It seems like Eastern European countries are really having a moment! Albania was all the rage a few years back, and now Montenegro is catching everyone’s eye. One big reason has to be the absolutely stunning Adriatic coastline! Ulcinj, in Montenegro, is the perfect spot to soak up those gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear ocean.
This charming beach town has everything you need for the ultimate Eastern European escape: amazing beaches, a delightful old town, delicious local food, and cheap beers.
We just returned from an incredible trip to Montenegro, and I’m thrilled to share all the juicy details, especially on where to stay in Ulcinj!
- Where to Stay in Ulcinj – Best Ulcinj Hotels
- Where to Stay in Ulcinj – Best Areas
- 1.Where to Stay in Ulcinj for the First Time: Ulcinj Old Town
- 2.Where to Stay in Ulcinj for Beach Lovers: Long Beach (Velika Plaza Beach)
- 3.Where to Stay in Ulcinj on a Budget: Ulcinj City Centre
- 4.Where to Stay in Ulcinj for Families: Pinjesh
- Where to Stay in Ulcinj – Frequently Asked Questions
Where to Stay in Ulcinj – Best Ulcinj Hotels
Even though Ulcinj is not yet super popular with international tourists, it has been a hot spot for locals for a while now, and therefore you can find some of the best hotels here. Some of these Ulcinj hotels offer room service, an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and with hotels located right on the beach, you get incredible views as well.
Hotel Maris
I can’t even put into words how incredible this hotel is. It’s by far one of the prettiest and most iconic hotels in Montenegro. It’s right by the ocean and offers incredible rooms with amazing views. The rooftop is the highlight of the hotel, with an incredible swimming pool and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
Click here for more information & bookings
Pirate Backpackers
One of the most social hostels in Ulcinj is definitely Pirate Backpackers. It’s the perfect spot to meet people and make friends, which hotels usually don’t allow. It’s a very basic place to stay, but it doesn’t matter because it has a super fun atmosphere. The average price here is around $7 a night, which is just crazy.
Click here for more information & bookings
Hotel Pirate Old Town
An institution in Ulcinj is the Hotel Pirate Old Town. It’s located in an old villa close to the beach and offers some amazing rooms with stunning views over the ocean. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Montenegro.
Click here for more information & bookings
Hotel Palata Venezia
If you’re looking for a charming and romantic stay, then Hotel Palata Venezia is the perfect place. It’s a boutique hotel located in an old Venetian-style palace with beautiful rooms and a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. This hotel will definitely make your stay in Ulcinj feel like a fairytale.
Click here for more information & bookings
Azul Beach Resort Montenegro
For those looking for a luxurious and all-inclusive experience, Azul Beach Resort Montenegro is the ideal choice. Located right on the beach, this resort offers spacious rooms, several pools, multiple restaurants and bars, and even an on-site spa.
Click here for more information & bookings
Where to Stay in Ulcinj – Best Areas
One of my absolute favorite things about Ulcinj is just how wonderfully walkable the whole town is! You can stroll around the city with ease, making every area super accessible.
For first-timers, I can’t recommend the Old Town enough! It’s the heart of Montenegro’s charm with its adorable cobblestone streets, and you’re right by the quaint little beaches.
If beaches are your thing, then Long Beach is calling your name. It’s not just long by name but a stunning 13-kilometer sandy paradise. Perfect for all you beach bums out there.
For all you backpackers and budget travelers, the City Center is definitely the place to be. This area is packed with super affordable hostels and the occasional cheap hotel, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
And for the families out there, Pinjesh is simply awesome. It’s super close to the beach and has fantastic apartments for rent.
1.Where to Stay in Ulcinj for the First Time: Ulcinj Old Town
If it’s your first time visiting Ulcinj, staying in or near the Old Town is a must. Whether you’re road-tripping around Montenegro or just spending a few days in Ulcinj, the Old Town is the prettiest spot. It lets you tick off all the sightseeing while soaking in that full Mediterranean European vibe.
