Millennium Cross
Iconic Millennium Cross atop Vodno Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Skopje accessible by cable car or hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Millennium Cross
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Millennium Cross atop Vodno Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Skopje accessible by cable car or hike.
"The views are amazing on all sides and the ride up in the cable car is quick and great value."
Check Cable Car Status
Cable car hours can be unpredictable. Call ahead or check online before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Hike if Closed
If the cable car is down, the hike up is a great adventure with rewarding views. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Near the cable car building
Breathtaking vistas of Skopje and the surrounding mountains unfold from various viewpoints.
Millennium Cross Ascent
Top of Vodno Mountain
The iconic 66-meter cross offers a striking landmark against the sky.
Vodno Mountain Hike
Vodno Mountain trails
A challenging yet rewarding trek to the summit, offering a different perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cable Car Status & Access
On-Site Amenities & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Cable Car Status
Cable car hours can be unpredictable. Call ahead or check online before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Hike if Closed
If the cable car is down, the hike up is a great adventure with rewarding views. :athletic_shoe:
Parking Pointers
International phone numbers may be needed for parking payment. Consider alternatives if you don't have one. :car:
Explore Beyond the Cross
Venture to the right of the cable car building for a fantastic city view, and behind the cross for a valley overlook. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Cable Car Status
Cable car hours can be unpredictable. Call ahead or check online before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Hike if Closed
If the cable car is down, the hike up is a great adventure with rewarding views. :athletic_shoe:
Parking Pointers
International phone numbers may be needed for parking payment. Consider alternatives if you don't have one. :car:
Explore Beyond the Cross
Venture to the right of the cable car building for a fantastic city view, and behind the cross for a valley overlook. :camerawithflash:
Bring Snacks & Water
Limited facilities on-site, so pack your own refreshments for the visit. :apple:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views of Skopje and the surrounding landscape from Vodno Mountain. The affordable cable car ride is a major draw, offering a fun and scenic ascent. However, some note that the area around the cross could benefit from better maintenance and that on-site facilities are limited.
"It was good! Cable car was great, the attendants unlike in some other cities, like in Funchal and Santiago, with cable cars do not rudely ask you to ride with strangers or fill it up that you do not enjoy the ride! (In one of the photos it was filled up because they choose to and it was on the way down)"
Charlie C
"Currently closed so only able to ascend to the foot of the cross and not go inside. Area around is in need of some TLC, as there are limited facilities, a good deal of rubbish scattered on the mountainside and just portaloos if you need the toilet.
Having said that the view is amazing on all sides and the ride up in the cable car is quick and great value (100MKD per person) so if you have a spare hour or two it's worth a visit."
Idris Evans
"The cablecar is not working, so I chose to walk to the Millennium Cross. I started from near the central bus terminal. Walked to near Hotel Panoramika Design & Spa & I saw other trekkers, so I just followed them. After reaching Mid Vodno, go up the steps next to Zelenika beer garden. A nice but difficult mountain trek. It took me totally 2 hours, & it’s rewarding. Cable car provides nice views but trekking is an experience & challenge."
Connie Wan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is via the cable car from the base of Vodno Mountain. If the cable car is not operating, you can hike up the mountain, which takes about 2 hours from near the central bus terminal.
Parking is available, but payment might require a local Macedonian phone number, which can be an issue for international visitors.
Yes, taxis can take you to the base of the cable car or closer to the summit if the road is accessible. Confirm the drop-off point with your driver.
You can take a local bus to the base of Vodno Mountain, where the cable car station is located. Alternatively, taxis are readily available.
The hike is described as nice but difficult, taking around 2 hours. It's a rewarding experience for those who enjoy trekking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cable car ride is considered great value, costing around 100 Macedonian Denar (MKD) per person.
There is no specific entrance fee for the Millennium Cross itself, but you will need a ticket for the cable car if you choose to use it.
Operating hours can be unpredictable. It's best to check in advance or call to confirm before your visit.
Currently, access inside the Millennium Cross may be closed. Visitors can still ascend to the foot of the cross and enjoy the surrounding views.
Advance booking is generally not required for the cable car, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best city views, take a right down a path next to the cable car building. Also, explore behind the cross for platforms overlooking a beautiful valley.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, while mornings can provide clearer skies and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for city details. A tripod can help with low-light shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local drone laws and any specific restrictions at the site before flying.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Facilities are limited. There are some pavilions for relaxing, but dedicated dining options are scarce. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
There are some beer gardens and cafes near the Mid Vodno area, like Zelenika beer garden, which you might pass on your hike.
Yes, the ample space around the cross is suitable for picnics. Remember to clean up after yourself.
Skopje offers a range of Macedonian cuisine, including grilled meats, traditional stews, and fresh salads. Many restaurants are located in the city center.
Many restaurants in Skopje offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are becoming more common. It's always good to ask.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
🏞️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Vodno Mountain
Be aware that the cable car's operation can be inconsistent, so it's wise to verify its status before your visit. If it's closed, the hike is a viable, albeit more strenuous, alternative. The trails are generally well-marked, but having a map or using a navigation app can be helpful. The journey up offers changing perspectives of the city and the surrounding landscape, making it a rewarding endeavor for hikers.
The Millennium Cross Experience
Despite any minor upkeep issues, the views from the summit are undeniably spectacular. On a clear day, you can see the entire city of Skopje spread out below, with the Vardar River winding through it, and the distant mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. There are specific viewpoints, like the one to the right of the cable car building, that offer particularly stunning panoramas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit