Statue of Mother Teresa in front of her Memorial House in Skopje, North  Macedonia

🚙 From Greece to North Macedonia and Back: Skopje Adventures in Shehzadi! 🇬🇷➡️🇲🇰➡️🇬🇷

Join us — The Vagabond Couple — as we load up our trusty Toyota Tundra, Shehzadi, and set off on another overland escapade (MAP)! This time, we roll out from sunny Greece (see Georgia, Turkey, Greece into North Macedonia: Black Sea Dreams & Bosporus Crossings - Our Overland Journey from Asia to Europe), glide effortlessly across the Evzoni–Bogorodica border (seriously, it was smoother than Greek olive oil), and cruise into the heart of North Macedonia — the capital city of Skopje!

Skopje blew us away with its rich history, stunning views, and yes... folklore galore! Our first stop? The Mother Teresa Memorial House. Did you know this incredible woman was born here in 1910 as Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu? Baptized at the very church nearby, little Gonxha grew up walking these streets before her heart pulled her toward Calcutta, where she founded the Missionaries of Charity. Having visited her grave in Calcutta, this was a deeply spiritual moment for us — like closing a beautiful, sacred circle. The museum is filled with touching mementos and photos that bridge continents, faiths, and hearts. ❤️

Mother Teresa Memorial House, Skopje, North Macedonia

Next up — we strolled across the legendary Stone Bridge of Skopje, standing proud over the River Vardar since the 15th century (though some say it's been around even longer, whispering tales from Roman times). As we crossed, we gazed out at grand buildings lining both sides — like stepping into a real-life storybook. Locals believe the bridge carries the soul of Skopje, and we can’t argue with that.

Old Stone Bridge on River Vardar in Skopje, North Macedonia

Over the bridge, we entered the Old Bazaar, a maze of cobbled alleys, fragrant spice shops, and ancient stories.

Old Bazaar of Skopje, North Macedonia

We passed under the Porta Macedonia and marveled at the massive statue of Alexander the Great, proudly staking his legendary claim.

Porta Macedonia (Macedonia Gate): Memorial Arch on Pella Square in Old Town of Skopje, North Macedonia

Whether you call him “The Great” or just “That Guy Who Conquered Everything,” the man sure knew how to ride a horse dramatically.

Statue of Alexander at Old Town of Skopje in North Macedonia

Our history hunt took us next to the peaceful Mustafa Pasha Mosque, a gem of Ottoman architecture dating back to 1492 (yes, that 1492). It’s still an active mosque, serene and graceful, with legends whispering about Mustafa Pasha’s daughter who never married — her tomb lies peacefully in the courtyard.

Interior of Mustafa Pasha Mosque in Old City of Skopje, North Macedonia

Then we stepped into the Church of the Ascension of Jesus, a true hidden wonder. You actually walk down into it — it’s partially buried! Why? Because back in Ottoman days, churches couldn’t be taller than mosques. Inside, the hand-carved wooden iconostasis took our breath away. Centuries of Christian devotion wrapped in Balkan woodwork and candlelight.

Church of the Ascension of Jesus in Old Town of Skopje, North Macedonia

Perched above the city, the Skopje Fortress, or Kale, gave us panoramic views and echoes of empires. Originally built by Byzantines and later fortified by the Ottomans, it stands like a silent guardian over centuries of faiths, fires, earthquakes, and rebirth.

Kale: The ancient fortress of Skopje in North Macedonia

Our day kept climbing — literally! We drove halfway up Mount Vodno, then hopped on a cable car soaring to the Millennium Cross, one of the world’s tallest Christian crosses, standing 66 meters tall.

Millennium Cross on Mount Vodno at Skopje, North Macedonia

Built to celebrate 2,000 years of Christianity, it shines like a beacon across the Skopje valley. The views? Let’s just say: even Shehzadi would’ve needed a moment to catch her breath.

Skopje valley view from Mount Vodno, North Macedonia

From spiritual heights to natural wonders, we made our way to Matka Canyon, where the Treska River snakes through towering cliffs. We hopped aboard a little boat and cruised past caves, monasteries clinging to rocks, and cliffside cafés that brewed the perfect riverside coffee.

Matka Canyon, North Macedonia

This place is straight out of a Tolkien novel, minus the dragons (though we did spot some fearless rock climbers). The lake itself was formed by a dam built in the 1930s, and the walking trails beside it? Pure serenity.

Treska River Dam that formed Matka Lake at Matka Canyon in North Macedonia

Back in Skopje that evening, we feasted on a traditional Macedonian dinner — think juicy grilled kebapi, tangy ajvar, flaky burek, and rich tavče gravče (baked beans that taste way more glamorous than they sound). Add a glass of rakija and some folk music and you’ve got Balkan bliss!

The next morning, we hit the road again — crossing back into Greece via the quiet, no-fuss Medzhitlija–Niki Border (Shehzadi purred right through into the Hellenic Republic).

Back in Greece across Medzhitlija–Niki Border from North Macedonia

We headed west to Igoumenitsa, where we camped beside the shimmering Ionian Sea. Think crashing waves, soft breezes, and dreams of the next leg of our journey...

Mediterranean Sea Campsite at Igoumenitsa, Greece

And guess what? That next leg takes us across the Aegean sea — we’re boarding a ferry to Ancona, Italy! 🇮🇹

Watch a little video we put together: 🚙 From Greece to North Macedonia and Back: Skopje Adventures in Shehzadi! 🇬🇷➡️🇲🇰➡️🇬🇷:

So buckle up, hit that like and subscribe, and follow along for more overland tales, cultural adventures, and unforgettable moments from the road!

Next: From Greece to Spain (via Italy): Our Grand European Road & Ferry Journey

- The Vagabond Couple & Shehzadi