Bar, Montenegro
Bar, Montenegro, is a charming and historically rich port on Montenegro's stunning Adriatic coast. Unlike its more bustling neighbors like Kotor, Bar offers a more tranquil and authentic experience. The city is a unique blend of old and new, with the modern, post-World War II city center on the coast and the magnificent ruins of Old Bar (Stari Bar) nestled in the mountains. This fascinating juxtaposition of ancient history, beautiful beaches, and a serene, coastal atmosphere makes Bar a captivating port of call.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Port of Adria, a modern, multipurpose port that can accommodate large cruise liners. However, due to its status as an active commercial port, you will not be able to walk off the ship and into the town. A complimentary shuttle bus service will be provided by the port to take you on a short ride to a designated "zero point" on the main promenade in the center of the town
⚓ Terminal Information
The Port of Adria has allocated one of its piers for cruise ship traffic. While there is no full-service terminal building at the pier itself, the port plans to build one in the future. The shuttle bus will take you from the gangway to the main promenade in the city center.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
At the "zero point" on the main promenade, where the shuttle bus drops you off, you will find a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and brochures. You can also find taxis and other tour pickups. There are restrooms available in the area, and you are immediately surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Montenegrin, which is part of the Serbo-Croatian language family. While you may encounter some people who speak English in the main tourist areas, it is not as widely spoken as in other European ports. It is a good idea to have a few basic phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
Zdravo (ZDRAH-voh) - Hello
Hvala (HVAH-lah) - Thank you
Molim (MOH-leem) - Please
Gde je...? (gdeh yeh) - Where is...?
Koliko košta? (KOH-lee-koh KOH-sh-tah) - How much does it cost?
💰 Money
The official currency of Montenegro is the Euro (€), despite it not being a member of the European Union. This makes it very convenient for cruisers from Eurozone countries, as there is no need to exchange money. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases at local markets or for taxis. ATMs are widely available in the town center and at banks.
🚗 Transportation
To get from the cruise port to the town of Bar, you must take the complimentary shuttle bus. Once in town, you have a few options for getting around.
Walking: The modern city of Bar is very walkable, with a wide, paved promenade that runs along the seafront. The main city center is also easy to explore on foot. However, Old Bar (Stari Bar) is about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) away and is not a walkable distance.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the "zero point" where the shuttle bus drops you off. The price to get to Old Bar should be around €5-€10. It is a good idea to agree on the price with the driver before you get in.
Public Bus: Bar has a public bus system that can take you to other parts of the city and to nearby towns.
♿ Accessibility
Bar has an accessibility rating of 2 out of 10. While the cruise port and the main promenade are generally flat and accessible, the city's public institutions are not easily accessible for people with disabilities, and many lack ramps or elevators. Old Bar (Stari Bar) is a medieval ruin with uneven cobblestone streets and stairs that would be very difficult to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to the main town area is to take the complimentary shuttle bus provided by the port. The bus will drop you off on the main promenade, which is a great place to start your exploration.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in the city center and at major tourist attractions. They are generally clean and free to use. You can also find restrooms at many of the restaurants, cafes, and bars.
💊 Drugstore
Apoteka Bar: The closest pharmacy is located in the town center, a short walk from the promenade.
Pharmacy: There are several pharmacies in the town center.
✨ Authentic Experience
Explore the Ruins of Old Bar (Stari Bar): Instead of just staying in the modern city, take a taxi to Old Bar. This fascinating historic site is a medieval fortress that was destroyed in the 19th century and is now being restored. You can wander through the ruins of churches, palaces, and a Turkish bath, with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. It's a great way to step back in time.
Visit the Old Olive Tree: Just a short taxi ride from the port is the Old Olive Tree, a symbol of Bar's olive oil industry. It is said to be over 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest trees in the world. It is a peaceful and beautiful place to visit.
Dine on Local Mediterranean Cuisine: Bar is in a region known for its fresh Mediterranean food. Seek out a local restaurant and try some traditional Montenegrin dishes, such as grilled fish, ćevapi (a type of grilled sausage), or a hearty meat stew. You can also find some delicious local wines to pair with your meal.
