Ohrid to Bitola and Tetovo: Private day trip

Founded by Phillip II of Macedon in the 4th century BC, Bitola is Macedonia’s oldest, and second largest city, but its preserved reminders from when it was ruled by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Slavs, and Ottomans. On the outskirts of town, you’ll find the remains of Heraclea Lyncestis, the original city founded by Philip II of Macedon, and later built upon by the Romans and Byzantines. Walking atop the ruined walls, you’ll see staples like baths, temples, and an early Christian church, but the real highlight are the incredibly well-preserved mosaics. In the sleepy Magnolia Square, you’ll be able to see the 17th century Clock Tower, 16th century Yeni Mosque, and and the 18th century Church St. Dimitrija with its amazing carved and gilded iconostasis. It’s also worth wandering the Stara Čaršija, the old Turkish Bazaar, where you’ll find traditional crafts and an authentic food market.

One of the oldest cities in Macedonia, the country’s oldest artefact - a Bronze Age sword - was found here. But was the arrival of the Ottomans in the 16th century that provided the city’s most striking cultural heritage. Under their reign, mosques, fountains, public baths, and even kitchens for the poor were erected. The Decorated Mosque is perhaps the most unique in the country. First built in 1438, it was renovated by Abdurrahman Pasha in 1833 to suit his artistic preference. The typical ceramic tile decorations were replaced by vibrant floral and geometric paintings, which used 30,000 eggs to prepare. Of the many paintings, the depiction of Mecca is a stand-out, likely being the only one of its kind in southeastern Europe.