
Stari Grad Ulcinj
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views are unmatched

Stari Grad Ulcinj
Best Time
Golden hour views are unmatched
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient fortress on the Adriatic, Stari Grad Ulcinj blends history, stunning sea views, and a vibrant, lived-in atmosphere.
"It's basically a stone fortress on the edge of the Adriatic with insane sea views around every corner."

👟 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Museum of Ulcinj
Citadel
Explore artifacts from Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, showcasing the town's rich past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cobblestones and Climbs
Sunset Views & Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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.
💰 Restaurants Pricier
Expect higher prices for food and drinks inside the Old Town, but the views are worth it.
🚶♀️ Explore the Alleys
Get lost in the narrow streets; you'll find charming corners and a real lived-in vibe.
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!
🌅 Sunset is a Must-See
The views at sunset are spectacular. Grab a drink at a restaurant with a view.
💰 Restaurants Pricier
Expect higher prices for food and drinks inside the Old Town, but the views are worth it.
🚶♀️ Explore the Alleys
Get lost in the narrow streets; you'll find charming corners and a real lived-in vibe.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tricky, especially in summer. Be prepared to park lower and walk up.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
The Museum of Ulcinj, located within the Citadel, typically has a small entrance fee. It's recommended to check current prices upon arrival.
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.
Yes, Stari Grad Ulcinj is beautiful at night, with many restaurants offering illuminated views. It's a popular spot for evening strolls and dining.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
Some visitors have noted the presence of beggars within the Old Town.
You'll find small souvenir shops, art galleries, and boutique hotels tucked away in the alleys of the Old Town.
Stari Grad Ulcinj is generally considered safe to walk around at night, with many people enjoying the atmosphere and dining options.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
You can expect a range of Mediterranean cuisine, with fresh seafood being a popular choice.
Restaurant Dulcinea is frequently mentioned for its stunning sunset views and Mediterranean dishes. Many other establishments within the walls also offer great vistas.
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.
Yes, there are several cafes scattered throughout the Old Town, perfect for a coffee break with a view.
📸 📸 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.
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photos. Sunrise can also offer a quieter, equally stunning experience.
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.
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.
Always be respectful when photographing people. It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
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.
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.
Navigating the Terrain: Shoes and Steps
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.
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.
Dining with a View: Sunset and Cuisine
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.
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.


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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit