How to get to North Macedonia

Pack your bags, choose your mode of transportation, and get ready to explore all that this beautiful country has to offer!

North Macedonia, located in the heart of the Balkans, is a hidden gem that is slowly gaining recognition as a travel destination. From its rich history and culture to its stunning landscapes and delicious cuisine, there is plenty to discover in this small yet diverse country.

If you are planning to travel to Macedonia, here are some tips on how to arrive and make the most of your trip.

The easiest way to get to North Macedonia is by air

In North Macedonia, there are two major airports that serve both domestic and international flights:
Skopje International Airport and Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport.
Both airports are well-equipped with modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and car rental services.

Skopje International Airport is the country’s main airport and serves flights from major European cities such as London, Berlin, Vienna, and Istanbul. If you are coming from the United States or other international destinations, you may need to connect through a major European hub before flying to Skopje.

Skopje International Airport is the main airport in North Macedonia, and it serves as the primary gateway for international visitors. The airport is located about 21 kilometers (13 miles) east of Skopje, the country’s capital city.

When booking flights to North Macedonia, it’s important to consider the time of year and the weather conditions. The peak tourist season in North Macedonia is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny.

If you are looking for cheaper flights, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons, which are the months of April, May, September, and October. The weather during these months is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.

In terms of airport transportation, there are several options available to get from Skopje International Airport to the city center.

You can take a taxi, which is the most convenient and faster, it can cost between 25-30€ and takes 20-25 min.

Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus, which is a more affordable option.

While Skopje International Airport is the larger of the two and serves as the main hub for international travel, Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport is a smaller airport that primarily serves flights to and from European destinations.

This airport is located near the city of Ohrid, which is a popular tourist destination in the country.

There is no regular shuttle bus for passengers to Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport; there is only organized shuttle bus transportation within the arranged tours/seasonal (charter) flights by the local travel agencies.

Another option is to arrive in North Macedonia by land

The country is well-connected to its neighboring countries by bus, and car. From Greece, you can take a bus from Thessaloniki to Skopje or Bitola. From Serbia, you can take a bus from Belgrade to Skopje a bus from Niš to Skopje, also from Sofia to Skopje or Tirana to Ohrid or Skopje.

If you are driving, North Macedonia is easily accessible from Greece, Serbia, Kosovo, and Albania.

Arriving in North Macedonia by bus or car can be a great way to experience the beautiful scenery and landscapes of the country.

Arriving in North Macedonia by bus

There are several bus companies that operate international routes to and from the country. Some of the popular companies include:

These companies offer affordable and convenient travel options, with buses departing from major cities throughout Europe.

When traveling by bus, you will usually arrive at one of the bus stations located in major cities such as Skopje, Ohrid, or Bitola. From there, you can take a taxi or a local bus to your final destination.

Arriving in North Macedonia by car

There are several entry points into the country from neighboring countries such as Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, and Greece. The country has well-maintained highways and roads, making it easy to navigate by car.

When entering North Macedonia by car, you will need to present your passport and vehicle registration papers at the border control.

Once you have cleared border control, you can enjoy the scenic drive through the country’s beautiful landscapes.  Macedonia is known for its stunning mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and historic landmarks.

When driving in North Macedonia, it is important to follow the local traffic laws and regulations. The speed limit is generally 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways.

Whether you choose to travel by bus or car, you can expect to be welcomed by the country’s beautiful scenery and warm hospitality of the Macedonian people.