Overview
Prilep is nicknamed "The city under Marko's towers" for its medieval fortress ruins atop a bare hill. With a population of 76,768, it is Macedonia's tobacco and beer capital — tobacco leaves dry across the city in late summer and fall, and the local brewery produces the country's most popular beers.
Architecture · Budget Travel · History · Museums · Nightlife
Before you go
Culture
Prilep has a unique sense of humor and preserves traditional Macedonian ways of life. The Old Bazaar and numerous Orthodox churches reflect layered Ottoman, Byzantine, and Macedonian heritage.
Food
Širden is Prilep's signature dish — a stuffed sheep organ dish unique to the city. Burek, grilled meat, and trout are widely available.
Money
Local currency is the Macedonian denar (MKD). Prices in hotels are often quoted in euros. ATMs are available in the centre near banks.
Transport
The centre is walkable. Taxis within town cost around MKD 50. Inter-city buses depart from the central bus station to Skopje, Bitola, and Ohrid.
Weather
Summers are hot with temperatures suitable for hiking early or late in the day. Tobacco drying season runs late summer through fall. Winters can be cold; confirm trail conditions before hiking to monasteries.
