Old Town of Bar — Attraction in Stari Bar

Our family road trip from Romania to the Montenegrin coast this summer was an adventure in itself, a long ribbon of asphalt unwinding through landscapes that shifted from the familiar plains of home to the dramatic, fjord-like beauty of the Balkans. After days of sun-drenched beaches and the lively buzz of Budva, we craved a different kind of experience, something that would peel back the layers of Montenegro's history. Our destination: the Old Town of Bar, or Stari Bar, a place that promised whispers of ancient civilizations. As a family with two teenagers in tow – a 14-year-old son with a burgeoning interest in photography and a 10-year-old daughter whose enthusiasm for "old stuff" is, shall we say, selective – we approached the excursion with a mixture of anticipation and parental trepidation. Nestled in the foothills of the impressive Mount Rumija, a few kilometers inland from the modern city of Bar, Stari Bar immediately felt different. The air was thick with the scent of wild herbs and the promise of stories etched in stone. Leaving our car in the ample parking area, we walked up the cobbled street lined with souvenir shops and inviting konobas (traditional taverns), the ancient fortress walls looming ever closer. The entrance fee was a reasonable 5 euros per adult, with a discount for the kids, a small price for what felt like stepping into a different era. The moment we passed through the main gate, a sense of awe washed over us. This was no meticulously restored, theme-park version of history. Stari Bar is a sprawling, romantic ruin, a city abandoned and reclaimed by nature. The cobbled paths, worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, were indeed uneven, and we were grateful for the advice to wear sturdy shoes. Our son, armed with his camera, was immediately captivated. The interplay of light and shadow on the crumbling walls, the vibrant wildflowers bursting through ancient stonework, and the sheer scale of the ruins provided a photographic feast. He wandered off, lost in his own world of compositions and apertures, a welcome sight for any parent hoping to engage their teen. Our daughter, initially more reserved, found her own points of interest. The remnants of numerous churches, their architectural styles a testament to the diverse cultures that once thrived here – from Byzantine to Venetian and Ottoman – sparked her curiosity. We played a game of "spot the difference" between the architectural details of an Orthodox church and a former mosque, a tangible history lesson that no textbook could replicate. The well-preserved 16th-century aqueduct, a graceful stone bridge snaking across the valley, was a particular highlight, a marvel of engineering that even a modern teenager could appreciate. We spent a good two hours exploring the labyrinthine alleyways, climbing the ramparts to be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the new city of Bar, the glistening Adriatic Sea in the distance, and the rugged beauty of the surrounding mountains. From this vantage point, the sheer strategic importance of this ancient settlement became crystal clear. We could almost hear the clang of swords and the murmur of merchants in the bustling town square below. What truly sets Stari Bar apart is its authenticity. It hasn't been overly sanitized for tourists. There's a raw, almost melancholic beauty to the place that encourages quiet contemplation and discovery. For our teenagers, this meant the freedom to explore at their own pace, to feel like intrepid adventurers uncovering a lost city rather than being herded through a...

The Old Town of Bar is an absolute must-visit if you're anywhere near the area. Steeped in history and surrounded by stunning mountain views, this ancient fortress site offers a glimpse into Montenegro’s rich past. Wandering through the old stone ruins, narrow pathways, and centuries-old buildings feels like stepping back in time.

There’s a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere, especially if you go early or near sunset. The views from the top are incredible—you can see the town, the sea, and the rugged landscape all at once. Along the way, you'll find small cafes and shops with local products that add to the charm.

It’s well-preserved, easy to explore, and not overly crowded, which makes the experience even more special. Whether you’re into history, photography, or just want a beautiful place to walk and think, the Old Town of Bar is unforgettable....

Visiting the Old Town of Bar was like stepping into a forgotten chapter of history. Nestled at the foot of Mount Rumija, this ancient fortress town offers sweeping views, crumbling stone walls, and a palpable sense of mystery. The €5 entrance fee is well worth it—inside, you’ll find winding paths, remnants of churches and towers, and quiet corners perfect for reflection or photos.

I especially loved how nature has reclaimed parts of the ruins, with fig trees and wild herbs growing between the stones. It’s peaceful, atmospheric, and surprisingly expansive. There are also charming cafés just outside the entrance where you can sip a cold drink and soak in the view.

Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or just someone who enjoys wandering through beautiful ruins, Stari Bar is a must-see. Just wear good shoes and bring water—there’s a...