Ohrid is not only famous for its crystal-clear lake and historic sites but also for its excellent wine culture. The region’s unique climate and fertile soil produce some surprisingly good wines, often accompanied by stunning views and authentic local flavors. Among the many ways to enjoy Ohrid’s wine scene, these tours stand out for their combination of scenery, storytelling, and tasting quality. We particularly love the Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting for its warm atmosphere amid historic surroundings, and the Ohrid Wine Tasting Boat Cruise for its relaxing waterborne experience with unlimited wine and spectacular vistas. Whether you prefer walking through a vineyard or floating on the lake, Ohrid offers options that suit different tastes and budgets. For a more intimate tasting, the Private Wine Tasting Ohrid at Bacchus combines local wines with a delicious platter, perfect for those who want a relaxed, personalized experience.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best wine tours in Ohrid. Each offers a different way to enjoy Macedonia’s underrated wine scene—whether through guided visits, boat cruises, or private tastings. Read on to find out which one matches your travel style and interests.
1. Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting
At number one, the Monastery Winery Tour and Wine Tasting offers a warm and immersive experience in the scenic heart of North Macedonia’s wine country. This tour combines a visit to a beautiful winery with a walk through the St. Cosmas and Damian Monastery, a peaceful setting that adds a spiritual element to your day. The winery’s team, who are highly rated (5.0/5 from 168 reviews), will guide you through their traditional winemaking methods, explaining the philosophy behind Macedonian vintages. You’ll sample a selection from their estate portfolio, paired with local Macedonian products, making the tasting both educational and delicious.
What makes this tour special is its relaxed pace—lasting around 3 to 4 hours, it’s ideal if you want to combine history, nature, and wine without feeling rushed. Guests rave about the warm hospitality and personal stories shared by the hosts, with many noting the scenic setting and the chance to try wines that reflect Macedonia’s unique terroir. The visit to the monastery itself is optional but highly recommended for its tranquil atmosphere.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a cultural and wine experience in a quiet, picturesque setting with excellent reviews and a great value at around $64 per person.
2. S&S Winery – Wine Tasting Experience in Ohrid
Second on our list is the S&S Winery – Wine Tasting Experience in Ohrid, which has earned a perfect 5.0/5 from 33 reviews. For just over $39, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour visit that combines wine tasting with the stunning views of Ohrid Lake from their vineyard. This experience is as much about the setting as the wine itself—the vineyard is surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful backdrop for your tasting.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on Macedonian wines that are often overlooked elsewhere, paired with traditional food in a relaxed atmosphere. Bosko, the host, is praised for being very informative and gracious, making sure every guest feels comfortable and learns about Macedonian wine. Guests love the combination of delicious hand-made wines and the chance to enjoy a tranquil natural environment, away from busy tourist spots.
Bottom Line: If you want a shorter, intimate tasting with beautiful scenery and authentic local wines, this tour offers great value and personal attention.
3. Ohrid Wine Tasting Boat Cruise – Unlimited Wine
Third on our list is the Ohrid Wine Tasting Boat Cruise, a one-hour journey that combines scenic lake views with unlimited wine tasting. Rated 5/5 from 21 reviews, this experience offers a luxurious way to enjoy Ohrid’s waters and wine at the same time. The boat, operated by friendly captain Daniel, takes you past landmarks like Samuel’s Fortress, with plenty of opportunities for photos and sightseeing.
The cruise includes wine tastings from local vineyards, cheese platters, and stops at key sites like St. John the Theologian Church. Passengers remark on the informative commentary and the relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a bit of everything—scenery, history, and wine. The unlimited wine ensures a carefree experience, and many guests leave with bottles they get to keep.
Bottom Line: This is a fantastic choice for those who want a high-end, relaxing water experience with the added bonus of tastings and scenic views.
4. Private Wine Tasting Ohrid
For a more personalized experience, the Private Wine Tasting Ohrid at Bacchus offers a tailored tasting of North Macedonian wines paired with local bites. With a high rating of 4.9/5 from 7 reviews, this 3-hour tour is perfect for small groups or individuals seeking a relaxed, private setting. The host, an expert in local wines, guides you through tasting different varieties, explaining their origins and tasting notes.
What makes this experience stand out is the focus on North Macedonian wines, which many consider a hidden treasure in European wine circles. Reviews highlight the quality of the local platter and the knowledgeable presentation. It’s an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts who want to learn more about Macedonian varietals in an intimate environment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a private, detailed wine experience, ideal if you’re staying in Ohrid and prefer a laid-back, educational session.
5. Private Ohrid Wine Tasting Experience
At number five, this Private Ohrid Wine Tasting Experience offers a cozy, social setting for tasting local wines in a relaxed bar. With a rating of 5.0/5 from just 3 reviews, it’s a short, 2-hour experience that focuses on the art of wine tasting. The host welcomes you with a local drink before pouring wines with detailed explanations about their origin, flavor, and production.
Guests praise the knowledgeable sommelier and the chance to enjoy Macedonian wines in a historic ambiance. The accompanying charcuterie platter complements the wines well, making it a good value for those seeking a quick but meaningful taste of Macedonia’s wine culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time or those wanting a relaxed evening with good wine and local bites in the town center.
6. Ohrid: S&S Winery Tour and Wine Tasting Experience
Rounding out the list is the Ohrid: S&S Winery Tour and Wine Tasting Experience. Rated 4.5/5 from 2 reviews, it’s a 2.5-hour experience combining a tour of the production facilities with tastings of local wines and homemade products. It’s an accessible option for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Macedonian wine-making in a friendly environment.
This tour emphasizes the production process, helping you understand what makes Ohrid wines unique. It’s suited for those interested in the behind-the-scenes aspect of wine-making, as well as sampling high-quality wines with a view of the lake. The reviews mention the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to make memories with local products.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers who enjoy learning about wine production and want a balanced combination of tour and tasting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Ohrid Wine Tour
When deciding which Ohrid wine experience suits you best, consider your budget, available time, and interests. Want a full-day cultural and wine experience? The Monastery Winery Tour is a great pick. Looking for something more relaxed and scenic? The Boat Cruise offers scenic views and unlimited wine. If you prefer a private, intimate setting or want to learn more about Macedonian wines, the Private Tastings are ideal.
Think about logistical factors—some tours include transportation, others are walk-in or private. For the best experience, book early, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall.
Final Thoughts
Ohrid offers a variety of wine experiences that can match a broad range of interests and budgets. For the most comprehensive tour with a mix of history, scenery, and wine, the Monastery Winery Tour is hard to beat. If you’re seeking a relaxing cruise with unlimited tastings, the lake boat cruise is perfect. For those wanting a personalized, in-depth look at Macedonian wines, the private tastings provide a very satisfying experience.
No matter which tour you pick, you’ll come away with a better understanding of North Macedonia’s growing wine scene and some memorable moments. Be sure to book ahead and enjoy your vinous adventure in Ohrid.