Старый Бар
1 / 10

Stari Bar Archaeological Site Bar

4.7
·2k reviews·Bar, Montenegro

Explore the ancient fortress town of Stari Bar, a captivating archaeological site with a rich history and breathtaking views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Старый Бар

Stari Bar Archaeological Site Bar

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the ancient fortress town of Stari Bar, a captivating archaeological site with a rich history and breathtaking views.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Visiting the Old Town of Bar was like stepping into a forgotten chapter of history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone paths and uneven terrain require good walking shoes. You'll be doing a lot of exploring!

Hydration is Key :droplet:

Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. Shade is scarce within the ruins.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Fortress

The Ancient Fortress

Top of the hill

Explore the remnants of this impressive fortress, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into centuries of history.

Winding Stone Paths

Winding Stone Paths

Throughout the site

Get lost in the maze of narrow, cobblestone alleys, discovering hidden corners and charming architectural details.

Nature's Embrace

Nature's Embrace

Within the ruins

Marvel at how nature has intertwined with the ruins, with fig trees and wild herbs growing amongst the ancient stones.

Museum Exhibits

Museum Exhibits

Inside the site

Discover fascinating artifacts and exhibits that shed light on the rich history of the archaeological sites around Bar.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To avoid the midday sun and peak crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. This allows for a more relaxed exploration of the ancient ruins and better photo opportunities. Consider visiting on weekdays if possible, as weekends can get busier, especially when cruise ships are in port.

Comfortable Exploration

Stari Bar is a sprawling archaeological site with uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the cobblestone paths and climbing through the ruins. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as shade can be limited within the site.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer tourists
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dia De Los Muertos Celebration in San Diego at Old Town 📍Starts October 1- November 2. Open daily from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. (extended hours Fri & Sat) FREE admission & parking. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park #sandiego #oldtownsandiego #diadelosmuertos #thingstodosandiego #downtownsandiego
@liceagatania
3K likes • 58.4K views

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone paths and uneven terrain require good walking shoes. You'll be doing a lot of exploring!

Hydration is Key :droplet:

Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. Shade is scarce within the ruins.

My recs for bars/nightlife in Old Town Alexandria!
@erinn_elizabeth
2.8K likes • 37.9K views
Probs my fave dive bar in Old Town rn #fyp #arizona #divebar
@mcaly17
2.4K likes • 47.4K views

Go Early or Late :sunrise_over_mountains:

Avoid midday heat and crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best experience.

Cash is Handy :money_with_wings:

While card payments are available, having some cash for smaller purchases or entry fees is recommended.

Date night in San Diego’s historic Old Town ❤️🇲🇽 #sandiego #sandiegohiddengems #datenight #travelcouple
@roamsick
2.2K likes • 116.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone paths and uneven terrain require good walking shoes. You'll be doing a lot of exploring!

Hydration is Key :droplet:

Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. Shade is scarce within the ruins.

Go Early or Late :sunrise_over_mountains:

Avoid midday heat and crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best experience.

Cash is Handy :money_with_wings:

While card payments are available, having some cash for smaller purchases or entry fees is recommended.

Embrace Getting Lost :compass:

The beauty of Stari Bar is its maze-like structure. Allow yourself to wander and discover its secrets.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Stari Bar for its historical significance, atmospheric ruins, and stunning panoramic views. The €5 entrance fee is considered well worth the experience of exploring this ancient fortress town. Some find it can get quite busy, especially when cruise ships are in port, and recommend visiting early to avoid crowds and heat.

"Really beautiful and interesting stroll around the old town of bar, it was quiet and had information plaques throughout. Would recommend it. The restaurant and shopping area right outside the walls was lovely too. Well worth a visit."

Carol Lucking

"Well worth visiting. One can see old town Bar life through the history going way back to BC ages. There are also museums with interesting exhibits and artefacts to see collected on the archaeological sites around. Locations of interest are well marked with plaques with historical texts placed for tourists to get the grasp of the importance of certain buildings within the old town. Overall recommended for a visit."

