Secrets of the Old Town Bar – A Journey through Millennia

Exploring the Secrets of the Old Town Bar – A Guide to a Unique Montenegrin Experience

If you’re considering a tour that combines history, culture, and a touch of scenic nature in Montenegro, the Secrets of the Old Town Bar might catch your eye. Based on reviews and tour descriptions, it promises a journey through centuries, revealing stories that predate even Shakespeare’s famous lovers. While we haven’t done this tour ourselves, it’s clear that it offers a mix of storytelling, cultural discovery, and some lovely views, all within a manageable three-hour window.

What we really like about this experience is its focus on a less-visited but historically significant site, plus the chance to see the legendary Old Olive Tree, which is more than 2,200 years old. We also appreciate that it includes a panoramic tour of modern Bar—a handy way to get your bearings before stepping back in time. The downside? The uneven and rough terrain in the Old Town might be a challenge if you have mobility issues or are traveling with young children. Still, this tour seems best suited for history lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a walk through authentic ancient sites.

If you’re after a short, informative, and scenic trip that highlights Montenegro’s rich past and local traditions without a lot of fuss, this could be a good pick. It’s not about luxury or high-end experiences but rather about connecting with the soul of old Bar and its legends. Here’s what you need to know before deciding if it’s right for you.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historical storytelling about the love story of Princess Kosara and Prince Vladimir that predates Shakespeare.
• Visit to the Old Olive Tree, an ancient natural monument with over 2,200 years of history.
• Guided tour of Old Town Bar, with photo breaks and insights into the diverse civilizations that inhabited the area.
• Scenic panoramic views of the modern town of Bar and a chance to relax in the Old Bar Bazaar.
• Accessible for most travelers with comfortable shoes, but uneven terrain could be a concern.
• Includes all entry tickets and transportation to and from the town center, making it straightforward to join.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Old Town of Bar – A Fortress of Time

Start your adventure with a panoramic drive through the modern town of Bar. You’ll get a sense of how the city has grown from its ancient roots, with views that stretch over the mountains and the small coastal strip. This part of the tour sets the scene and underscores how Bar’s geography and history intertwine.

After the scenic drive, you’ll head to the Old Town of Bar itself. Perched on a steep cliff 5 kilometers from the sea, this fortress is unlike many Mediterranean cities. Its massive walls and ruins tell stories of different civilizations—Venetians, Ottomans, and others—each leaving their mark. Visitors often note that the footpaths are quite rough, with stones that are smooth and sometimes steep slopes, so walking can be a bit tricky. As one reviewer put it, “the footpaths are very rough and the stones very smooth,” so comfortable shoes are a must.

The Love Story of Princess Kosara and Prince Vladimir

One of the highlights is learning about the romantic legend that has linked this region for over a thousand years. The guide explains the tale of Princess Kosara, who fell in love with the Prince Vladimir while he was in captivity. This story, older than Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is woven into the local culture and symbolizes the enduring power of love in the Balkans.

This narrative isn’t just a romantic story; it’s a symbol of connection among different cultures and civilizations that have passed through the area. The story also ties into the cult of St. John Vladimir, which has been preserved for over a millennium—adding a spiritual dimension to the history.

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The Old Olive Tree – An Ancient Natural Monument

Next, you’ll visit the Old Olive Tree, a living remnant of the past that has persisted for more than 2,240 years. It’s a quiet spot where you can reflect on how this single tree has witnessed countless generations. The fruit from this tree has been used for various purposes over millennia, and today, it still produces olives. You might find this place especially fascinating if you’re interested in natural history and local traditions.

The House of Olives & Local Flavors

As part of the experience, you’ll also get tickets to the House of Olives, where you can learn about olive cultivation and enjoy tasting local products. This offers a tangible taste of Montenegrin agriculture and culinary traditions, which many travelers find worthwhile.

Free Time in Old Bar Bazaar

Eventually, you’ll have free time to explore the Old Bar Bazaar. This is where the tour really shines for those who enjoy tasting local food and drinks. You can sip on natural juices and sample local dishes while admiring the views of the city walls and ramparts built by Venice. Many reviewers have praised the bazaar as a lively spot, perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere and trying pomegranate juice or homemade coffee.

Why This Tour Works

This experience is helpful for those who appreciate heritage sites but don’t want a lengthy, overly strenuous day. It’s suitable for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, nature, and local culture within a short time frame. The inclusion of entry tickets, transportation, and a licensed guide makes it convenient and straightforward.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What We Like

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their storytelling skills. One said, “The guide of AVE Tours presented the history of the walls of the Old Town beautifully,” highlighting the value of expert narration in bringing the past alive.

Authentic Cultural Highlights: Visiting the Old Olive Tree and tasting local produce makes this more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive peek into Montenegro’s traditions.

Convenience and Value: All entry tickets are included, and the pick-up/drop-off from the town center makes logistics simple. The overall cost seems reasonable considering the scope of sites visited and the stories shared.

What Could Be Better

Terrain Challenges: Several reviews mention the uneven, rocky paths in the Old Town, which can be slippery and tricky to navigate. Wearing flat, sturdy shoes is a must. If you have limited mobility or small children, this might require extra caution.

Duration and Pace: At three hours, the tour strikes a good balance—but if you’re not comfortable walking on uneven ground or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find parts of the tour slightly rushed.

Limited Time at Each Stop: The free time in the bazaar is appreciated, but some might wish for longer exploration or more detailed storytelling at each site.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in history, legends, and local culture who want a short but meaningful experience. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic walks, storytelling, and tasting local flavors. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues due to rough terrain or for travelers expecting luxury or very leisurely pace. The tour also appeals to those curious about the multicultural layers of Montenegro’s past.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: Around 3 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Start Point: Look for the “AVE Tours” sign in front of their office.
• Languages: Tours are available in English, Italian, Russian, and German.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are essential; bring water and a hat if it’s sunny.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for people over 70 due to terrain challenges.
• Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically designed as a family tour, children comfortable walking on uneven surfaces might enjoy the stories and sights. However, the rocky paths and steep slopes could be challenging for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves a guided walk around the Old Town, which has rough and uneven footpaths. Expect some slopes, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Bar city center, making it convenient to join without worrying about additional transport arrangements.

Can I buy local food or drinks during the tour?
Yes, in the Old Bar Bazaar, you’ll have the chance to taste natural juices and local food, making for a delightful culinary experience.

What should I wear?
Wear flat, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces. A hat and water bottle are also good ideas, especially in warm weather.

Is there an option to cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund. This makes booking with flexibility easier.

Final Thoughts

The Secrets of the Old Town Bar tour offers a compact yet rich experience that combines history, legends, and local culture. If you’re a traveler who enjoys walking through ancient sites, hearing captivating stories, and tasting authentic local products, this tour can be a rewarding addition to your Montenegro visit.

It’s most suited for those who want a meaningful glimpse into Montenegro’s past without spending an entire day on sightseeing. The inclusion of the Old Olive Tree and the bazaar adds a natural and cultural touch that makes this experience feel genuine and memorable.

On the downside, the uneven terrain requires some attention, and those with mobility concerns might find parts of it less accessible. Still, for most, the guides and the scenic stops deliver a well-rounded snapshot of Montenegro’s historical soul. If you’re looking for an experience that’s educational, scenic, and culturally immersive—all in a few hours—this tour might be just what you need.

You can check availability for your dates here: