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How to Get to Lake Ohrid

Major Airports

Ohrid "St. Paul the Apostle" Airport OHD

This airport sits approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Ohrid city center. It is a smaller airport, mainly serving seasonal charter flights and a selection of budget airline routes, especially during the warmer months.

Airlines & Routes

  • A Low-cost european airline connects OHD with London Luton, Vienna, Dortmund, Basel, Malmö.
  • Edelweiss Air from Zurich, LOT Polish Airlines from Warsaw.
  • Flight availability greatly reduces outside peak summer.

Skopje International Airport SKP

Found about 170 kilometers (105 miles) northeast of Ohrid, Skopje International Airport is the main international gateway to North Macedonia. It offers a greater variety of international connections and at shorter intervals flights year-round.

Airlines & Connectivity

  • A Low-cost european airline has an extensive network to a lot of European cities.
  • Traditional carriers connect to Istanbul, Vienna, Zurich, Frankfurt, Rome, Warsaw, Budapest.
  • Flight timetables stay more stable year-round.

Finding Flights

Explore deals with Dollar Flight Club or compare fares on Skyscanner.

Car Rental

Book your rental car in advance via DiscoverCars.com for convenience.

Seasonal Prices

Prices increase during peak summer, European holidays, and The Festive period periods.

Transfer Options from Airports

From Ohrid Airport OHD to Ohrid City

  • Taxi: Readily available, negotiate price (approx. 10-15 EUR into the city's core).
  • Public Bus: Infrequent, check schedules upon arrival.
  • Private Transfer: Pre-booked via hotels or local agencies.
  • Rental Car: Available at the airport for regional exploration.

From Skopje International Airport SKP to Ohrid

  • Airport Bus to Skopje City Center: Vardar Express to main bus station, then long-distance bus to Ohrid.
  • Direct Bus Service: Some private companies offer seasonal transfers, book in advance.
  • Taxi: Expensive direct transfer (approx. 100-150 EUR), suitable for groups.
  • Rental Car: Pick up at SKP, drive to Ohrid (2-2.5 hours).

Airport Facilities

Ohrid Airport OHD

A smaller airport with basic facilities: car rental desks, taxi stand, small cafe, duty-free shop. Adequate for its passenger volume.

Skopje International Airport SKP

A larger, more modern airport with additional facilities: international car rental agencies, ATMs, currency exchange, several restaurants, duty-free, VIP lounges.

Direct Flights

No direct flights from North America, Asia, Australia. Connect through major European hubs like Istanbul, Vienna, or Zurich.

Land Transportation

Bus Travel: Main Mode

Buses are the most common, reliable, and efficient way to travel long distances within North Macedonia and to neighboring countries. They offer frequent and affordable services.

Routes & Tickets

  • Common services connect Ohrid with Skopje (2.5-3.5 hours), Bitola, Struga.
  • International bus lines connect to Albania, Serbia, Kosovo, Bulgaria.
  • Purchase tickets at Ohrid Bus Station. Book in advance during peak season.

Self-Driving & Requirements

To rent a car, you need a valid national driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held their authorization for 1-2 years.

Driving Information

  • IDP is legally required in conjunction with your license.
  • Main roads are good; rural roads vary. Drive on the right.
  • Strict zero-tolerance for driving under alcohol influence. Headlights on always.

Border Crossings

The most common land border crossing to Albania from Lake Ohrid is near St. Naum Monastery (Sveti Naum/Tushemisht). The process is generally smooth.

Border Notes

  • Be prepared for potential queues, particularly at busy times.
  • Ensure all vehicle documents (registration, insurance) are in order if behind the wheel across.
  • Other borders include Greece (Medzitlija/Niki), Serbia, Kosovo, Bulgaria.

Train Services

North Macedonia's railway network is limited and does not directly serve Ohrid. The closest train station to Ohrid is in Bitola, approximately 70 kilometers away.

Train Travel Notes

  • Train connections from Bitola to Skopje are accessible but slower than buses.
  • Trains are generally not the preferred intercity transport mode for most travelers.
  • No river transit for tourists making it to Ohrid.

Driving Safety Tips

  • Driving habits are assertive; expect unexpected maneuvers.
  • Watch out for unmarked obstacles, particularly in the countryside.
  • Night driving can be difficult due to poor lighting and animals on roads.
  • A GPS device or offline maps on your phone are highly recommended.
  • Observe speed limits: 50 km/h in urban, 90 km/h outside, 110-A speed of 130 km/h on motorways.
  • Ensure your rental car's insurance encompasses all eventualities.

Sea/River Arrivals

Lake Transportation

While Lake Ohrid is a large body of water, it is not serve as a major international sea or river arrival point in the traditional sense. No major a ferry to another country services operate on Lake Ohrid for trips between countries. There are without large cruise ship ports.

Local Boat Travel

  • A boat from the area taxis plus methodical boat tours ply the lake for sightseeing.
  • Day trips to the Albanian side (Pogradec) are via boat, but immigration happens at land crossings.
  • Immigration procedures are not applicable for lake travel directly.

River Connections

The Black Drin River flows out of Lake Ohrid at Struga. While small boats operate on the river for local purposes, it is not a significant transport route for tourists reaching Ohrid.

Harbor Connections

  • Water tours and local boat taxis generally depart from Ohrid's main harbor.
  • The harbor is centrally located and easy to reach from the central area.
  • Easy access via walking or public transport networks.

Air Departure

Arrive 2 hours before scheduled departure for international flights. Ohrid Airport is small, Skopje is larger.

Bus Departure

Arrive at Ohrid Bus Station 30 minutes before departure to get in or luggage check-in. Buses depart on time.

Documents

Ensure passport and travel documents are easily accessible for a smooth how to depart.

Departure Information

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

North Macedonia does not typically levy specific departure taxes or fees on departing passengers in its prime airports or land borders. The price of your airline ticket usually includes any airport charges.

Ohrid Airport OHD

  • Basic amenities, including a small cafe.
  • Duty-free shop for last-quick purchases.
  • Check-in and security procedures can be quick, but allow time during peak season.

Skopje & Bus Station Facilities

Skopje International Airport (SKP) presents a more comprehensive range of facilities, while Ohrid Bus Station possesses basic services for travelers.

SKP and Ohrid Bus Station

  • SKP: Different eateries, cafes, wider selection of shops, lounges.
  • Ohrid Bus Station: Small cafe, ticket offices, luggage storage (small fee).
  • Always reconfirm flight or bus departure times the day before.

Travel Checklist

Flight Reconfirmation

Check your flight departure time AROUND the clock prior to travel. This avoids last-minute surprises.

Document Readiness

Keep your passport and boarding pass readily accessible for airport security and check-in.

Allow Ample Time

Factor in potential waiting times during customs inspection and immigration if departing by land. These vary by season and time.

Smooth Departure

Prepare for a smooth departure by guaranteeing all your travel documents are organized and easily accessible. Have a safe trip!

How to Get to Lake Ohrid. Flights, Transportation, Airlines