Ohrid in October

May through September gives you the best weather, but each month offers something different. July and August bring perfect swimming weather — lake temperatures hit 24°C and the sun shines almost daily. But this is also peak season, so expect crowds at major sites and higher accommodation prices. My favorite time is late May or early June. The weather's warm enough for swimming (barely), wildflowers cover the hillsides, and you'll have restaurants and beaches mostly to yourself. Hotel prices drop by 30% compared to peak summer. September is brilliant too. The lake stays warm from summer heating, but the tourist crowds thin out after kids return to school. Restaurant patios become pleasant again without the July heat. Winter transforms Ohrid completely. Snow dusts the red-tile roofs, and the lake takes on a moody gray color. Many restaurants close, but the ones that stay open offer hearty winter dishes and warm fires. It's romantic in a completely different way.