Sutomore Voyage Tips and guide

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Sutomore is a coastal resort town in Montenegrin South Coast, part of the Bar municipality. Thanks to its excellent transport connections, proximity to the city of Bar, mild climate, and sandy beach, the town has become one of the most visited tourist centers on the southern Adriatic coast.

Sutomore is located in the southern part of the country, on the Adriatic Sea, approximately 6 kilometers northwest of the city of Bar. Due to its advantageous geographical location, Sutomore serves as an important transportation hub: the Adriatic Highway and the railway line connecting the coast with Podgorica and Serbia pass through the town. The Sutomore railway station is only 100 meters from the beach, making it particularly convenient for tourists traveling without private transport.

The territory of modern-day Sutomore has a long and rich history spanning over two thousand years. In ancient times, the area was part of the Illyrian state and later became part of the Roman Empire. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century, the land came under the control of the Byzantine Empire, which maintained influence over the Adriatic coast for many centuries.

During the Middle Ages, the territory of Sutomore belonged to various South Slavic states, including the Principality of Zeta and the Serbian Empire. From the late 14th century, the region gradually came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, which controlled the inland areas, while the coast frequently changed hands between the Ottomans and the Venetian Republic.

From the 15th to the 18th centuries, Sutomore was part of Venetian Albania and was known by its Italian name, Spizza. This period was marked by the fortification of coastal settlements, the construction of fortresses, and active maritime trade. The preserved ruins of the Haj-Nehaj Fortress (also known as Tabija), located on a hill above the town, date back to the era of Venetian-Ottoman conflict and represent an important architectural and historical monument.

After the fall of Venice in 1797 and the subsequent Napoleonic Wars, the region came under the control of the Austrian Empire. Later, in the 19th century, Sutomore became part of the Principality of Montenegro, which officially secured its independence in 1878 following the decisions of the Congress of Berlin.

In the 20th century, the town became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, and after World War II — the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. During this period, Sutomore began to develop as a resort destination. The construction of the Bar–Belgrade railway in 1976 played a significant role in this transformation, making the town easily accessible to vacationers from inland areas, particularly from Serbia.

Following the breakup of Yugoslavia and Montenegro’s independence in 2006, Sutomore continued its development as a popular tourist resort.

• By car: Sutomore is located just 10 kilometers from the city of Bar and is easily accessible via the E80 road. The drive from Podgorica takes about 1.5 hours. Convenient roads and scenic landscapes make the journey pleasant.
• By bus: Regular buses connect Sutomore with major cities in Montenegro such as Podgorica, Budva, Tivat, and others. Travel time ranges from 1 to 2 hours depending on the route. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get to Sutomore.
• By train: Sutomore is located near the railway station in Bar. Direct trains link Bar with other cities in Montenegro, and Sutomore can be reached in just 10–15 minutes by taxi or bus.
• By taxi: For maximum comfort, you can take a taxi from Bar or Podgorica. The ride takes no more than 30 minutes and is ideal for those who prefer privacy and convenience.

Sutomore is not only a resort with beautiful beaches, but also a conveniently located destination for traveling around Montenegro.

Public transport in Montenegro is organized simply and conveniently. Buses run between cities and resorts approximately once an hour. At bus stops, you will usually find timetables displaying the departure times specific to that stop, making it easier to plan your trip.

This is a popular mode of transport, especially when buses run less frequently or when waiting times are long.

Haj-Nehaj Fortress is a historic fort located on a hill near the town of Sutomore, in the Šušanj area. It is one of Montenegro's significant historical structures and held strategic importance in various historical periods.

The fortress was built in the 16th century during the period of Ottoman rule in the Balkans, although fortifications may have existed at the site even earlier. Throughout its history, Haj-Nehaj served as an important defensive structure, protecting the Adriatic coastline from land and sea invasions.

The name "Haj-Nehaj" has Turkish origins, and while its exact translation remains debated, it is thought to be associated with the idea of "high" or "reliable." Over the centuries, the fortress functioned as a military base and was reinforced with various fortifications.

Today, Haj-Nehaj is a popular tourist attraction, offering a panoramic view of Sutomore, Bar, and the nearby mountains and coastline. The fortress is not only a historical monument but also a favored spot for hiking and photography.

Tabija Fortress (Tvrđava Tabija) is an Austro-Hungarian fort from the 19th century, built during a period when this territory served as a strategic point on the empire’s southern border. It was designed to oversee the coastline and defend against the Ottoman army. Though partially in ruins today, the fortress remains impressive — with stone walls, tunnels, and remnants of an old cistern system.

Ratac Monastery (Manastir Ratac) consists of atmospheric ruins of a medieval Benedictine monastery located directly on the coast. The site blends history, mystery, and natural beauty — with ancient stone arches set against the backdrop of the sea and pine trees. It’s a great location for photography, peaceful walks, or quiet reflection during a beach day. Historically significant: it was once an influential religious center between Bar and Sutomore.

Church of Saint Tryphon was built at the end of the 19th century. It is constructed in the Byzantine style with elements of Montenegrin architecture. The church serves as a religious and cultural site for the local community.

Sutomore Main Beach (Plaža Sutomore) The longest and busiest sand-and-pebble beach, about 1 km in length, located just 100 meters from the train station.

Gradska Beach (Gradska plaža) The southern part of the main beach — slightly quieter, with less dense development and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Maljevik Beach (Plaža Maljevik) A small, picturesque cove with pebbles and crystal-clear water, surrounded by a pine forest. Located to the east of Sutomore, closer to Čanj.

Štrbina Beach (Plaža Štrbina) A small rocky beach between Maljevik and Sutomore.

Wild beaches near Cape Ratac South of the town center, several small coves can be found among the rocks with exceptionally clean water. Access is by foot via trails from the main road or along the shoreline.

In Sutomore, you can buy groceries both at the local market and in various supermarkets. Below are the main shopping locations in town:

Pijaca Sutomore Market Located in the town center, near the train station. Here you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, olives, and other products from local farmers. The market operates daily in the morning hours.

Supermarkets:

Voli Address: Mirošica 1, Sutomore. One of the largest supermarket chains in Montenegro, offering a wide range of food and household products.

Aroma Market Address: Mirošica 1, Sutomore. A supermarket with a diverse selection of food and beverages.

IDEA Address: Mirošica 2 bb, Sutomore. A supermarket chain offering groceries, drinks, and household items.

HDL Laković A recently opened supermarket in Sutomore, offering a wide variety of food and other products.

These shopping spots provide convenient access to everything you might need during your stay in Sutomore.

Guest House West Gate (Guest House West Gate), Haj Nehaj E851, ☏ +382 68 756 214, [email protected]. Check-in 14-00; Check-out 11-00. 25—110 €. 

Hotel Del Medio (Hotel Del Medio), Sutomorska ul. 23, ☏ +382 68 500 121, [email protected]. Check-in 14:00; Check-out 11:00. 30—120 €. 

• Bar – an important transport hub and economic center of Montenegro, and the country’s main seaport.

• Utjeha – a coastal resort town located on the Montenegrin South Coast.

• Budva – a major tourist center known for its well-developed resort infrastructure and historical landmarks.