The Old Town is packed with charming brick houses and cute cobblestone streets right by the sea. It’s super relaxing to wander around, enjoy some tasty food at local restaurants, and then hit the beach after.
You’ll also find some of the best hotels in the Old Town, like Hotel Palata Venezia, which is one of my top picks in Montenegro with its charming style and amazing views.
Things to Do in Ulcinj Old Town
Exploring the Old Town of Ulcinj is an experience in itself, but there are also some must-see attractions to add to your itinerary.
The most iconic, and my favorite activity apart from sipping cocktails on the beach, is visiting the Ulcinj Fortress. This stunning fortress dates back to the 5th century and offers great views of the town and sea, making it a perfect spot for photos and a dose of history.
Another fun activity, especially for rainy days, is checking out the Museum of Local History to learn about the rich culture and traditions of Ulcinj and Montenegro.
Lastly, be sure to relax at Small Beach, a tiny beach known for its crystal-clear waters. The beach is quite pebbly, but the stunning water makes it worth a visit.
Best Restaurants in Ulcinj Old Town
Restaurant Dulcinea: This charming restaurant offers delicious Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with a beautiful view of the town. My favorites here are their seafood risotto and sea bass, which are made with fresh local ingredients.
Pirate: For a more casual dining experience, I suggest heading to Pirate Restaurant for some tasty pizza and cocktails. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back dinner with friends while enjoying the sea views.
2.Where to Stay in Ulcinj for Beach Lovers: Long Beach (Velika Plaza Beach)
While the town of Ulcinj has adorable but small bay beaches that can get busy, just outside you’ll find Long Beach or Velika Plaza Beach. As the name suggests, it’s super long and hosts some of the best hotels in Ulcinj. This area has more of a resort feel compared to the old town, making it perfect for a beach vacation.
There are tons of hotels here for every budget, from cheap hotels to some of the pricier hotels in Ulcinj. It’s awesome because anyone can enjoy a beach getaway right on the Adriatic Sea.
Things to Do in Long Beach
Of course, the main attraction here is the stunning beach with its crystal-clear waters and soft sandy shores. You can spend hours soaking up the sun, swimming in the sea, or trying out various water activities like jet skiing and parasailing.
If you’re looking for a break from the beach, head over to Solana Ulcinj, located right behind the beach, where you’ll find the salt flats. I was so surprised to see these salt flats, which I really only knew from places in Bolivia or Mexico. However, it’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching, and you’ll find loads of flamingos here. You can visit on your own, by bike or rental car, or even book a tour. Some hotels, including the Pirate Backpackers, offer tours to the salt flats.
Best Restaurants in Long Beach
Barbossa Beach Bar: I absolutely loved Barbossa Beach Bar! It’s a beach club in Montenegro that rivals some of the amazing spots in Croatia or Albania, so it really doesn’t need to hide.
Playa Maria: Over at the far end of Long Beach, you’ll find Playa Maria, another charming beach club. It’s smaller than Barbossa, but that’s part of its charm! With a bohemian vibe that’s super chill and cute, it’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
3.Where to Stay in Ulcinj on a Budget: Ulcinj City Centre
Ulcinj City Centre is the place to be if you’re traveling on a budget and still want to be in the heart of the action. Here, you’ll find a variety of more affordable hotels in Ulcinj that won’t break the bank, from cozy guesthouses to charming hostels.
What’s even better is that many of these spots are just a short walk away from local attractions, markets, and eateries. It’s a great spot to base yourself if you’re looking to explore all the cultural and historical sites that Ulcinj has to offer without spending a fortune.
The city center is located a little further inland around the big main street that leads through Ulcinj, but it’s only a 15-20 minute walk to the old town and the beach, so I definitely thought it was worth staying here.
