Introducing Skopje

Skopje fits many of the stereotypes of a contemporary Eastern European city. Communist-era housing blocks dominate the skyline, public buildings are chunky behe­moths, and there’s a certain greyness and griminess that pervades. However, scratch the surface and a different Skopje reveals itself. Delicate minarets rise above the cobbled lanes of the Čaršija (Turkish bazaar), where Orthodox churches sit alongside copper-domed bathhouses and historic Ottoman trading inns.

The Vardar is no sluggish stream. It rages between the old and new halves of the city – a fitting symbol of the Muslim and Orthodox divide – spanned by the elegant arches of the Kamen Most (Stone Bridge). On the south side, stylish bars and cafés buzz with a fashion-conscious young crowd, undisturbed by the English stag-partiers currently plaguing other European capitals. Foodies won’t be disappointed by the traditional cuisine on offer in a number of atmospheric little eateries, nor the selection of excellent local wines. Likewise, history buffs and art-lovers will find their palates well served.