North Macedonia

Travel tips for North Macedonia: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. Cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but recent travelers advise carrying Denars for taxis, buses, tips, and small bakeries which often remain strictly cash-only.

Try the food

  • Tavče Gravče (Тавче гравче): A hearty, traditional dish of fresh beans baked in an earthenware skillet with onions, peppers, and paprika.
  • Ajvar (Ајвар): A rich, smoky relish made primarily from roasted red bell peppers and eggplants, often spread on bread.
  • Pastrmajlija (Пастрмајлија): An oval-shaped baked dough pie topped with salted, cubed pork or chicken and sometimes a fried egg.

Say it in Macedonian

  • Hello: Здраво (Zdravo)
  • Thank you: Благодарам (Blagodaram)
  • Please: Ве молам (Ve molam)
  • Excuse me: Извинете (Izvinete)
  • How much is this?: Колку чини ова? (Kolku čini ova?)
  • The bill please: Сметката, ве молам (Smetkata, ve molam)
  • Yes / No: Да / Не (Da / Ne)
  • Goodbye: Довидување (Doviduvanje)

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / Type F
Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Avoid — buy bottled
Emergency
112 (general), 192 (police), 193 (fire), 194 (ambulance)
SIM tip
Purchase a prepaid SIM card from Telekom or A1 at the airport or city kiosks, or download an eSIM before arrival for immediate connectivity.

Etiquette

Tipping around 10 percent in restaurants and cafes is customary and highly appreciated, preferably left in cash.

Airports in North Macedonia