Passenger trains resume between Skopje and Bitola

Passenger rail service on the Skopje‑Bitola‑Jabeni line is set to restart on 15 July 2026 after completion of construction works. Four scheduled trains will operate: from Skopje the early 06:06 service (train 641) and the evening 20:05 service (train 645); from Bitola the 18:22 service (train 644) and the early 03:10 service (train 640) the following day. The trains stop at numerous intermediate stations, including Lisice, Drachovo, Janes Sandanski and many others, providing an alternative to bus and car travel.

Ticket prices listed by MŽ Transport are 348 denars for a one‑way trip and 662 denars for a return ticket, though earlier information from December 2025 cited lower fares of 314 denars one‑way and 502 denars return. Passengers are advised to verify current pricing at ticket offices. The service uses modern diesel‑motor units with air‑conditioning, larger luggage space and wider seats, but officials have not confirmed the exact equipment or the functionality of climate control on the inaugural runs. No data on punctuality or passenger numbers has been released for the first day, and the line has a history of delays and cancellations in previous years.