Ohrid is one of North Macedonia’s most captivating destinations, especially for those who love to explore a city at a human pace. Its ancient streets, Byzantine churches, and scenic views over Lake Ohrid make for a walking tour paradise. What we particularly like is the chance to see landmarks like the Church of St. Sophia and Samuel Fortress up close, with local guides offering insights you simply can’t get from a travel book. Whether you prefer a private experience or a small group outing, Ohrid’s compact size makes walking the ideal way to soak in the atmosphere. If you’re curious about the city’s layers of history and culture, these tours offer a great starting point.
In this guide, we’ll look at three of the best walking tours in Ohrid. Each offers a different experience, from personalized private walks to group explorations, and even a tour that includes some artisan visits. If you want to explore Ohrid’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town or enjoy panoramic lake views, you’re in the right place. Read on to find the one that suits your style and interests.
1. Ohrid City Walking Tour
This private tour of Ohrid offers a personalized way to see the city’s main sights in about 3 to 4 hours. It’s perfect if you want a rundown with a local guide who shares detailed stories and historical context. Starting from the Church of St. Sophia, you’ll see the Romanesque architecture and some of the best Byzantine frescoes you’ll find in Macedonia. From there, the tour moves to the Ancient Theatre, dating back to the 1st century BC, and the National Ohrid Museum housed in the historic Robevci House. The highlight for many is climbing to Samuel Fortress for sweeping views of the lake and city.
What makes this tour stand out is the private setting. You’ll get your guide’s full attention and flexibility to tailor the experience. The guide shares insights on Macedonia’s cultural influences and the city’s layered history, making it a deeply enriching walk. The tour costs $74.02 per person and typically lasts around 3 to 4 hours, with several start times available for your convenience. Several reviews praise the tour for its thoroughness and engaging storytelling, with one reviewer noting, “Our guide Bobi was excellent—knowledgeable, funny, and accommodating all our requests.”
Bottom line: If you want a flexible, in-depth, private experience that hits all the highlights and offers personalized attention, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Ohrid: Old City Walking Tour with Local Guide
This group walking tour is a great choice if you prefer meeting new travelers and exploring at a steady pace. Lasting about 3 hours, it covers many of Ohrid’s hidden courtyards, legendary sites, and offers a chance to learn from a local guide who knows the city inside out. One unique aspect is visiting a family-owned artisan shop to learn about Macedonian ruby, a tradition that’s hard to find on larger, less personal tours.
The tour includes visits to the Church of St. Sophia, where you’ll admire 11th-century frescoes, and a walk along the lakeside for incredible views. Optional extras include a boat ride from Kaneo Beach to Ohrid Harbor, providing a relaxed way to see Lake Ohrid from the water. The group size is limited to 10 people, making it intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized tips.
While the price is listed at $89 per group, it’s a good value considering all the sights and stories you’ll experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want companionship on their walk and enjoy the social aspect of a guided group. Reviews mention the guide’s friendly demeanor and local insights, which enhance the experience.
Bottom line: For those who like meeting fellow travelers and want a well-rounded tour that covers the city’s best stories and artisan traditions, this group outing offers excellent value.
3. Ohrid: Private Walking Tour with Expert Local Guide
This private tour, lasting about 3 hours, is led by a local expert who knows Ohrid’s streets and secrets intimately. Starting from Saint Clement of Ohrid, the itinerary covers UNESCO sites, ancient theaters, Tsar Samuel’s Fortress, and studios of artisans working with wood, paper, and pearls. The personal guide’s focus is on sharing stories behind each location, making this a deeply engaging experience.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on craftsmanship and local life—visiting workshops where you can see artisans handcraft Ohrid pearls or handmade paper. The guide’s 25 years of experience ensures you’ll get thoughtful insights, making it suitable for travelers interested in both history and cultural crafts. The tour price varies by availability, with flexible start times, but the value lies in the personalized attention and detailed storytelling. One reviewer shared, “Our guide was extremely knowledgeable—he really brought the city’s history to life and took us to some wonderful workshops.”
Bottom line: If you’re keen on a tailored experience that combines major sights with artisan workshops, this private tour offers a rich, personalized way to explore Ohrid.
How to Choose The Right Walking Tour in Ohrid
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. The private tours (Ohrid City Walking Tour, Private Walking Tour) offer flexibility and tailored stories that appeal to history lovers. The group tour (Old City Walking Tour) provides a social atmosphere and the chance to meet fellow travelers.
If you’re on a tight schedule, the 3-hour tours are perfect, but if you want a more personalized or in-depth experience, the private options are best. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, and consider your fitness level—these tours involve quite a bit of walking but are manageable for most.
Final Thoughts
Ohrid has enough history, culture, and scenic beauty to fill many days, but for a focused introduction, any of these walking tours will serve you well. The private tours excel if you prefer a deep dive with personalized storytelling, while the group tour offers a lively, social way to explore the city’s highlights. For those wanting to learn about artisan crafts, the private tour’s workshops are a special treat.
No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you secure your spot in these popular experiences. Walking is undoubtedly the best way to absorb Ohrid’s charm—so put on your comfortable shoes and go exploring.