Ulcinj

Ulcinj, a coastal town in southern Montenegro, sits along the Adriatic Sea with 33 kilometers of coastline. You can relax on the 13-kilometer stretch of sandy Velika Plaza or explore the medieval Ulcinj Castle. The town's location near the Albanian border creates a mix of Montenegrin and Albanian influences, evident in its cuisine, architecture, and local customs.

Ulcinj's Beaches

Ulcinj's coastline includes 18 kilometers of beaches. Velika Plaza, stretching for 13 kilometers, is the longest beach on the Montenegrin coast. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas or find a quiet spot away from the beach clubs. For a more intimate setting, visit Mala Plaza in the town center, where you can swim while looking at the Old Town on the cliffs above.

Ada Bojana, a triangular island at the mouth of the Bojana River, has both naturist-friendly areas and sections for traditional beachgoers. The shallow waters and steady winds make it a good location for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Water Sports and Activities

Ada Bojana's consistent winds create excellent conditions for kitesurfing. You can find several schools on the island offering lessons and equipment rental.

For a calmer experience, try paddleboarding along the waters near Mala Plaza. Scuba diving is also available, with several dive sites featuring underwater caves and shipwrecks. Local dive centers offer courses and guided trips for various skill levels.

The Old Town

Ulcinj's Old Town sits on a rocky promontory, reflecting the city's 2,500-year history. As you walk through the narrow cobblestone streets, you'll see remnants of various civilizations that once controlled this port. The Ulcinj Castle, dating back to the 6th century, is a prominent landmark with views of the Adriatic Sea.

In the Old Town, you'll find the Museum of Ulcinj in a former church. The museum displays artifacts from the town's Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. The Balsica Tower, a 14th-century structure that now functions as an art gallery, is also in this area.

Natural Areas Around Ulcinj

Lake Šas, about 12 kilometers from the town center, is a spot for birdwatching. Over 200 bird species use the lake as a resting point during their migration, making it suitable for nature photography.

The Ulcinj Salina, a former salt production facility turned nature reserve, is another birdwatching location. It's one of the few places in Europe where you can see flamingos in their natural habitat. Spring and autumn migrations are the best times to visit when thousands of birds gather at the salt pans.

Local Food

Ulcinj's food reflects its coastal location and cultural influences. Fresh seafood is common on many menus, with grilled fish, octopus salad, and black risotto being local dishes. For traditional Montenegrin food, try cevapi (grilled meat rolls) or burek (savory pastry).

You can also taste local olive oil. The area around Ulcinj has centuries-old olive groves, with some trees over 2,000 years old. Many restaurants use locally produced olive oil, and you can visit some of the olive farms for tastings.

Travel Information

Airports in Podgorica (80 km) and Tivat (70 km) are the closest to Ulcinj. Regular bus services connect Ulcinj to other Montenegrin cities and some international destinations. If you're driving, expect winding coastal roads and limited parking in the town center during peak season.

The warmest months for visiting Ulcinj are from May to October, suitable for beach activities. July and August are the busiest months, with higher prices and crowded beaches. For fewer crowds, consider visiting in May-June or September-October when the weather is still pleasant.