Ulcinj Old Town (day trip) - Image 1
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Stari Grad Ulcinj

4.6
·938 reviews·Ulcinj, Montenegro

An ancient fortress on the Adriatic, Stari Grad Ulcinj blends history, stunning sea views, and a vibrant, lived-in atmosphere.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon to sunset

Golden hour views are unmatched

CrowdMedium
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Ulcinj Old Town (day trip) - Image 1

Stari Grad Ulcinj

Best Time

Late afternoon to sunset

Golden hour views are unmatched

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An ancient fortress on the Adriatic, Stari Grad Ulcinj blends history, stunning sea views, and a vibrant, lived-in atmosphere.

4.6
(938 reviews)

"It's basically a stone fortress on the edge of the Adriatic with insane sea views around every corner."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

Cobblestones and steep paths mean sneakers are your best friend here. Leave the heels at home!

🌅 Sunset is a Must-See

The views at sunset are spectacular. Grab a drink at a restaurant with a view.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Sea Views

Panoramic Sea Views

Walls of the Old Town

Soak in breathtaking Adriatic vistas from the ancient fortress walls, especially magical at sunset.

Historic Fortress Exploration

Historic Fortress Exploration

Within the Old Town walls

Wander through narrow cobblestone alleys, discover ancient architecture, and feel the centuries of history.

Museum of Ulcinj

Museum of Ulcinj

Citadel

Explore artifacts from Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, showcasing the town's rich past.

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Planning Your Visit

Cobblestones and Climbs

Stari Grad Ulcinj is a historic stone fortress with narrow, uneven cobblestone streets. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as flip-flops are not recommended for navigating the steep inclines and uneven surfaces. Be prepared for uphill walking from the lower parts of town.

Sunset Views & Dining

While the restaurants within the Old Town can be pricier, many offer spectacular sea views, especially at sunset. Consider it an investment for a memorable experience. Booking ahead might be wise during peak season to secure a prime spot.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon to sunset
Why
Golden hour views are unmatched
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Atmospheric dining and city lights
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our Ulqin staycation #ulcinjhotel #montenegrohotel #albaniancouple #ulqini #maliizi
@lenanikolaj
14.9K likes • 450.9K views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

Cobblestones and steep paths mean sneakers are your best friend here. Leave the heels at home! Reddit

🌅 Sunset is a Must-See

The views at sunset are spectacular. Grab a drink at a restaurant with a view. TikTokReddit

Ulcinj, Montenegro 📍#fy #fypシ #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #ulcinj #montenegro #balkan #view #fürdich
@leona.ftj
13.2K likes • 236.4K views
📍Stari Grad, Ulcinj 🇲🇪 >> see more: @montenegro__life . . . . . . . . . #montenegroreels #montenegro_life #montenegro #montenegrophoto #montenegrowildbeauty #montenegrotravel #montenegro🇲🇪 #montenegro_wild_beauty
montenegro__life
6K likes • 141K views

💰 Restaurants Pricier

Expect higher prices for food and drinks inside the Old Town, but the views are worth it. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Alleys

Get lost in the narrow streets; you'll find charming corners and a real lived-in vibe. Reddit

Ulcinj, Stari grad, večeras u 23:15… #crnagora #montenegro #more #starigrad #ulqin #mne
ekskluziva_ba
0 likes • 159.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

Cobblestones and steep paths mean sneakers are your best friend here. Leave the heels at home! Reddit

🌅 Sunset is a Must-See

The views at sunset are spectacular. Grab a drink at a restaurant with a view. TikTokReddit

💰 Restaurants Pricier

Expect higher prices for food and drinks inside the Old Town, but the views are worth it. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Alleys

Get lost in the narrow streets; you'll find charming corners and a real lived-in vibe. Reddit

🚗 Parking Challenges

Parking can be tricky, especially in summer. Be prepared to park lower and walk up. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(938 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Stari Grad Ulcinj is a captivating historic fortress offering breathtaking sea views, especially at sunset. Visitors praise its authentic, lived-in atmosphere and the charm of its narrow cobblestone streets. However, the uneven terrain requires comfortable shoes, and dining within the walls can be expensive.

