MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Skopje

What to Pack for Skopje

Skopje Grad Skopje, North Macedonia Travel Guide

Airport Details & Airlines

Skopje International Airport SKP

SKP is the sole international airport directly serving Skopje. It has several facilities to passengers.

Airport Amenities

  • Duty-free shops and retail outlets.
  • Restaurants and cafes for dining.
  • Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.

Connecting Flights

Wizz Air maintains a significant hub at SKP, connecting Skopje to many European cities with low-cost flights. Other airlines also function here.

Airline Routes

  • Airlines include Turkish Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Croatia Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, and Edelweiss Air.
  • Routes mainly link to European cities like London, Vienna, Istanbul, Zurich, Rome, and Berlin.
  • No direct flights from North America or major Asian hubs; connections through European cities are typical. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for flight deals.

Seasonal Prices

Flight frequency and prices often fluctuate seasonally. Higher demand and prices during summer (June-August) plus national holidays.

Advance Booking

Booking flights in advance, specifically for peak travel times, is advisable to make sure you get your preferred options.

Car Rentals

Several international and local car rental agencies maintain desks at the airport. DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates.

Getting to the City

Public Transport

  • Airport Bus (Vardar Express): Joins the airport to the city center and International Bus Station.
  • Buses operate frequently, taking approximately 30-40 minutes.
  • A convenient and affordable option for reaching the city.
  • Stops near Hotel Holiday Inn for central access.

Private Transport

  • Taxis are readily available outside the terminal.
  • A fixed price list for destinations usually posted, ensuring transparency.
  • Car Rental: Various agencies offer services directly at the airport for those who prefer to drive.
  • Confirm the taxi fare before starting your journey.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

Skopje International Airport does not impose specific exit fees or taxes for flying; these are generally included in your ticket price.

Departure Procedures

Follow standard airport security and check-in procedures. For international flights, arrive at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure.

Airport Facilities

SKP offers shops, restaurants, cafes, and lounges for departing travelers. Currency exchange services and ATMs are also available.

Land Routes to Skopje

Border Information

North Macedonia shares land borders with Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, Albania, and Kosovo. Standard border procedures apply at all crossings, encompassing passport control and vehicle inspections.

Crossings & Wait Times

  • Standard border procedures apply at all crossings.
  • Wait times vary based on the specific crossing, time of day, and season.
  • Expect longer waits during holidays or peak travel periods.

Long-Distance Buses

Long-distance buses represent the main mode of international and intercity land transport to and from Skopje. The Skopje Central Bus Station serves numerous routes.

Routes & Companies

  • International routes connect Skopje to capitals like Belgrade, Sofia, Thessaloniki, Pristina, and Tirana.
  • Domestic routes reach major cities within North Macedonia, including Ohrid and Bitola.
  • Operators include Fudeks, Durmo Tours, and various local companies.

Driving in North Macedonia

If you plan to drive, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for foreign drivers in North Macedonia, alongside your valid national driver's license.

Requirements & Conditions

  • Vehicle registration documents and international motor insurance (a Green Card) are also necessary.
  • Main roads and highways (e.g., A1, A2) are generally in good condition. Secondary roads vary in quality.
  • Some local drivers may exhibit aggressive driving habits; exercise caution.

Train Services

International train services to Skopje are very limited. The rail network in North Macedonia is not extensive, and services often operate slowly.

Limited Rail Options

  • Connections from Belgrade, Serbia, are available but inregular and often lengthy.
  • Buses generally serve as a more reliable and quicker option for international land travel.
  • Road signage is generally good, often in the two Macedonian and The english language.

Road Safety Hints

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Speed limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) urban, 80 kilometers per hour (50 mph) open roads, 130 km/h (81 mph) highways.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Drunk driving laws are strict, with a very low blood alcohol limit.
  • Headlights are required at all times, even during the day.
  • Driving within Skopje city center can be congested; be alert for pedestrians and cyclists.

Water Travel

Sea & Cruise Ports

North Macedonia is a landlocked country. Therefore, sea or river arrivals are not relevant for international or significant tourist transport to Skopje.

No Maritime Access

  • No ferry services or cruise ports in Skopje.
  • International sea travel does not directly reach Skopje.
  • River Vardar is not used for major passenger transport.

River Transportation

The Vardar River flows through Skopje, but it does not serve for major passenger getting around in the city or for international arrivals.

Limited River Use

  • No river transportation options for significant tourist movement.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable.
  • Connections from water to land transportation are not relevant for international travel to Skopje.

Ferry Services

Not applicable for Skopje due to its landlocked status.

River Cruising

The Vardar River is not navigable for passenger cruises.

General Info

Water-based transport for arrival in Skopje is not an option.

Your Departure

Exit Formalities

Prepare for your departure to guarantee a smooth departure out of Skopje. Understand the procedures and timing recommendations.

Fees & Procedures

  • Skopje International Airport imposes no specific exit fees or taxes for travel by plane.
  • These charges are typically part of your ticket price.
  • For international flights, arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before departure.

Airport Facilities

Skopje International Airport offers various amenities for departing travelers, making your waiting time comfortable. These services help finalize your trip efficiently.

Amenities for Departing Travelers

  • Shops and duty-free outlets for last-minute purchases.
  • Restaurants and cafes for meals and refreshments.
  • Currency exchange services and ATMs to convert any remaining local currency.

Bus Station Amenities

Basic Conveniences

The Central Bus Station also has fundamental amenities for travelers.

Food Options

Small cafes and shops are available for snacks and drinks.

Waiting Areas

Designated waiting areas for departing passengers.

Departure Readiness

Allow ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening to account for any unforeseen delays.