From Bar: Phoenix Town & Town of Pirates in One Day

From Bar: Phoenix Town & Town of Pirates in One Day — A Complete Review

If you’re visiting Montenegro and craving a snapshot of its historical charm, this tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into two of its most captivating old towns—Bar and Ulcinj. For about six hours, you’ll wander through UNESCO-listed Old Towns, uncover stories of pirates, civilizations, and ancient olive groves, all while enjoying some of the region’s best viewpoints. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, and the transport—whether a car, van, or bus—is of high tourist class, ensuring a comfortable ride.

Two things we love: First, the opportunity to walk through centuries of history in the open-air ruins and narrow streets of Old Town Bar, and second, the chance to learn about Ulcinj’s pirate past and the surprising history behind its slave market—two stories that truly bring Montenegro’s vibrant past to life. One consideration to keep in mind: the tour’s busy schedule means some stops are quick, so if you love deep dives into history or photography, you might want to explore further on your own later. Still, if your focus is an authentic, accessible taste of Montenegro’s past with some fantastic vistas, this is a great choice.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate history, stunning scenery, and stories of pirates and civilizations. It suits those who prefer a structured day with expert guidance but also want a taste of local culture and landscape within a manageable timeframe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Historic Diversity: Visit two ancient towns where multiple civilizations left their mark.
Iconic Views: Enjoy panoramic viewpoints over Valdanos Beach and other scenic spots.
Cultural Stories: Discover the intriguing history of pirates in Ulcinj and the significance of the Old Olive Tree.
UNESCO Heritage: Explore the largest open-air archaeological site in Montenegro, designated as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Authentic Experiences: Walk through narrow streets, ancient ruins, and olive groves, feeling like you’re stepping back in time.
Comfortable Transport: Travel in a high-class vehicle that makes the day relaxed and hassle-free.

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In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup at a designated meeting point marked by an AVE Tours sign. From there, you’ll travel comfortably in a high-quality vehicle, which is a real plus given the distances involved. The journey between the towns is smooth, and the vehicle allows for some scenic views along the way.

Since the tour lasts six hours, the transport plays a crucial role in maintaining the pace and comfort. We appreciated that the vehicle felt spacious and modern—no cramped seats here—making the roughly 4.5 km trip from the coast to Old Town Bar a breezy start.

The Viewpoint Above Valdanos Beach

Your first stop offers a panoramic view over Valdanos Beach, a stunning sweep of pebbles and clear waters. This is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap photos of the coast. The guide will likely share some local stories or facts about the beach’s significance, which adds context to the scenery.

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Ulcinj: Old Town and Olive Groves

As you approach Ulcinj, you’ll pass through one of Montenegro’s most beautiful olive groves, which is included as part of the experience. The ancient olive tree here is the region’s only natural monument, a living witness to centuries of agriculture. We loved walking among the centuries-old trees, feeling connected to the land beneath your feet.

Ulcinj’s Old Town reveals a history of pirates and trade, with narrow streets that seem to whisper stories of ships, battles, and treasure. The guide will explain why a monument to Miguel de Cervantes—the author of Don Quixote—is here, a surprising but fascinating connection to Spain’s influence.

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The Pirate History of Ulcinj

One of the tour’s highlights is uncovering Ulcinj’s past as a pirate stronghold. You’ll learn about the town’s role in regional maritime trade and piracy, which was common in the Mediterranean. The guide shares stories about the pirates who once roamed these waters, and the town’s reputation as a pirate seat.

We found the story of the famous slave sold at the market especially intriguing. It’s a stark reminder of the darker chapters of local history, and the guide handles these topics with sensitivity and insight.

Old Town of Bar: The Largest Archaeological Site in Montenegro

The second main stop is Old Town Bar, located about 4.5 km from the coast. This site is incredible—home to around 250 different building types in its past, now an extensive archaeological site and open-air museum. UNESCO recognizes it for good reason: walking through its ruins feels like stepping into a layered storybook.

You’ll wander through streets flanked by stone walls and ancient structures, imagining life here centuries ago. The guide will point out significant remains and explain their historical context, making the ruins come alive.

Entry Tickets and Guided Insights

All entry tickets—Old Town, Old Olive Tree, and House of Olives—are included, which is a nice perk. The guide, licensed and well-informed, adds depth to each stop, sharing stories and answering questions.

What’s Missing?

The tour does not include food or drinks, so plan to bring water and perhaps a snack. Some may find the schedule a bit tight if they prefer a leisurely pace for photography or exploring every corner; this tour is more about getting a broad overview.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price, you’re paying for guided access to major sites, convenient transportation, and a local expert who unpacks Montenegro’s history and stories. The inclusion of multiple tickets and insights makes it good value, especially for those wanting a curated, hassle-free experience.

The tour strikes a balance—it’s not overly rushed, but it’s also not meant for deep, extended exploration. If you love walking through ancient ruins, hearing lively stories, and enjoying scenic vistas, you’ll find it rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, engaging introduction to Montenegro’s historic towns without the hassle of planning logistics. It suits those with limited time but a curiosity for history, stories of pirates, and scenic views. It’s also great for families or groups who favor guided tours that can answer questions and make history accessible.

If you’re after a relaxed yet informative day that combines history, culture, and landscape, this tour fits well. However, if you’re a history buff or photographer craving more time at each location, you might want to supplement this experience with additional visits.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time and stops at the key sites.

What is included in the price?
Entry tickets to Old Town, the Old Olive Tree, and House of Olives are included, along with transportation in a high-quality vehicle and a licensed guide.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you should bring some water and perhaps a snack.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at a designated meeting point marked by the AVE Tours sign and ends back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and focus on historical sights make it suitable for families, provided children are comfortable walking and listening to stories.

What are the main highlights?
Expect panoramic viewpoints over Valdanos Beach, wandering the ancient ruins of Old Town Bar, uncovering Ulcinj’s pirate history, and seeing the region’s only natural monument—the Old Olive Tree.

How accessible are the sites?
Most sites involve walking through narrow streets and uneven surfaces typical of ancient towns, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a licensed English-speaking guide leads the tour, sharing stories and answering questions along the way.

Final Words

If your Montenegro visit includes a desire to connect with history, stunning landscapes, and tales of pirates, this tour offers a compact yet satisfying experience. It combines cultural insight with scenic vistas and a relaxed pace—perfect for those who want to get a feel for the old-world charm of Montenegro without feeling rushed.

The combination of walking through ancient ruins, discovering legendary stories, and enjoying panoramic views makes this a memorable part of any Montenegro itinerary. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value authentic stories, scenic photo opportunities, and a taste of local history—all in one manageable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: