Ulcinj: Ancient Pride of the Mediterranean
At the southernmost point of Montenegro lies Ulcinj, an ancient town that for centuries has represented one of the most authentic symbols of the Mediterranean. Thanks to its natural features, a blend of Montenegrin, Ottoman, Venetian, and Albanian traditions, as well as its 13-kilometer-long beach, this place has been attracting travelers from all over the world for decades.
Authentic cuisine, the impressive Old Town, numerous events and legends, and above all, a pleasant and hospitable atmosphere are just some of the reasons why you should visit this town, which proudly stands and preserves a legacy more than two thousand years old.
History and Cultural Heritage
As we already mentioned in the introduction, Ulcinj is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic, with continuity spanning over two millennia. Its dynamic past and the many civilizations that once inhabited it have made it one of the most impressive examples of the coexistence of different cultures and civilizations that once populated the Balkan Peninsula.
Ulcinj Old Town
Ulcinj’s Old Town represents the very core of the city’s historical development. Situated on a rocky cliff, this area is rich with architectural details left behind as testimony to the many civilizations that once lived there. Over the centuries, this part of Ulcinj has remained inhabited, and even today, some descendants of old Ulcinj families still live there.
Stone-paved streets, Venetian terraces overlooking the blue Adriatic, small squares, and one of the most impressive citadels in the Balkans — all stand to tell their centuries-old story.
In addition to its cultural heritage, Ulcinj’s Old Town is still home to small shops, artisan workshops, and restaurants that prepare authentic local specialties — allowing you to, at least for a moment, step back in time and feel the unique atmosphere that has graced this place for centuries.
Multicultural Influences
The mix of different ethnic and religious communities that still live in Ulcinj to this day has left a strong imprint on the city’s identity. In the Old Town, there are churches that were converted into mosques, remains of Ottoman and Venetian structures (most notably the citadel), and countless stories that, over the years, have become legends — stories that locals still recount with smiles on their faces.
That not only well-known conquerors lived in Ulcinj is confirmed by the fact that this city was, for a long time, one of the largest pirate harbors on the Adriatic Sea. As a pirate captive, the famous writer Miguel de Cervantes spent several years in imprisonment here, and many believe that it was in this very place that he found inspiration for his most renowned work, Don Quixote.
Due to the very nature of being a pirate harbor, this city was also home to many slaves, some of whom, after gaining their freedom, remained to live in Ulcinj — some even to this day. This is where the term “Afro-Ulcinj people” originates, and the most well-known among them was Rizo Šurla, a photographer and participant in the National Liberation War during World War II.
Monuments and Landmarks of Ulcinj
Among the most famous landmarks of Ulcinj is the Sailors’ Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the Balkans, which at one time also served as a lighthouse. In addition to this, the city boasts an impressive number of monuments and sites, including the Church of Saint Nicholas, the Balšić Tower, Velika (Long) and Mala (Small) beaches, as well as several museums that house testimonies of times long past — all of which almost always appear on every visitor’s itinerary.
Beaches and Natural Beauty of Ulcinj
Now we come to the more exciting part — the beaches and natural beauty of Ulcinj. These two elements are precisely what make Ulcinj one of the most attractive destinations on the Adriatic, and in the following lines, you’ll discover why.
Velika Plaža (Long Beach)
Imagine a beach that stretches for 13 kilometers with fine sand, without modern complexes — only beach bars and kite clubs surrounded by impressive flora and fauna. All that, and much more, is what Velika Plaža offers, located just 15–20 minutes by car from Ulcinj. The shoreline is clean, the water is quite shallow, and according to the locals, it is believed to have healing properties.
In addition to that, along the beach you’ll come across numerous authentic bars offering a rich selection of drinks and traditional Montenegrin as well as international specialties.
On the other hand, sports and active vacation enthusiasts will find a place here they’ll always be eager to return to. Due to its geographical location, the winds that sweep along Ulcinj’s coast are ideal for kitesurfing, attracting athletes from all over the world each year. Besides kitesurfing, other popular activities you can enjoy include beach volleyball and beach football.
