Bar sits on Montenegro’s southern coast, a port city of 42,000 people that often flies under the radar compared to flashier spots like Budva or Kotor. But don’t let that fool you—Bar has its own charm, with a historic Old Town perched on a hill, a long beach promenade, and easy access to southern gems like Ulcinj. Our writers teamed up with Montenegro Limo’s local drivers in Bar, who know every corner of the city, to bring you this guide packed with the best sights, dining spots, and practical tips. Stay with us, and find out is Bar Montenegro worth visiting.
Why Visit Bar?
Bar isn’t as tourist-packed as Budva or as medieval as Kotor, but it’s a vibrant coastal city with a rich history and relaxed vibe. Home to 42,000 people, it boasts a bustling port, a 4-km-long beach promenade, and proximity to Skadar Lake (30 km). It’s more affordable than Kotor—think coffee at €1-2 versus Kotor’s €2-3—and a great base for exploring southern Montenegro, including nearby Ulcinj.
just 30 km away.
Where Is Bar?
Bar sits on Montenegro’s southern coast, 65 km south of Podgorica, 50 km southeast of Kotor, and 30 km northwest of Ulcinj. It’s 53 km from Tivat Airport (TIV), making it an accessible hub for exploring the Adriatic coast and beyond. You can easly get here with our private driver from Bar.
Top Things to Do in Bar
Bar’s mix of history and coastal charm offers something for every traveler. Here’s what to see.
Step Back in Time at Stari Bar
Perched on a hill overlooking the modern city, Stari Bar (Old Bar) is a historic fortress town that dates back over 2,500 years. Wander through its cobblestone streets, explore the ruins of ancient churches, and take in panoramic views of the Adriatic coast. Don’t miss the 11th-century aqueduct, a testament to the town’s rich history. Stari Bar is a must-visit for history buffs and photographers alike—entry is €2, and you’ll need 1-2 hours to explore.
Soak Up the Sun at Šušanj Beach
Just a short drive from Bar’s city center, Šušanj Beach offers a peaceful escape with its long stretch of sandy shoreline and clear waters. It’s less crowded than Budva’s beaches, with a laid-back vibe perfect for families or couples. You can rent sunbeds (€5-10/day) or enjoy a coffee at nearby cafés (€1-2). Spend 2-4 hours relaxing or swimming here.
Visit the King Nikola’s Palace
Located near the port, the King Nikola’s Palace is a 19th-century gem turned museum. Its elegant architecture, surrounded by a botanic garden with rare plants, makes it a serene spot. Inside, you’ll find artifacts from Montenegro’s royal history—entry is €2. It’s a 1-hour visit, ideal for those interested in culture and history.
Explore Lake Skadar (Day Trip)
30 km north (40-minute drive), Skadar Lake is a stunning natural wonder shared by Montenegro and Albania. Boat tours (€15-20) offer views of wetlands, birdlife, and monasteries. We’ve driven many guests here who rave about its untouched beauty—plan 4-6 hours for a day trip, including a photo stop along the way. You can hire a driver in Bar and day trip enjoynig flexibility of private tour provided by first-class limousine service.
Best Beaches Near Bar
Bar’s coastal location makes it a gateway to some of Montenegro’s best beaches. Here are the top spots worth visiting for a day of sun and sea, including the city’s main beach.
Šušanj Beach (2 km, 5-minute drive)
Right in Bar, Šušanj Beach is the city’s main stretch, offering a long sandy shoreline with calm, shallow water. It’s less crowded than Budva’s beaches, with a relaxed vibe perfect for families or couples. You can rent sunbeds (€5-10/day) or enjoy a coffee at nearby cafés (€1-2). Spend 2-4 hours here swimming or soaking up the sun.
Velika Plaža (30 km, 30-minute drive)
Spreading from Ulcinj to Ada Bojana, Velika Plaža is one of Montenegro’s longest beaches, stretching 12 km with fine, golden sand. It’s a hotspot for kitesurfing and beach sports, with shallow waters that are great for families. Sunbeds and umbrellas cost €5-10/day, and beach bars serve drinks (€2-4). It’s a 4-6 hour visit—check out our Ulcinj Travel Guide for more details on the area.
Sutomore Beach (7 km, 10-minute drive)
Just north of Bar, Sutomore Beach is a 1.2-km stretch of sandy and pebbly shoreline, popular with locals. It’s livelier than Šušanj, with beach bars and water activities like paddleboarding (€10-15/hour). Sunbeds are €5-8/day, and you can grab a coffee for €1-2. Spend 3-5 hours here for a fun beach day.
Čanj Beach (15 km, 20-minute drive)
A hidden gem between Bar and Sutomore, Čanj Beach is a quieter, pebbly cove with calm water, perfect for a swim. It’s less commercial, ideal for a peaceful day by the sea. There are a few small cafés nearby (drinks €2-3), but bring your own towel as rentals are limited. Plan 2-4 hours for a relaxing escape.
Buljarice Beach (25 km, 30-minute drive)
South of Bar, near Petrovac, Buljarice Beach stretches 2.4 km with a mix of pebbles and sand, backed by pine trees and rocky hills. It’s quieter than busier beaches, with calm water that’s good for swimming or just relaxing. Sunbeds are €5-8/day, and small beach bars offer drinks (€2-4). Spend 3-5 hours here if you’re after a more secluded spot.
