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Istanbul, Istanbul Province to Skopje, Skopje Region from $27: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Istanbul, Turkey
to
Skopje, North Macedonia

How to Get from Istanbul 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.

$27 by busBest price
639 kmDistance
2h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Istanbul 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
Turkish Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  12m
Estimated price
$126-437
Recommended
Company
Alpar Turizm
Bus
Average Duration
13h 
Estimated price
$27-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 639 km
Duration: 2h 12m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Citylines
Bus
Average Duration
15h  47m
Estimated price
$60-84
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  11m
Estimated price
$98-1260
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
3h  11m
Estimated price
$129-345

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Fly $66 $96 $89 $69 $82 $70 $75
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Traveling From Istanbul to Skopje

Traveling from bustling Istanbul, with its rich history and vibrant culture, to Skopje, which offers a blend of traditional and contemporary influences, showcases a fascinating contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Skopje

Skopje features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Old Bazaar
• Rich in Ottoman architecture and history.
• Bustling markets and traditional shops abound.
Macedonia Square
• Central hub with vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.
• Iconic statues and modern cafes nearby.
Vardar River Promenade
• Picturesque walkways along the river's edge.
• Popular for leisurely strolls and outdoor dining.

Best Times To Visit Skopje's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience of Skopje’s attractions.

The Stone Bridge
Visit early in the morning for fewer tourists and stunning sunrise views.
Skopje Fortress (Kale)
Afternoons offer clear skies and great lighting for photos, but weekdays are less crowded.
Museum of the Macedonian Struggle
Midweek visits provide a quieter atmosphere to fully appreciate the exhibits.

Skopje Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Skopje experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and autumn the most pleasant times to visit. Understanding the weather helps in planning activities and ensuring you enjoy the city's attractions without weather-related interruptions.

Dining Recommendation in Skopje

A must-try dish in Skopje is tavče gravče, a hearty baked bean stew that showcases local ingredients and Macedonian flavors, available at the charming restaurant Old City House. This dining experience contrasts with Istanbul's vibrant street food scene, offering a more relaxed atmosphere where you can savor the authentic taste of North Macedonia.

Istanbul - Skopje operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Skopje (SKP)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
1261-1263

Plane from Istanbul (IST) to Pristina (PRN)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
98-1264
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+90 212 658 18 51
Website
https://www.alparturizm.com.tr/en/

Bus from Istanbul to Skopje

Average Duration
13h
Estimated price
27-45
Contact phone
+3590885700870
Website
citylines.eu

Bus from Istanbul Büyük Otogari to Sofia Central Bus Station

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
27-1265
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from İstanbul Esenler bus station to Sofia

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
1266-1267
Contact phone
02 952 50 04
Website
matpu.com

Bus from Sofia to Skopje

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
1268-1269

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

Traveling between Istanbul 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 an exciting road trip from Istanbul to Skopje, a journey spanning 487 miles through stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. 💰 Discover budget-friendly options with prices ranging from €101 to €157 for the drive from Istanbul to Skopje, making it a cost-effective way to explore both cities. ⏱️ Prepare for an approximately 8-hour and 11-minute drive filled with scenic views and the thrill of crossing borders, culminating in an unforgettable adventure from Turkey to North Macedonia by car.
Average price
€101 - €157
🛫 Experience a convenient and swift journey from Istanbul to Skopje with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 25 minutes. Turkish Airlines provides flights from Istanbul Airport to Skopje Airport, ensuring a seamless travel experience. 🌍 Explore the cultural wonders of North Macedonia in just 2 hours and 12 minutes from Istanbul by plane. Marvel at Skopje's historical landmarks and vibrant atmosphere, making the most of your travel time between these two captivating cities. 💸 Enjoy affordable flight options between Skopje and Istanbul, with ticket prices ranging from €130 to €451. Plan your trip wisely to take advantage of the best deals and make the most of your travel budget.
Departure Point
Istanbul Airport
Arrival Point
Skopje Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight early with Turkish Airlines, as they often run promotions for the direct route from Istanbul to Skopje, potentially lowering your fare from the usual €126 to more budget-friendly options.
• Upon arrival at Skopje Airport, be sure to follow the 'Arrivals' signs leading directly to customs; the process is typically swift, but be prepared for a potential wait during peak flight hours, as the airport can become quite busy.
• Expect to pay around €20 for a taxi from Skopje Airport to the city center; always request a receipt and check if the taxi is metered to avoid any surprise charges, while online transport services like Bolt and Uber are also available for convenience.
🚌 Experience a scenic journey from Istanbul to Skopje on a direct bus service operated by Alpar Turizm. Departing once daily, this route offers a convenient way to travel between these vibrant cities in just 13 hours. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket range from €28 to €46, making this budget-friendly option an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore the Balkans and discover the rich history and charm of Skopje. Enjoy a comfortable and affordable journey on this memorable bus route.
Departure Point
Istanbul station
Arrival Point
Skopje station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Istanbul to Skopje.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Istanbul and Skopje is 397 miles, or 483.6 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes around 3 hours and 38 minutes to reach Skopje from Istanbul. By car, the journey from Istanbul to Skopje takes approximately 8 hours and 8 minutes. If you prefer to travel by bus, the typical travel time is around 12 hours.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Istanbul to Skopje is by bus, which typically costs around €32-€46 and takes 12 hours. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which costs around €91-€455 and takes 3 hours and 38 minutes. Both options have their advantages depending on your budget and schedule.
When traveling from Istanbul to Skopje the prices for a bus ticket range from €32 to €46. These prices may vary depending on the bus company, the time of travel, and the availability of seats. It is recommended to check with different bus operators to compare prices and choose the most convenient option for your journey.
To travel from Istanbul to Skopje without using public transportation, you can consider driving by car. The road distance is approximately 484 miles and it takes around 8 hours and 8 minutes to reach Skopje from Istanbul by car. However, please note that the exact travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and your driving speed. Additionally, the prices for car rentals or hiring a private transfer for this journey range from €100 to €155.
To travel from Istanbul to Skopje without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 12 hours and the fare ranges from €32 to €46. There are several bus companies that operate this route and offer comfortable and reliable services. It is advisable to check the schedules and book your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Yes, there is a direct link between Istanbul and Skopje by bus. The bus service operated by Alpar Turizm departs from Istanbul station and arrives at Skopje station. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and there is one bus that departs daily, operating every day. This provides a convenient and direct option for travelers between Istanbul and Skopje.
The flight between Istanbul and Skopje takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary from €95 to €452, depending on the airline and the time of travel. It is recommended to book in advance to secure lower fares.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Skopje. With over 982 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a suitable place to stay based on their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Skopje start at €17 per night, offering a range of options for visitors. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget accommodations, or cozy guesthouses, Skopje offers plenty of choices to cater to different needs and preferences.

Trips from Istanbul