Haris Demir

"Absolutely awesome old town. €5 to enter, cad payment available. Lovely cafes and restaurants surrounding before and after you enter also. Very cool place, exceeded my expectations:)"

Emily Gillies

What People Like

Rich history and atmosphere
Stunning panoramic views
Photogenic ruins

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Midday heat

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Stari Bar by car, taxi, or local bus from Bar. The drive is short, about 10-15 minutes. Taxis are readily available, and local buses run frequently. Parking is available near the entrance.

Yes, local buses connect Bar city to Stari Bar. Check the local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and timings.

For a day trip, a taxi or a rental car offers the most flexibility. This allows you to explore at your own pace and combine it with other nearby attractions. Local buses are a budget-friendly option.

While the focus is on Stari Bar itself, the drive offers scenic views of the Montenegrin coast and countryside. Keep an eye out for smaller villages or viewpoints for spontaneous stops.

It's a considerable distance to walk from Bar city to Stari Bar, and the route can be along busy roads. It's not generally recommended for most visitors, especially in warmer weather.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically around €5 per person. Card payments are usually accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most current times, but it's generally open from morning until early evening.

Advance booking is usually not required for Stari Bar. You can purchase tickets at the entrance upon arrival. However, during peak season or for special events, it might be worth checking.

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is not always widely advertised. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket office if you believe you might qualify.

The entrance fee grants you access to explore the entire archaeological site, including the ruins, fortifications, and any on-site museums or exhibits.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the site. If you enjoy photography and soaking in the atmosphere, you could easily spend half a day.

Yes, children can enjoy exploring the ruins and imagining life in the past. However, supervision is crucial due to the uneven terrain and open drops.

Restrooms are typically available near the entrance. While there aren't many water fountains inside, it's highly recommended to bring your own water bottle.

Stari Bar is an ancient fortress town with a history dating back to the 11th century, serving as a significant settlement and strategic point for various empires throughout the ages.

Absolutely! Stari Bar is incredibly photogenic. The crumbling walls, archways, and panoramic views offer endless opportunities for stunning photography.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are charming cafes and restaurants located just outside the main entrance of Stari Bar, offering refreshments and meals with views of the ruins. Inside the ruins themselves, dining options are limited.

You'll find traditional Montenegrin cuisine, as well as Mediterranean influences. Expect fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local specialties.

While some restaurants can be a bit tourist-priced, looking for smaller, local eateries slightly away from the immediate entrance might offer more affordable options. Packing your own snacks is also a good strategy.

Bringing your own water is highly recommended. While picnics aren't explicitly forbidden, it's best to consume food and drinks outside the main archaeological site to maintain its preservation.

Many visitors enjoy the cafes and restaurants just outside the entrance for their views and ambiance. Exploring a bit further into the modern town of Bar can also reveal more local dining spots.

📸 📸 Photography

The fortress ramparts offer stunning panoramic views. Look for archways, crumbling walls with greenery, and narrow alleys for dramatic shots. The light during golden hour is magical.

Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Midday sun can be harsh and create strong contrasts.

For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, if you plan on professional shoots or commercial photography, it's best to inquire with the site management beforehand.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and architectural details. A prime lens can be useful for isolating interesting textures and elements within the ruins.

Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and archaeological sites to preserve their integrity and for safety reasons. It's highly unlikely drones are permitted without special authorization.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Stari Bar offers a fantastic adventure for families! The ancient ruins are like a natural playground for the imagination, where kids can pretend to be knights or explorers. Encourage them to discover hidden nooks and crannies. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks, as shade is limited. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon will make the experience more pleasant for everyone. Consider a simple scavenger hunt to keep them engaged!

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Stari Bar is a great value for its entrance fee of around €5. To save money, pack your own water and snacks. Utilize local buses for transportation from Bar city, which is more economical than taxis. While there are lovely cafes outside the entrance, exploring the modern town of Bar for more affordable dining options is also a good strategy. The experience of exploring these ancient ruins is priceless!

