Set against a backdrop of picture-perfect mountains and lush forests, this small, stunning European town is willing to welcome more tourists to explore its natural beauty.

Centar Zupa in North Macedonia, where 85 percent of the population is Turkish, is preparing itself to become the next tourists hotspot by enticing visitors with its historical treaures.

Located about an hour’s drive from Macedonia’s top tourist spots, Ohrid and Struga, this beautiful town was formed by families who settled in the area.

The area has recently seen a large amount of Turkish visitors flocking to the area, something Centar Zupa Mayor Ariyan İbrahim believes is helping put this small village on the map.

He said: “The arrival of Turkish visitors has great significance for municipality’s predominantly Turkish populace.”

In order to get people to know Centar Zupa, which shares the name with a smaller village part of its municipality, Turkish-speaking guides are working to promote both the region and the local memorial house.

Deniz Hasan, manager of the memorial house dedicated to Ali Rıza Efendi, the father of the founder of modern Turkey Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, says he has been hosting around 2,000 tourists annually since 2014.

Hasan added that they also launched a bungalow project close to the memorial house, with construction already underway.

In October 2024 North Macedonia saw the number of tourists increase by 19.5% year-on-year, with 142,827 overnight stays. The number of domestic tourists increased by 1.8%.

Those thinking about visiting North Macedonia will be pleased to hear that it is very budget friendly and you can enjoy your holiday without emptying your wallet.

A 3-course meal including wine is only around £11 per person and accommodation in a private double room will only set you back £28.50.

It is also the perfect spot to take in some rays as temperatures peak at around 30C during June, July and August,  with around 10 hours of sunshine each day.

However, if you prefer milder weather May or September may be better for you when temperatures hover around 20-25C.