Struga is a place where natural beauty meets centuries old tradition, and where you can experience a very diverse cultural offer, combined with relaxing beaches and traditional Macedonian cuisine. About 14km near Ohrid, it is a place worth visiting and spending a day or two at the exchange of discovering a palate of unforgettable and unique experiences. Discovering Macedonia is impossible without spending at least one day in Struga.

Located in the south western region of the country and lying on the shore of Lake Ohrid, Struga is another town that enriches the unique Macedonian experience. Lots of places to visit, culture to absorb, and scenery to enjoy. Followed by traditional food, nice and relaxing coffee shops and restaurants, offering a beautiful view of the lake.

Described as vivid and vibrant by merchants and travelers throughout the centuries, Struga haven’t lost any of its charm. Home to old architecture and number of churches that date far back, there is quite a lot to see around.

The town is small in terms of absolute size, and home to about 16, 000 people. Ethnically colorful, it is a place where you can experience the full scope of Macedonian culture. Visited only during the summer, Struga can house up to 17, 000 visitors at a time, which translates into lots of foreigners, and great atmosphere that changes shape each following year.

What gives Struga its recognizable face though is the river Black Drin that flows from the lake and through the city. Along the river bed, is what you’d consider the center of the town. A nice place where you can have your coffee, and very enjoyable evening walks. The bridges along the river only add towards the poetic scenery.

The Lake shore offers a lot of beach space, and you have three main beaches: Galeb, Male, and Female beach (don’t mind the names though). Others you can have access to only if you are staying at some of the hotels. The Lake is crystal clear, and the water temperature pleasant and somewhat warmer than that in Ohrid. Though in the shadow of Ohrid when it comes to cultural sites and city architecture overall, Struga offers beaches that can compete with any.

Places to visit
Aside the lake shore and beach bars and restaurants, you can take a walk around and see the old bazar. Everything in Struga is within walking distance, so you will also cover the city center, and the beautiful river flow. Also visit the church of Saint George that is built on top of Samuel’s church dating back as far as the 14th century.

The monastery of Kalishta is located a few kilometers away from the center, lying at the shore of Lake Ohrid- a trip worth taking. You can even catch the boat and enjoy the lake while at it.

Another rock church is in the neighboring village of Radozda with frescoes that also date back to the 13th and 14th century. The architecture takes you back all the way to the Middle Ages. Same goes for the church of Sveta Bogorodica in Vranishta, where it is believed that Tsar Samuel was crowned.

Absorbing the other culture influence in Struga, you will want to visit the Halveti Teke – a Muslim monastery, and representative example of ottoman architecture.