Things to Do in Ulcinj

Walking the labyrinth of the Stari Grad, or Old Town

Your shoes will scrape on worn cobblestones as you pass under heavy archways. You feel the cool shade of narrow alleys before emerging into a small square with a view of the endless blue sea. Some of the stone houses here have been converted into art galleries and cafes tucked into the old walls. The paths can be uneven and quite steep in sections. Wear comfortable footwear.

Spending a day at Long Beach, known locally as Velika Plaža

This is an expanse of over twelve kilometers of fine, dark sand that feels warm underfoot. The shallow, gentle water of the Adriatic stretches out in bands of turquoise and deep blue. You hear the flapping of rented sun umbrella canvases and the distant shouts of kids playing in the waves. The southern end near the island of Ada Bojana is popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers, catching the reliable afternoon breeze.

Visiting the Ulcinj Saltworks, or Saline

This is a network of shallow evaporation ponds that look like a geometric patchwork of pink and green water, set against a backdrop of dry hills. The air carries a distinct mineral tang. You might spot flocks of flamingos wading in the distant pans, looking like pink brushstrokes on the water. The best time for birdwatching is typically outside the peak summer heat, in the quieter spring or autumn months.

A drive or bike ride to the secluded Valdanos Bay

This small, pebbly cove is sheltered by high cliffs covered in ancient olive groves, some trees reportedly centuries old. The water here is exceptionally clear and cool. The only sounds are often just the gentle lap of waves on the stones and the rustle of olive leaves in the breeze. The access road is a bit winding and narrow. Take it slow.

An evening stroll along the Lungomare promenade

As the sun sets, the sky turns shades of orange and purple, reflected on the calm surface of the water in the small boat harbor. You hear the sizzle from grills at the line of family-run restaurants and the warm hum of conversation from their terraces. Later, the promenade becomes a place for a slow passeggiata, with families and couples walking under the soft glow of the street lamps.

For first-time visitors, the area around Mala Plaža, the small city beach below the Old Town, puts everything within easy walking distance.

The Old Town itself has a handful of converted stone houses with memorable views, though expect some stair-climbing.

The stretch along the beginning of Long Beach has a concentration of larger hotels and apartment complexes right on the sand.

The quiet, residential neighborhood of Liman I is just back from the beach and feels more local, with older villas and gardens.

For total peace, the southern end of Long Beach near Štoj is dotted with simpler guesthouses surrounded by reed beds.

Ada Bojana island at the very south is a specific, isolated scene for nature lovers and windsurfers.