Ulcinj, on Montenegro’s southern coast, is a vibrant town of 20,000 people, famous for its endless beaches and lively nightlife. Montenegro Limo’s private drivers from Ulcinj who know every corner, shares the best spots to party, relax, and explore.
Why Visit Ulcinj?
Ulcinj offers a unique Montenegrin-Albanian vibe, with an Ottoman flair in its Old Town and a nightlife scene that rivals Budva—the country’s party capital. It’s home to Velika Plaža, a 12-km-long beach, and is just 5 km from Ada Bojana, where you’ll find some of Montenegro’s best seafood restaurants. Ulcinj is also budget-friendly—think €1-2 for a coffee versus €2-3 in Budva—and a great base for exploring the south, like nearby Bar (30 km away).
Where Is Ulcinj?
Ulcinj sits on Montenegro’s southern coast, 65 km south of Budva, 90 km from Tivat Airport (TIV), and 70 km from Podgorica Airport (TGD). It’s 30 km southeast of Bar, making it an easy spot to reach for exploring the Adriatic’s southern edge.
Top Things to Do in Ulcinj
Ulcinj blends beach life with cultural charm and a buzzing nightlife. Here’s what to see.
Discover Ulcinj’s Old Town
Perched above the sea, Ulcinj’s Old Town is a maze of stone streets with a distinct Ottoman vibe—think arched doorways and small mosques. Visit the 15th-century Balsic Tower (free entry) and enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic. Small cafés serve Turkish coffee (€1-2). Spend 1-2 hours exploring this historic gem.
Visit the Salt Pans (Ulcinj Salina)
Just 5 km from the center (10-minute drive), Ulcinj Salina is a natural reserve known for birdwatching—think flamingos and herons. Entry is free, and a quick walk offers a peaceful escape. Plan 1-2 hours, especially if you’re a nature lover.
Explore Ada Bojana
A 15-minute drive (5 km) from Ulcinj, Ada Bojana is a unique river delta island with a nudist beach and a bohemian vibe. It’s great for kitesurfing or a seafood lunch at some of Montenegro’s best fish restaurants (€15-20), which we recommend to every visitor in the country—it’s worth the trip even from farther spots like Budva. Spend 3-5 hours soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.
Experience Ulcinj’s Nightlife
Ulcinj has the second-best nightlife in Montenegro after Budva, with bars and clubs along the promenade and Velika Plaža. Expect a lively scene with music from the region—Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, and Bosnia (drinks €3-6). Note that the music style might not suit every tourist, as it leans heavily on local pop and folk. Party until 2-3 AM, especially in summer. Most nightclubs in Ulcinj and throughout Montenegro are typically open from May to September.
Best Beaches in Ulcinj
Ulcinj is famous for its beaches, some of the longest in Montenegro. Here are the top spots for sun and sea.
Velika Plaža (in Ulcinj)
Ulcinj’s main beach, Velika Plaža, stretches 12 km with fine, golden sand. It’s a hotspot for kitesurfing and beach sports, with shallow waters great for families. Sunbeds and umbrellas cost €5-10/day, and beach bars serve drinks (€2-4). Spend 4-6 hours here for a full beach day.
Ada Bojana Beach (5 km, 15-minute drive)
On the island of Ada Bojana, this beach is a mix of sandy and nudist sections, with calm water perfect for swimming. It’s less crowded than Velika Plaža, with a few beach bars (drinks €2-3). Plan 3-5 hours for a relaxed visit.
Mala Plaža (in Ulcinj)
Right by the Old Town, Mala Plaža is a small, sandy beach ideal for a quick dip. It’s busier but convenient, with cafés nearby (€2-3 drinks). Sunbeds are €5-8/day. Spend 1-2 hours if you’re short on time.
Where to Eat in Ulcinj
Ulcinj’s dining mixes Montenegrin and Albanian flavors with a focus on seafood, especially near Ada Bojana. Here’s where to eat.
Top Dishes
- Fërgesë: Spicy stew with peppers and cheese, €6-9—Albanian specialty.
- Grilled Fish: Fresh catch like sea bass, €12-16—local favorite.
- Baklava: Sweet pastry, €2-4—Ottoman treat.
