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Sofia to Skopje from $14: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sofia, Bulgaria
to
Skopje, North Macedonia

How to Get from Sofia to Skopje: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$14 by busBest price
175.4 kmDistance
3h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sofia to Skopje with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Kaleia
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$13-29
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$14-20
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 175.4 km
Duration: 3h 2m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Makedonija Soobrakaj AD
Bus
Average Duration
2h  24m
Estimated price
$7-10
Company
Makedonija Soobrakaj AD
Bus
Average Duration
2h  21m
Estimated price
$7-10
Company
Makedonija Soobrakaj AD
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$13-29
Company
Matpu
Bus
Average Duration
5h  40m
Estimated price
$19-28
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  2m
Estimated price
$35-55

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 10/03Tu 11/03We 12/03Th 13/03Fr 14/03Sa 15/03Su 16/03
Bus $32 $32 $32 $32 $32 $32 $32
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Traveling From Sofia to Skopje

The journey from Sofia to Skopje offers a transition from Bulgaria's vibrant, historical landscape to North Macedonia's charming blend of old-world architecture and lively street culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Skopje

Skopje boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Old Bazaar
• Historic architecture and lively markets abound.
• Excellent street food and local artisan shops.
Vardar River Promenade
• Scenic walks along the riverside.
• Bustling cafes and vibrant nightlife options.
Bardovci
• Peaceful atmosphere with green parks.
• Traditional Macedonian homes and local culture.

Best Times To Visit Skopje's Attractions

Planning your visit to Skopje's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Millennium Cross
Early morning visits offer stunning views and fewer tourists.
Old Bazaar
Weekday afternoons are quieter, perfect for exploring shops.
Macedonia Square
Evenings bring vibrant atmosphere with fewer crowds to enjoy.

Skopje Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Skopje experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters, making spring and autumn the most pleasant times for a visit. Adapting your travel plans to the seasonal weather can enhance your exploration of the city’s outdoor attractions and vibrant streets.

Dining in Skopje: A Culinary Adventure

Don't miss trying tavče gravče, a traditional baked bean dish that showcases the rich flavors of North Macedonian cuisine, best enjoyed at the quaint restaurant, Kafana Pivnica. The warm, inviting ambiance and focus on local ingredients create a distinctly different dining experience from Sofia, offering a genuine taste of regional culture.

Sofia - Skopje operators

Explore transport companies operating between Sofia and Skopje, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+359 894 77 44 02
Website
kaleiatravel.com

Bus from Sofia to Skopje

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$13-29
Contact phone
02 952 50 04
Website
matpu.com

Bus from Sofia to Skopje

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$19-28
Contact phone
+389(0)2 24 02 388
Website
makedonijasoobrakaj.com

Bus from Sofia to Skopje

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$13-29

Bus from Sofia to Deve Bair

Average Duration
2h 24m
Estimated price
$7-10

Bus from Deve Bair to Skopje

Average Duration
2h 21m
Estimated price
$7-10

Sofia to Skopje: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Sofia and Skopje offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road journey from Sofia to Skopje, spanning a distance of 243.0 km. Enjoy approximately 3 hours and 2 minutes of scenic drive through charming landscapes and lush countryside. 💰 Indulge in the affordability of this road trip, with prices ranging between €32 and €51 for the adventure from Sofia to Skopje by car.
Average price
€32 - €51
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The train between Sofia and Skopje typically offers a snack and beverage service, including coffee, soft drinks, and light snacks. Be sure to bring some local currency (Bulgarian Lev or Macedonian Denar) to purchase these items, as cash is often preferred onboard.
• Seating Options: The service generally provides three seating options: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. In First Class, expect spacious seats and a quieter atmosphere. Business Class offers comfortable seating with power outlets, while Economy Class is more budget-friendly but can be crowded during peak times. Choose based on your comfort preference and budget for the journey.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Skopje's main train station, you can leave your luggage at the lockers available for rental. The station also has clean restrooms, with some facilities offering showers for a small fee. For navigating Skopje, follow the signs toward the city buses for easy access to public transportation.
🚌 Traveling from Sofia to Skopje by bus is a convenient option with direct services available. The bus operated by Kaleia departs three times a day from Sofia station to arrive at Skopje station, taking approximately 5 hours for the journey. 🌍 This bus route offers a regular and reliable way to reach Skopje from Sofia, with services operating daily. Passengers can enjoy the scenic views along the way while comfortably reaching their destination in North Macedonia for an affordable price ranging from €12 to €27. 🕒 With a journey time of around 5 hours, travelers can make the most of their trip by planning ahead and experiencing the ease and efficiency of bus travel between these two historic and vibrant cities in the Balkans.
Departure Point
Sofia station
Arrival Point
Skopje station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your tickets online in advance using the Kaleia website (kaleia.com) to secure the best prices, as they can vary from €12 to €26 for the Sofia to Skopje route.
• Arrive early at Sofia Bus Station to allow time for check-in and security procedures; the station has various amenities including shops and cafes where you can grab snacks or drinks before your journey.
• Upon arrival at Skopje Bus Station, look for the information desk if you need assistance; it’s also a good idea to download the Skopje public transport app (justgotravel.com) for easy navigation to your final destination in the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sofia to Skopje.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Sofia and Skopje is approximately 175.4 km. If you choose to travel by train and then bus, it typically takes around 6 hours and 15 minutes. Alternatively, if you decide to drive, it typically takes around 3 hours and 2 minutes to reach Sofia from Skopje by car. Taking a bus, on the other hand, can take around 5 hours to reach Skopje from Sofia.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Sofia to Skopje is by taking a train and then a bus, which typically costs between €11 and €17. Although this option takes approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, it can be a more budget-friendly choice for travelers. On the other hand, if time is of the essence, driving from Sofia to Skopje is the quickest option, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 2 minutes, but it typically costs between €32 and €50.
The prices for buses between Sofia and Skopje typically range from €17 to €25.
To get from Sofia to Skopje without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 243.0 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 2 minutes to drive from Sofia to Skopje. It is advisable to check the fuel costs and road conditions beforehand, and the prices to get from Sofia to Skopje by car typically range from €32 to €50.
The most convenient way to travel from Sofia to Skopje without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and the cost is typically between €17 and €25.
Yes, there is a direct link between Sofia and Skopje. There is a bus service operated by Kaleia that departs from Sofia station and arrives at Skopje station. The buses run three times a day, every day, and the journey takes approximately 5 hours.
There are a wide range of accommodation options available near Skopje. With over 982 hotels to choose from, there is something to fit every budget and preference. Prices start at €17, offering affordable options for travelers.