5 Tips for Renting a Car in North Macedonia
Planning a road trip in our country? Then renting a car in Macedonia will allow you to access the country’s vast number of beautiful drives and day trip destinations. Plus, the roads are good and traffic is pretty light.
Even though you would love driving in North Macedonia, there are two main challenges you will face: choosing what type of car to rent and navigating the small highways and roads of rural Macedonia. Based on our experience of driving here, we are sharing our tips for renting a car in Macedonia.
Questions or tips of your own about renting a car in Macedonia? Feel free to share in the comments below.
How to choose the right size car for driving in North Macedonia:
First, you need to know what would be the right size car to rent in the Macedonia. Because many of the roads are narrow, you don’t want anything too big. But on those two-lane highways where people drive fast and passing is involved, you also don’t want a car that’s too small. You don’t need 4×4 unless the plan is to go off road. All the national parks that you need to visit are drivable with normal car.
For a couple, a Opel Corsa or Skoda Fabia is more than enough.
Do I need a GPS to drive in North Macedonia?
In my opinion, a GPS is essential to driving in Macedonia. I recommend upgrading to a car that has a built-in GPS. Not only does this type of system tell you where to go, but it also has a map on the screen that allows you to see the turns and roundabouts as you approach them. Being able to see what was coming helped us feel comfortable while driving in Macedonia.
- See also: 15 Best Places to visit in Macedonia
Note that you can use the map app on your smartphone, but this has limitations. You can download Maps.me or Google maps before you travel and then use them offline. However, if you don’t want to spend the extra money on a GPS with your rental car, using the offline maps is definitely an option.
Driving Requirements
You do not need an international driver’s license. For non-EU visitors, your domestic driver’s license allows you to drive in Macedonia for up to a year provided it is in English or has an English translation. You must also have a valid passport. If an English translation is not available then an international driving permit suffices. EU visitors need only their domestic driver’s license and a passport or ID card.
Cost for Renting a Car in Macedonia
The perceived cost of renting a car in Macedonia is often what turns visitors to public transportation. Renting a car is usually not the cheapest option, but you will be surprised how comparable it is to purchasing bus tickets. The class and transmission of the car is the primary determinant of cost. Petrol is significantly cheaper in Macedonia
Driving in Macedonia is a pleasure. By and large, the roads are good, the drivers are good and the signs are good. Rent a car for your next trip to Macedonia.