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Stari Bar is a goldmine. The golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer the most dramatic light for capturing the textures of the ancient stones and panoramic views. A wide-angle lens is perfect for the expansive fortress and ruins, while a prime lens can capture intricate details. Don't be afraid to explore different angles and perspectives; the site is incredibly photogenic from every corner.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The History of Stari Bar

Stari Bar, also known as Old Bar, is a captivating archaeological site that whispers tales of centuries past. Its origins trace back to the 11th century, evolving from a small settlement into a formidable fortress town. Over its long history, it has been influenced by various rulers, including the Byzantine Empire, the Venetians, and the Ottomans, each leaving their architectural and cultural imprint on the stone structures that still stand today. The town was tragically abandoned in the late 19th century after a devastating earthquake and the construction of the new town of Bar, leaving it a remarkably preserved ghost town.

Walking through Stari Bar is like stepping into a living museum. You can explore the remnants of churches, palaces, cisterns, and defensive walls, each telling a part of its story. The strategic location atop a hill provided a commanding view of the surrounding landscape, crucial for defense. The archaeological excavations continue to unearth new insights, revealing the daily lives, religious practices, and military strategies of its former inhabitants. It's a place where history is not just read about, but felt through the weathered stones and the echoes of the past.

Many visitors are struck by how nature has reclaimed parts of the ruins, with fig trees and wild herbs sprouting from cracks in the walls, adding a unique, almost romantic, atmosphere to the site. This blend of human history and natural resilience makes Stari Bar a truly special place. The site is well-marked with plaques providing historical context, but the true magic lies in wandering freely and letting your imagination fill in the gaps of what life was once like here. It's a testament to the enduring power of history and the beauty of ancient architecture.

Photography Tips for Stari Bar

Stari Bar is a photographer's dream, offering a rich tapestry of textures, light, and history. The crumbling stone walls, ancient archways, and panoramic vistas provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. For capturing the grandeur of the fortress, a wide-angle lens is invaluable, allowing you to encompass the vastness of the ruins and the surrounding landscape. Don't forget to look for intricate details like weathered carvings, moss-covered stones, and the way sunlight filters through broken windows.

The golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – are particularly magical for photography in Stari Bar. The soft, warm light casts long shadows, accentuating the textures of the stone and creating a dramatic, atmospheric mood. Visiting during these times also helps you avoid the harsh midday sun, which can wash out colors and create unflattering contrasts. Be prepared to explore different vantage points; climbing to higher sections of the fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views of the modern town of Bar and the Adriatic Sea beyond.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be navigating uneven terrain. Bring plenty of water, and consider a prime lens for capturing close-up details of the flora growing within the ruins or interesting architectural elements. The beauty of Stari Bar lies in its raw, untamed nature, so embrace the imperfections and let the ancient stones tell their story through your lens. Many visitors find that simply wandering and observing leads to the most unexpected and rewarding photographic discoveries.

Exploring Stari Bar with Families

Stari Bar can be an engaging and educational experience for families, offering a unique blend of history and adventure. The ancient ruins spark imagination, allowing children to pretend they are knights, royalty, or explorers discovering a lost city. The maze-like paths and hidden corners provide a sense of discovery, making the visit feel like a treasure hunt. It's a fantastic opportunity to bring history lessons to life in a tangible way, far more exciting than a textbook.

When visiting with children, prioritize comfort and safety. Ensure everyone wears sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as shade can be limited, and there are no extensive facilities within the main ruins. Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, to make the exploration more enjoyable for younger ones. Keep a close eye on children, especially near any open edges or steep inclines.

To enhance the experience, you can create a simple scavenger hunt for them, looking for specific features like old wells, unique stone carvings, or the highest point of the fortress. Discussing the history in simple terms, focusing on stories of kings, battles, or daily life, can make the ruins more relatable. While there aren't dedicated play areas, the entire site offers a vast, natural playground for curious minds.

You may also like