Plizio Visual Lab
Skopje International Airport
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Skopje International Airport is the primary aviation hub of North Macedonia, located approximately 17 kilometers east of the capital in the Petrovec municipality. Opened in 1928, the airport has undergone numerous expansions, with its most significant modernization occurring in 2011 under the management of the Turkish operator TAV Airports. The construction of a new, modern terminal significantly increased capacity and brought the infrastructure up to international standards. The airport connects North Macedonia with numerous European capitals and serves as a base for several low-cost airlines, which has greatly boosted tourism and economic development in the country. In addition to passenger traffic, the airport plays an important role in regional air cargo. The terminal's modern glass architecture and operational efficiency make it one of the most advanced airports in the Western Balkans.
- Location: North Macedonia
- Top sights: Ḱojlija · Palair Macedonian Airlines Flight 301 · Miladinovci
- Nearby: Sveti Nikole (28 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 1 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 19 | 23 | 23 | 18 | 12 | 6 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 77 | 68 | 73 | 66 | 76 | 57 | 37 | 39 | 68 | 88 | 97 | 85 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Skopje Airport is a functioning international airport and is accessible to travelers with valid flight tickets. The public area of the departure and arrival hall can be entered without a ticket.
Typical hours
The airport is open 24 hours a day as it serves the flight schedule. However, the counters and shops typically have varying opening hours that align with flight movements.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the public areas of the terminal. For security reasons, photographing security checks and certain areas is prohibited.
Time needed
The recommended stay before departure is about two to three hours. For a purely sightseeing visit without a flight, 30 to 60 minutes is usually sufficient.
Combine with
The airport is located near the Ilinden Monument, which features a good combination visit. The city of Skopje itself is only about 20 minutes away by car and gives numerous attractions.
Getting there
Skopje Airport is located about 20 kilometers east of Skopje city center. It is accessible by car via the A1/E75 highway, as well as by public buses and taxis.
Insider tip
If you have time, visit the observation deck or the café in the terminal to watch the bustling activity. For a cheap journey, use the public bus that runs regularly between the airport and the city center.
Geography
Facts
- The airport originally commenced operations in 1928.
- A new terminal was inaugurated in September 2011.
- The airport's IATA code is SKP.
- The runway has a total length of 2,450 meters.
- In 2018, it was renamed from 'Alexander the Great' to 'Skopje International'.
- The airport is operated by the Turkish company TAV Airports.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Skopje International Airport (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How far is the airport from Skopje city center?
It is located about 22 km southeast of the center and can be reached in about 25-30 minutes.
Is there a shuttle bus to the city?
Yes, the Vardar Ekspres bus company operates regular trips to the center.
Can you rent a car at the airport?
Yes, numerous international and local car rental companies have counters in the arrivals hall.
Is there free Wi-Fi at the airport?
Yes, passengers can use the free Wi-Fi network for a limited time.
Is the airport open at night?
Yes, the airport is accessible to travelers 24 hours a day.
Skopje International Airport: where is it located?
Skopje International Airport is located in North Macedonia.
Skopje International Airport: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ḱojlija, Palair Macedonian Airlines Flight 301, Miladinovci.
Skopje International Airport: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Skopje International Airport: why is it worth visiting?
Skopje International Airport is the primary aviation hub of North Macedonia, located approximately 17 kilometers east of the capital in the Petrovec municipality.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in North Macedonia →
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
Nature
Skopje Valley View
The heights in Aračinovo offer an expansive view over the Skopje basin.
Vardar near Zelenikovo
A scenic section of the Vardar river flowing through the municipality.
Kisela Voda Mineral Spring
The natural spring that gave the municipality its name (Kisela Voda = sour water).
Kadina River Valley
A scenic river valley known for its untouched nature.
Skopje City Park
The largest and most significant park in Skopje, a place for recreation and culture.
Lipkovo Lake
An artificial lake in the north, surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
Crn Vrv
Crn Vrv is a known peak near Skopje.
Treska River Valley
The Treska River valley is a significant ecosystem.
More places
Ilinden Monument
A monument honoring the fighters of the Ilinden Uprising in the municipality.
Pcinja River Valley
The Pcinja River valley is an important landscape zone.
Tauresium (Taor)
The birthplace of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.
Saint George Monastery
A small monastery on the outskirts of Kisela Voda, a place for prayer.
Gazi Baba Industrial Zone
The largest industrial and logistics area in the capital region.
Old Bazaar
The historic commercial core of Skopje, characterized by Ottoman architecture.
Butel Cemetery
The largest cemetery in Skopje, resting place of many prominent Macedonian figures.
Marko Monastery
Marko Monastery is located near Skopje.