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The European country as beautiful as Greece, but tourists still avoid it. Nature is its greatest asset.
๐Ÿ‡ท๐Ÿ‡ด Romania /Culture & Society

The European country as beautiful as Greece, but tourists still avoid it. Nature is its greatest asset.

From Adevฤƒrul · () Romanian

Translated from Romanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Macedonia, a European country bordering Greece, is highlighted as a beautiful but under-visited tourist destination.
  • Despite its stunning landscapes, ancient sites, and diverse culture, it attracts fewer tourists than Greece.
  • The country's natural beauty, covering 80% mountains and lakes, offers opportunities for outdoor activities and is gaining traction with increased visitor numbers and low-cost flights.

While Greece remains a top choice for warm, seaside holidays, a neighboring European country offers similar beauty with far fewer crowds. Macedonia, situated right next to Greece, boasts impressive landscapes, ancient ruins, and a rich culture shaped by Balkan, Mediterranean, and Ottoman influences.

Despite growing interest, Macedonia remains a haven for travelers seeking to escape the throngs. In 2025, it welcomed approximately 900,000 tourists. This figure represents a 7% increase from the previous year, signaling a rising appeal, further boosted by low-cost airlines introducing more direct flights to its major cities.

Nature is Macedonia's greatest asset, with mountains and lakes covering about 80% of its territory. This makes it an ideal destination for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and winter sports. The UNESCO World Heritage site Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes, and Matka Canyon near the capital Skopje, are among its most celebrated attractions. The city of Bitola, known for its elegant atmosphere and ancient ruins at Heraclea Lyncestis, also draws visitors.

The experience is further enriched by local gastronomy, a flavorful blend of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Ottoman traditions, offering a unique culinary journey for those who venture beyond the more conventional tourist paths.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Adevฤƒrul in Romanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.