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Skopje, Skopje Region to Istanbul, Istanbul Province from $29: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Skopje, North Macedonia
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Skopje to Istanbul: 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.

$29 - Bus, TrainBest price
639 kmDistance
2h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Skopje to Istanbul 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
Various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  23m
Estimated price
$127-441
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
17h  7m
Estimated price
$29-51
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 639 km
Duration: 2h 23m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
12h 
Estimated price
$31-45
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
15h 
Estimated price
$43-1270
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
3h  2m
Estimated price
$102-284
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  13m
Estimated price
$1271-1272
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Skopje to Istanbul

The journey from Skopje to Istanbul offers a fascinating contrast between Skopje's vibrant blend of history and modernity and Istanbul's rich tapestry of cultures stretching across two continents.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul's neighborhoods reflect its diverse culture and history, inviting exploration.

Sultanahmet
• Home to iconic sites like Hagia Sophia.
• Offers charming cafes with stunning views.
Beyoğlu
• Known for vibrant nightlife and art scene.
• Includes the famous Istiklal Avenue shopping street.
Kadıköy
• Features a bustling local market atmosphere.
• Popular for trendy cafes and restaurants.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Istanbul by visiting its attractions at the right times.

Hagia Sophia
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays, especially in the offseason, provide a quieter exploration experience.
The Grand Bazaar
Arrive right at opening or during off-peak hours for a more relaxed shopping trip.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild, rainy winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit for pleasant temperatures. Weather can greatly influence your travel plans, from enjoying outdoor cafes in sunny months to exploring indoor attractions during winter rainfall.

Dining Recommendation

While in Istanbul, savor the iconic dish of meze at a traditional meyhane, where small plates filled with fresh seafood and vibrant dips create a social dining experience that contrasts with the hearty fare often found in Skopje. This lively atmosphere, paired with the bold flavors and local ingredients, showcases the rich culinary diversity of Istanbul.

Skopje - Istanbul operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Skopje (SKP) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
1273-1274
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Skopje (SKP) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
1275-1276
Website
en.aegeanair.com

Plane from Skopje (SKP) to Istanbul (IST) via Athens

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
1272-1277
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+90 212 658 18 51
Website
alparturizm.com.tr

Bus from Skopje to Istanbul

Average Duration
12h
Estimated price
31-45
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
12783-4411
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Sofia to Istanbul

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
12790-12794
Train
Contact phone
+90 444 8 233
Website
tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr

Train from Ayrilikcesme to Yenikapi

Average Duration
14m
Estimated price
1278-1279
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
bdz.bg

Train from Sofia to Halkali

Average Duration
11h 49m
Estimated price
12782-4410

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

Traveling between Skopje and Istanbul 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 scenic road trip from Skopje to Istanbul spanning 498 miles of captivating landscapes and charming vistas. 💰 Experience the freedom of flexible budgeting, with car travel costs ranging from €110 to €165 for the journey between Skopje and Istanbul. 🌆 Immerse yourself in the dynamic mix of cultures as you explore the vibrant city of Istanbul after an exciting 8-hour and 13-minute drive from Skopje, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Average price
€111 - €166
🌍 Flying from Skopje to Istanbul is convenient with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 35 minutes. Turkish Airlines and Aegean Airlines are popular choices for this route from Skopje Airport to Istanbul Airport. 🛫 The total duration of the flight journey from Skopje to Istanbul by plane is approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes. This efficient travel option allows you to reach the vibrant city of Istanbul in a relatively short amount of time. 💸 Prices for flights between Istanbul and Skopje can range from €131 to €454, offering various options to fit different budgets. Planning ahead and booking early can often result in finding more affordable fares for this popular route.
Departure Point
Skopje Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your flight with Turkish Airlines, as they offer a reliable direct service with amenities that may enhance your comfort on this relatively short flight, including complimentary meals and beverages.
• Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST), be prepared for a modern but crowded terminal; use the interactive screens to quickly locate your baggage claim and take advantage of the airport's free Wi-Fi to access maps and guides for navigating transportation options.
• Expect to pay around 300-400 Turkish Lira (approx. €11-€15) for a taxi ride from Istanbul Airport to the city center, but consider using the Havaist shuttle service, which offers a more budget-friendly option for around 180 Lira (€7), providing a direct route to key locations in the city.
🌆 Enjoy the picturesque views along the way as you travel for approximately 12 hours to reach Istanbul station. Immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes and culture during this comfortable bus ride. 💰 Prices for the Skopje to Istanbul bus ticket range from €32 to €46, providing an affordable and hassle-free travel experience. Sit back, relax, and let the bus take you from North Macedonia to the vibrant city of Istanbul.
Departure Point
Skopje station
Arrival Point
Istanbul station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Skopje to Istanbul.

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The distance between Skopje and Istanbul is approximately 397 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By bus and train, it takes about 17 hours and 32 minutes to reach Istanbul from Skopje. By plane, the travel time is approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes. By car, it takes about 8 hours and 11 minutes to go from Skopje to Istanbul, while by bus, it takes around 13 hours.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Skopje to Istanbul is by bus. It takes around 13 hours and costs €32-€46. However, if time is a priority, the fastest option is to fly which takes approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes and costs €91-€457. both options have their advantages depending on your budget and time constraints.
When traveling from Skopje to Istanbul the prices of a bus ticket range from €32 to €46. These prices can vary depending on the bus company and the amenities provided. It is recommended to check different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal for your journey.
To get from Skopje to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is around 494 miles, and it takes approximately 8 hours and 11 minutes to drive from Skopje to Istanbul. Keep in mind that prices for this option can vary, with estimates ranging from €110 to €165.
The best way to travel from Skopje to Istanbul without a car is by bus. The journey typically takes around 13 hours and costs between €32 and €46. There are several bus operators that provide this route, offering comfortable and affordable transportation options for travelers. It is advisable to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure availability and a smooth journey.
Yes, there is a direct link between Skopje and Istanbul. Alpar Turizm operates a bus service that departs once daily from Skopje and arrives at Istanbul. The journey takes approximately 13 hours.
The flight duration between Skopje and Istanbul is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can range from €95 to €455, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It's important to note that prices may vary due to factors such as demand and seasonality.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in Istanbul start at €22 per night, ensuring a range of affordable options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget accommodations, or boutique guesthouses, Istanbul has a wide variety of choices to suit every traveler's needs.