Bar is an unexpected jewel in Montenegro's crown. Often overlooked by the guidebooks, this coastal town in the country's south is a peaceful escape from the main European backpacking route. That being said, there's plenty on offer here from the colourful cobbled streets of the old town to the relaxing beaches on the coastline. Just a little further out, you'll find plenty of opportunities for hikes through the wilderness or dips into blue lakes.

See how the city's history is being reclaimed at a hostel in Bar in a former olive factory. There's one with mountain views if you want to take in Montenegro's natural scenery. Or stay with the sands in view at a hostel near the beach. Bar hostels with free Wi-Fi mean you can easily plot your next trip, while accommodation with free city maps helps you to get around. To save some money, cook dinner for yourself at a Bar hostel with self-catering facilities.

Bar's Old Town is alive with colour thanks to the painted buildings that line the streets. You can find local restaurants and souvenir shops here. Stari Bar is at the foot of Mount Rumija and, having been damaged by an earthquake, found itself absorbed by nature with greenery growing in ruined buildings. It has since been taken back by locals and is now the perfect spot for hilly panoramas. For secluded beaches and pine forests, go to Sutomore.

King Nikola's Palace, the royal seafront house, is the most regal building to spot in Bar. It was built in 1885 and is now a museum. For religious artefacts, head to the Church of St Jovan Vladimir, a cathedral with huge golden domes. At Stara Maslina, you can see one of the oldest trees on the planet. Go deeper into nature with a canyoning trip to Rikavac or Međurečje, or visit the beach in the town centre, which is quiet by day and comes to life at night.

Podgorica Airport is the closest one to Bar. Getting to the town is simple: you can catch a train that will have you there in 50 minutes, or a taxi which takes about an hour. The town is also served by buses and rail lines from other cities in Montenegro. Bar is a compact part of the country, so it's easy enough to get around the main sights on foot.