Montenegro’s Coastal Gem
Bar, a picturesque coastal town in Montenegro, offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and Mediterranean charm. Known for its stunning beaches, ancient olive groves, and rich cultural heritage, Bar provides visitors with a unique Montenegrin experience away from the more crowded tourist destinations. From the ruins of Old Bar to the modern marina, this town captures the essence of Montenegro’s diverse landscape and history.
Essential Bar Information
- Language: Montenegrin (Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, and Croatian also widely spoken; English in tourist areas)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Timezone: Central European Time (CET) UTC+1 (UTC+2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)
- Visas: Not part of the Schengen Area. Many countries, including EU, UK, and US, can enter visa-free for up to 90 days
- Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants if service charge is not included
Where to Stay in Bar: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
Novi Bar (New Bar)
The modern heart of Bar, Novi Bar offers a mix of shopping, dining, and nightlife options. It’s close to the main beach and marina, making it convenient for tourists. This area is ideal for those who want to be in the center of the action with easy access to amenities.
Stari Bar (Old Bar)
Perched on a hill above the new town, Stari Bar is a fascinating open-air museum of medieval architecture. Though mostly in ruins, it offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history. Staying near Old Bar provides a more authentic experience and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Šušanj
Located just north of Bar, Šušanj is known for its beautiful pebble beach and calm waters. This area is perfect for families and those seeking a more relaxed beach holiday. It offers a good balance of tranquility and proximity to Bar’s attractions.
Čanj
A small village north of Bar, Čanj boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Its secluded location makes it perfect for couples or those looking for a peaceful retreat. The area offers stunning natural beauty and a more intimate Montenegrin coastal experience.
Must-See Sights in Bar
- Old Bar (Stari Bar): Ancient ruins of a fortified town, offering a journey through centuries of history.
- King Nikola’s Palace: A former royal residence turned museum, showcasing Montenegro’s royal heritage.
- Bar Marina: A modern marina with restaurants, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Old Olive Tree of Mirovica: Over 2000 years old, it’s one of the oldest olive trees in the world.
- Skadar Lake National Park: The largest lake in Southern Europe, known for its diverse bird species and beautiful scenery.
Discover Bar’s Hidden Gems
- Monastery of Ribnjak: A serene Orthodox monastery nestled in the hills above Bar.
- Besac Fortress: A restored fortress offering panoramic views of Lake Skadar and the surrounding area.
- Red Beach (Crvena Plaža): A unique beach with reddish pebbles, less crowded than the main town beaches.
- Bar Aqueduct: Ruins of a 16th-century Ottoman aqueduct, a testament to the region’s diverse history.
- Olive Oil Museum: Learn about the region’s rich tradition of olive cultivation and oil production.
Food Highlights: Must-Try Montenegrin Dishes
- Njeguški Pršut: Dry-cured ham from the nearby Njeguši village.
- Čorba od Koprive: A hearty nettle soup, popular in the region.
- Riblja Čorba: A flavorful fish soup made with local seafood.
- Priganice: Small, deep-fried dough balls often served with honey or cheese.
- Vranac: A robust red wine native to Montenegro, perfect with local meat dishes.
6 Essential Tips for Visiting Bar
- Explore by Bike: Rent a bicycle to explore the coastal area and olive groves at your own pace.
- Visit the Green Market: Experience local life and fresh produce at Bar’s bustling green market.
- Take the Bar-Belgrade Railway: Even if not traveling to Belgrade, consider a scenic day trip on this famous railway line.
- Attend the Olive Festival: If visiting in November, don’t miss this celebration of the local olive harvest.
- Explore the Hinterland: Take a day trip to the nearby mountains for hiking and stunning views.
- Try Local Olive Oil: Purchase some of Bar’s famous olive oil as a delicious and unique souvenir.
How to Get to Bar
By Air: Bar doesn’t have its own airport, but it’s easily accessible from two nearby airports:
- Podgorica Airport (TGD): The main international airport of Montenegro, located about 50 km from Bar. It handles both domestic and international flights.
- Tivat Airport (TIV): A smaller airport located about 70 km from Bar, serving mainly seasonal flights from European destinations.
From both airports, you can reach Bar by bus, taxi, or rental car.
By Rail: Bar is the southern terminus of the Belgrade–Bar railway, one of the most scenic rail routes in Europe:
- Bar Railway Station: Located in the center of the new town, it connects Bar with Podgorica and Belgrade, offering a picturesque journey through the Montenegrin landscape.
By Sea: Bar is a major seaport with ferry connections:
- Port of Bar: Regular ferry services connect Bar with Bari and Ancona in Italy, making it a gateway to the Adriatic.
