Little-known European seaside resort has 8-mile beach and £39 UK flights
Discover Ulcinj, Montenegro's underrated Adriatic coast gem - a budget-friendly seaside resort with an 8-mile beach, affordable flights from the UK, and a laid-back summer holiday vibe
Millions of Brits will be descending on popular hotspots such as Spain, Greece and Italy over the coming months. And while these destinations have a great deal to offer, you often find yourself battling the crowds for a decent spot on the beach or queuing endlessly for popular attractions.
If you'd rather venture off the beaten track to somewhere far less likely to feature sunbed wars, the good news is there's no shortage of sun-drenched European destinations to choose from. One underrated gem well worth visiting in 2026, before the masses catch on, lies in Montenegro, nestled along the tranquil blue shores of the Adriatic Sea.
According to the travel experts at Iglu Cruise, who have compiled a list of five underrated destinations to consider this summer, Ulcinj offers a far more relaxed, budget-friendly alternative to the northern reaches of Montenegro. Situated at the country's southernmost tip, the coastline becomes noticeably less rocky and increasingly sandy the nearer you get to the Albanian border.
Ulcinj's old town is a charming labyrinth of cobbled streets enclosed within ancient stone fortress walls, where you'll discover authentic local restaurants, artisan shops and attractions including the Museum of Local History and Church-Mosque. Wander along the walls and you'll occasionally stumble upon gaps offering breathtaking views out across the glistening sea. Velika Plaža, also referred to as Long Beach, extends for eight miles, starting at Port Milena in the town. Its golden sands are level and easy to access, making it attractive to all manner of holidaymakers.
Various sections of the beach offer distinct atmospheres. The Cabo Beach area features sunbeds and parasols available for hire, alongside vibrant bars and restaurants near the shore, while the Miami Beach area in the north tends to be more tranquil and boasts pine trees providing a shaded retreat.
Further south, you'll typically discover more beach bars and evening entertainment, allowing you to savour late drinks on the sand. In July 2026, the area will play host to the EXIT Festival for the first time, with this renowned electronic music festival poised to transform Ulcinj's Long Beach into a party hotspot for the weekend.
Should you prefer to swim away from the masses, then head to Ladies Beach just a short drive north. This rocky inlet features a small beach and numerous large flat rocks for sunbathing, complete with ladders enabling you to descend into this sheltered cove for a refreshing swim.
As evening falls, make your way to the chic marina area. It boasts waterfront bars with outdoor terraces overlooking the water, alongside a diverse selection of restaurants serving freshly-caught seafood. The local cuisine bears strong similarities to what you'll discover across the water in Italy, meaning plenty of pizza, pasta, and an emphasis on fresh ingredients. That said, you'll also encounter Balkan influences, so watch out for dishes featuring smoked ham, slow-cooked lamb and potatoes, and kacamak, a porridge prepared with potatoes and cheese.
