Skopje airport

Skopje Airport Review: Pros, Cons, and Tips Before You Fly

Dear travelers,

If you’re planning a trip to Macedonia, odds are you’ll be flying through Skopje International Airport (SKP). Macedonia has two international airports—Skopje (the capital) and Ohrid. But for most travelers, especially those heading to the capital or arriving from abroad, Skopje is the primary gateway.

And if you’re anything like me—you probably like knowing exactly what to expect before setting foot in a foreign airport. So, let me walk you through my most recent experience flying out of Skopje, sprinkle in some real talk, and share tips that might save you time, money, and maybe an airport meltdown. 

Skopje from above

First Things First: Yes, There’s Passport Control

One of the most important things to note upfront is this: Macedonia is not part of the European Union.

That means even if you’re flying to/from another country, you will go through passport control. No Schengen-free breeze-through here. 

My advice? Get to the airport early, especially if you’re traveling during peak hours. There are usually only two security lines, and the queue can get long, particularly if a few international flights depart around the same time.

Give yourself a solid 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Trust me, you’ll be glad you gave yourself that extra bit of time when you’re strolling calmly to your gate—shoes back on, coffee in hand—instead of sprinting through the terminal half-dressed.

Skopje airport

After Security

Once you’re through security, you enter what I like to call “Skopje Airport: The Cozy Terminal Edition.” Here’s what you’ll find:

Smoking Area

Yep, there’s a designated smoking area after security, so smokers, enjoy!

Duty-Free Shopping

The duty-free section is small but stocked with the basics: alcohol, perfumes, snacks, and cosmetics. But here’s the gem: local Macedonian products. Keep an eye out for: ajvar (that heavenly roasted red pepper spread), rakija (Macedonia’s answer to moonshine, but classier), local wines and cheese.

Honestly, if you’re visiting friends or just want to bring a taste of Macedonia home, these make excellent gifts.

shops Skopje airport

Food & Drinks

The dining options aren’t vast, but you won’t starve. You’ve got:

  • Burger King for a quick bite

  • A couple of local-style cafes with sandwiches, pastries, and coffee

Prices are airport standard, not outrageous but not cheap either. If you’re particular about food or have dietary restrictions, maybe pack a snack.

Business Lounge at Skopje Airport: Surprisingly Impressive

Now here’s something that totally surprised me: the business lounge is fantastic.

What to Expect:

  • Cozy seating with charging stations

  • Unlimited coffee and alcohol (yes, really)

  • Hot meals, not just snacks. I had a full-on meal that tasted homemade

  • A chill vibe, perfect for getting work done or decompressing

Skopje business lounge

Getting There (and Back): Taxi vs Shuttle

Skopje is a compact city, so getting from the center to the airport takes about 25 minutes. But how you get there matters.

Taxi: Convenient but Pricey

Taxis are everywhere, but here’s the catch:

  • They can be expensive (especially if the driver senses you’re not local)

  • Some may not use meters or quote prices in advance

If you go this route:

  • Use official taxi services

  • Ask for the fare before getting in

Shuttle Bus: Budget-Friendly But Infrequent

There is a shuttle bus service that runs between the city and the airport. Pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Super cheap (a few euros)

  • Comfortable ride

Cons:

  • Not very frequent

  • You need to buy the ticket in advance at the bus station or online (not guaranteed that you can buy it on the bus)

Skopje airport inside

Skopje Airport is small, yes, but it does the job. Once you understand the logistics—passport control, minimal security lanes, the transportation options—you’ll find it a surprisingly smooth and enjoyable experience. What makes it memorable isn’t the architecture or the number of gates (there aren’t many), but the subtle and charming reminders that you’re in Macedonia:

  • That spicy jar of ajvar you picked up at duty-free

  • One last shot of rakija in the lounge, warming you up before takeoff

  • A genuine smile from the barista at the café, reminding you of that warm Balkan hospitality

If you’ve flown through Skopje recently, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did I miss anything?

Truly yours,

The Creation of Us

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