If you plan to visit North Macedonia, you might wonder about the legal drinking age and other alcohol-related rules in this beautiful Balkan country. North Macedonia is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine, but it also has some exciting laws and customs regarding drinking.
Can 17-Year-Olds Drink in North Macedonia?
According to the Law on Public Peace and Order, the legal drinking age in North Macedonia is 18 years old. However, there is an exception for minors aged 16 and 17, who can consume alcoholic beverages if they are accompanied by a parent, guardian, or another adult who has their consent. This means that 16 and 17-year-olds can drink in bars, restaurants, and other public places as long as they are with an adult responsible for them. However, they cannot buy alcohol themselves, and they cannot drink in private places without adult supervision.
What are the North Macedonia Alcohol Laws?
Besides the legal drinking age, some other laws and regulations govern alcohol consumption in North Macedonia. Here are some of the most important ones:
- The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 0.05%, which is equivalent to about one standard drink. The limit is even lower for professional and novice drivers, at 0.00%. Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in fines, license suspension, or imprisonment.
- It is illegal to sell or serve alcohol to minors under 18 years old or to anyone who is visibly intoxicated. Violating this law can result in fines, license revocation, or closure of the establishment.
- It is illegal to consume alcohol in public places that are not designated for that purpose, such as streets, parks, schools, or workplaces. This can result in fines or confiscation of the alcohol.
- It is illegal to advertise or promote alcohol in a way that encourages excessive or irresponsible drinking or that targets minors or vulnerable groups. This can result in fines or bans on the advertisement.
Can You Drink on Beaches in North Macedonia?
North Macedonia has some of Europe’s most beautiful and diverse beaches, ranging from the sandy shores of Lake Ohrid to the rocky coast of Lake Prespa. Many beaches have bars, cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink while soaking up the sun and the views.
However, if you want to drink on the beach, you must be careful. As mentioned above, it is illegal to consume alcohol in public places that are not designated for that purpose, and this includes beaches. However, this law is not always strictly enforced, and you might see some people drinking on the beach without any problems. The best advice is to follow the local customs and norms and to avoid drinking excessively or causing any disturbance. You can always ask the locals or the authorities for guidance if you are unsure.
What Time Can I Buy Alcohol in North Macedonia?
North Macedonia does not have any restrictions on the time of day when you can buy alcohol. You can purchase alcohol at any time of the day or night as long as the store or the establishment is open. However, some places might have their policies or rules regarding the sale of alcohol, so you should always check before you buy. Also, remember that some areas might charge more for alcohol at night or during peak hours, so you might want to plan and purchase your drinks in advance.
How Do You Ask for a Beer in North Macedonia?
To order a beer in North Macedonia, you must know some essential words and phrases in Macedonian, the country’s official language. Here are some of the most useful ones:
- Beer: Пиво (pivo)
- A beer, please: Едно пиво, ве молам (no pivo, ve molar)
- Cheers: Наздравје (nazdravje)
- What kind of beer do you have? Какво пиво имате? (kakvo pivo imate?)
- Draft beer: Точено пиво (techno pivo)
- Bottle beer: Пиво во шише (pivo vo shisha)
- Can: Конзерва (konzerva)
- Lager: Светло пиво (svetlo pivo)
- Dark beer: Темно пиво (temno pivo)
- Non-alcoholic beer: Безалкохолно пиво (bezalkoholno pivo)
- How much is it?: Колку чини? (kolku chini?)
Conclusion:
North Macedonia is an excellent destination for travelers who love culture, nature, and history but also for those who enjoy a good drink and a fun night out. The legal drinking age in North Macedonia is 18 years old, but 16 and 17-year-olds can drink with adult supervision. You need to be aware of other laws and regulations, such as the BAC limit, the prohibition of drinking in public places, and the rules for advertising and selling alcohol.
However, these laws are not too strict or complicated, allowing you to enjoy the local drinks and nightlife safely and responsibly. Whether you prefer a cold beer, a fine wine, or a strong rakija, you will find something to suit your taste and budget in North Macedonia. Remember to drink moderately, respect the local customs and norms, and have fun!
FAQs
Q: What is the legal drinking age in North Macedonia?
A: The legal drinking age in North Macedonia is 18, but 16 and 17-year-olds can drink with adult supervision.
Q: Can I buy alcohol at any time of the day or night in North Macedonia?
A: Yes, you can buy alcohol at any time of the day or night as long as the store or the establishment is open.
Q: Can I drink on the beach in North Macedonia?
A: No, drinking on the beach or any other public place not designated for that purpose is illegal. However, this law is not always strictly enforced, and you might see some people drinking on the beach without any problems.
Q: What is the legal BAC limit for drivers in North Macedonia?
A: The legal BAC limit for drivers is 0.05%, equivalent to one standard drink. For professional and novice drivers, the limit is 0.00%.
Q: What are the penalties for drinking and driving in North Macedonia?
A: Drinking and driving can result in fines, license suspension, or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.
Q: What are the most popular alcoholic drinks in North Macedonia?
A: Some of the most popular alcoholic drinks in North Macedonia are beer, wine, and rakija, a strong fruit brandy.
Q: How much does a beer cost in North Macedonia?
A: The average price of a beer in North Macedonia is about 60 dollars, equivalent to about 1 US dollar.
Q: How do I say cheers in Macedonian?
A: The most common way to cheers in Macedonian is nazdravje, which means health.
Q: Can I drink tap water in North Macedonia?
A: Tap water in North Macedonia is generally safe to drink, but it might have a different taste or quality than what you are used to. You can also buy bottled water or use a filter if you prefer.
Q: What are some tips for drinking responsibly in North Macedonia?
A: Some tips for drinking responsibly in North Macedonia are: drink in moderation, avoid mixing different types of alcohol, drink water or non-alcoholic beverages in between alcoholic drinks, eat before and while drinking, avoid drinking on an empty stomach, know your limits and respect them, don’t drink and drive, and have a designated driver or use public transportation.