Bitola Self-Guided Walking Tour, Bitola, Macedonia (B)

Despite being North Macedonia’s second largest city, Bitola surprisingly flies under the radar compared to the more popular destinations of Skopje and Ohrid. I’m not sure why this is as Bitola has a lot to offer. As well as being the gateway to Pelister National Park, Bitola has a rich history, a vibrant city centre and an impressive archaeological site right on its doorstep. Check out my quick walking tour of the main sights of the city!

Unlike the lively bazaar in Skopje, Bitola’s once great bazaar is now a shadow of its former self. With quiet streets and empty shops, it’s difficult to believe this was once a thriving market area and commercial hub of the city. Not much of the bazaar remains but it is possible to take a stroll around the winding streets and imagine how things were in bygone years. There are also some mosques and hammams in this area. It is considered Bitola’s Ottoman quarter, although a lot of the old infrastructure from that period has now gone.

After exploring, leave the bazaar area and cross the river. Walk east along the riverbank for around 50 metres and you will find Central Park. This is a leafy park which spreads across both sides of the southbound road. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).