Is cash still widely used?
Yes, widely. North Macedonia remains predominantly cash-based. Local restaurants, cafes, markets, transport, and guesthouses across the country rely on denar cash. Skopje has some card acceptance at larger hotels and modern restaurants, but cash is the norm.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Skopje and larger towns. Komercijalna Banka and Stopanska Banka machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around 100 MKD per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Good availability in Skopje; limited in rural areas and Ohrid’s old town
- Withdraw cash in Skopje before traveling to Lake Ohrid or rural areas
Card acceptance
Low to moderate. Some hotels and restaurants in Skopje accept cards. Ohrid old town, markets, and local businesses require cash.
Tips for travelers
- North Macedonia is one of Europe’s most affordable destinations
- Ohrid is stunning and very cash-dependent — bring plenty of denar
- Local transport (buses, minibuses) is always cash-only
- Tipping is appreciated — 10% is becoming more common