Lake Ohrid has taken the top spot on Time Out’s list of the most beautiful places in Europe. The famous Balkan lake ranked ahead of destinations in Italy, Norway, the United Kingdom and Spain.
The lake stretches between North Macedonia and Albania. Time Out describes it as an underrated European destination and a quieter, more affordable alternative to Italy’s Lake Como.
Lake Como attracts more than a million visitors to Italy’s Lombardy region each year. Lake Ohrid, meanwhile, offers clear blue water, mountain scenery and historic lakeside towns. Visitors can enjoy all of this without the same crowds or high prices.
Why Lake Ohrid Stands Out in Europe
On the North Macedonian side, the city of Ohrid remains one of the lake’s main attractions.
Time Out highlights its cobbled streets, medieval churches and terracotta rooftops overlooking the water. According to a popular local tradition, Ohrid once had 365 churches — one for every day of the year.
Visitors can swim in the lake and explore ancient sites during the same trip. In the evening, they can watch the sunset over the water and surrounding mountains.
Lake Ohrid also ranks among Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. As a result, the destination combines impressive natural scenery with centuries of history and culture.
The Albanian side offers a different experience. There, visitors can discover rugged landscapes and small villages. Time Out specifically highlights Lin for its mosaic ruins, lakeside scenery and camping opportunities.
Lake Ohrid Ranks Ahead of Famous European Destinations
Lake Ohrid took first place on Time Out’s list of the 10 most beautiful places in Europe.
Saturnia Hot Springs in Tuscany came second, while Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland ranked third. Italy’s Alberobello took fourth place. Meanwhile, Počitelj in Bosnia and Herzegovina completed the top five.
The Norwegian Fjords came sixth. Kew Gardens in London followed in seventh place, while Amsterdam’s Prinsengracht Canal ranked eighth. Germany’s Mosel Valley and Casa Batlló in Barcelona completed the top 10.
Overall, Time Out presents Lake Ohrid as an attractive choice for travelers looking beyond Europe’s busiest destinations. It combines natural beauty, history and lower prices, while offering an alternative to the much more crowded Lake Como.
