Staying connected in Skopje is easy and cheap. Mobile data is inexpensive compared with most of Europe, coverage in the city is excellent, and a local prepaid SIM card takes only a few minutes to set up. Here is everything you need to know about getting online during your visit.
Quick answer: the easiest way to get online in Skopje is an eSIM. You buy it before your trip, install it in about 2 minutes and have data the moment you land – no shop visit, no passport registration, no roaming charges. North Macedonia plans start from €2.90 and run on the A1 network.
🎁 Use code VISITSKOPJE for 10% off → Get your North Macedonia eSIM
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The main mobile operators
North Macedonia has two main mobile networks: A1 and Makedonski Telekom (Telekom.mk). Both offer good 4G coverage across Skopje and the main tourist areas, along with affordable prepaid (pay-as-you-go) plans aimed at short-term visitors. Prices are similar between them, so either is a safe choice.
Where to buy a SIM card
You can buy a prepaid SIM at the operators’ own shops around the city centre and in the malls, at the airport on arrival, and at many kiosks and newsagents. Bring your passport, as you will usually need to show ID to register the SIM. Staff in the main shops generally speak English and can set everything up and add a data package for you on the spot.
Prepaid data packages
Prepaid bundles typically include a generous amount of data plus some local calls and texts, at very reasonable prices. If you mostly need maps, messaging and browsing, even a small package goes a long way. You can top up easily online, in shops or at kiosks whenever you run low.
eSIM for North Macedonia: plans, prices and 10% off
If your phone supports eSIM, this is the most convenient option for a short trip. With SimBalkan you choose a data plan online, get a QR code by email and install it before you travel. The eSIM connects automatically when you arrive, and the validity only starts then. Your normal SIM and phone number stay active for calls and SMS.
North Macedonia eSIM plans (prices checked October 2026):
| Data | Valid for | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | €2.90 |
| 3 GB | 15 days | €5.90 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | €8.90 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | €16.90 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | €30.90 |
Prices are before the 10% discount. For a weekend city break 1–3 GB is usually enough for maps and messaging; for a week or more, or if you use your phone as a hotspot, go for 5–10 GB. Planning to visit more than one country? The Balkans regional plan covers neighbouring countries as well, which is handy if you continue to Ohrid, Albania, Kosovo or Serbia.
How to set it up
- Check that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked (most iPhones from the XS onwards, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer do).
- Buy your plan via this link and enter the code VISITSKOPJE at checkout for 10% off.
- Scan the QR code from the email (or tap to install) while you still have Wi-Fi at home.
- When you land in Skopje, switch mobile data to the eSIM and turn on data roaming for that line. That’s it.
eSIM or local SIM card?
| eSIM | Local prepaid SIM | |
|---|---|---|
| Ready on arrival | Yes | No – you need to find a shop |
| Passport registration | Not needed | Usually required |
| Keep your own number | Yes | No (physical SIM swap) |
| Local phone number | No (data only) | Yes |
| Best for | Short trips, city breaks, multi-country trips | Long stays, frequent local calls |
A note on roaming
Travellers from the EU should be careful: North Macedonia is not part of the EU “roam like at home” zone, so using your home plan can be expensive. An eSIM or a local SIM is almost always much cheaper.
Wi-Fi in the city
Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés and restaurants across Skopje, so even without a SIM you will rarely be offline for long. For anything you need on the go, though, a cheap local SIM or eSIM is well worth it.
Before you arrive
Sorting a SIM at the airport is easy – see our airport to city centre guide for what to expect on arrival, and our essential Skopje travel tips for more practical advice.
FAQ: internet and SIM cards in Skopje
Can I buy a SIM card at Skopje Airport?
Yes, operator shops and kiosks also sell prepaid SIMs, but you will need to find one after your flight and register it with your passport. Installing an eSIM before your flight means you are online the moment you land – useful for ordering a taxi or checking how to get from the airport to the city centre.
Does the eSIM include a phone number?
No, travel eSIMs are data only. You can still call and message over WhatsApp, Viber or FaceTime, and your own SIM stays active for SMS.
Which network is best in North Macedonia?
A1 and Makedonski Telekom both have good 4G coverage in Skopje and along the main roads. The SimBalkan North Macedonia eSIM uses A1.
Is there a discount code?
Yes – use VISITSKOPJE for 10% off any plan at SimBalkan.
Our private tour
Private Matka Canyon Tour from Skopje
Hotel pickup anywhere in Skopje, a private air-conditioned car and a friendly English-speaking local driver. Boat ride to Vrelo Cave, hiking or a lakeside coffee – at your own pace. From €60 per car (1–4 guests).
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