Where the Adriatic Sea Meets History
Bar is a coastal city on the southeastern shore of Montenegro, known as the country's main port and an important transportation hub. The city is divided into Novi Bar along the coast and Stari Bar, an archaeological site 4 km inland, surrounded by olive groves and orchards. Situated between the Adriatic Sea and Lake Skadar, Bar offers a unique combination of beaches, mountains, historical landmarks, and vibrant city life. The city is also renowned for being home to the oldest olive tree in Europe, over 2,000 years old.
Location
South-eastern coast of Montenegro
Population
13,503
Municipality area
505 km²
First mentions
9th century
From Podgorica
~55 km
Climate
Mediterranean
Highlights
Stari Bar is one of the most fascinating historical sites in Montenegro, located 4 km from the coastline on the slopes of Mount Rumija. The fortified settlement dates back to the 10th century, and throughout its turbulent history it changed rulers — from Zeta and Byzantium, through the Nemanjić dynasty and the Venetian Republic, to the Ottomans who ruled it until 1878. Within the walls lie the remains of a hammam, a clock tower, the Selimija and Omerbašić mosques, an aqueduct, and the ruins of the first cathedral from the 6th century. The entire site is surrounded by olive groves and orchards, giving it the unique atmosphere of an open-air museum.
King Nikola's Palace is one of the most beautiful and significant historical sites in Bar, located in the immediate vicinity of the city port. Built as a summer residence for the Montenegrin royal family, the palace today functions as a museum preserving artefacts from the era of the Montenegrin monarchy. It is surrounded by a park featuring rare plants, including an impressive ginkgo biloba. A visit to the palace offers insight into the rich cultural and political history of Montenegro from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
At the Mirovica site near Bar grows the oldest olive tree in Europe, over 2,000 years old. This monumental tree has been declared a natural monument and is testament to the fact that organised settlements existed in this area as far back as ancient times. The olive tree still bears fruit, and with each decade it becomes an ever-greater tourist attraction. A visit to this tree is a must on every Bar itinerary — it combines natural beauty, history, and the Mediterranean spirit all in one place.
Kraljičina plaža (Queen's Beach) is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the Montenegrin coast, accessible only by boat from the northern side of Čanj beach — a short and scenic ride of just a few minutes costing 4 EUR. The beach was named after Queen Milena of Montenegro, who regularly stayed here. It is characterised by fine pebbles, crystal-clear and calm water, and green slopes that surround it like a natural amphitheatre. The beach has a restaurant with sun loungers and umbrellas available for hire.
Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, is located just around 30 km from Bar along a scenic route through Mount Sutorman. The lake stretches between Montenegro and Albania, and the Montenegrin part is protected as a national park. Virpazar on the northwestern shore is an ideal starting point for cruising the calm waters of the lake, surrounded by vineyards, ancient churches, and villages. The lake is home to more than 270 species of birds, with pelicans being particularly well known. Local specialities — fresh and smoked carp, eel, and Crmnica vranac wine — make the gastronomic experience unforgettable.
What to do
Explore sunken ships in the Bay of Bar, including King Nikola's ship and an Austrian torpedo boat.
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Bar offers 46 km of coastline with beaches suitable for swimming, kayaking, and water activities.
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Mount Rumija above Bar offers panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and Lake Skadar.
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Explore the largest lake in the Balkans by boat, with local food tastings and birdwatching.
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Visit the Crmnica wine cellars and taste the indigenous vranac wine alongside local olive oil.
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Where the Adriatic Meets History
A city where ancient ruins meet the open sea, where olive groves thousands of years old stand beside modern promenades, and where every corner tells a story of civilisations that shaped the Mediterranean world.
Gallery
Did You Know?
Near Bar grows the oldest olive tree in Europe, over 2,000 years old — and it still bears fruit to this day. oldest olive tree in Europe
Plan Your Visit
The city is accessible throughout the year. Tourist centres and agencies operate mainly May–September. Stari Bar: 08:00–20:00 (summer), 09:00–17:00 (winter).
Entrance to Stari Bar: approximately 2–3 EUR for adults. Beaches are mostly free; sun lounger and umbrella rental from 5 EUR.
Parking in the city centre is charged by the hour. Free parking is available near some beaches and on the outskirts.
Novi Bar has flat terrain suitable for wheelchair users. Stari Bar is on a hillside with cobblestone paths — partially difficult access.
+382 30 311 633
https://www.bar.travel
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