Stobi Archaeological Site
Explore the remarkably preserved Roman city of Stobi, featuring stunning mosaics and ancient architecture, offering a deep dive into history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Stobi Archaeological Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the remarkably preserved Roman city of Stobi, featuring stunning mosaics and ancient architecture, offering a deep dive into history.
"An excellent archaeological site with many ancient buildings dating back to the 4th century CE. A must-visit."
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Easier to reach Stobi and combine with other destinations like Bitola.
⏳ Allow at least an Hour
Plenty of well-preserved ruins and mosaics to explore at your own pace. :stopwatch:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Preserved Roman Mosaics
Various buildings within the site
Marvel at the intricate and well-preserved mosaic floors, showcasing stunning ancient artistry.

Ancient City Layout
The entire archaeological site
Wander through the extensive remains of a 4th-century CE city, imagining life in Roman times.

The Great Basilica
Central area of the site
Explore the impressive ruins of this significant religious structure, a testament to Stobi's past importance.
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Planning Your Visit
Getting to Stobi
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best way to get to the Stobi archeological site?
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Easier to reach Stobi and combine with other destinations like Bitola.
⏳ Allow at least an Hour
Plenty of well-preserved ruins and mosaics to explore at your own pace. :stopwatch:
Stobi near Skopje. Famous for its amazing mosaics, from the air its city walls are also impressive. This town was conquered by Macedons and then by the Romans where it was a provincial capital. Take by drone in June [OC].
1 week visit in North Macedonia
💰 Entry Fee is Worth It
Around 300 MKD, but the extensive site and mosaics are highly recommended. :moneybag:
🌸 Enjoy the Scents
The site is noted for its beautiful floral scents, adding to the atmosphere. :bouquet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Easier to reach Stobi and combine with other destinations like Bitola.
⏳ Allow at least an Hour
Plenty of well-preserved ruins and mosaics to explore at your own pace. :stopwatch:
💰 Entry Fee is Worth It
Around 300 MKD, but the extensive site and mosaics are highly recommended. :moneybag:
🌸 Enjoy the Scents
The site is noted for its beautiful floral scents, adding to the atmosphere. :bouquet:
🛍️ Souvenirs Available
Clay copies of artifacts with historical papers, though a bit pricey. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Stobi for its extensive and well-preserved Roman ruins, particularly the stunning mosaic work, offering an intimate historical experience. The friendly staff and pleasant floral scents enhance the visit, though some find the souvenir prices a bit high. It's considered a highly worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts.
"The remains are from the Roman period and are in good shape, for each part there's an explanation. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, but an audio tour online is also available. You can even buy souvenirs (clay copies of the ancient artifacts found around Stobi with a paper of its history attached)."
qt_Ane
"The ticket was not for free. It's 300 denar in 2025. Anyway It was very worthy to visit. Beautiful site, the scents of flowers in everywhere. The souvenirs were a bit expensive but It was fine. Every working staff member was so kind and nice as well."
Park팍
"Quite extensive site with well preserved mosaics. Allow an hour or so to visit. The opening hours published here are incorrect -- people were still coming in and the ticket/souvenir kiosk was still open at 4pm on a Sunday
MKD 300 entry fee."
N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Stobi from Skopje is by car, either renting one or joining a tour. Public buses are an option but can be less direct. Many visitors stop at Stobi as a day trip from Skopje or en route to Bitola.
While Stobi is not directly on the route to Ohrid, it's feasible to visit if you're traveling via Prilep or Bitola. It's often recommended as a stop between Skopje and Bitola.
Yes, it's possible to use buses, but it requires more planning and may involve transfers. Renting a car or booking a guided tour is generally recommended for ease of access.
The drive from Skopje to Stobi typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and your exact starting point.
Yes, many tour operators in Skopje offer day trips to Stobi, which can be a hassle-free way to visit, often including transportation and a guide.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is approximately 300 Macedonian Denar (MKD) as of recent reports. While not free, visitors find it very worthwhile for the extensive and well-preserved site.
Published opening hours can sometimes be inaccurate. It's advisable to check locally or be aware that the site and ticket kiosk may remain open later than officially stated, especially on Sundays.
Generally, advance booking is not required for Stobi. Tickets can be purchased at the site's entrance kiosk. However, for organized tours, booking in advance is recommended.
An audio tour is available online, which can be a helpful supplement to exploring the site. Information panels are also present for various parts of the ruins.
Information on specific discounts for students, seniors, or groups is not widely published. It's best to inquire at the ticket kiosk upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend allowing at least an hour to explore the extensive ruins and admire the well-preserved mosaics. You could easily spend longer if you're a keen history enthusiast.
The well-preserved Roman mosaics are a major highlight, along with the ancient city layout, the Great Basilica, and various ancient buildings dating back to the 4th century CE.
Yes, Stobi is an extensive archaeological site that requires walking to explore. Comfortable footwear is recommended as you'll be navigating uneven terrain and ancient pathways.
Basic facilities, including restrooms, are typically available at the entrance area near the ticket and souvenir kiosk.
Photography is generally allowed at Stobi. However, always be respectful of the ancient structures and other visitors. Tripods or professional photography setups might require special permission.
📸 📸 Photography
The mosaic floors offer incredible photographic opportunities, especially when the light hits them. The overall ancient city layout provides a sense of scale and history. Look for vantage points that capture the breadth of the ruins.
Late afternoon can offer softer light, ideal for highlighting the textures of the mosaics and ruins. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere.
While general photography is permitted, it's always wise to be mindful of any specific signage or staff instructions. Avoid using flash directly on delicate mosaics if advised.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the site, while a standard zoom lens can be versatile. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the mosaics. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites to preserve the heritage and avoid disturbing visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring snacks and water, especially during warmer months, as facilities are limited to the entrance area. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for everyone. The site's historical significance can be a great educational experience, making it more than just a walk through old stones.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Allocate at least an hour to explore the main highlights. The site is easily accessible by car, and parking is usually available. Combining a visit to Stobi with nearby towns like Prilep or Bitola creates a well-rounded day of exploration and cultural immersion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Stobi
The site boasts remarkable preservation, particularly its stunning mosaic floors. These intricate artworks, dating primarily from the 4th century CE, depict various scenes and geometric patterns, offering a vivid glimpse into the artistic and cultural achievements of the era. The Great Basilica stands as a testament to the city's religious importance, while other structures like theaters and residential areas paint a picture of daily life.
Stobi's history also includes periods of decline and eventual abandonment, leaving behind a rich archaeological record. Today, it serves as a vital window into the past, allowing visitors to walk through the remnants of a once-flourishing civilization and appreciate the enduring legacy of Roman influence in the region. The site's relatively uncrowded nature, as noted by visitors, enhances the immersive experience.
Navigating Stobi: Practicalities for Visitors
Information is provided through explanations for each part of the site, and an online audio tour is available for those who want a more guided experience. The ticket and souvenir kiosk is located at the entrance, where you can also purchase replicas of ancient artifacts. Staff members are noted for being kind and helpful.
While official opening hours are published, some visitors have noted that the site and kiosk may remain open later than expected, particularly on Sundays. It's always a good idea to confirm timings if possible, but the flexibility observed suggests a welcoming approach to visitors. The scents of flowers throughout the site are also a pleasant surprise, adding to the overall ambiance.
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