North Macedonia

In North Macedonia, rail transport is operated by the state railway company Železnici na Republika Severna Makedonija (ŽRSM).

North Macedonia has a 925-kilometre standard-gauge rail network, which can be used at a maximum speed of 100 km/h. Only the Tabanovci – Gevgelija line has an automatic train protection system. In the past, there were also narrow-gauge railways, but none are in use anymore. There is currently no international passenger rail traffic, although there are new construction and expansion projects. Rail transport has a relatively low priority in the country. ¹

There is no regular timetable, but only individual trains operating at longer intervals. Many connections start or end in Skopje. The most important route from a transport perspective is the north-south line through Skopje, although it does not offer particularly notable tourist features. Rail transport as a whole has a low priority in the country — the bus system dominates local public transport.

Serbia

Currently, there are no passenger trains between North Macedonia and Serbia.

Bulgaria

There is currently no rail connection between Bulgaria and North Macedonia, but one is planned with the construction of the Kumanovo – Gjueševo railway line.

Greece

There is no scheduled passenger rail service between North Macedonia and Greece. The historic connection between Thessaloniki and Gevgelija/Skopje is currently not in operation. Border crossings therefore cannot be crossed by train; alternative options include long-distance buses via the Balkan routes.

Albania

There is currently no rail connection between Albania and North Macedonia.

Kosovo

The connection between Priština and Skopje was offered for a long time by Trainkos and ŽRSM, but is currently suspended due to construction work on the line. FIP tickets are only valid on the North Macedonian section up to the Elez Han border point; a regular ticket is required for the section in Kosovo.