This active northwestern city sits against mountain slopes, with traditional markets, local restaurants and multiple mosques reflecting its significant Muslim community.
Tetovo sits beneath the peaks of Šar Mountain in northwestern North Macedonia, with the Pena River flowing through its center. In the old quarter, you'll find the 15th-century Šarena Mosque with its egg-based painted murals, while dervishes still practice their traditions at the Arabati Baba Teḱe complex. You can ski down the slopes of Popova Šapka in winter or hike the mountain trails in summer, then return to the city to try local dishes like Tavče Gravče and fresh sheep's milk kashkaval cheese.
The Painted Mosque of Tetovo
The Šarena Mosque stands near the Pena River in the old quarter, its walls covered with intricate paintings inside and out. In 1833, artists created these decorations using a mixture of egg yolks and natural pigments - more than 30,000 eggs in total. The geometric patterns and floral designs reflect Ottoman artistic style of the period. As you explore, you'll see the cleansing fountain in the courtyard and the türbe containing the tombs of two female benefactors.
Exploring Arabati Baba Teḱe
Built in 1538, the Arabati Baba Teḱe complex includes prayer rooms, dining halls, and former living quarters where Bektashi dervishes lived and practiced. At its heart, you'll find a marble fountain inside a wooden pavilion, with gardens spreading outward. Today, a small group of dervishes still use parts of the complex for ceremonies, while visitors can walk through most areas of this historical site.
Winter Sports at Popova Šapka
Seven kilometers from Tetovo, the Popova Šapka ski resort sits at 1,780 meters altitude. You can take any of the 11 ski lifts to access 7.7 kilometers of slopes, reaching heights of 2,510 meters. Beginners can practice on gentle slopes near the base, while experienced skiers tackle the steeper runs higher up. Mountain villas provide accommodation, and several restaurants serve traditional mountain dishes.
Local Food Specialties
Restaurants across Tetovo serve Tavče Gravče (known locally as Tavë me Groshë), a hearty bean dish cooked in earthenware pots. Local farmers make kashkaval cheese using milk from sheep that feed on Šar Mountain herbs and grasses. You'll find both dishes in restaurants throughout the city center, typically served with seasonal vegetables from nearby farms.
Getting Around Tetovo
Buses connect Tetovo to Skopje every 30 minutes and run regular routes to other North Macedonian cities. Most central attractions lie along Boulevard Illyria, starting from Illyria Square. The Green Market, northeast of Blagoja Toska street, opens daily with local vendors selling produce, cheese, and regional products. You can walk between the main sights in 15-20 minutes.
