- Must visit
Archaeological Museum of the Republic of North Macedonia
Important national museum with artifacts from prehistory to the Ottoman era, displayed in a grand neoclassical building by the Vardar River.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Sofia to Skopje
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$32
Average price
$33
Fastest journey
3 h 40 m
Average duration
4 h 18 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
174 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sofia to Skopje is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sofia to Skopje will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Sofia for Skopje on Fri, Jun 19, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct buses cover the 174 km distance in an average of 4 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest buses will take 4 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:30 AM4h45Sofia2:15 PMSkopje$321One-way0 transfers- 4:00 PM4h45Sofia8:45 PMSkopje$321One-way0 transfers
5:30 PM4h00Sofia9:30 PMSkopje$321One-way0 transfers
7:00 AM3h40Sofia10:40 AMSkopje$351One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 AM3h40Sofia10:40 AMSkopje$351One-way0 transfers
- 5:30 PM4h00Sofia9:30 PMSkopje$321One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 AM4h45Sofia2:15 PMSkopje$321One-way0 transfers
- 4:00 PM4h45Sofia8:45 PMSkopje$321One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Sofia to Skopje
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sofia to Skopje among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $32. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 53m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $32, and a flight costs an average of $454.
Distance: 108 miles (174 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$33 Average price Cheapest | $542 Average price | $49 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 23m Average total duration Fastest 4h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 59m Average total duration 14h 59m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Sofia to Skopje is a bus with an average price of $33 (€27).
This is compared to other travel options from Sofia to Skopje:
A bus is $510 (€416) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Sofia to Skopje costing on average $542 (€443).
The fastest way to travel from Sofia to Skopje is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 53m.
Other travel options to Skopje take longer:
Flight takes on average 14h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Skopje including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Skopje among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $33 (€27) compared to roughly $49 (€40) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $17 (€14). The journey takes 4h 53m versus 3h 38m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by City Lines, Citylines, Kaleia, Matpu.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Sofia to Skopje Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Citylines | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Matpu | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Matpu | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Kaleia | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Live departures
Sofia to Skopje bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sofia to Skopje buses for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM Sofia | 3h40 | 10:40 AM Skopje | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:30 AM Sofia | 4h45 | 2:15 PM Skopje | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:00 PM Sofia | 4h45 | 8:45 PM Skopje | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:30 PM Sofia | 4h00 | 9:30 PM Skopje | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sofia to Skopje by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Sofia to Skopje buses with Omio?
City Lines as well as FlixBus, Citylines, Kaleia, Matpu and more offer buses services from Sofia to Skopje.
Omio is the only official third party seller for City Lines tickets.
Why book with Omio vs City Lines?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for City Lines, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Citylines, Kaleia or Matpu to find the best option for your trip from Sofia to Skopje.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare City Lines with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sofia to Skopje.
Why book with Omio over Busbud or Checkmybus?
- Official reseller: City Lines tickets can only be bought on Omio or City Lines's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for City Lines tickets. Busbud or Checkmybus do not sell City Lines tickets as they are not official sellers.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sofia to Skopje.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sofia to Skopje
Bulgaria
North Macedonia
Buses from Sofia to Skopje run on average 1 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:00, the last at 17:30. The fastest bus covers the 108 miles (174 km) distance in 3h 40m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 108 miles (174 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 (€26) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 3h 40m |
First bus 7:00 AM |
Last bus 5:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: City Lines, FlixBus, Citylines, Kaleia, Matpu from Sofia to SkopjeYou can travel by bus between Sofia to Skopje with City Lines, FlixBus, Citylines, Kaleia, Matpu for as low as $32 (€26). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
City Lines
About
"City Lines" can refer to several different bus companies. One prominent example is Citylines, a leading Bulgarian bus company headquartered in Sofia. It operates an extensive network of 44 routes, connecting 22 cities across Bulgaria and serving 9 European nations with an average of 19 trips daily. Citylines coaches offer amenities such as air conditioning, onboard restrooms, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Another is Rochester City Lines, a family-owned and operated charter bus company in Minnesota, United States, providing services for college, corporate, event, religious, school, and workforce transportation. They offer a fleet including motorcoaches, minibuses, and executive vans. Historically, National City Lines, Inc. (NCL) was a significant public transportation holding company in the United States, founded in 1920. NCL acquired numerous local transit systems, often converting streetcar lines to bus operations, a practice sometimes referred to as "bustitution." Additionally, "City Line" is also the name of a bus rapid transit (BRT) line in Spokane, Washington, operated by the Spokane Transit Authority. This 6-mile route, which opened in 2023, utilizes modern, zero-emission battery-electric buses and connects key areas including downtown Spokane and the University District.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 40m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€29)
City Lines frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible restrooms.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; must be booked in advance.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€29)
Citylines frequency
1 a day
Kaleia
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Kaleia frequency
1 a day
Matpu
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Matpu frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Skopje
Things to do in Skopje
Discover the best of Skopje — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Skopje trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of the Macedonian Struggle
Large history museum covering the national movement and state-building period through exhibits, wax figures, and multimedia displays in a prominent riverside building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art Skopje
Major modern art museum on Kale Hill, known for its post-earthquake international collection and strong views over the city.
- Must visit
Old Bazaar
Skopje’s most atmospheric historic quarter, packed with Ottoman-era lanes, artisan shops, mosques, hammams, and lively street scenes.
- Must visit
Macedonia Square
The city’s main square and central meeting point, surrounded by major monuments, bridges, and easy walking access to key sights.