"The old town has some great views but is essentially a collection of restaurants built into small corridors in the old town. There are many cobblestones and walking is a bit difficult. The small streets and alleys are interesting but the real attraction is the view. The museum is also there and contains artifacts from multiple successive periods including the Illyrians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantine and the Ottomans. The restaurants are pricy but the views are spectacular."

DYJ1948

"Amazing historic old town, walk up the hill to the fortress withing the walled city. Free to enter most of it and had great views. Lots of restaurants. Well worth walking around the narrow passages and exploring. Lots of beggars though."

Tim Husain

"We stayed at Palata Venezia for one night in the Old Town. There is parking at the bottom of the entry to the Old Town and it is steep walk over cobblestones but the views make it worth it. Very special indeed. There are lots of restaurants and hotels now located in the old buildings within the walls. Our stay and lunch at Palata Venezia were lovely, especially meals on the deck. The staff were so friendly."

Rae-Anne Diehm

What People Like

Spectacular sea views
Historic atmosphere
Sunset vistas

What People Dislike

Uneven cobblestone streets
Pricy restaurants
Steep climbs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Stari Grad Ulcinj is located on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea. You can walk up from the Small Beach (Mala Plaža) in about 10 minutes, but it's a steep climb on uneven cobblestones. If driving, parking is available at the bottom of the entry to the Old Town, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak season. Reddit

While there isn't direct public transport into the Old Town itself, buses serve the main town of Ulcinj. From there, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the base of the Old Town. TikTok

The most common ways to reach Ulcinj from Podgorica are by bus or by renting a car. The bus journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Renting a car offers more flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas. Reddit

Yes, taxis are readily available in Ulcinj and can take you to the base of Stari Grad. It's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey. TikTok

Parking near the entrance to Stari Grad can be difficult, particularly during the summer months. Visitors often park lower down and walk up the hill. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to most of Stari Grad Ulcinj is free. You can wander through the streets and explore the fortress walls without a ticket. Reddit

The Museum of Ulcinj, located within the Citadel, typically has a small entrance fee. It's recommended to check current prices upon arrival. Reddit

Stari Grad Ulcinj is generally accessible throughout the day and into the evening. Restaurants and shops within the Old Town will have their own operating hours. Instagram

Yes, Stari Grad Ulcinj is beautiful at night, with many restaurants offering illuminated views. It's a popular spot for evening strolls and dining. Instagram+1

To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting in the late afternoon before sunset or early in the morning. Evenings are popular for dining and can be busy. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the historic fortress, enjoy panoramic sea views, wander through narrow cobblestone alleys, visit the Museum of Ulcinj, and dine at restaurants with stunning sunset vistas. TikTokReddit

No, Stari Grad Ulcinj is not stroller-friendly due to steep steps and narrow, uneven cobblestone streets. It's best to use a baby carrier if visiting with very young children. Reddit

Some visitors have noted the presence of beggars within the Old Town. Reddit

You'll find small souvenir shops, art galleries, and boutique hotels tucked away in the alleys of the Old Town. Reddit

Stari Grad Ulcinj is generally considered safe to walk around at night, with many people enjoying the atmosphere and dining options. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Stari Grad Ulcinj has numerous restaurants, many offering spectacular sea views, especially at sunset. While they can be pricier, the ambiance and views are often considered worth it. TikTokReddit

You can expect a range of Mediterranean cuisine, with fresh seafood being a popular choice. TikTok

Restaurant Dulcinea is frequently mentioned for its stunning sunset views and Mediterranean dishes. Many other establishments within the walls also offer great vistas. TikTokReddit

Some hotels within the Old Town, like Palata Venezia, offer breakfast, often served on a deck with views. It's best to confirm with your accommodation. TikTokReddit

Yes, there are several cafes scattered throughout the Old Town, perfect for a coffee break with a view. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ancient fortress walls offer incredible panoramic shots of the Adriatic. Narrow cobblestone alleys, charming doorways, and the views from the Citadel are also prime photography locations. InstagramReddit+1

Golden hour, just before sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photos. Sunrise can also offer a quieter, equally stunning experience. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the historic area. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views and narrow streets. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general exploration. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and sea colors. Instagram

