Travellers yearning for the allure of Lake Como without the hefty price tag have a considerably more affordable option that is gaining a lot of attention in 2026. That destination is Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, where flights from the UK start from merely £31 in June, according to Skyscanner data.
For Brits wanting spectacular landscapes, history, and warm weather on a budget, it represents one of Europe's best-value holidays, and it has been crowned Europe's most beautiful place by TimeOut travel writers. Unlike the glamorous yet expensive resorts surrounding Lake Como, Lake Ohrid delivers mountain-framed waters, timeless beauty, and waterfront living at a fraction of the cost.
Ancient Beauty and Rich History
The ancient lake spans North Macedonia and Albania, though it is the Macedonian shore that has garnered international acclaim. Lake Ohrid is more ancient than the Italian Lakes, while Ohrid town is recognised as one of the oldest settlements in Europe. The historic quarter is brimming with cobblestone lanes, medieval churches, and panoramic lake vistas.
It boasts an 11th-century fortress, city gates constructed in the 4th century BC, a 5,000-capacity Hellenistic amphitheatre, and a 6th-century church. The most striking monument is the 13th-century Church of St John at Kaneo, positioned above the waters in one of Europe's most photographed locations. Visitors are advised to arrive at sunrise, when the illumination and tranquillity render the scene even more breathtaking. The site forms part of UNESCO, and if you are travelling from Skopje, you can reserve a full-day guided excursion for approximately £50 per person, according to Tripadvisor.
Visitor Impressions
One delighted visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: "We visited the North Macedonia side. It was nice to see so many things to see with such beautiful scenery. After walking around the church, we also had a lake cruise. The weather was nice and it was a very beautiful lake." Another remarked: "This beautiful lake represents the wonderful landscape from North Macedonia. Even it was a long drive from Skopje but this piece of paradise has to be visited. A true UNESCO World Heritage Site."
Remarkably Affordable
Another major draw is that this stunning destination remains remarkably affordable. While a Lake Como getaway can easily run into thousands of pounds, lodging around Ohrid continues to be budget-friendly. A sea-view property from an Airbnb Superhost was recently listed at just £217 for a couple for an entire week. Even some of the region's most picturesque accommodation, boasting uninterrupted vistas across crystal-clear waters, was priced at only around £550 for two people for seven nights. By contrast, comparable Airbnb properties around Lake Como typically cost between £900 and £1,000 per week.
Dining out is equally economical, with waterside restaurants offering fresh fish, regional wines, and Balkan dishes at prices considerably lower than many Mediterranean destinations. According to several Facebook users, restaurant prices are "very reasonable", with one family of four spending merely £10 per head on an evening meal. Boat excursions, beaches, and historical sites are similarly wallet-friendly, allowing visitors to savour a picturesque holiday without breaking the bank.
A Top Alternative
With reduced expenses, thinner crowds, and landscapes frequently likened to Italy's most celebrated lakeside retreats, Lake Ohrid is establishing itself as an attractive alternative to more renowned destinations. For adventurous British holidaymakers prepared to venture beyond Italy or Spain, Europe's newly crowned most beautiful location may also prove one of its greatest value finds.