- Must visit
Vodno
Mountain and recreation area above the city, popular for views, walking, and access to the Millennium Cross zone.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tavče Gravče
Baked white beans seasoned with onion, paprika, and herbs, traditionally served in an earthenware dish. It is one of the best-known Macedonian comfort foods.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Ajvar
A roasted red pepper spread, often enriched with eggplant and garlic. It is a staple relish across North Macedonia and commonly served with bread or grilled dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Šopska Salata
A fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onion, and grated white cheese. It is a classic Balkan starter widely eaten in Skopje.
Old House
A well-known traditional Macedonian restaurant with rustic decor, grilled meats, regional specialties, and a lively, classic atmosphere.
Restaurant Vodenica Mulino
A refined, long-running venue known for upscale Macedonian and Balkan dishes in an elegant riverside-style setting.
Skopski Merak
An established restaurant popular for authentic Macedonian cuisine, live music, and a warm traditional setting favored by both locals and visitors.
Macedonian Denar
Skopje is affordable for most tourists. Meals, coffee, taxis, and local transport are cheap by European capital standards.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- MKD 250-450 for burek, kebabs, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- MKD 700-1,500 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- MKD 2,000-4,000+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- MKD 100-180 for espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
A 5-10% tip is appreciated in restaurants if service is good. Round up in cafes and taxis. Hotel tips are optional but welcome.
Skopje Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 40 MKD
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Skopje, Transporten Centar -> Macedonia Square, Skopje
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy bus tickets from the driver or kiosks; exact change may be needed on board. Card payment on buses is not generally available, so carry cash or use the local transport card.
- The main operator is JSP Skopje, and live route information may vary by line. Check service updates on the official website before late-evening travel.
FAQs: Bus from Sofia to Skopje
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sofia to Skopje by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Skopje, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Sofia to Skopje can start from as little as $32 (€26) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sofia to Skopje is $33 (€27) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Sofia to Skopje is 3h 40m to travel the 108 miles (174 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Sofia to Skopje leaves at 7:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sofia to Skopje leaves at 5:30 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Sofia to Skopje with City Lines, Citylines, Kaleia, Matpu. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Sofia to Skopje, you can count on City Lines, FlixBus, Citylines, Kaleia, Matpu for the best way to get you to Skopje. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sofia and Skopje and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Skopje, Transporten Centar (Скопjе, Транспортен Центар), located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Skopje from Sofia is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sofia to Skopje is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sofia and Skopje including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sofia to Skopje for bus company City Lines, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sofia to Skopje:
- City Lines
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible restrooms.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Skopje are:
- Skopje Fortress, an ancient structure offering panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into its historical past
- Stone Bridge, an iconic Ottoman-era bridge connecting the old and new parts of Skopje
- Old Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace with a rich blend of cultures, featuring shops, cafes, and historic buildings
- Macedonia Square, the central hub of Skopje adorned with statues and surrounded by important landmarks
- Memorial House of Mother Teresa, a museum dedicated to the life and work of the Nobel Peace Prize laureate born in Skopje.
The best things to do in Skopje include:
- Matka Canyon, a natural attraction ideal for hiking, kayaking, and exploring caves
- Visit the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle, which showcases the history of the Macedonian people
- Explore the Skopje City Park, a green oasis perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic
- Attend a performance at the Macedonian Opera and Ballet, offering a rich cultural experience
- Discover the Millennium Cross on Mount Vodno, accessible by cable car for stunning views of the city.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sofia to Skopje depends on the bus companies:
- City Lines
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a 20% fee.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company City Lines, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Sofia to Skopje.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Skopje:
- City Lines
- One carry-on bag up to 8kg (55x35x25) and one checked bag up to 25kg (70x50x30).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Sofia to Skopje:
- City Lines
- 10€ per additional bag up to 25 kg.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sofia to Skopje. The following conditions apply:
- City Lines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets must be leashed and muzzled.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Sofia to Skopje with the following bus company: City Lines, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sofia to Skopje with the following bus company: City Lines, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sofia to Skopje with the following bus company: City Lines, FlixBus.
Skopje is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Sofia will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sofia to Skopje among Omio's users.
North Macedonia uses the Macedonian denar (MKD) as its currency. Travelers often find cash more widely accepted, especially in smaller towns and markets, though credit and debit cards are commonly used in larger cities and hotels. It is advisable to carry some cash for convenience.
In Skopje, travelers should be cautious of petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Avoid unlicensed taxi services to prevent overcharging. Be wary of street scams involving overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help or deals. Always keep valuables secure and remain vigilant in busy tourist spots.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Sofia to Skopje
Sofia
Skopje
The major bus station for departures in Sofia is Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара) for your trip from Sofia to Skopje.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
Knyaginya Maria Luiza BlvdWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station
Public transit options for Sofia, Centralna Avtogara (София, Централна Автогара)
- Bus: 213, 305, 404 Metro: M2 Train: Sofia Central Station
The major bus station for arrivals in Skopje is Skopje, Transporten Centar (Скопjе, Транспортен Центар). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Skopje, Transporten Centar (Скопjе, Транспортен Центар) for your trip to Skopje from Sofia.
Skopje, Transporten Centar (Скопjе, Транспортен Центар)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Boulevard Kuzman Josifovski PituWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Bakery (in the station)
- Fast-food Outlet (in the station)
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available near the entrance
Public transit options for Skopje, Transporten Centar (Скопjе, Транспортен Центар)
- Bus: 2, 5, 15, 22 Train: Regional s
Most popular bus connections from Sofia
More options for your journey from Sofia to Skopje
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Skopje and Sofia
Most popular bus connections to Skopje
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