Always be respectful when photographing people. It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Stari Grad Ulcinj with children requires some planning. The steep, uneven cobblestone streets and numerous steps make it unsuitable for strollers, so a baby carrier is recommended for infants. Reddit While the historical exploration can be engaging, younger children might find the uphill climbs tiring. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day and taking frequent breaks. The views are a definite highlight that can captivate kids, and the museum offers a chance for educational discovery. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While dining within the Old Town can be pricier, budget travelers can still enjoy Stari Grad Ulcinj. Entry to the Old Town itself is free, and you can soak in the incredible views without spending a fortune. Reddit Pack your own snacks and water, and focus on exploring the historic streets and enjoying the panoramic vistas. Consider having your main meals in the lower town of Ulcinj, which offers more affordable options, and then visit the Old Town for a sunset drink or a leisurely stroll. Reddit

❤️ Couples

Stari Grad Ulcinj offers a wonderfully romantic setting, especially during sunset. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand through the ancient alleys, find a cozy restaurant with a sea view for a memorable dinner, and simply soak in the atmosphere. InstagramReddit The historic charm combined with the stunning coastal scenery makes it an ideal spot for a romantic getaway or a special evening out. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Stari Grad Ulcinj is one of the oldest urban complexes on the Adriatic coast, boasting a history that spans over 25 centuries. Its strategic location has made it a coveted settlement for various civilizations, each leaving an indelible mark. From the Illyrians who first fortified the hill, through Greek and Roman rule, to Byzantine and Ottoman periods, the layers of history are palpable in its architecture. The fortress, with its imposing walls and citadel, stands as a testament to its enduring past. Instagram

Walking through the narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time. You'll encounter remnants of different eras, from ancient Illyrian ramparts to Ottoman-era buildings. The Museum of Ulcinj, housed within the Citadel, offers a deeper dive into this rich heritage, displaying artifacts that tell the story of the successive cultures that thrived here. Reddit

Unlike many historical sites that are purely ruins, Stari Grad Ulcinj is a living, breathing town. Residents still inhabit the old buildings, with laundry hanging from balconies and children playing in the alleys. This blend of history and daily life gives the Old Town a unique, authentic charm that resonates with visitors. Reddit

Navigating the Terrain: Shoes and Steps

The defining characteristic of Stari Grad Ulcinj's terrain is its extensive use of cobblestones and its hilly topography. The streets are narrow, winding, and often steep, making comfortable footwear an absolute necessity. Visitors consistently advise against wearing flip-flops or open-toed sandals, recommending sturdy sneakers or walking shoes instead to prevent slips and provide support on the uneven surfaces. Reddit

The climb from the lower parts of Ulcinj, such as Mala Plaža (Small Beach), up to the Old Town is significant. While it can be done in about 10 minutes, the uphill trek on cobblestones can be tiring. For those with mobility issues or who prefer to avoid the strenuous climb, parking closer to the entrance is an option, though finding a spot can be difficult, especially during peak tourist season. Reddit

This uneven terrain also means that Stari Grad Ulcinj is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. The steep steps and narrow passages present considerable challenges. However, for many, these very characteristics contribute to the Old Town's unique atmosphere and historical appeal. Reddit

Dining with a View: Sunset and Cuisine

Stari Grad Ulcinj is renowned for its restaurants that offer not just delicious food but also spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea, particularly during sunset. While dining within the Old Town walls can be more expensive than in the lower town, the ambiance and the visual spectacle are often considered a worthwhile trade-off. Reddit

Many establishments, like Restaurant Dulcinea, are highlighted for their prime locations and the breathtaking sunsets they provide. The cuisine typically features Mediterranean flavors, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Enjoying a meal or even just a drink on a terrace overlooking the sea as the sun dips below the horizon is a quintessential Ulcinj experience. TikTokReddit

It's advisable to consider making reservations, especially during the busy summer months, to secure a table with the best views. Even if you choose to dine elsewhere in Ulcinj, a visit to the Old Town for a sunset drink at one of these restaurants is highly recommended for the unforgettable experience. Reddit

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