Ohrid’s old town has charming, narrow streets with traditional houses that are often whitewashed with wooden details. Stroll through the old town to admire the authentic Macedonian architecture and soak up the local atmosphere. Actually, you have too little time when you consider that you can also visit, for example, the Fortress of Tsar Samuil, the Ohrid amphitheater or Lake Ohrid. Not to mention the huge amount of churches. There were times when Ohrid had 365 churches. One for every day of year.

And speaking of churches, St. Jovan Kaneo Church, perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid, is the city’s iconic symbol and one of the most photographed spots in northern Macedonia.

We will definitely come back with a post especially for Ohrid!

Located in western northern Macedonia, Mavrovo is a beautiful national park and a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Mavrovo National Park is the largest national park in northern Macedonia, established in 1949. It covers an area of more than 730 km² and is known for its impressive mountains, vast forests, and diverse flora and fauna. A special feature (and iconic spot) of the lake is the semi-submerged St.
Nicholas Church , which is fully visible only during the dry season. This is a popular spot for photography and a symbol of Mavrovo.

Mavrovo is a perfect destination for outdoor activities, especially hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. In summer you can enjoy the scenic mountain trails, and in winter the area is popular for winter sports. The park stretches across the southern slopes of the Šar mountain range, Korab Mountain and Bistra Mountain, making it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Vevčani is a small village in southwestern northern Macedonia, is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and unique traditions. In 1991, when Yugoslavia broke up and northern Macedonia declared its independence, Vevčani humorously and satirically decided to declare itself an “independent republic,” the so-called “Vevčani Republic.” Although of course it is not officially recognized, the population still playfully takes the idea of their independent republic seriously. Tourists can even receive a “Vevčani passport” as a memento of their visit. This symbolic independence adds to the village’s unique and rebellious culture. But apart from this, the Vevčani springs, St. Nicholas Church or the Vevčani carneval make the place a hidden gem in northern Macedonia that should not be missed!

Debar is located in western northern Macedonia, close to the border with Albania. It is a town surrounded by beautiful nature and a rich history. A must when visiting Debar is the Monastery of St. Jovan Bigorski. This monastery (actually located more near Debar) is one of the most important Orthodox monasteries in northern Macedonia. It dates back to the 11th century and is known for its beautiful iconostasis (wood carvings), one of the finest in the Balkans.
The monastery offers a serene and spiritual environment, surrounded by mountains and forests. It is a place of pilgrimage for the faithful and a tourist attraction for its architecture and religious art. If you have plenty of time then you will definitely have to visit Debar Spas (Banja Spa).
Debar is also known for its thermal baths. The thermal springs of Kosovrasti and Banjishte are famous for their healing properties. Many people come to these spas for their mineral-rich waters used to treat various health problems.
The spas offer a combination of relaxation and medical treatments and are an excellent place to enjoy the natural healing powers of the region.

The Sveti Naum Monastery, founded in the year 905 by St. Naum of Ohrid, is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in northern Macedonia. It is not only a spiritual site, but also a historical monument that gives visitors an insight into the early medieval Orthodox traditions of the region.
The monastery is dedicated to St. Naum, a disciple of the famous Saints Cyril and Methodius, who together developed the Cyrillic script. St. Naum is revered as an important figure in spreading Christianity in the region.
The tomb of St. Naum is located in the monastery church, and many believe that if you put your ear to his sarcophagus, you can still hear the beating of his heart, making it an important pilgrimage site.Not unimportant…: The monastery offers phenomenal views of the deep blue waters of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains.

In short, Northern Macedonia is a small but diverse country in the Balkans, notable for its rich history, impressive natural landscapes and unique cultural diversity. The hospitality of the Macedonian people is legendary. Visitors are often welcomed with open arms and invited to try local dishes or participate in traditional festivities. Northern Macedonia is a relatively inexpensive destination compared to other European countries.

Description:
The Kurfürstliches Palais is a Baroque palace built in the 17th and 18th centuries as a residence for the electors and archbishops of Trier. The palace, located next to the Kaiserthermen, is one of the finest examples of Baroque and Rococo architecture in Germany. The facade of the palace, with its pink and white colors, is richly decorated with sculptures and decorative details. Why special:
The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is known for its opulent rococo interior, with elegant halls, chandeliers and works of art. It is often considered one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Germany. Today it serves as an administrative building, but its gardens and façade remain a popular tourist attraction, especially because of the palace’s harmonious combination with the adjacent Roman ruins of the Kaiserthermen.

