Exploring Ohrid, North Macedonia: A Budget Nomad’s Guide to Lake Tours, Food, and Local Life

Ohrid, North Macedonia, is one of the most stunning and underrated destinations in the Balkans. With crystal-clear waters, historic towns, and snow-capped mountains as a backdrop, it’s a perfect spot for budget travelers, digital nomads, and anyone who loves natural beauty paired with cultural history. Here’s a detailed guide based on my recent visit, including boat tours, local food, costs, and tips to make the most of your stay.

First Impressions of Ohrid

Arriving in Ohrid, the first thing you notice is how much of the area is best explored by water. Roads and walking paths won’t get you to all the sites—boats are the key. Lake Ohrid is absolutely breathtaking, with clear, clean water that’s among the clearest I’ve ever seen. Even compared to remote regions like Kyrgyzstan, Ohrid’s lake water is astonishingly pure.

The city itself is charming, with well-preserved buildings mostly 3–4 stories high. Development exists but is unobtrusive, keeping the historic and natural vibe intact. The old town, castle, and lakeside promenade make Ohrid a place worth spending several days.

Boat Tours on Lake Ohrid

One of the highlights of visiting Ohrid is taking a boat tour. Since I only had one day off, I researched options:

• Private Boat Tour: Costs around €200–€250 for a full day in peak season (July–August). Private tours offer exclusivity but are significantly more expensive.

• Mixed Group Tour: A six-hour tour costs only €20 per person. You’ll share the boat with other travelers, but it’s a great budget-friendly option.

  
  

Tour Tips:

• The tours typically last six hours and include stops at historical sites and small villages along the lake.

• Bring cash (euros or Macedonian denars) for tickets or small purchases.

• Pack a light snack or water, although food stops are often included.

  
  

I opted for the €20 mixed group tour, which gives a full experience at a fraction of the private tour cost.

Food and Local Dining in Ohrid

Eating in Ohrid is affordable and enjoyable, especially if you stick to local cafes and eateries. Here are some examples:

• Hot dog with fries: 80 MKD (~$2)

• Burger: 140 MKD (~$2.70)

• Cheeseburger: 150 MKD (~$3)

• Breakfast (toast with ham, cheese, mushrooms) with coffee: Less than $3

  
  

Local cafés often offer better food, friendlier service, and cheaper prices than big chains or touristy restaurants. Supporting these small businesses is also a bonus if you’re traveling on a budget.

Drinks:

• Coffee: Under $1

• Beer: Around 100–200 MKD (~$2–$4)

• Water: Consider bringing your own to save money

  
  

Accommodation and Connectivity

I stayed in a high-quality studio apartment for €400 per month, featuring fast Wi-Fi perfect for digital nomads. Albanian SIM cards work in Ohrid, making it easy to get additional data on arrival. For example, topping up 13 EUR gave me 44 GB of data, sufficient for teaching, calls, and general browsing.

Budget Tips for Ohrid

1. Plan 3–4 days minimum: The city and surrounding area are large, with plenty to see and do.

2. Use boats to explore: Many sites are inaccessible by road.

3. Mix cooking and eating out: Meals are cheap, but cooking occasionally helps save money and eat healthier.

4. Check currency rates: The Macedonian denar can fluctuate; withdrawing the right amount saves money.

5. Support local businesses: Small cafés and eateries offer better value and a more authentic experience.

   
   

Must-See Spots

• Lake Ohrid: Crystal-clear waters perfect for photography and sightseeing.

• Old Town: Cobbled streets, historic buildings, and charming squares.

• Castle: Offers panoramic views of the lake and mountains.

• Fishermen villages: Experience local life and traditional culture.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Ohrid is a special place where nature, history, and culture intersect. For digital nomads or budget travelers, it offers affordable living, excellent connectivity, and an unforgettable lakeside experience. From boat tours to local cafes, every part of Ohrid is worth exploring. Whether you’re here for a weekend or several weeks, this city is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Budget Nomad Tips:

• Book boat tours in advance during peak season.

• Bring water and light snacks for tours.

• Stay in local apartments or guesthouses to save money.

• Spend extra time walking the old town to fully appreciate the atmosphere.