Things to Do in Ulcinj City Center
The City Center might not be jam-packed with activities, but it’s a perfect base for exploring other areas. From here, you can easily head to the old town or Long Beach. It’s also a handy spot to catch public transport or use your rental car to check out nearby beaches. Valdanos is a popular beach near Ulcinj City Center that’s definitely worth a visit. It’s way less crowded than the city beaches and has a little restaurant, making it a great spot to kick back for the day and escape the crowds.
Best Restaurants in Ulcinj City Center
Papillon: If you’re craving some Italian food, Papillon is awesome. It’s my favorite pizza spot in town because, surprisingly, the Italian food in Montenegro is really good. Makes sense since it’s so close to Italy.
Coda: Coffee culture in Eastern Europe isn’t the best, to be honest. Instead of a flat white, it’s more like an espresso and a cigarette. Jokes aside, it’s tough to find a good flat white or barista coffee here, but Coda serves up a nice latte and some tasty breakfast options.
4.Where to Stay in Ulcinj for Families: Pinjesh
Pinjesh is a fantastic area if you’re looking for a family-friendly spot. It’s got a chilled-out vibe with some lush green spaces perfect for a picnic or a casual stroll. Plus, you’re super close to the Small Beach, which is great for a day of fun in the sun. The kids will love splashing around, and it’s perfect for building sandcastles. For a bit of local culture, check out the nearby museums or take a family walk to visit the picturesque old town.
Things to Do in Pinjesh
Pinjesh is a small residential area next to the old town, and my favorite part has to be the tiny beaches along the coast. If you think a small beach is small, wait until you see the ones around here! Ibiza and Ladies Beach are some of the popular spots, but there’s tons more to explore.
Best Restaurant in Pinjesh
Tiffany: Tiffany is a fantastic family restaurant right in Pinjesh. They mainly offer Mediterranean food and pizza, and their pizza is great. It’s a perfect spot to bring the kids.
Aragosta II: If you’re looking for something more romantic, head to Aragosta. This is my favorite restaurant in Ulcinj. The location is so pretty, situated on a wooden patio right on the cliff, so you get the most amazing views while enjoying your dinner and drinks.
Where to Stay in Ulcinj – Frequently Asked Questions
📍 What are the most popular hotels and best hotels in Ulcinj?
When it comes to Ulcinj, Hotel Pirate Old Town is a top pick for its perfect mix of style and luxury. But don’t worry, there are plenty of awesome options for every budget. Check out Hotel Maraj, Plaza Hotel, Hotel Montefila, and the local gem, Hotel Kulla e Balshajve, for some great stays.
💰 What is the average price to stay in Ulcinj?
The average cost for a night in Ulcinj is around $50 USD for a budget hotel, $100 USD for a mid-range hotel, and $200 USD for a luxury hotel. However, if you decide to stay in a hostel then prices can be as low as $10 USD per night.
☀️ What is the best time of year to visit Ulcinj?
The best time to visit Ulcinj is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and perfect for enjoying the beach. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting in the shoulder season (May or September).
🏖️ Is it better to stay in Ulcinj Old Town or Long Beach?
It really depends on your preferences. If you want to be close to historical sights and cultural attractions, then staying in Ulcinj Old Town would be ideal. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed beach vacation, then Long Beach would be the perfect choice with its stunning 13-kilometer sandy paradise.
Where to Stay in Ulcinj – Final Words
Ulcinj is one of those places where you just can’t help but extend your stay if you get the chance—at least that’s what happened to me! I originally planned a short visit but ended up spending two blissful weeks in this charming town. Whether you’re into luxury or budget accommodations, picturesque beaches, or historic streets, Ulcinj has it all!
Even for backpackers or digital nomads, it’s a fantastic spot to soak up the sun without breaking the bank. It seems like anyone looking for a delightful vacation should add Ulcinj to their list of must-visit destinations. I hope my guide on where to stay in Ulcinj helps you plan your next trip. Happy travels.