Is Skopje Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Skopje is the capital of Macedonia; it is in the Povardarie region and is the largest and most diverse city in the country.

Many peoples have occupied Skopje since its foundation.

This is evidenced by the several Byzantine churches and monasteries around the city, also by a few Roman sites.

Today, Skopje is becoming a modern city. Home to about a quarter of the entire population of the country.

In Skopje, you can see the monument to Alexander the Great – Alexander the Great.

For tourists, there are a lot of historical and local history museums. You can see the variety of churches and mosques.

Warnings & Dangers in Skopje

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

The crime rate in Skopje is average. If you do not walk in remote areas and avoid drunk people, you can be here quite safely. Keep track of your belongings in tourist destinations and on public transport.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Public transport is not very reliable and may not be on schedule. At terminal stations, especially at night, pickpockets and intruders can operate. Taxis are preferred for getting around the city. Call only licensed taxi service.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

There are many pickpockets in Skopje, especially in tourist places and public transport. Always keep an eye on your bags and wallets. Valuables and passport originals are best kept in the hotel safe.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

In the last decade, the region suffers from floods; numerous landslides and rockfalls were recorded around the country, then frequent fires, heat waves, tides, etc.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Armed robberies rarely occur in Skopje. Moreover, they are usually not directed against tourists. Follow standard precautions, and you will be safe. In case of a crime against you, contact the police immediately.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in North Macedonia. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Terrorists may target religious sites, including churches. It's better to avoid those places.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Fraud does not often happen. Sometimes tourists are offered inflated prices for taxis or excursions. But, in Skopje, there is little such fraud, and you are unlikely to become a victim of this crime.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women can safely travel to Skopje. However, at night it is better not to walk around the city itself, but when you return home, it is better to take a taxi. If your address is whistled or shouted, the best thing you can do is ignore it.

So... How Safe Is Skopje Really?

The crime rate in Skopje is considered moderate.

Typically, criminal acts associated with the theft of things, car theft, racially motivated insults.

There is also a very high crime rate and bribery in the city.

Skopje, just like most of the rest of Macedonia, is a relatively safe place.

However, observance of common sense is necessary here.

Usually, crimes occur in places remote from tourist areas.

Exercise a level of caution or avoid the old market at night as it becomes desolate. However, the area of the old market near the Stone Bridge, where most of the bars are located, is safe.

Like many other parts of Europe, some people will beg around the major tourist sites and sometimes engage in pick-pocketing.

It’s better to avoid the stretch of land along the north side of the river between Blvd Krste Petkov Misirkov and Belasitsa.

In the city, there are flocks of stray dogs.

You should avoid them, as they can bite and be contagious.

Otherwise, if you follow your things, use common sense, do not get involved in street fights, and have no business with drug dealers – you can safely travel to Skopje.

How Does Skopje Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Nationals of all European Union countries, plus some other countries may enter North Macedonia visa-free for up to 90 days. Check your visa status online. A valid passport is a must.

Currency

The Macedonian denar is the currency of North Macedonia. It has a sign: den, and a code: MKD. It subdivided in 100 deni.

Weather

The best times to visit Skopje for ideal weather are May to July and September to November. Average temperatures in Skopje vary drastically, and the weather feels cold for about half of the year and otherwise excellent with a low chance of precipitation most of the year.

Airports

Skopje International Airport is the larger and busier of the two international airports in North Macedonia. It located 22 km from the city center. It handles international and domestic flights.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Skopje Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Macedonia - Safety by City