Skopje

More Map & Picture

Skopje Overview

Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:

To travel from Skopje (the capital of North Macedonia) to the main cities of China, you will need to take connecting flights, as there are no direct flights between Skopje and China. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip:

1. Visa Requirements for China

Before traveling to China, you must apply for a Chinese visa. Here’s how you can get it:

How to Apply for a Chinese Visa:

  1. Complete the Visa Application Form: Download and fill out the Chinese visa application form, which you can find on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) website or the embassy’s website.
  2. Documents Required:
    • Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
    • Recent Passport-size Photo: Ensure that your photo meets the required specifications.
    • Flight Itinerary: Proof of your return flight tickets.
    • Hotel Booking: Confirmations of your accommodations during your stay in China.
    • Financial Proof: A bank statement showing that you have sufficient funds for your trip.
    • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance may be required.
  3. Submit the Application: Submit the completed application form, along with all supporting documents, to the Chinese Embassy in Skopje, North Macedonia, or at the Chinese Visa Application Center.
  4. Processing Time: The processing time for a visa is typically between 4-7 business days, but it may take longer depending on the type of visa and other factors.

2. Flights from Skopje to China

Since there are no direct flights from Skopje to China, you will need to take connecting flights through major international hubs. Here are some common flight routes:

1. Skopje to Beijing (Capital City)

  • Airlines:
    • Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul)
    • Lufthansa (via Frankfurt)
    • Qatar Airways (via Doha)
    • Emirates (via Dubai)
  • Flight Duration: Approx. 12-16 hours, including layovers.
  • Arrival Airport: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

2. Skopje to Shanghai (Commercial Hub)

  • Airlines:
    • Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul)
    • Qatar Airways (via Doha)
    • Emirates (via Dubai)
    • Lufthansa (via Frankfurt)
  • Flight Duration: Approx. 14-17 hours, including layovers.
  • Arrival Airport: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).

3. Skopje to Guangzhou (Southern China)

  • Airlines:
    • Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul)
    • Qatar Airways (via Doha)
    • Emirates (via Dubai)
    • Lufthansa (via Frankfurt)
  • Flight Duration: Approx. 14-16 hours, including layovers.
  • Arrival Airport: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN).

4. Skopje to Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region)

  • Airlines:
    • Qatar Airways (via Doha)
    • Emirates (via Dubai)
    • Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul)
  • Flight Duration: Approx. 14-16 hours, including layovers.
  • Arrival Airport: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG).

3. Booking Flights

  • Online Travel Agencies: Use platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, Kayak, or Expedia to compare prices and book your flight.
  • Airline Websites: You can also book directly through the airlines’ official websites for the best deals and flight schedules.
  • Travel Agents: If you prefer assistance, a travel agent can help you with your flight bookings.

4. Transportation within China

Once you arrive in China, getting around is relatively easy with various transportation options:

  • High-Speed Trains: China boasts an extensive high-speed rail network. For example, the Beijing to Shanghai route takes around 4.5 hours.
  • Domestic Flights: For longer distances, such as from Beijing to Shanghai, domestic flights are available and take about 2 hours.
  • Public Transportation: Most cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, have well-developed metro systems.
  • Ride-Hailing Apps: You can use Didi Chuxing (similar to Uber) to get a taxi in most major cities.

5. Currency and Payment Methods

  • Currency: The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as the Chinese Yuan (CNY).
  • Payment Methods: While credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in many major cities, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used, so having a China UnionPay card or mobile payment options will be helpful.
  • ATMs: Available at major airports, shopping malls, and tourist locations.

6. Cultural Tips

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language in China, and English is not widely spoken outside tourist spots. Using a translation app or learning some basic Mandarin can help.
  • Etiquette: Chinese culture places high value on politeness. Address people with respect, and be formal when meeting someone for the first time.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not commonly practiced in China, but in higher-end restaurants or hotels, small tips may be appreciated.
  • Time Zone: China operates on China Standard Time (CST), which is UTC+8.

7. Weather and Packing Tips

  • Weather: China has diverse climates, so pack accordingly depending on where you’re traveling:
    • Beijing can be very cold in winter and hot in summer.
    • Shanghai is humid and hot in summer, while winters are mild.
    • Hong Kong has a subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
  • Packing: Bring layers, especially if you’re traveling during the winter months. An umbrella can be handy in rainy cities like Shanghai.

8. Health and Safety

  • Travel Insurance: It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance that covers health and emergencies.
  • Vaccinations: Make sure you have the recommended vaccinations before traveling to China.
  • Local Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 110
    • Ambulance: 120
    • Fire: 119

9. Recommended Cities and Attractions

Some major cities in China that you may want to visit are:

  • Beijing: Famous for the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
  • Shanghai: Known for the Bund, modern skyscrapers, and historical sites.
  • Guangzhou: Famous for Cantonese cuisine and the Canton Tower.
  • Hong Kong: A dynamic city with a blend of Eastern and Western cultures, famous for its skyline, shopping, and food.
  • Xi’an: Visit the Terracotta Army and the ancient city wall.
  • Chengdu: Known for its pandas and Sichuan hotpot.
  • Guilin: Famous for its stunning karst mountains and Li River cruises.

Traveling from Skopje to China involves taking connecting flights through major international hubs. Be sure to secure your Chinese visa in advance, book your flights early, and be prepared for an exciting and culturally rich experience in China!