Skopje
Skopje is right on the Vardar River and is the capital city of the Republic of Macedonia. Skopje is also the largest city in the country and the headquarters of many of the nations important industries and companies are located there. It is located right on what for centuries has been a major trading route between Belgrade and Athens. Skopje is found in the northern section of Macedonia. There are several landmarks in the city dedicated to Mother Teresa who was born there. The city has a remarkable history and much of it is available to see both in museums as well as up close and personal in the form of historic buildings and other structures.
Skopje is a great place to spend the night and here are some of the highly thought of overnight accommodations options there: Hotel Villa Vodno, Hotel Duvet, Dal Met Fu, Hotel Mramor, Hotel Leonardo, Rose Diplomatique, Kanet, Hotel Imperial, Aristocrat Palace Hotel, Holiday Inn, Skopski Merak, Hotel 7, Stone Bridge, Best Western Hotel Turist, and the TCC Plaza Hotel.
There are fun and interesting things to do and see throughout Skopje and the immediate vicinity. Some of the things that should not be missed include the ancient ruins at Daut Pasha Hamam, Memorial House of Mother Teresa, the Skopje Aqueduct, Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Kursumli An, Old Railway Station, Millennium Cross and the downtown area of Skopje itself. Lake Matka is located nearby and is somewhat easy to get to by bus, car, or bike. The lake is gorgeous and set among some of the most picturesque scenery in the region. There are a number of forms of recreation available on the lake including swimming, kayaking, boating, and more. The lake is also surrounded by forested areas which are filled with trails perfect for hiking. The Skopje area is a definite must visit location for anyone on a vacation to the Republic of Macedonia.
Lake Matka
Located very near the city of Skopje is Lake Matka. The lake has a remote appearance and definitely delivers the flavor of the great outdoors to those venturing to it, but it is extremely accessible thanks to regular taxi and bus service that goes there daily from the city. A number of activities can be participated in on Lake Matka including sailing, boating, swimming, kayaking, and more. Hiking along the shore is also a popular activity in the area.