Skopje to Sofia Bus
Skopje to Sofia Route Summary
Skopje to Sofia bus is a popular way of travelling between North Macedonia and Bulgaria.There are up to 4 daily bus departures available. The earliest bus departs from Skopje bus station at 07:00h, arriving at Sofia bus station at 11:45h the same day. While latest bus departs at 17:30h, arriving at 22:10h the same day.
Table Of Contents
Popular Departures
Below you will find some of the most popular bus departures from Skopje to Sofia:Getting from Skopje and Sofia by bus
The shortest travel distance between Skopje and Sofia is 245 km. The fastest bus which departs at 08:30 has a travel time of 04:15h. The longest travel time on the route is 05:45h. Depending on the selected departure, the following amenities are available: toilet. You can book tickets in advance to secure your seat, especially during peak travel times.Bus companies operating the Skopje to Sofia route
There is a total of 4 bus companies operating the route. These bus companies have been rated 218 times by travelers. Here you can see the list of the most popular bus companies operating the route and their overall rating.Departure and arrival stations
Bus station in Skopje has earned an average score of 5.9 from our passengers, while the station in Sofia has not be rated yet. More information on both stations, including their location and popular routes can be found on the links below.
Cheapest tickets
Budget-friendly tickets are listed below, depending on availability.Adult ticket: €25 (One-Way) or €44 (Return).
Other popular destinations from Skopje
If you're wondering what other destinations you can visit when traveling from Skopje, below are some of the most popular routes that other clients have purchased their tickets for:Other popular destinations from Sofia
If you're looking for inspiration as to where to travel next once you've reached Sofia, here is the list of the most popular travel routes that our clients have previously purchased their tickets for:Traveling Tips
Check the Skopje to Sofia Bus Timetable in Advance – Bus schedules may vary depending on the season, so it's always a good idea to check the latest Skopje to Sofia bus timetable before booking your ticket. Early morning and afternoon departures are the most common.
Book Your Ticket Online for a Hassle-Free Experience – Many travelers prefer to book their bus from Skopje to Sofia online to secure their seat and avoid last-minute stress. Platforms like GetByBus make it easy to compare prices, departure times, and available services.
Arrive at the Bus Station Early – Buses from Skopje depart from the Skopje Central Bus Station, and it's recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in, store your luggage, and find your seat.
Prepare for the Border Crossing – Since you're traveling internationally, you’ll need your passport or ID (for EU citizens). Border checks can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and traffic.
Bring Snacks and Water – The journey takes about 4.5 to 5 hours, and while some buses may have short rest stops, it’s best to bring snacks and water, especially if you have a long layover ahead.
Know Your Arrival Point in Sofia – Most buses from Skopje to Sofia arrive at Serdika Bus Station or the Central Bus Station in Sofia, both of which have good connections to the metro, taxis, and public transport for your onward journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the bus from Skopje to Sofia?
The bus journey takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on border control and traffic conditions.
How long is the bus from Sofia to Skopje?
The return journey from Sofia to Skopje takes about the same time—4.5 to 5 hours, depending on border delays.
How much is a bus ticket from Skopje to Sofia?
Prices can vary, but a one-way ticket typically costs between €15 and €25, depending on the bus company and whether you book in advance.
How often do buses run between Skopje and Sofia?
There are usually several daily departures, with buses running in the morning and afternoon. You can check the latest Skopje to Sofia bus timetable on GetByBus for updated schedules.
Is Skopje cheaper than Sofia?
Yes, generally Skopje is more affordable than Sofia, especially when it comes to accommodation, food, and public transport. However, Sofia has more budget-friendly options compared to many other European capitals.
Is Sofia, Bulgaria expensive?
Compared to Western European capitals, Sofia is quite affordable. Food, public transport, and accommodations are reasonably priced, but luxury hotels and upscale dining can be more expensive.
Is Skopje bigger than Sofia?
No, Sofia is much bigger than Skopje. Sofia has a population of around 1.2 million people, while Skopje has about 600,000 residents. Sofia is also geographically larger and has a more extensive public transportation network.
How safe is Bulgaria for tourists?
Bulgaria is generally safe for tourists, with Sofia being one of the safest capitals in Eastern Europe. However, like in any city, it's good to stay aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and use reputable taxi services.
Do I need a visa to travel from Skopje to Sofia?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. North Macedonian and EU citizens do not need a visa, but travelers from other countries should check Bulgaria’s visa policy before their trip.
What was the old name of Skopje?
Historically, Skopje was known as "Scupi" during Roman times. The city has had different names throughout history, influenced by various empires and rulers.
Is there WiFi on buses from Skopje to Sofia?
Some bus companies offer free WiFi, but connections can be unreliable, especially in rural areas. If you need internet access, consider getting a local SIM card or roaming plan.
Can I buy my ticket at the bus station?
Yes, you can purchase tickets directly at the Skopje Bus Station, but it's recommended to book online in advance to secure your seat, especially during peak travel seasons.
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