This small city near the Greek border has a Mediterranean climate and thermal springs. A busy casino town with a long agricultural tradition of growing grapes and figs.
Gevgelija, a small city in southern North Macedonia, sits at the crossroads between the Balkans and Mediterranean. You can swim in 50°C thermal springs at Negorski Spa, ski down Mount Kozuf's 2,167-meter slopes, or walk through groves of figs and lemons that thrive in the city's warm climate. The streets are lined with traditional restaurants serving local wines and slow-roasted lamb dishes.
Location and Mediterranean Climate
Gevgelija lies 70 kilometers from Thessaloniki and 165 kilometers from Skopje, making it an important transit point between Greece and North Macedonia. The Mediterranean climate brings 240 sunny days annually, with average temperatures of 14.3°C. These conditions allow local farmers to grow Mediterranean fruits like figs, pomegranates, olives, and lemons - unusual for this part of the Balkans. In the valley of Konska Reka, you'll find the rare evergreen "naked man" tree (Arbutus andrachne) with its distinctive reddish, scaly bark.
Mount Kozuf Activities
Mount Kozuf rises on the western horizon, its highest peak Zelen Breg reaching 2,167 meters. Since 2001, skiers have enjoyed the mountain's well-maintained slopes and modern equipment. In summer, you can bike or hike the mountain trails, or try paragliding from designated launch points. The Precenica River dam has become a popular spot for fishing and kayaking.
Thermal Waters at Negorski Spa
At Negorski Spa, 4 kilometers from the city center, you can soak in mineral waters between 36 and 50°C. The 36-hectare complex sits within a forest and includes treatment rooms for various health conditions. Several natural springs produce sodium-sulfate-rich water at about 100 liters per second. The spa's medical center treats specific conditions with hydrotherapy and other water-based treatments.
Ancient History at Vardarski Rid
The archaeological site of Vardarski Rid along the Vardar River contains artifacts from multiple periods, starting in the Bronze Age. Archaeologists have found Macedonian shields, helmets, and a sixteen-ray Sun symbol at the site. The excavations reveal six distinct living periods, with the oldest items dating to 5,000 BC. The discoveries include terracotta god figures and everyday objects like keys and kitchen utensils.
Getting to Gevgelija
You can reach Gevgelija by both rail and road. Buses run regularly from Thessaloniki, taking about 1.5 hours. The A1 motorway connects the city to Skopje in the north and Thessaloniki in the south. The train station serves regular routes between North Macedonia and Greece.
