Currency & Payment

North Macedonia uses the Macedonian denar (MKD, ден), divided into 100 deni. Notes and coins are widely used and cash still plays a big role in everyday life, especially outside the cities. The euro is accepted in a few tourist-facing places, but you should expect to pay in denars almost everywhere.

Exchange offices (menuvačnica) are common in Skopje and other towns, and banks also change money. Rates in the city tend to be better than at the airport, so change only a small amount on arrival if needed. Euros and US dollars are the easiest currencies to exchange; compare rates and check there is no commission.

Cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, larger restaurants and modern shops, with Visa and Mastercard the most common. However, smaller shops, markets, family-run guesthouses and taxis often prefer or only take cash. Carry a card for everyday spending in Skopje, but always keep some denars for smaller and rural places.

ATMs are plentiful in Skopje and other towns, operated by banks such as Stopanska banka, Komercijalna banka and NLB. They dispense denars and accept most foreign Visa and Mastercard cards. Watch out for foreign-card fees, and always decline home-currency conversion (DCC) to get the better rate.

Contactless card payments and mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are growing in Skopje and larger towns, especially in hotels, chains and modern venues. Uptake is uneven, though, and North Macedonia remains a fairly cash-based society in many places. Do not rely on mobile payment alone; keep denars for markets, small shops and rural areas.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in North Macedonia. In restaurants and cafes, leaving around 10% for good service is common, and many people simply round up the bill. Small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are welcome. Cash tips are best, as they may not always reach staff if added to a card payment.

North Macedonia is inexpensive compared with Western Europe, and your money goes a long way, especially for food and drink. A coffee or a simple meal in a local restaurant is very affordable, and Skopje is cheaper than most European capitals. Prices are higher in tourist spots such as Ohrid in peak summer, but still good value overall.

Non-resident visitors can reclaim VAT on eligible goods bought above a minimum amount in a single store, provided the items are exported unused. Ask the shop for a tax-free form at purchase, then get it validated by customs when you leave the country, usually at Skopje airport. Keep receipts and the goods available for inspection.