Southern Montenegro: Bar, Ulcinj and Ada Bojana — Guide 2026
Our big journey through Montenegro is coming to an end. In this guide, we have already discovered the grandeur of the Bay of Kotor, visited the lively beaches and fortresses of the Budva Riviera, appreciated the atmosphere of the old capital Cetinje and the rugged beauty of the north...
Our big journey through Montenegro is coming to an end. In this guide, we have already discovered the grandeur of the Bay of Kotor, visited the lively beaches and the fortresses of the Budva Riviera, appreciated the atmosphere of the old capital, Cetinje and the rugged beauties of the north with canyons and glacial lakes. And now it is time for the final chapter — a dive into the south of the country. Here, lakes and rivers reign, along with ancient fortresses and an Eastern flavor, kilometers of sandy beaches, and a leisurely atmosphere.
Lake Skadar: excursions, pelicans, and wine tasting
Lake Skadar — the largest in the Balkans and one of Montenegro’s most picturesque national parks. Its area changes depending on the season: from 370 to 530 sq. km, making it feel like an entire inland sea.
This is a completely different Montenegro. An endless expanse of water covered with carpets of water lilies, among which hundreds of bird species nest, including rare curly pelicans. The main starting point for exploring the lake is the village of Virpazar. From here, it is best to go on a boat trip (about 25-30 euros for a one-hour rental). Don’t forget the national park ticket (5 euros per person or with a pass).
More about Montenegro’s national parks
For photographers, a must-visit spot is the viewpoint Pavlova Strana (Pavlova Strana Rijeka Crnojeviča Viewpoint), from which the famous view of the bend of the Crnojevića River opens up. It is best to come here toward evening, when the soft light highlights the greenery and the turquoise water.
Lake Skadar, the Crnojevića River. View from Pavlova Strana Rijeka Crnojeviča Viewpoint. Photo: Boudewijn Boer
The region around the lake is also the heart of Montenegrin winemaking. Visiting a family winery such as Cermeniza, Lipovac or Vukmirović, is a wonderful opportunity to try local Vranac and Kruna wines, homemade liqueurs, and cheeses. Tasting prices start from 15-20 euros.
Tip: in Virpazar, you can stay overnight in family guesthouses or small hotels and spend the evening with a glass of wine on a terrace overlooking the lake.
Bar Riviera: Old Bar, beaches, and the promenade
A few kilometers from the modern city of Bar, at the foot of Mount Rumija, lies Old Bar — one of the largest fortresses in the Balkans. Its history is a kaleidoscope of cultures: Byzantines, Venetians, Ottomans.
Old Bar is a huge fortress city. A walk through its streets is a journey through the centuries. Here you can see the ruins of churches, a Turkish bath, a mosque, a clock tower, and a beautifully preserved 16th-century aqueduct.
At the foot of the fortress grows the Old Olive Tree, which is more than 2,200 years old. In Old Bar, you can feel the proximity of Albania and an authentic Muslim atmosphere. In the colorful streets, you will be offered fresh fruit or freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.
Ulcinj and Ada Bojana: the old town and the sandy beach
The southernmost city in Montenegro, Ulcinj, and the island adjacent to it, Ada Bojana offer completely different experiences. This place is famous for Velika Plaža (Velika Plaža) — a 13-kilometer stretch of fine dark sand that is a mecca for kitesurfers.
The atmosphere here is more relaxed, with many beach bars and water sports schools. This region is also known for its excellent fish restaurants. Be sure to try the fresh catch at places likeKonoba Kod Rankaor Misko.
Tip: if you are looking for an atmosphere of complete freedom, Ada Bojana also has a separate nudist area — one of the largest in Europe.
Ada Bojana, Montenegro. Photo: Bokanews.me
What else to see in Montenegro?
This is where our big journey through Montenegro comes to an end. Together, we explored the Bay of Kotor and its islands, the lively resorts of the Budva Riviera and modern marinas, the atmospheric towns of the central part of the country, the rugged beauty of the north with its canyons and glacial lakes, and now the south with its lakes, fortresses, and endless beaches.
But even this series of guides does not cover all the facets of Montenegro: the country surprises at every turn. If you missed the previous articles, be sure to check them out to piece together the full mosaic of impressions and not miss a thing:
