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Skopje to Sofia from $13: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Skopje, North Macedonia
to
Sofia, Bulgaria

How to Get from Skopje to Sofia: 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.

$13 by busBest price
242 kmDistance
3h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Skopje to Sofia 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
Matpu
Bus
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
€12-26
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
€13-17
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 242 km
Duration: 3h 3m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Makedonija Soobrakaj AD
Bus
Average Duration
2h  20m
Estimated price
€6.3-8
Company
Makedonija Soobrakaj AD
Bus
Average Duration
2h  25m
Estimated price
€6.3-120
Company
Makedonija Soobrakaj AD
Bus
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
€12-26
Company
Matpu
Bus
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
€17-25
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  3m
Estimated price
€31-49

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
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Skopje to Sofia

Traveling from Skopje to Sofia offers you the chance to experience the vibrant urban charm of Sofia contrasted with Skopje's rich historical tapestry.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sofia

Sofia's neighborhoods blend history, culture, and modernity, appealing to all travelers.

Vitosha Boulevard
• Lively shopping and dining hub.
• Fantastic people-watching opportunities.
Lozenets
• Trendy cafes and green parks.
• Close to major attractions.
Plovdiv Boulevard
• Rich in cultural landmarks.
• Great nightlife and entertainment options.

Best Times To Visit Sofia's Attractions

Discover the ideal moments to explore Sofia’s highlights without the crowds.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Visit early in the morning for serene views and fewer visitors.
Vitosha Boulevard
Late afternoon or weekday visits provide a more relaxed shopping experience.
National Palace of Culture
Evenings often feature fewer tourists, perfect for enjoying events and exhibitions.

Sofia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sofia experiences a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making spring and early autumn ideal times for visits. Understanding the seasonal variations helps tailor your activities, whether it's exploring parks in bloom or enjoying winter sports in nearby mountains.

Dining Recommendation in Sofia

Try the traditional Bulgarian dish, Shopska salad, at a local restaurant like Sasa Asian Pub, where the fresh vegetables and savory cheese create a refreshing contrast to Skopje's heartier fare. The lively atmosphere and fusion flavors also add a unique twist to your dining experience, showcasing Sofia's vibrant culinary scene.

Skopje - Sofia operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
02 952 50 04
Website
matpu.com

Bus from Skopje to Sofia

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
17-25
Contact phone
+359 894 77 44 02
Website
kaleiatravel.com

Bus from Skopje to Sofia

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

Bus from Skopje to Sofia

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
12-26

Bus from Skopje to Deve Bair

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
6.3-8

Bus from Deve Bair to Sofia

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
6.3-120

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

Traveling between Skopje and Sofia 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train journey from Skopje to Sofia typically include a catering service offering light snacks and beverages. Depending on the train you're on, you may find options like sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Some trains also provide a trolley service where staff come around with refreshments.
• The train service from Skopje to Sofia generally offers various seating options including Economy Class, Business Class, and often a First Class configuration. Economy Class is comfortable for budget travel, while Business Class provides more legroom and amenities. If you're looking for a quieter and more spacious option, consider booking Business Class.
• For your journey, you might come across operators like Macedonian Railways (MŽ) and Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ). You can check their schedules and book tickets through their respective websites: Macedonian Railways and Bulgarian State Railways. Additionally, for local transport schedules in Sofia, you can visit Sofia Public Transport.
Departure Point
Skopje station
Arrival Point
Sofia station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance via the Matpu website (matpu.com) or through other operators like FlixBus (flixbus.com) to secure your seat, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Bring a light snack and water for the trip as there may not be food stops, and keep in mind that border crossing procedures may add an extra 30 minutes to your travel time due to customs checks.
• Upon arrival at Sofia Central Bus Station (Sofia Avtogara), follow the signs to the exit, and consider using the bus or metro connection options right outside the station to reach your final destination; for metro details, check the Sofia Metropolitan website (metropolitana.bg).

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Skopje to Sofia.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Skopje and Sofia is approximately 175.4 km by air. If you prefer to travel by road, the distance is slightly longer at 242.0 km. By car, it typically takes around 3 hours and 3 minutes to reach Skopje from Sofia. Alternatively, if you choose to travel by bus, the journey usually takes around 4 hours in the opposite direction, from Skopje to Sofia.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Skopje to Sofia is by bus, with ticket prices typically ranging from €17 to €25. This mode of transportation takes around 4 hours. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 3 minutes.
When traveling from Skopje to Sofia the prices for a bus ticket can range from €17 to €25.
To travel from Skopje to Sofia without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car or taking a taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 241.4 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 3 minutes by car. The prices for a car rental or taxi service vary, with rates ranging from €32 to €50.
The most convenient way to travel from Skopje to Sofia without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and tickets usually cost between €17 and €25.
Yes, there is a direct link between Skopje and Sofia. There is a bus service that operates three times a day, departing from Skopje and arriving in Sofia. The journey takes approximately 4 hours. The bus services are operated by Matpu and depart from and arrive at the respective stations in Skopje and Sofia.
There are many options for accommodation near Sofia. There are over 1030 hotels available in the city, offering a range of prices starting at €13 per night. Some popular areas to stay in Sofia include the city center, where you can find a mix of luxury and budget hotels, as well as the student district of Lozenets, which offers more affordable options.