Looks like Greece and impresses with nature: unpopular country in Europe is called a treasure for tourists

There are still unexplored areas among European countries, almost all of which can boast of real magnets for tourists. North Macedonia is one of them.

According to the Express, this landlocked European country borders popular Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Albania. And yet it remains relatively unknown in the European tourist circuit, making it an ideal destination for those seeking peace and quiet.

The country's rich historical palette is shaped by Mediterranean, Balkan, Greek, Italian, and Ottoman influences. And it offers tourists a truly unique cultural experience.

Even though North Macedonia is five times smaller than Greece, it boasts equally attractive natural treasures. An impressive 80% of the country is covered by mountains and lakes, which opens up many opportunities for adventurers. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and kayaking to your heart's content. The key natural attraction of the country is the mountainous Lake Ohrid.

For those who prefer a more leisurely interaction with nature, North Macedonia has a great variety of wildlife to offer. While traveling around the country, you can see bears, wild boars, wolves, foxes, deer, and over 200 species of butterflies.

History buffs can immerse themselves in the country's rich heritage by exploring amphitheaters, statues, monasteries, and relics from the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras. And all of this within one fairly small country.

The gastronomic tradition of North Macedonia is as rich and diverse as its history. National dishes offer a tempting combination of flavors. One of the main local specialties is tavče gravče, which is beans baked in a pot with vegetables and seasonings. Sometimes meat is also added to it. It is very satisfying and flavorful.

According to the State Statistical Office of North Macedonia, more than 1.6 million tourists visited the country in 2023. This is 20.6% more than a year earlier. However, these figures are in stark contrast to neighboring Greece, which attracts tens of millions of people every year. And this is while North Macedonia has much in common with both Greece and Turkey. This not fully discovered destination is an excellent choice for those looking for adventure away from the beaten tourist routes and crowds of vacationers.

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