💡 Note: If you’re a fan of camping, you’re in luck — it’s allowed on Velika Plaža and is usually free. An additional advantage of this beach is that, due to its size, it never feels overcrowded, so you’ll have all the comfort you need.
Ada Bojana – The Only Nudist Resort in the Balkans
When you reach the end of Velika Plaža, you’ll witness the moment where the Bojana River flows into the sea — a rare and truly poetic sight. After crossing the river, you’ll arrive at Ada Bojana, an island known for being home to the only nudist resort in this part of Europe.
In addition to the nudist resort, on this island you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy authentic seafood specialties served both within the resort and in the restaurants located along the Bojana River. You’ll be able to swim in both fresh and salt water, take part in numerous activities offered by the nudist resort, explore the unique ecosystem, or simply walk peacefully along the 3-kilometer-long shore and enjoy a view that won’t leave you indifferent.
Ulcinj Salina: A Favorite Refuge for Flamingos
Just a few kilometers from the center of Ulcinj lies the Ulcinj Salina, a nature park that represents one of the most important bird habitats in the Balkans. At this site, over 240 species of birds have found their home, and observing them is truly a sight you should not miss.
The main attraction of the salina is the flamingos, which over time have become its trademark. As the only flamingo habitat on this part of the Adriatic, the site is home to more than two thousand individuals, and watching them in their natural surroundings is a unique experience that is simply priceless.
In addition to flamingos, the Ulcinj Salina is also home to pelicans, swifts, numerous species of ducks, herons, and seagulls — making it, quite rightfully, a true paradise for birds.
Other Beaches Worth Visiting
Besides Velika Plaža and Ada Bojana, there are several other beaches in this town that you should definitely visit — both for their unique features and for everything they have to offer.
The first among them is Mala Plaža (Small Beach), located in the very center of town and very popular among locals, as well as tourists staying in central Ulcinj. Access to the beach is very simple, it has all the necessary facilities, and a wide variety of bars and restaurants can be found nearby — so everything you need during your visit will be within easy reach.
On the other hand, there is another very interesting beach — though unlike the previous ones, not everyone is welcome here. It’s called Ženska plaža (Ladies’s Beach), and as the name suggests, it is accessible exclusively to individuals of the female gender. Due to its unique features — specifically the sulfuric springs that emerge from the rocky areas, as well as the surrounding greenery — the water and mud here are believed to have beneficial effects on women’s health.
And finally, we come to Valdanos — once the main harbor and a favorite refuge for pirate ships, and today a bay surrounded by olive groves, known for its pebbled beach and crystal-clear water. This Natural Monument is now one of the most beloved swimming spots for those who wish to spend their time on the beach in peace, surrounded by untouched greenery and breathing the cleanest air on this part of the coast.
Unmissable Tourist Activities and Tips
One of Ulcinj’s main features is that it offers a wide variety of attractions that are of great interest to tourists, a rich selection of accommodation options, and above all, good connectivity with other popular destinations along the Montenegrin coast.
Sightseeing and Day Trips
Some of the most popular activities you should experience while in Ulcinj include visiting the Old Town, taking boat rides along the coastline, as well as the unmissable excursions to Ada Bojana. Some of the most popular tours include trips to coves like Valdanos, organized visits to Lake Skadar, and slightly longer — but equally impressive — boat tours that take you to all the coastal towns in Montenegro.
If you decide on one of these, we recommend a tour that takes you from Ulcinj, through Budva and its landmarks, all the way to the Bay of Kotor — one of the most striking sights on the coast. Additionally, due to its location, there are frequent tours that lead to the capital city of Podgorica, which is only two hours from Ulcinj, as well as trips to Cetinje and visits to Njegoš’s Mausoleum on Mount Lovćen.
