Things To Do
in Štip

Štip is a charming city located in the eastern part of North Macedonia, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It is often referred to as the 'City of the Beautiful Women' due to its historical connections. The city is surrounded by picturesque hills and offers a mix of traditional and modern architecture.

Štip is also famous for its educational institutions, particularly its university, which attracts students from various regions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Štip
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Štip Fortress, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to the central square and visit the Church of St. Nicholas, followed by lunch at a local café serving traditional Macedonian dishes.

evening
:

Stroll through the city park and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant, followed by drinks at a local bar.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Museum of Štip to learn about the city's history and cultural heritage.

afternoon
:

Take a short hike in the nearby hills, exploring the natural beauty of the region, and have a picnic lunch.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a tavern that features live music and traditional folk performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍕Street food snack$3
🚕Taxi fare (within city limits)$5
🛒Groceries for a week$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Stunning natural landscapes surrounding the city.
  • Limited vegan and gluten-free dining options.
  • Public transportation can be sparse.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Macedonian speakers.
  • "Zdravo" - Hello
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please
  • "Izvinete" - Excuse me
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Štip

Visit one of these nice places.

Štip Fortress

An ancient fortress offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Church of St. Nicholas

A beautiful church with stunning architecture and intricate frescoes, perfect for capturing religious art.

City Park

A serene park filled with greenery, fountains, and sculptures, ideal for capturing moments of tranquility.

Culinary Guide

Food in Štip

Štip boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects the flavors of traditional Macedonian cuisine. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to try local specialties that showcase the region's agricultural bounty.

Štip Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tavče Gravče

A traditional baked bean dish, often served with sausage or minced meat.

Must-Try!

Ajvar

A red pepper-based condiment, commonly served with bread or grilled meats.

Kachamak

A hearty dish made from cornmeal, often served with cheese and yogurt.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Štip Old Bazaar

A lively market where you can taste street food such as grilled meats and local pastries.

City Park Food Stalls

Various stalls offering snacks, sweets, and refreshing drinks during the warmer months.

Climate Guide

Weather

Štip experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures reach around 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is moderate, with the majority occurring in spring and autumn. The climate is generally dry in summer, making it conducive for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Štip is considered a safe city for tourists; however, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep personal belongings secure. It's advisable to be cautious in crowded places to avoid petty theft.

Tipping in Štip

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards. ATMs are available throughout the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It's a great time for outdoor events and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, creating picturesque landscapes for photography.

Winter

Winters can be cold, with occasional snowfall. It's a quieter time, ideal for enjoying local cafes and indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Štip at Night

Štip's nightlife is vibrant and offers a mix of traditional taverns, modern bars, and clubs. The city comes alive in the evenings, with many venues featuring live music and dance. Locals enjoy gathering with friends over drinks, often accompanied by traditional food. The atmosphere is welcoming, making it easy for visitors to join in on the fun.

Hiking in Štip

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Markovi Kuli

A popular hiking destination featuring unique rock formations and stunning views of Štip.

Bregalnica River Trail

A picturesque trail that follows the river, ideal for both hiking and biking, surrounded by lush greenery.

Airports

How to reach Štip by plane.

Skopje International Airport

Located approximately 100 km from Štip, this is the nearest major airport, providing international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Štip is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The city center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and there are pedestrian areas that enhance the walking experience. However, some hilly areas may require good footwear and stamina.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Macedonians

The majority ethnic group in Štip, known for their cultural traditions and contributions to the city's heritage.

Albanians

A significant minority group in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and culinary scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Štip, with local teams and clubs actively participating in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a significant following, with many youth programs and local teams competing in national tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Štip is generally light compared to larger cities, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses, but schedules may not be as frequent. Taxis are available and provide a convenient way to get around, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Štip.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, although vegan options may be limited.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may not be readily available, so it's advisable to inquire about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Štip is available through public and private facilities. The city has a general hospital along with several clinics offering basic medical services. For serious medical conditions, larger hospitals in Skopje may be required. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international medical needs.

Discover North Macedonia

Read more in our North Macedonia 2025 Travel Guide.

North Macedonia Travel Guide