Best Spots
- Restoran Antivari: In the Old Town, this spot serves fërgesë (€6-9) and grilled fish (€12-16) with sea views. Drinks €2-4; plan 1-2 hours for a cozy meal.
- Konoba Kod Marka: Near Velika Plaža, it’s great for seafood platters (€20-25) and baklava (€2-4). Local wines €3-5; a 1-2 hour beachside dining experience.
- Restoran Bella Vista: By the promenade, enjoy pasta (€8-12) and fresh fish (€15-20). Cocktails €5-8; a 1-2 hour casual stop with a view.
- Ada Bojana Restaurants: On Ada Bojana island, these spots are some of Montenegro’s best for seafood—think grilled sea bass (€12-16) or shrimp (€15-20). We recommend them to everyone visiting the coast, even from farther spots like Budva. Plan 2-3 hours for a memorable meal.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Ulcinj’s Old Town market offers local olive oil (€5-10/bottle) and handmade jewelry (€3-8). For modern shopping, Green Market has fresh produce and souvenirs (honey €5-8/jar). Cash is preferred—some vendors add fees for cards.
Where to Stay in Ulcinj
Ulcinj has options for every budget. Here’s where to stay.
- Old Town: Hotel Palata Venezia (€70-120/night)—historic, central.
- Near Velika Plaža: Hotel Olympic (€60-100)—beachfront, comfy.
- Luxury: Villa Del Mar (€120-180)—private, upscale.
Getting to Ulcinj
Ulcinj is 70 km from Podgorica Airport (TGD)—a 1-hour 15-minute ride. From Tivat Airport (TIV), it’s 90 km (2 hours); buses cost €7-10 (2.5 hours), but a private transfer is faster. From Bar, it’s a 30-minute drive (30 km). You can book a private transfer to Ulcinj from any place in Montenegro.
Book Your Tranfer With Montenegro Limo
Practical Tips for Visiting Ulcinj
- Best Time: Summer (25-35°C) for beaches and nightlife; spring/fall (15-25°C) for milder weather.
- Budget: €40-70/day—food, sights, transport. Rooms €60-180/night.
- Packing: Swimsuit for beaches, light jacket for evenings.
- Getting Around: Walk in the Old Town; hire a driver for beach trips.
- Tips: Ulcinj can feel a bit dirtier and more chaotic than other coastal towns like Budva or Tivat, but its charm makes up for it.
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Is Ulcinj Worth Visiting: Ulcinj vs. Other Coastal Towns in Montenegro
Ulcinj has a distinct vibe compared to other coastal towns. Budva (65 km, 1 hour) is the nightlife king, but Ulcinj comes in second with its vibrant scene—though the regional music (Montenegrin, Serbian, Albanian, Bosnian) might not suit every tourist’s taste. Tivat (90 km, 2 hours) offers polished luxury with its marina, while Bar (30 km, 30 minutes) is quieter with a historic Old Town. Ulcinj stands out with its Ottoman-influenced Old Town, 12-km-long Velika Plaža, and proximity to Ada Bojana’s top seafood restaurants. It’s also more budget-friendly—think €1-2 for a coffee versus €2-3 in Budva. However, Ulcinj can feel a bit dirtier and more chaotic than other coastal towns, which might surprise visitors expecting a polished resort vibe.
The Most Points of Interest NEAR ULCINJ
Ulcinj’s southern location makes it a hub for exploring Montenegro’s coast. Here are top routes our clients book, all at flat-rate taxi transfers or private tours in Montenegro.
FAQ: Ulcinj Travel Tips
- How far is Ulcinj from Budva? 65 km, 1-hour drive. A private transfer beats the €5-7 bus.
- How long from Tivat Airport to Ulcinj? 2 hours (90 km). Book with Montenegro Limo for a smooth ride.
- What’s the best time to visit Ulcinj? Summer for beaches and nightlife; spring/fall for milder weather.
- How much time do I need in Ulcinj? 2-3 days for beaches and sights; 4-5 with day trips.
- What are the best beaches in Ulcinj? Velika Plaža (in Ulcinj) is the main beach, while Ada Bojana (5 km) and Mala Plaža (in Ulcinj) are top picks.
- What’s near Ulcinj to visit? Bar (30 km), Skadar Lake (50 km), Budva (65 km).
