Stari Bar: Visit One Of The Most Beautiful Fortified Medieval Towns In The Balkans

Want to explore some remnants of the past and enjoy a charming time in one of the most important and beautiful fortified medieval towns in the Balkans? Follow me to Stari Grad Bar in Montenegro!

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Stari Bar in a few words

No one really knows when Stari Bar began to appear on the map but reports say that the old town may date back to the 6th century (Roman settlements).

What characterizes it are the different cultures and styles of architecture visible in its fortress: Gothic, Baroque… but also its location right at the foot of Rumija mountain, offering a panorama like no other, useful for fending off enemies but also for having a clear view of its surroundings and the Adriatic Sea, less than 6km away.

Uninhabited since the 19th century, the fortified town has managed to preserve its history and cultural heritage by rehabilitating some of its structures and registering the Old Town of Bar as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, around 2,000 people live around the old fortress, mainly people who have opened their own shop/restaurant and live off tourism.

The Fortress

Besides the ruins that bear witness to the town’s eventful past, the many cobblestone alleys in which I invite you to lose yourself, and the magnificent ramparts that you’ll follow as you explore the old fortified town like an amateur Indiana Jones, here are its main sights:

1. The Museum

Want to know more about the history of the fortress and see artifacts from that period? Spend some time browsing through the various items inside, and enjoy the shade for a while before heading out and resuming your discovery of the place.

2. Turkish Hammam

Vestige of the Ottoman Empire, it’s no surprise to find a Turkish hammam (bathhouse) inside the fortified walls of the Old Town of Bar. Fully restored, I’m sorry to break it to you, but although it can be really tempting to work up a sweat here, the hammam is for display purpose only.

3. The Clock Tower

Built in 1752, this is probably one of the most well-known symbols of the fortress, thanks to its imposing height overlooking the ruins of the ancient walls. You simply can’t miss it!

4. St Catherine’s Church

Right next to the Clock Tower is the beautiful St Catherine’s Church, built in the 14th century in the Gothic style. Climb the small staircase on the side for a better panorama over the peaceful surroundings and a lovely picture of the Clock.

5. St Veneranda’s Church

Tired of wandering around and exploring the remains of the ancient town walls? Take a break inside St Veneranda’s Church, also dating from the 14th century, for a moment of self-reflection or simply to catch your breath.

6. The Lapidarium

Built in the 18th century, the Lapidarium is an interesting place, rich in history and culture, where stone fragments, ancient alcoves, windows and other architectural pieces are stored, exposed and described.

Over 650 stones are stored here, discovered during the last architectural and archeological research.

A place etched in stone (pun intended) and in memory.

7. The Citadel

The citadel or defense tower was the most important structure from a military point of view at the time. The reason is simple: its location and many levels were the perfect vantage point from which to watch enemies approaching from afar or attempting to enter the town.

With views over the mountains and semi-circular defense posts, I wouldn’t have liked to be in the place of the opponents of what appeared to be an impregnable fortress.

8. The Aqueduct

Another important part of Stari Bar at one time was the aqueduct. Built in the 17th century, it was used as the principal mean of supplying spring water within the walls.

Destroyed during the earthquake in 1979, it was later restored and can now be seen from the fortress walls on your stroll back in time.

9. View from the ramparts

A flag fluttering in the wind and unparalleled views of the mountains and Adriatic Sea make this my favorite spot on the fortress ramparts.

A few benches are also available around this magnificent vantage point to make the most of it.

Outside the fortress

Just before making your way to the fortress in Stari Bar, a colorful cobblestone street will greet you and try to lure you in.

Because yes, even though it’s a pretty street just outside the fortified walls, there’s in reality not much to do here, unless you want to shop for souvenirs or grab a bite to eat.

In fact the only thing that might interest those who aren’t big shopping fans is to try the local pomegranate wine at Konoba Bedem (recommended by a local). Otherwise, I’d say the street has pretty much been defined for tourists only, so bear that in mind if you want to avoid touristy spots.

Other nearby attractions:
🏖️ Bar Beach
⛪ Church of St. Jovan Vladimir
🚌 Day trip to Ulcinj

🛏️ Hostel Hangout
For a no-frills hostel with very friendly and knowledgeable staff.

How to get to Stari Bar

To get to the fortress from the city center, you can quite easily choose to walk, athough it’s important to note that the path is a bit uphill, but if that doesn’t scare you, you should reach Stari Bar in an hour.

You can also choose to take the bus from the city center or near your accommodation if there’s a bus stop. Be aware that they run every 30 minutes and aren’t always on time!

If you’re not already in the city and wondering how to get from a city to another in Montenegro and don’t have a car, you can check bus timetables and ticket prices on busticket4.me.

FAQ

Is the entrance to the fortress free?

No, entry to the fortress costs 5€ ($5.5) but, in my opinion, it’s worth it if you take the time to explore every nook and cranny of this cultural heritage.

The fortress is also open from 08:00 to 20:00 in summer and from 08:00 to 17:00 in winter.

When is the best time to visit the fortress to avoid the tourist crowds?

Your best bet is to come at opening time, during lunch, when most people will be eating at one of the restaurants outside the fortress, or 1-2 hours before closing time.

Don’t forget: the best way to avoid the throng of tourists is to travel off season if possible.

Is there a map to help me find my way around?

I didn’t find a map (apart from the old map of the fortress at the entrance) but you can donwload an app that you can use by scanning the QR codes on the buildings to learn more about the history of the different monuments in the fortress.

How long does a full tour of the fortress take?

I’d say to get the most out of the fortress and discover all it has to offer, you’ll need between 1 and 2 hours.

Other things to know or tips?

Bring water (and maybe snacks too), especially if you’re in Stari Bar during summer as there aren’t many shady spots and it’s best to stay hydrated. And don’t forget to put on sunscreen too.

There’s not very much left of Stari Bar, but one thing’s for sure: you don’t have to be an archeology buff to enjoy its rich heritage and peaceful vibe. Strolling through its medieval walls and revisiting the past where many cultures have imbued their history, make it for me an unmissable place if you’re planning to visit Montenegro.

Less than two weeks in Montenegro? Check out my 10-day itinerary here!

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