Description:
The Kaiserthermen are the ruins of a huge bathhouse complex built in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine the Great. The thermal baths were part of a large Roman imperial complex and were designed to serve the comfort of the imperial elite. Although the bathhouse was never fully operational in its original form, the remains remain impressive. Why special:
The Kaiserthermen offer fascinating insight into Roman bathing culture and the technological innovations of the time, such as underfloor heating and intricate water supply systems. Visitors can wander through the underground tunnels and bathing rooms and imagine what the baths must have looked like during their heyday. It is one of the largest Roman bathing complexes outside Italy and a testament to Trier’s importance in the Roman Empire.

Description:
The Liebfrauenkirche, located next to Trier Cathedral, is one of the earliest Gothic churches in Germany and was built in the 13th century. The building has a cruciform plan (Greek cross) and is architecturally unique for its combination of Gothic pointed arches, aerial arches and intricate buttresses. Why special:
The church is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is known for its high vaults and beautiful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Mary. Its harmonious proportions and symmetrical design make the Liebfrauenkirche one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in Europe. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance.

Description:
Trier Cathedral, dedicated to St. Peter, is the oldest cathedral in Germany and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in the 4th century under Emperor Constantine the Great, on the foundations of a former Roman imperial residence. Over the centuries, the cathedral has been expanded and renovated, with elements in Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. Why special:
The cathedral houses a wealth of artwork and relics, including the Holy Tunic, said to have been worn by Jesus. The impressive interior is decorated with beautiful mosaics, sculptures and paintings. Together with the adjacent Liebfrauenkirche, the Cathedral forms a unique ecclesiastical complex that reflects Trier’s importance as a religious center in the Middle Ages.

Description:
The Porta Nigra, meaning “Black Gate,” is the largest and best-preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps. Built around 170 A.D., the gate was originally one of the four entrances to the Roman city of Augusta Treverorum, as Trier was then called. The dark color of the sandstone from which the gate was built gave it its name in the Middle Ages. Why special:
The Porta Nigra is not only a symbol of Trier, but also an impressive example of Roman architecture and building technology. The gate was turned into a church in the 11th century by a hermit, Simeon, who took up residence there. Emperor Napoleon had the building restored to its original form in the 19th century. Visitors can climb the gate and enjoy stunning views of the city.

These buildings provide a (sometimes even) deep insight into Trier’s history, from Roman antiquity to the Baroque splendor of the Electors. Each building contributes to the unique charm of this historic city.

A popular tapas bar in the San Lorenzo neighborhood, Eslava is known for its innovative and award-winning tapas. The terrace offers a relaxed atmosphere in a charming neighborhood. Ideal for sampling the unique flavors of Seville.

• Location: Calle Eslava 3, Seville

This food market offers a variety of tapas and dishes from local vendors. The terrace is right by the river. It combines a cozy market setting with a beautiful riverside terrace where you can try a variety of dishes.

• Location: Calle Arjona, Seville

La Azotea is known for its creative tapas and delicious dishes. It has several locations, but the terrace on Calle Zaragoza is a favorite.This terrace offers an intimate and modern atmosphere in the middle of Seville’s historic center.

• Location: Calle Zaragoza 5, Seville

A bit of an oddity in this list. This “glass” somewhat exclusive restaurant is more than a tapas bar. But just because of its location and views, this one was not to be missed. Located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, this elegant restaurant offers breathtaking views of the city. The terrace offers views of the famous Torre del Oro and the Giralda. Perfect for a chic lunch overlooking the water.

• Location: Calle Betis 69, Seville

El Rinconcillo is one of Seville’s oldest tapas bars, founded in 1670. This historic terrace offers an atmospheric place to enjoy authentic Andalusian cuisine. The atmosphere of a traditional Seville tavern combined with a beautiful outdoor seating area. Ideal for a classic tapas lunch.

• Location: Calle Gerona 40, Seville

These five lunch spots offer a mix of history, atmosphere and views, perfect for enjoying a sunny lunch in Seville. Enjoy!