Getting around North Macedonia
Europe
From Europe ✈️
Direct flight from Paris
Yes
Duration
2h40 direct
Indicative round-trip price
80-200 EUR A/R
Book
1-3 months ahead
Recommended airlines
Local transport
Bus
The backbone of getting around: frequent, cheap long-distance buses between Skopje, Ohrid and Bitola.
Train
A limited and slow rail network, of little use to tourists.
Taxi
Cheap but insist on the meter or fix the price beforehand. At Skopje airport, take an official taxi.
Metro
No metro. City buses in Skopje.
Essential apps
Common routes and indicative prices
| From | To | Mode | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skopje | Ohrid | Bus | 3h | 8-12 EUR |
| Skopje | Bitola | Bus | 3h | 6-10 EUR |
| Skopje | Matka Canyon | Bus/Taxi | 40 min | 1-10 EUR |
| Ohrid | Bitola | Bus | 1h30 | 4-7 EUR |
Indicative prices for 2025-2026. Fares vary by season, demand and how far ahead you book.
Vehicle rental 🛵
Scooter / Motorbike
15-25 EUR / day
Category A or B licence depending on engine size
Car
20-40 EUR / day
French licence accepted
International permit : Not required (French license accepted)
Transport scams to know ⚠️
Taxi without a meter at the airport
Drivers offering a heavily inflated flat rate to Skopje.
Tip :Use an official metered taxi or an app, and negotiate before getting in.
Rigged meter
Some taxis with meters running abnormally fast in the city.
Tip :Note the normal ballpark (100-200 MKD in the city centre) and agree on the price in advance.
Practical tips
- Buy bus tickets at the bus station (avtobuska stanica) or online on Balkanviator.
- Renting a car is ideal for Mavrovo and the remote monasteries.
- Keep cash for buses and taxis, cards are rarely accepted there.
Other transport guides
Europe
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