North Macedonia

The only standalone English-language guidebook to North Macedonia available outside the country

Originally written by Thammy Evans, a political analyst who lived there for five years, this new edition has been thoroughly updated and restructured by Philip Briggs, arguably the world's most experienced guidebook writer. Coverage of national parks has been increased and hiking information has been fully integrated to make it more accessible to casual users. Introductions to many points of interest have been expanded, and there are several new and redrawn maps throughout.

Of all the new countries formed following Yugoslavia's break-up in 1991, North Macedonia was the only one to attain independence without bloodshed. This small nation offers huge variety to travellers: from Europe's oldest lake to soaring, forest-swathed mountain ranges; from the millennia-old Neolithic rock observatory at Kokino and Roman mosaics at Heraclea, to dozens of historic and actively-used medieval monasteries and mosques. The capital, Skopje, is now home to a wealth of Ottoman buildings, a lively culinary scene, and several world-class museums, while the pretty lakeshore town of Ohrid—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—draws visitors with its medieval churches and architectural gems. Three national parks provide refuge to brown bears, grey wolves, the rare Balkan lynx, and a wide variety of birds.

Wherever you go, welcoming family-run tavernas and lively pavement cafés serve authentic traditional cooking and locally produced wine that ranks as probably the most affordable in the European Balkans. This is a country that offers countless rewards to independent-minded travellers seeking to escape the crowds. With Bradt's North Macedonia, you'll find everything you need for a successful trip.