About Bar – Old Town
Bar offers visitors a fascinating split identity — the atmospheric ruins of Stari Bar (Old Bar) high on a hillside, forever frozen in the moment of its 19th-century destruction, and the modern city below with its bustling port, long sandy beaches, and lively Mediterranean energy. The highlight of any visit is undoubtedly Stari Bar, a sprawling archaeological site that ranks among the most evocative ruined cities in the Balkans. Entering through the ancient city gates, you step into a vast open-air museum of collapsed churches, tumbledown stone houses, overgrown courtyards, and the skeleton of a once-imposing fortress — all framed by the lush greenery of fig trees, pomegranates, and ancient olive trees that have grown up among the ruins. A marked walking trail guides visitors through the site past the Cathedral of St George, the remains of several medieval churches, and extensive sections of the city walls and towers. The 17th-century aqueduct, its arches still standing proud, is a particularly impressive engineering relic. Allow at least two hours to properly explore the site, and wear sturdy shoes as the ground is uneven and often rocky. Below the old town lies the true treasure of Bar: the Stara Maslina, an olive tree that scientific testing has confirmed to be over 2,200 years old. It is one of the oldest living olive trees in the world. This magnificent ancient specimen, is a living monument to the region's millennia-long olive-growing tradition. The modern city of Bar, while less atmospheric than its ruined counterpart, offers plenty of appeal: a long pebble beach backed by a lively promenade, the large Port of Bar (Montenegro's main commercial port), and excellent seafood restaurants serving the daily catch. Bar also is a convenient base for exploring Lake Skadar National Park, the Ulcinj Riviera, and the mountainous interior of the Crmnica wine region.
🗓 Best Time to Visit
April to October. Montenegro's climate varies from Mediterranean along the coast to alpine in the mountains. The coast is best April-October, peaking July-August. The Bay of Kotor is impressive in May-June when the wisteria blooms and crowds are thin. The mountains (Durmitor, Biogradska Gora) are ideal June-September for hiking and December-March for skiing.
🍽 Food & Drink
Eating in Bar – Old Town centers around traditional family recipes and regional ingredients — historic stone buildings house traditional restaurants where you can taste local recipes passed down through generations. Must-try dishes include: njeguški pršut (smoked ham from Njeguši), fresh Adriatic fish and seafood (grilled squid, scampi, brancin/sea bass), kačamak (buckwheat or cornmeal porridge with cheese), and cicvara (cornmeal with kaymak cream). For drinks, try Vranac (the king of Montenegrin red wines), loza (grape brandy), and regional rakijas.
🚗 Getting There & Around
By car: Well-connected by regional roads. Parking is available on the outskirts. By bus: Regular bus services from the nearest cities. Walking: Bar – Old Town is compact and best explored on foot. Taxis are affordable along the coast. Local buses serve towns and nearby beaches. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the interior (Njeguši, Ostrog, Durmitor). Be prepared for winding mountain roads.
🏨 Best Hotels in Bar – Old Town
Staying in Bar – Old Town is an experience in itself — many hotels are housed in beautifully restored historic buildings, offering rooms with original stone walls, exposed wooden beams, and period furnishings. Boutique hotels within the old town walls give you direct access to the cobblestone streets, squares, and landmarks, with restaurants and cafes just steps from your door. For a quieter stay, look for guesthouses and small hotels just outside the old town — they often offer better value, free parking, and the same easy walking access. Many historic town accommodations feature rooftop terraces and courtyards where you can enjoy breakfast or an evening drink overlooking the ancient rooftops. Family-run hotels (known locally as konobe or guesthouses) provide the warmest welcome, often serving homemade specialties for breakfast and offering personalized tips for exploring. Montenegro offers a wide range from luxury resorts in Sveti Stefan and Tivat to family-run guesthouses and affordable apartments in Budva and along the coast.
🍽 Where to Eat in Bar – Old Town
Eating in Bar – Old Town is as much about atmosphere as it is about food — the historic setting provides a beautiful backdrop for traditional cuisine. The main square and surrounding cobblestone streets are lined with restaurants offering local specialties in charming settings with stone walls, candlelit tables, and often live traditional music. For the most authentic experience, venture off the main tourist streets into the side alleys where family-run konobe (traditional taverns) serve recipes passed down through generations at more reasonable prices. Wine bars housed in medieval cellars offer atmospheric tastings of regional wines. During summer, many restaurants set up outdoor terraces in the squares and pedestrian streets, creating a lively dining scene. Street food stalls in the market squares offer quick, affordable local snacks. The local market is perfect for picking up picnic supplies if you're day-tripping. Many restaurants offer a daily set menu (gablec/ručak) at lunch — the most affordable way to sample local cuisine. Montenegrin cuisine blends Mediterranean seafood along the coast with hearty mountain fare inland — njeguški pršut, fresh Adriatic fish, and Vranac wine are local favorites.
🎯 Things to Do in Bar – Old Town
Exploring Bar – Old Town is like stepping back in time. The main attraction is simply wandering the historic streets — every corner reveals another photogenic square, hidden courtyard, or centuries-old church. Climb the bell tower or fortress walls for panoramic views over the red rooftops. Visit the main church or cathedral, which often houses important artworks, frescoes, or relics. Museums in historic buildings cover local history, archaeology, and traditional crafts. Walk the city walls where they survive — many historic towns have fully accessible wall walks with spectacular views. Food and craft markets in the main squares offer local products and souvenirs. For a deeper experience, take a guided walking tour that brings the town's layered history to life. Wine bars and traditional restaurants in historic cellars offer atmospheric evening entertainment. Many historic towns also host summer cultural festivals with concerts, theater, and traditional performances in their squares. Montenegro's dramatic scenery spans the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, UNESCO old towns, Durmitor's black lakes, and the impressive Adriatic coastline.
💡 Insider Tips: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for exploring Stari Bar — the terrain is uneven, and crumbling stones can be slippery. Combine your visit with a stop at the Old Olive Tree (Stara Maslina) just a few minutes' drive down the hill — it's well signposted and has a small museum and gift shop. Visit Stari Bar early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The modern town's waterfront promenade is lovely for an evening stroll and dinner. Try local wines from the nearby Crmnica region, particularly the robust Vranac variety, which pairs perfectly with grilled meats and local cheeses.