Where is Macedonia Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated May 30, 2025

Where is Macedonia located on the map? North Macedonia is an independent nation located in Southern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of Macedonia on maps.

Macedonia Location in World Map

North Macedonia is one of the Balkan states because the country is located on the Balkan Peninsula. In addition, North Macedonia is a landlocked country, so it does not border any sea, only other countries. These are Bulgaria in the east, Greece in the south, Albania in the west and Serbia in the north. In the northwest, the controversial Kosovo area borders on Macedonia.

With a state area of 25,713 square kilometers, North Macedonia is a little larger than the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

North Macedonia and its neighboring countries.

Location Information of Macedonia

Latitude and Longitude

The Republic of North Macedonia, commonly referred to as Macedonia, is a landlocked country located in the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 41.6086° N latitude and 21.7453° E longitude. It shares borders with Kosovo to the northwest, Albania to the west, Greece to the south, Bulgaria to the east, and Serbia to the north.

This location places North Macedonia at the crossroads of Eastern and Southern Europe, a factor that has historically made it a cultural and strategic crossroads of different civilizations.

Capital City and Major Cities

The capital city of North Macedonia is Skopje, which is also the largest city in the country. Skopje serves as the political, economic, cultural, and administrative center of the nation. It is located near the central part of the country, along the Vardar River.

Other significant cities in North Macedonia include:

Bitola – Located in the southwestern part of the country, Bitola is an important cultural and historical center. It is known for its Ottoman-era architecture, including the Heraclea Lyncestis archaeological site.
Ohrid – Situated near the shores of Lake Ohrid, this city is famous for its ancient history, medieval architecture, and proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ohrid Lake, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes.
Prilep – Known as the “City of Tobacco,” Prilep is located in central North Macedonia. It is historically significant for its role in the country’s textile and tobacco industries and features several historic sites, including the Marko’s Towers.
Kumanovo – As one of the largest cities in the country, Kumanovo is located in the northern part of North Macedonia, near the border with Serbia. It has a strong industrial base, especially in the fields of manufacturing and agriculture.
Veles – Located along the Vardar River, Veles is a significant industrial and trade hub with historical importance as a transportation and commerce center.

North Macedonia, despite its small size, has a variety of cities that offer a blend of modernity and historical charm.

Time Zone

North Macedonia follows Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1 during standard time. In the summer months, the country observes Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2.

The time zone places North Macedonia in line with much of Central and Southern Europe, including neighboring countries like Serbia, Kosovo, and Albania. This time zone makes it easy for travelers to align their schedules with other European countries when conducting business or planning travel.

Climate

North Macedonia has a continental climate with Mediterranean influences, meaning it experiences hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The climate can vary considerably depending on the region due to the country’s diverse topography, which includes mountains, valleys, and lakes.

Winter (December to February): Winters are generally cold, especially in the higher-altitude areas such as the Shar Mountains and the Balkan Range. In the plains, temperatures average between -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F), while in the mountains, temperatures can drop well below freezing. Snowfall is common, especially in the mountainous regions.
Spring (March to May): Spring sees a gradual warming of temperatures, with average highs ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This is an excellent time for outdoor activities and visiting the country’s lakes and national parks.
Summer (June to August): Summers are hot, with temperatures frequently reaching 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F) in the southern plains. The climate in the cities like Skopje and Bitola can be particularly sweltering. The mountainous regions are cooler and more pleasant during this time.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is characterized by mild to warm temperatures, with average highs ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is a popular season for tourists, particularly those interested in hiking and exploring the country’s natural beauty.

Due to its geographical diversity, North Macedonia’s climate can offer a variety of experiences depending on where you are, whether you’re in the urban areas, by the lakes, or in the mountains.

Economic Status

North Macedonia has a developing economy, heavily influenced by its position within the Balkans and its transition from a former socialist state. Over the past two decades, the country has undergone significant reforms aimed at strengthening its market economy, improving infrastructure, and attracting foreign investment.

