Turkiye, Bulgaria, Serbia, Greece, Romania, Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia Lead the Way in Boosting Regional Tourism : Find it Now What It Means

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North Macedonia continues to attract tourists from across the region, with significant arrivals recorded from Turkiye, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Greece in December 2025. According to data from the country’s State Statistical Office, these four countries accounted for the highest number of visitors, with Turkiye leading the pack, sending 7,303 visitors. Bulgaria followed with 5,214, Serbia contributed 4,736, and Greece saw 3,438 tourists visiting North Macedonia during the final month of the year.

In total, 59,521 tourists visited North Macedonia in December 2025, generating a total of 112,001 overnight stays. This data reflects a growing interest in the country as a key destination in the Balkans, with travelers from neighboring countries and beyond continuing to explore its diverse cultural, natural, and historical attractions.

Rising Foreign Tourism: A 10.3% Increase in International Visitors

The year 2025 was marked by an upward trend in foreign tourism in North Macedonia. The number of foreign tourists increased by 10.3% compared to the previous year, signaling that international visitors are increasingly drawn to the country’s unique offerings. While local tourism decreased slightly by 2.2%, the country’s tourism industry was largely bolstered by foreign arrivals. The total number of tourists in 2025 rose by 6%, reaching a new high in terms of international interest.

Tourists from neighboring countries like Serbia and Bulgaria have long visited North Macedonia, but the increase from Turkiye and Greece signals the growth of the country’s appeal in more diverse international markets. The rise in foreign tourism aligns with the country’s efforts to improve its tourism infrastructure and showcase its rich heritage, natural beauty, and welcoming culture to a broader audience.

Popular Attractions and Key Destinations for Tourists

Visitors to North Macedonia are drawn to a variety of attractions across the country, including its stunning lakes, picturesque mountains, and vibrant cities. The capital, Skopje, remains a hub for tourists, with its unique mix of ancient Ottoman architecture and modern European influences. The city is home to the Old Bazaar, Stone Bridge, and Mother Teresa Memorial House, making it a key destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

Beyond the capital, North Macedonia’s Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site, continues to be one of the country’s top attractions. Known for its pristine waters, ancient churches, and charming town of Ohrid, the lake draws travelers seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway. Bitola, with its historic architecture and proximity to the Pelister National Park, also remains a favorite among tourists.

North Macedonia’s natural beauty extends to its national parks and mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and outdoor adventures. The country’s vast wilderness areas provide an escape for nature lovers and eco-tourism enthusiasts. Additionally, the growth of wine tourism, driven by North Macedonia’s burgeoning wine industry, has contributed to the country’s increasing popularity among tourists.

Tourism Recovery and Growth in the Post-Pandemic Era

North Macedonia’s tourism sector has continued its recovery following the pandemic, with an increasing number of international tourists discovering the country’s charm. The rise in Turkish, Serbian, and Greek visitors reflects a renewed interest in exploring the Balkans region, as well as greater ease of travel within Europe. The country’s government and tourism organizations have focused on improving tourism infrastructure, enhancing connectivity to major European hubs, and developing new marketing initiatives to reach potential visitors from around the world.

With improved accessibility through flights and land connections, visitors from countries like Serbia, Bulgaria, and Greece have found it easier to visit North Macedonia. Meanwhile, Turkish travelers have become more intrigued by the country’s rich cultural experiences and natural landscapes, with more direct flights and road connections becoming available in recent years.

A Strong Year Ahead for North Macedonia’s Tourism

Looking ahead, North Macedonia’s tourism industry appears poised for continued growth. With a strong increase in foreign visitors during 2025 and a continued emphasis on diversifying the country’s tourism offerings, the region is set to become even more attractive to travelers seeking unique experiences in the Balkans. Additionally, neighboring countries like Serbia and Bulgaria will continue to play a significant role in North Macedonia’s tourism, offering a steady stream of visitors.

Cultural and historical tourism is expected to remain a major draw, alongside the increasing popularity of eco-tourism and outdoor adventures in the country’s natural spaces. North Macedonia’s strategic location between Greece, Albania, Kosovo, and Bulgaria places it in a prime position to serve as a hub for regional tourism, offering easy access for travelers who want to explore the Balkans in more depth.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for North Macedonia’s Tourism Sector

As the number of tourists visiting North Macedonia continues to rise, the country is set to solidify its position as a must-visit destination in the Balkans. With a strong focus on diversifying its offerings and enhancing accessibility for international travelers, North Macedonia will continue to attract tourists from neighboring countries like Turkiye, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Greece. Whether traveling for leisure, culture, or nature, North Macedonia offers something for every kind of traveler—making it a destination worth discovering in the years ahead.