Ohrid is one of those places that practically demands a full day of exploring — and thankfully, the options for doing so are plentiful. Whether you want a guided tour through its UNESCO-listed old town, a boat cruise to monasteries on the lake, or a private adventure crossing borders into Albania, there’s something that fits nearly every travel style and interest. We especially like the group tours for their lively atmospheres and local insights, like the Full-Day Group Tour from Skopje, which covers Ohrid’s must-see sights with plenty of history and stunning viewpoints. For a more personalized experience, the Private Guided Trip offers tailored stops and local recommendations. And for those who love a mix of scenery, history, and adventure, the Full-Day Boat Tour to St. Naum combines a scenic cruise with visits to monasteries on the lake.
Below, we break down the top full-day tours in Ohrid, highlighting what makes each one special, and helping you decide which fits your style and schedule.
1. From Skopje: Full-Day Group Tour to the UNESCO City of Ohrid
At number 1, this group tour offers a comprehensive day packed with highlights from Ohrid’s Old Town to panoramic views from fortress walls. It’s perfect if you want to sit back and absorb the sights without worrying about logistics. The 10-hour experience includes walking through cobblestone streets, exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites, and savoring the atmosphere of Ohrid’s ancient streets, all led by a friendly guide. The itinerary features a stop at the ancient Macedonian Theater, with plenty of time to explore independently. According to reviews, the trip is “really enjoyable” with “fantastic time,” and Vlad, the guide, is appreciated for his informative and approachable style. The trip’s value lies in the well-paced schedule, making it suitable for first-timers or those wanting a relaxed introduction to Ohrid.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you prefer a lively, organized day with plenty of cultural highlights and social connection.
2. From Skopje: Private Full-Day Guided Trip to Ohrid
Number 2 on our list is the private guided trip, which offers a more intimate experience tailored to your interests. Spanning approximately 10 hours, this tour includes visits to the UNESCO World Heritage site, churches, and archaeological sites, plus free time for lunch in a cozy local restaurant. The guide, Elena, is praised for her enthusiasm and helpfulness — she answers questions thoroughly and makes the day feel personalized. Highlights include a guided tour of Lake Ohrid, Samos Fortress, and the Church of Saints Clement and Panteleimon. Guests describe the experience as “wonderful” and appreciate Elena’s willingness to share her knowledge. For travelers seeking flexibility and a deeper dive into specific sights, this private tour offers excellent value.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a personalized, flexible day with detailed explanations and fewer crowds.
3. Ohrid: East Coast and St. Naum Monastery Full-Day Boat Tour
Number 3 features a boat tour that combines scenic cruising with cultural visits, lasting around 7 hours. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to see the lake from the water and explore key sites like the Church of Mother Mary at Zaum and the Monastery of Saint Naum. The highlight is the boat ride with opportunities for snorkeling and wine tasting, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. The guides excel at sharing local legends and the history of the region, creating an engaging experience on the water. Reviewers note that the boat captain is skilled and knowledgeable, making the journey smooth and scenic. The tour’s biggest draw is its combination of crystal-clear water, monasteries, and lively boat stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed day on the water with plenty of cultural and natural highlights.
4. Full-Day Private Lake Ohrid and Albania Tour
Number 4 provides a private exploration of Lake Ohrid and its surroundings, crossing into Albania to visit Pogradec, the Bay of Bones, and St. Naum Monastery. This 7-hour trip is ideal if you’re interested in a full immersion into the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures, with stops at endemic species-rich sites and historical landmarks. The guide takes care of logistics, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and learn about the lake’s ecological importance. Guests praise the tour for its well-organized itinerary and delicious Albanian-style lunch. Since it’s private, you can customize the stops and pace — great for families or travelers with specific interests in history or nature.
Bottom Line: This tour balances cultural insights with scenic drives and is especially good if you want to see both North Macedonian and Albanian sides of Lake Ohrid.
5. From Ohrid: Full Day Boat Trip to the Monastery of St. Naum
Number 5 is a full-day boat trip that focuses on the legendary St. Naum Monastery and the lake’s hidden corners. Over 8 hours, you can explore the spring-fed rivers, crystal waters, and peacocks roaming freely on the monastery grounds. The boat cruise includes visits to Bay of Bones, with stops for swimming, regional food, and photo opportunities. Reviewers mention how peaceful and beautiful the river scenes are, with one saying, “We loved the boat journey and exploring the springs.” The experience combines nature, culture, and relaxation in a way that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a leisurely day out on the water.
Bottom Line: If you’re captivated by lakeside scenery and enjoy boat trips, this is an excellent choice.
6. Ohrid – A full day Adventure from Skopje
Number 6 is a 12-hour adventure that dives deep into Ohrid’s archaeological sites, churches, and significant landmarks like Saint Sofia and Plaosnik. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this trip is ideal for history lovers eager to understand Ohrid’s role as a cradle of Christianity. The tour includes visits to Jovan Kaneo — the iconic cliffside church — and Sveti Naum. It’s a more intense experience, suited for travelers who want a rundown of Ohrid’s cultural and religious significance in one day. The reviews praise the guide’s depth of knowledge and the well-organized itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for history-focused travelers willing to spend a full day exploring the most meaningful sites.
7. Ohrid and Bay of Bones full day trip from Skopje
Finally, number 7 combines a visit to Ohrid’s UNESCO-listed city with the Bay of Bones, a reconstructed Bronze and Iron Age village. This full-day trip is perfect for travelers interested in both ancient history and scenic lake views. The tour includes a guided walk through the museum and a sightseeing tour of Ohrid, capturing the town’s rich past and stunning setting. Reviewers mention how well the stops are planned, and the Bay of Bones is described as the “most visited museum in Macedonia.” It’s a good option for those wanting a mix of cultural discovery and natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Suitable for history buffs and families wanting a balanced mix of museum visits and city touring.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Ohrid
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend on the lake versus cultural sites. If you’re looking for a relaxed group experience, the Full-Day Group Tour offers excellent value with plenty of social moments. For a more flexible, private adventure, the Private Guided Trip provides tailored stops. If waterside scenery and boat adventures excite you, the Boat Tour to St. Naum or the Full-Day Boat Trip are perfect choices. For history lovers, the full-day adventure digs into Ohrid’s ancient and religious sites. Lastly, those with limited time or a keen interest in both culture and archaeology might prefer the Ohrid and Bay of Bones trip.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out on these memorable experiences.
Final Thoughts
Ohrid offers a wide range of full-day tours that suit different interests and travel styles — whether you’re after cultural insights, scenic boat rides, or historical explorations. The group tour is great for social travelers, while the private trip is perfect for those seeking a more personalized experience. Water lovers will appreciate the boat tours, which combine scenery with visits to iconic monasteries. And if you want an in-depth cultural journey, the full-day adventure covers all the bases.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early and clarifying your priorities will ensure you make the most of your day in this stunning part of North Macedonia.