Agriculture: Agriculture remains an important sector, employing a significant portion of the population. Key agricultural products include tobacco, fruits (particularly grapes and apples), vegetables, and livestock. The fertile plains in the south, particularly around Lake Prespa and Lake Ohrid, are vital for agriculture.
Manufacturing and Industry: Manufacturing, especially textiles, food processing, and chemicals, contributes to the economy. The city of Veles is known for its industrial activities. The automotive sector has also seen growth, with foreign companies establishing operations in the country due to its competitive labor costs.
Services: The services sector has grown significantly in recent years, with banking, finance, and tourism being key contributors. Skopje serves as the financial hub of the country, and the country’s proximity to the European Union makes it an attractive location for trade and commerce.
Tourism: Tourism is an emerging sector, with the country’s rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty offering significant potential. Attractions like Lake Ohrid, Ohrid Old Town, and the Kališta Monastery have helped raise the country’s profile among travelers.
Foreign Investment: North Macedonia has made efforts to improve its investment climate by signing free trade agreements with several countries and becoming a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). It also benefits from its potential future EU membership, although negotiations are still ongoing.

The country has relatively low unemployment compared to regional standards, though economic challenges such as poverty, regional inequality, and corruption remain persistent. However, North Macedonia is steadily improving in global economic rankings, aided by its commitment to reforms and regional integration.

Tourist Attractions

North Macedonia offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Some of the country’s most notable tourist destinations include:

1. Lake Ohrid and Ohrid City

Ohrid, known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its ancient churches, monasteries, and Roman theaters. Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, offers opportunities for boat tours, fishing, and hiking around its shoreline. Visitors often explore the St. Naum Monastery, Ohrid Fortress, and the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid.

2. Skopje

The capital city is home to a blend of Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern architecture. Key attractions include the Stone Bridge, Skopje Fortress (Kale), and the Mother Teresa Memorial House. The city’s Skopje 2014 project also added numerous neoclassical buildings and statues, altering the city’s landscape to attract tourists.

3. Bitola

Known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, Bitola is a cultural center that boasts the Heraclea Lyncestis archaeological site and the ancient Roman city of Antigonea. The city is also famous for its Shirok Sokak Street, which is lined with cafes and historical buildings.

4. Kokino

Kokino is an ancient observatory dating back to the Bronze Age, and it is considered one of the most important archaeoastronomical sites in Europe. The site offers a view of the surrounding mountains and has become a popular destination for those interested in history and astronomy.

5. Mavrovo National Park

Known for its alpine landscape, Mavrovo National Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, skiing, and beautiful scenery. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including wolves, bears, and deer.

6. Marko’s Towers

Located near the town of Prilep, Marko’s Towers are medieval ruins that overlook the surrounding landscapes. The towers are said to have been built by the 14th-century ruler King Marko, and they provide excellent views of the area.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days in North Macedonia within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or short-term visits. This is possible because North Macedonia is part of the European Union’s visa-free regime for U.S. travelers.

However, travelers must have a valid passport for at least three months beyond the intended date of departure. For stays longer than 90 days, or for purposes such as work or study, U.S. citizens will need to apply for the appropriate visa through a North Macedonian embassy or consulate.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

Distance to New York City: North Macedonia is approximately 4,700 miles (7,600 kilometers) from New York City. Flights between Skopje and New York typically take 8 to 10 hours with one or two layovers.
Distance to Los Angeles: The distance from North Macedonia to Los Angeles is about 5,800 miles (9,300 kilometers). Non-stop flights are not common, and travel time typically ranges from 12 to 14 hours with layovers.

Macedonia Facts

Size	25,713 km²
Residents	2.07 million
Languages	Macedonian and Albanian, as well as Turkish, Romani, Serbian and Aromanian
Capital	Skopje
Longest river	Vardar (388 km)
Highest mountain	Korab (2,764 m)
Currency	Denarius