The route in a nutshell
The Bar railway opened in 1976 and passes through more than 250 tunnels and over 400 bridges, including the Mala Rijeka viaduct in Montenegro, one of the highest railway bridges in Europe. The trip from Belgrade to Bar takes about 11 hours, depending on border checks and engineering works.
Timetable and departures
The daytime train runs as number 433 towards Bar and 432 back to Belgrade. In the summer season additional departures are added, usually overnight trains with couchette cars. Check current times, stops and reported delays on the train pages:
Note: due to works, the departure station in Belgrade changes from time to time, so double-check where your train actually starts.
Border crossing and documents
The train crosses the border between Serbia and Montenegro. Bring a valid passport, or an ID card if the rules for your citizenship allow it. Passport and customs checks are done on board or at the border stations, where the train waits longer: that time is already built into the timetable.
What to bring and practical tips
- Bring your own food and water, on-board catering is minimal or absent.
- A charger and a power bank: sockets are not guaranteed in every car.
- For overnight trains, book a couchette, the price difference is worth it.
- In summer, buy tickets as early as possible, trains to the coast fill up weeks ahead.
- Pack a layer more than you think you need, air conditioning can be inconsistent.
The most scenic stretch
The most spectacular part begins after Bijelo Polje: canyons and mountain scenery through northern Montenegro, then the descent towards Podgorica across the Mala Rijeka viaduct. Just before Bar the line skirts Lake Skadar, so stay awake for the final hour too.
Delays: what to realistically expect
On a line this long, mostly single-track, delays are common. There is no official live tracking, but on vozovi.rs passengers on board report how late the train is running, so people waiting further down the line know what to expect. See our guide to train delays in Serbia for how the system works.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train from Belgrade to Bar?
Around 11 hours, depending on border checks and track conditions. Passengers report delays on vozovi.rs, so you can see the train's status before you leave for the station.
Which station does the Bar train leave from?
The departure station in Belgrade occasionally changes due to engineering works. Check the train 433 page on vozovi.rs for the current departure station and time.
Do I need a passport for the Belgrade - Bar train?
Yes, the train crosses the Serbia - Montenegro border. Bring a valid passport, or an ID card if your citizenship allows it. Border checks happen on board or at the border stations.
Does the train stop in Sutomore?
Yes, the train calls at Sutomore just before the terminus in Bar, which makes it popular for beach holidays. Check the train page for all stops.
Where do I buy tickets for the Bar train?
Tickets are sold by Srbija Voz online and at station counters. In summer, seats and especially couchettes sell out fast, so book as early as you can.
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