Ulcinj

Written by Chloe Davies, Felix Schmidt
16/09/2025
Breathtaking rocky coastline of Ulcinj, Montenegro with clear blue waters and sunny skies.
Igor Meghega, Pexels

Ulcinj, situated on Montenegro's southern coast, offers an experience characterized by its expansive sandy beaches, particularly the renowned Velika Plaža, and a historic Old Town. The destination presents a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, enriched by a notable Albanian cultural influence.

The town features a dynamic social scene, with various bars and clubs, especially along the beach areas. Hostels like Pirate Backpackers are known for fostering a social environment, organizing activities such as boat and sunset tours, making it conducive for meeting other travelers.

Top 7 Things to do in Ulcinj

Ulcinj offers diverse experiences, from exploring ancient fortifications and relaxing on expansive sandy beaches to engaging in thrilling watersports and immersing oneself in rich local culture.

1. Explore Ulcinj Old Town

The Old Town of Ulcinj, perched on a hill, invites visitors to step back in time. Its ancient walls and cobbled streets reveal layers of Montenegrin, Albanian, and Ottoman history. Wandering through its charming alleys, one discovers architectural blends, culminating in panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. The Ulcinj Castle and the Pasha's Mosque stand as historical landmarks, while the Town Museum offers insights into the region's past. Concluding a day of exploration with dinner at a cliffside restaurant as the sun sets over the sea is a memorable experience. It is worth allocating approximately an hour to freely wander and absorb the atmosphere.

Cost: Exploring the Old Town is free. Entrance fees for the Ulcinj Museum are typically nominal, though specific current prices are not readily available.

Transport: The Old Town is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from much of Ulcinj's city center. Some areas can be hilly, requiring comfortable walking shoes.

2. Relax and Enjoy Watersports at Velika Plaža (Long Beach)

Velika Plaža, Montenegro's longest sandy beach, stretches for over 12 kilometers, offering vast expanses of soft sand and shallow, clear waters ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is equipped with numerous beach clubs, restaurants, loungers, and umbrellas, providing all necessary amenities for a relaxing day by the sea. Its consistent winds also create perfect conditions for watersports, particularly kitesurfing. The sheer size of the beach ensures plenty of space for everyone, even during peak season.

Cost: Renting a sun lounger and umbrella typically costs around €5 for the day.

Transport: Local buses frequently connect Ulcinj city center and the main bus station to Velika Plaža, with fares generally ranging from €1 to €3. Alternatively, a taxi ride from the city center to the beach might cost between €3.5 and €15, depending on the exact distance and fare structure. During the high season, small boats may also transport passengers from Ulcinj city beach for approximately €4. Driving is also an option, with parking available along the beach.

3. Kitesurfing Lessons or Rental on Velika Plaža

For those seeking an exhilarating activity, Velika Plaža is recognized as one of Europe's premier kitesurfing destinations. The combination of consistent winds and expansive, shallow sandy waters creates an ideal learning and riding environment. Several kitesurfing schools operate along the beach, offering lessons tailored for beginners and experienced riders alike, complete with certified instructors and modern equipment.

Cost: Beginner kitesurfing lessons, typically spanning 10-15 hours, can range from €100 to €350, with prices varying by the number of hours and season (lower in May, higher in mid-July to late August). Equipment rental for advanced riders generally costs around €79 per day, including a kite, board, harness, wetsuit, impact vest, and helmet.

Transport: Transportation to Velika Plaža is detailed above. Kitesurfing schools are located directly on the beach.

4. Visit Ada Bojana

At the delta where the Bojana River meets the Adriatic Sea, Ada Bojana is a unique triangular island celebrated for its serene beaches and distinct, laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular spot for watersports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, benefiting from consistent winds. The island is also home to FKK Ada Bojana, a well-known nudist resort, catering to those seeking a more liberated beach experience. The natural beauty of the river meeting the sea makes for a picturesque setting.

Cost: Costs for watersport rentals (kayaking, windsurfing) are not specifically detailed in recent sources but can be arranged locally. Entrance to FKK Ada Bojana might incur a fee.

Transport: Local buses from Ulcinj city center or the main bus station provide service to Ada Bojana, though less frequently than to Velika Plaža, with fares typically between €1-€3. A taxi would offer a more direct route, with fares dependent on distance (approximately 15-20 km from Ulcinj center).

5. Explore Valdanos Bay and Ancient Olive Groves

Just a short drive from Ulcinj, Valdanos Bay offers a peaceful escape with a charming cove and an expansive ancient olive grove. This area is a living testament to Ulcinj's agricultural heritage, with thousands of olive trees, many of which are hundreds or even over a thousand years old. A stroll through these groves provides a tranquil experience and a connection to local culture, offering opportunities for picnics and appreciating the serene natural landscape. A lighthouse can also be found in the vicinity.

Cost: Self-guided exploration of the olive groves is free. Guided walking tours, often including olive oil tasting and transfers, typically cost around €30 per person.

Transport: Valdanos Bay is approximately a 15-minute drive from Ulcinj. It is best reached by car or taxi. A taxi fare for this distance could be an estimated €9-€10, depending on the taxi service.

6. Birdwatching at Ulcinj Salina

The Ulcinj Salina (Ulcinjska Solana), a former salt production site turned protected wetland, stands as a crucial bird nesting ground in the Adriatic. It offers a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers to observe various species, especially during migratory seasons. The tranquil environment provides a relaxing outdoor experience away from the bustling beaches.

Cost: No specific entrance fee for the Ulcinj Salina is widely advertised in recent reviews. Any costs would likely be associated with transport or specialized tours.

Transport: The Salina is located somewhat outside the main tourist areas. A taxi or private car is recommended for access, as direct public transport routes specifically to the Salina are not frequently detailed.

7. Take a Coastal Boat Trip to Secret Beaches

Embarking on a boat trip from Ulcinj's harbor allows for a different perspective of the coastline, revealing hidden coves and secluded beaches that are often inaccessible by land. These tours provide opportunities for swimming in pristine waters, snorkeling, and enjoying the serene beauty of the Adriatic, often culminating in breathtaking sunset views from the water. It offers a relaxing way to explore the region's natural beauty.

Cost: Group boat tours often start from approximately US $70 (around €65), depending on duration and inclusions. Private boat rentals vary significantly based on the size of the boat, rental duration, and whether a skipper is included, with daily averages around €506 and skipper fees typically €100-€120 per day.

Transport: Boat trips typically depart from Ulcinj's marina, which is within walking distance of the city center.

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