Accommodation Options and Local Cuisine
When it comes to accommodation, the town of Ulcinj offers a wide range of options. From five-star hotels located in the very center, to private apartments and cottages that are abundant both in the town and its surroundings — all the way to the nudist resort on Ada Bojana. Prices for accommodation mostly vary depending on location, so keep in mind that a room in the center of Ulcinj will cost more than an apartment in the outskirts or a bungalow on Bojana.
When it comes to cuisine — that is, places offering the most authentic Montenegrin specialties — we recommend the restaurants located along the Bojana River and in the Old Town, as well as those in the center of Ulcinj. The vast majority of them offer a rich selection of both local and international dishes.
Travel Tips
If you’re planning to visit Ulcinj, the best time to travel is between May and July, and from August to October. During these periods, the weather conditions are stable, and various cultural and entertainment events take place almost daily. A very important factor is booking your accommodation — it is advisable to do so at least a month in advance, especially if you’re planning your visit in July or August.
If you’re visiting for the first time, we recommend using online guides to find the best beaches, restaurants, and destinations for authentic experiences. When it comes to day trips, our advice is to bring all necessary items with you — from sunscreen to drinking water. We say this simply because some alternative destinations in Montenegro, although impressive, are often uninhabited and you may not be able to find everything you need once you’re there.
Connections to Other Destinations
Ulcinj is a city well connected to most Montenegrin cities, as well as to Tirana. Regular bus lines and private transportation options are available to help you visit any desired destination without worry.
On the other hand, the airports in Podgorica, Tivat, and Tirana are all relatively close, meaning your connection to your home country — or to other destinations — will never be in question. Thanks to these factors, Ulcinj is frequently visited as part of longer tours throughout Montenegro, the region, and even beyond.
Ulcinj: Your Next Destination
In the end, when all is said and done, one thing is certain — Ulcinj is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating destinations in Montenegro. Thanks to the influence of various cultures, its wealth of natural beauty and attractions, this city represents a unique corner of the Montenegrin coast, patiently waiting to share its millennia-old story with its visitors.
From the Old Town to Ada Bojana, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a wide range of activities, swim at some of the most beautiful beaches on the Mediterranean, and return home with countless anecdotes, impressions, souvenirs — and above all, an experience that only Ulcinj could offer you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which beaches are recommended when visiting Ulcinj?
The most well-known is Velika Plaža (Long Beach), around 13 kilometers long, suitable for families and water sports enthusiasts. In addition to that, there is Mala Plaža (Small Beach), located in the very center of the city. Women’s Beach and the beaches on Ada Bojana are also popular, known for their unique atmosphere and peaceful surroundings.
Is Ulcinj safe for tourists?
Absolutely! Ulcinj is considered one of the safest cities for tourists. Crime is low, and the local population is very hospitable toward visitors.
How much time is needed to explore Ulcinj?
To see the main landmarks and enjoy the beaches, three to four days are recommended. Visitors who wish to explore historical sites, natural beauty, and local cuisine in more depth may want to stay up to seven days.
What landmarks should be visited in Ulcinj?
Ulcinj’s Old Town is a must-see attraction thanks to its preserved walls and museums. Other notable places include the Lighthouse, the Cervantes monument, and the Ulcinj Salina nature park. Ada Bojana is also a destination you shouldn’t miss due to its unique characteristics.
When is the best time to see flamingos at the Ulcinj Salina?
Flamingos can be seen at the Ulcinj Salina throughout the year, but the best period for observing them is between April and October, when their numbers are highest. Early morning and late afternoon are ideal times for photography, as the birds are most active during these hours.
Is it possible to combine a visit to Ulcinj with other Balkan destinations?
Yes, Ulcinj is an excellent choice for combined tours across the Balkans. The city is just an hour’s drive from Shkodra in Albania, two hours from Podgorica, and three hours from Dubrovnik. Many tourists combine their visit to Ulcinj with trips to the Bay of Kotor, Tivat, or even cross the border to visit Shkodra and Tirana in Albania.
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