldest markets in Macedonia, and is characterized by its narrow streets and colorful shops selling traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and food.
5. Saint George's Church: This medieval Orthodox church is located in the center of Struga. It was built in the 14th century and features beautiful frescoes that date back to the 16th century.
6. The Struga Poetry Evenings: This is an annual poetry festival that takes place in Struga every August. The event attracts poets from all over the world, and features readings, workshops, and discussions on the art of poetry. 7. The Struga Open Festival of Documentary Film: This is an annual festival that takes place in Struga every August as well. It features screenings of documentary films from around the world, as well as workshops, discussions, and exhibitions related to the art of documentary filmmaking.
These are just a few of the most popular tourist attractions in Struga. There are many other interesting sights to see and things to do in this beautiful city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in North Macedonia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Struga.

When to go on holiday to Struga

The best time to visit Struga is during the months of May to September because the weather during this period is warm and pleasant. During these months, temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68-86 Fahrenheit) with mostly clear skies and low chance of rainfall. In July and August the city can be crowded with tourists as it hosts the famous Struga Poetry Evenings festival. If you prefer less crowded and cooler weather, you can also consider visiting in the spring or fall months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Struga

There are different ways to get to Struga, North Macedonia, depending on where you are coming from and your preferred mode of transportation. By plane: The closest airport to Struga is Ohrid Airport (OHD), which is about 14.5km away and receives flights both domestically and from other European countries. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Struga.
By bus: Struga has a bus station that connects to different cities in North Macedonia and other neighboring countries. From Skopje, you can take a bus to Struga which takes around 3 hours.
By car: If you have a car or are renting one, you can get to Struga by driving on E65 or E75 highways that connect to North Macedonia.
By train: Unfortunately, there are no direct train connections to Struga at the moment. The closest railway station is in Veles, from where you can take a bus or a taxi to Struga.
I hope this helps! Safe travels!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Struga, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Struga

Here are some typical foods of Struga, North Macedonia, along with a short description for each of them: 1. Ohrid trout (Ohridska pastrmka) - This is a local specialty fish that is often grilled or baked and served with vegetables and traditional Macedonian side dishes.
2. Tavche gravche - This traditional dish consists of slow-cooked beans with onions, peppers, and tomatoes. It is often served with bread and yogurt.
3. Ajvar - This is a popular condiment made from roasted red peppers and eggplant. It is often served as a dip for bread or meat.
4. Kebapi - These are small grilled sausages made from minced beef, lamb, or pork. They are usually served with bread and onions.
5. Shopska salad - This is a fresh and healthy salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers, topped with crumbled white cheese.
6. Pindzur - This is a spread made from roasted eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes. It is often served as a side dish or spread on bread.
7. Sarma - This is a dish made from stuffed cabbage leaves with a filling of ground meat, rice, and onions.
8. Baklava - This is a sweet and sticky dessert made from layered phyllo pastry with nuts and syrup. It is a popular dessert throughout the Balkans.
You can find general info about typical foods in North Macedonia here.

Is Struga an expensive destination for tourists?

No, Struga is not generally considered an expensive tourist destination. Compared to other popular European destinations, the cost of living and traveling in Struga is quite affordable. However, prices can vary depending on the season and the specific activities and services you are looking for. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before traveling to any destination.

Where to find accomodation in Struga

To visit Struga, North Macedonia, it is best to find accommodations in or near the city center. You can also opt for accommodations along Lake Ohrid, which is a popular destination for tourists visiting Struga. Additionally, there are various options for accommodations in the nearby town of Ohrid.
You can check hotel prices at Struga here:
Booking.com

Is Struga a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Struga, like much of North Macedonia, is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important to take normal safety precautions while traveling. It is recommended to keep your valuables secured and to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It's also advisable to research the local customs and laws to avoid any misunderstandings. Additionally, it's always a good idea to stay up-to-date on current events and travel advisories from your home country.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in North Macedonia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Struga.

What type of travelers will enjoy Struga the most?

Struga in North Macedonia is a beautiful town located on the shore of Lake Ohrid, renowned for its stunning natural scenery. While Struga is primarily known as a summer tourist destination because of its beautiful beaches, there are plenty of activities and attractions for different types of travelers.
Couples seeking a romantic getaway will appreciate Struga's beautiful lakeshore promenade, where they can take romantic walks and enjoy the stunning sunsets. The town offers a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere perfect for a romantic retreat.
Younger travelers looking for some nightlife will appreciate Struga's lively nightlife scene, with several cafes, bars, and nightclubs located around the beach area, providing a vibrant atmosphere and opportunities for socializing.
Families traveling with children will appreciate Struga's natural beauty and the kid-friendly beaches with gentle waters. There is a range of water sports available, including boat trips, kayaking, and paddleboarding, suitable for families looking for adventurous activities. The town also offers a range of restaurants serving traditional Macedonian cuisine and plenty of parks.
Overall, Struga is a destination that offers something for everyone, regardless of their age or interests, but it is particularly loved by couples and families who want to enjoy the stunning natural scenery and a relaxing atmosphere.

How to get around Struga

The most common transportation in Struga, North Macedonia, is by taxi or minibus. Taxis are readily available and affordable, but it is recommended to negotiate the fare before starting the trip. Minibusses are also a popular mode of transportation for shorter distances within the city. Bus services are also available for longer journeys to nearby cities. However, renting a car is always a good option to explore the surrounding areas and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.

What to see around Struga

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Struga: 1. Ohrid: This city is less than 30 minutes away from Struga and is known for its beautiful lake, historic landmarks, and UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Ohrid Old Town and the Church of St. John at Kaneo.
2. St. Naum Monastery: Located about an hour away from Struga, this monastery is known for its stunning location by Lake Ohrid and its beautiful natural surroundings.
3. Galicica National Park: If you are interested in nature, you can go hiking in Galicica National Park which is located just 45 minutes away from Struga. There are many scenic spots in the park that offer beautiful views of the lake and the mountains.
4. Vevchani: This charming village is located about an hour away from Struga and is known for its traditional architecture, beautiful scenery, and historic landmarks like the Vevchani Springs.
5. Bitola: Located about an hour and a half away from Struga, Bitola is the second largest city in North Macedonia and is known for its historic landmarks, beautiful architecture, and cultural sites like the Ancient Theatre of Heraclea and the Shirok Sokak street.
For every travel information about North Macedonia you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.