Sunset and Sunrise Spots Worth a Short Taxi Ride

You don't need to plan a full excursion to catch a good sunset around Bar. Most of the best spots are a short ride away, and the whole outing can be done in under an hour if you're efficient about it. Here's a rundown of what's worth the trip, and when.

Along the coast

The waterfront in Bar itself, particularly around the old port and the promenade, faces west across the Adriatic, which makes it a straightforward and reliable option most evenings. No planning required, just show up with time to spare.

Sutomore and Čanj, both a short drive north of Bar, offer similar west-facing views with a bit more open beach and less foot traffic depending on the season, which can make for a quieter watch than central Bar.

Up in the hills

Climbing even a little inland changes the view entirely. Stari Bar, the old town set on a hillside above the modern city, looks back down over the coastline and out to sea, and the elevation gives you a wider view than you'd get at sea level. It's a well-known spot for a reason.

Further up toward Mount Rumija, the views open up dramatically, though that's a proper hike rather than a quick stop, and we've covered the trailhead and the climb itself in a separate guide, so we won't repeat it here.

Inland toward the lake

Lake Skadar has its own kind of sunset, calmer and quieter than the coast, especially from around Virpazar looking out over the water. Mornings out here can be just as good, sometimes better, since the lake tends to be stillest early, before any wind picks up, and that's also prime time for the bird activity we cover in our birdwatching guide to Lake Skadar.

Sunrise, if you're up for it

Sunrise spots get a lot less attention than sunset ones, mostly because fewer people are awake to see them. If you are, the eastern-facing hills above Bar and the quieter stretches near Virpazar are both good options, with the added bonus of having the place mostly to yourself.

If you happen to be out on the water when the light turns, our guide to boat trips from Bar covers what's typically on offer if you'd rather watch the sunset from a deck than a viewpoint.

Getting there and back

None of these spots require anything more than a short taxi ride, but timing matters more than distance here: arrive a little early, and don't wait until the light is already fading to book your ride, since it's the one part of a sunset outing you can't rush. If your evening is winding down after the trip, our guide to leaving Bar has everything on onward travel.

For more of what's outdoors around Bar, see the full nature guide.