Maljevik Beach (10 km, 15-minute drive)
North of Bar, Maljevik Beach is a small cove with a pebbly shore, nestled between rocky cliffs. It’s a local favorite for its calm water and relaxed atmosphere, away from the crowds. There are no rentals, so bring your own towel, but a nearby café has coffee and snacks (€2-3). Plan 2-4 hours for a quiet beach day.
Kraljičina Plaža (15 km, 20-minute drive)
Between Bar and Sutomore, Kraljičina Plaža (Queen’s Beach) is a small, pebbly cove surrounded by greenery and steep cliffs. It’s a peaceful spot with calm water, great for a swim or a quick dip. There are no facilities, so pack essentials, but the natural setting makes it worth the visit. Spend 2-3 hours here—check out our Budva Travel Guide for more coastal spots nearby.
Where to Eat in Bar
Bar’s dining scene blends fresh seafood with Balkan flavors. Here’s where to eat.
Top Dishes
- Grilled Octopus: Fresh from the Adriatic, €12-18—local favorite.
- Black Risotto: Seafood-infused, €10-15—rich and savory.
- Vranac Wine: Local red, €3-5/glass—pairs perfectly.
Best Spots
- Knjažev Dvor: Near the palace, this spot serves grilled octopus (€20-18) and seafood platters (€25-35) with sea views. Drinks €3-7; plan 1-2 hours for a relaxed meal.
- Restoran Stari Grad: In Stari Bar, it’s perfect for black risotto (€10-15) and lamb dishes (€15-20). Local wines €5-10; a 1-2 hour historic dining experience.
- Konoba Sunce: By the promenade, enjoy pasta (€10-15) and fresh fish (€15-25). Cocktails €8-15; a 1-2 hour casual stop with a breeze.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Bar’s Green Market offers local olive oil (€10-15/bottle) and dried figs (€3-5/pack). For modern shopping, Robna Kuća mall has branded clothes (shirts €20-40). Cash is king—some vendors add fees for cards.
Where to Stay in Bar
Bar has options for every budget. Here’s where to stay.
- Near Beach: Hotel Princess (€100-200)—seafront, comfy.
- Downtown: Hotel Pharos (€60-100/night)—central, modern.
- Luxury: Villa Antivari (€120-180)—private, upscale.
Getting to Bar
Bar is 40 km from Podgorica Airport (TGD)—a 45-minute ride with our Podgorica to Bar transfer. From Tivat Airport (TIV), it’s 53 km (1 hour); buses cost €5-7 (1.5 hours), but a private transfer is faster and more comfortable. From Budva, it’s a 45-minute drive (40 km) with our Budva to Bar transfer.
Practical Tips for Visiting Bar
- Best Time: Late spring/early summer (20-30°C)—perfect for beaches. Fall’s 15-25°C, quieter.
- Budget: €40-70/day—food, sights, transport. Rooms €60-180/night.
- Packing: Swimsuit for beaches, light jacket for evenings.
- Getting Around: Walk downtown; hire a driver for lake trips.
- Tips: Try local olive oil—€5-10/bottle, a tasty souvenir.
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Is Bar, Montenegro Worth Visiting? Bar vs. Other Coastal Towns
Kotor (50 km, 1 hour) offers medieval charm with its fortress and narrow streets; Tivat (53 km, 1 hour) shines with marina luxury and upscale vibes; Budva (40 km, 45 minutes) hums with nightlife, crowded beaches, and a lively Old Town. Bar blends history with coastal relaxation, making it a quieter escape with its own unique appeal.
Compared to these popular spots, Bar is more budget-friendly, and offers a more authentic gastronomic experience, with dishes that carry a stronger Ottoman influence, like slow-cooked lamb or baklava, often found in small, family-run eateries. You’ll also notice fewer crowds here, especially compared to the busy streets of Kotor Bay towns. Bar’s location is ideal for beach lovers, with easy drives to stunning spots like Velika Plaža or Kraljičina Plaža, though its own Šušanj Beach is a great option too.
That said, Bar has its drawbacks. While Stari Bar is fascinating, it’s not right on the coast, so you’ll need to head downhill for sea views. Also, compared to other coastal towns, Bar lacks the Mediterranean charm and architecture of places like Budva or Kotor—much of the city was built during the Yugoslav era as Montenegro’s main port, giving it a more functional, industrial feel in parts.
The Most Popular Private Transfers and Tours from Bar
Bar’s coastal location makes it a hub for southern Montenegro trips. Here are top routes our clients book, all at flat-rate private transfers or tours.
Other nearby points of interest we recommend you to visit on a tour with a private driver from Bar:
FAQ: Bar Travel Tips
- How far is Bar from Budva? 40 km, 45-minute drive. A private transfer beats the €5-7 bus.
- How long from Tivat Airport to Bar? 1 hour (53 km). Book with Montenegro Limo for a smooth ride.
- What’s the best time to visit Bar? Late spring/early summer—perfect for beaches.
- How much time do I need in Bar? 1-2 days for city sights; 3-4 with lake trips.
- Are there beaches in Bar? Yes—Šušanj Beach is a local favorite.
- What’s near Bar to visit? Ulcinj (30 km), Skadar Lake (30 km), Budva (40 km).
