Skopje might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a wine trip, but this vibrant Balkan capital offers some genuinely memorable wine experiences. North Macedonia’s rich viticultural tradition combines local charm with modern techniques, making for tours that are as informative as they are enjoyable. We particularly love the Wine Tasting Tour in Family winery Kartal because it combines authentic family hospitality with a chance to sample excellent Macedonian wines. Plus, the fact that it’s a highly-rated, affordable outing makes it a great starting point for wine lovers visiting Skopje. For more details, check out the family winery experience and see why it scores a perfect 5.0.
If you’d prefer a guided visit that includes a deeper dive into the local viticulture, the Skopje: Kartal Winery Tour offers a more structured experience with a knowledgeable owner leading the way. This tour emphasizes learning about North Macedonia’s wine-making traditions firsthand. For those looking to combine wine tasting with a scenic day trip, the Half-Day Stobi Wine Tour pairs tasting with a visit to a top Macedonian archaeological site. And for a full-day exploration, the Private Full-Day Tour to Popova Kula Winery takes you through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and a private tasting session—sure to satisfy serious wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Below, we break down each experience with detailed descriptions to help you pick the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Wine Tasting Tour in Family winery Kartal in Skopje
At number 1 on our list is the Wine Tasting Tour in Family winery Kartal, a truly charming experience that highlights Macedonia’s family-run wine culture. This guided group tour offers an intimate look into local winemaking traditions, with knowledgeable family members sharing their craft. The tour lasts around 2 hours and includes tasting a variety of locally-produced wines, each explained by the vintners themselves. You’ll also nibble on a charcuterie and cheese plate, which perfectly complements the wines.
What makes this tour stand out is the personal touch — Jordan and Filip, the brothers running the winery, are passionate about sharing their knowledge and their wines. The reviews consistently praise the delicious wine and friendly atmosphere, with one visitor noting, “Jordan went above and beyond to explain with passion the art of wine making! I also have to say that the wines were excellent!” The experience is especially good for those who want an authentic, relaxed introduction to Macedonian wine culture without the fuss.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value, combining family hospitality with a variety of wines and tasty local snacks. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a genuine, engaging introduction to Macedonia’s wine scene.
2. Skopje: Kartal Winery Tour
At number 2, the Skopje: Kartal Winery Tour provides a guided visit to one of the most prominent wineries in the region. This experience emphasizes learning about North Macedonia’s viticulture, with a tour led by an owner who shares insights into the vineyard’s history and the winemaking process. It lasts about 2 hours and includes tastings paired with local food products like cheese and meats.
Reviewers love the professional organization and passion of the owners, with one saying, “The winery was super clean & very professionally organized. The guide/owner was very knowledgeable, and it was clear that the wine was made with passion as it is a family-run business.” The tasting features six wines, offering a well-rounded experience suitable for wine aficionados and casual drinkers alike.
This tour is especially suited for travelers wanting a more structured experience with detailed explanations and tastings in a friendly setting. The inclusion of food pairings enhances the experience, making it both educational and delicious.
Bottom Line: A solid pick for those who want a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at Macedonian wine-making with a top-notch guide.
3. Skopje: Half-Day Stobi Wine Tour
Coming in at number 3, the Half-Day Stobi Wine Tour combines a visit to one of Macedonia’s most impressive archaeological sites with wine tasting. The tour lasts about four hours and includes a stop at the Stobi Winery, where you can explore the historic area and enjoy tasting local wines along with cold snacks.
What sets this tour apart is the mix of history and wine. During your visit, you’ll learn about the wine-growing traditions of this region, which has been cultivating grapes since ancient times. The reviews highlight the quality of both the wines and the food, with one traveler mentioning, “The meal pairing with the wine was delicious.” Another points out the “impressive facilities” at Stobi Winery.
Ideal for history enthusiasts who also appreciate good wine, this tour offers a relaxed pace with an emphasis on local traditions and scenery. It’s a great way to combine cultural exploration with wine tasting in just half a day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in combining archaeology with wine, this tour offers a well-balanced taste of Macedonia’s heritage.
4. From Skopje: Private Full-Day Tour to Popova Kula Winery
Finally, at number 4, the Full-Day Tour to Popova Kula Winery is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience. The tour lasts about 7 hours and features a visit to the archaeological site of Stobi, a drive through scenic landscapes passing Lake Mladost, and a private wine tasting in unspoiled nature at Popova Kula Winery.
This experience stands out because it combines cultural sightseeing with a luxurious wine tasting, featuring breathtaking mountain views. The winery visit includes tasting several wines along with local bites, making it a full immersion into Macedonian wine culture. Reviewers mention the “breathtaking views” and the “delicious wines”, with one noting that it’s “a relaxing, pleasant day in one of Macedonia’s best wine regions.”
This tour suits travelers who want a luxury experience with privacy and comfort, including those interested in archaeology, scenic drives, and high-quality wine. It’s perfect for special occasions or for travelers with a flexible schedule seeking a more in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for wine lovers who want a full day of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing in scenic surroundings.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Skopje
When selecting your ideal wine experience, consider your budget, available time, and what you want to get out of the day. If you’re new to Macedonian wines or prefer a laid-back, family-run atmosphere, the Wine Tasting Tour in Family winery Kartal offers authentic charm. For those who want a well-structured, informative visit, the Skopje: Kartal Winery Tour is a smart pick. History buffs and scenic lovers should go for the Half-Day Stobi Wine Tour, which combines archaeological sights with tasting. And if you’re craving a full-day adventure with scenic drives and private tastings, the Full-Day Popova Kula Winery Tour will deliver.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel months, as these tours tend to fill up quickly — and they’re well worth planning ahead for. For a balanced mix of wine, culture, and stunning views, any of these options will add a memorable layer to your Skopje visit.
From charming family-run wineries to scenic full-day tours, Skopje’s wine experiences cover a lot of ground — literally and figuratively. Whether you prefer a relaxed tasting or an immersive day of culture and wine, these tours offer something for every traveler. We suggest starting with the family winery experience for a taste of Macedonia’s authentic hospitality, then perhaps exploring the archaeological sites and scenic landscapes with a full-day trip. Book early, enjoy your sip of Skopje’s best wines, and toast to your adventure in North Macedonia.