Ulcinj is a lively seaside town in Montenegro known for its stunning beaches, bustling old town, and above all, its authentic culinary scene. Unlike some tourist-heavy spots, Ulcinj offers genuine opportunities to taste local flavors and even learn how to cook them yourself. Our favorite is the Ulcinj: Cooking Class – Including Dinner – Local experience because it combines hands-on participation with delicious food, all served in a relaxing terrace setting. The ability to learn recipes directly from local women and enjoy a home-cooked meal makes this a memorable experience.
Both tours focus on authentic local cuisine and offer immersive cultural moments. Whether you’re interested in a practical cooking lesson or prefer a casual taste of Ulcinj’s organic market offerings, these experiences deliver genuine flavor and insight into Montenegrin life. If you’re trying to decide between them, read on for detailed descriptions that will help you pick the perfect culinary adventure.
Here’s a quick overview of what each tour offers: one is a hands-on cooking class that includes dinner and teaches you local recipes, while the other is a tasting experience exploring the center of Ulcinj and its green market. Both are around 2 hours long and highly rated — the cooking class has a 4.7/5 rating from 22 reviews, and the local taste tour scores an even higher 4.8/5 from 13 reviews. Now, let’s dive into what makes each tour special.
1. Ulcinj: Cooking Class – Including Dinner – Local experience
At number one on our list, this cooking class offers a chance to learn how to prepare authentic Ulcinj dishes right in the comfort of a local guest house. The experience lasts about 2 hours and includes cooking with local women, using fresh ingredients from nearby markets. The dinner you create is enjoyed on a peaceful terrace, and you’ll leave with recipes to try at home.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on homemade food and traditional techniques. The hosts are warm and welcoming, often described as “super nice people” who are eager to share their culinary secrets. Guests love that they receive the recipes afterward, making it easy to recreate the dishes later. The experience is ideal for those who want a hands-on activity combined with a delicious meal and cultural insight. It’s also praised for its relaxed atmosphere and intimate setting—perfect for solo travelers or couples.
The main advantage here is the authentic, home-cooked quality — not a touristy restaurant but a true local experience. The only potential downside is that it’s a short class, so it’s best for those who want a quick but meaningful culinary immersion.
Bottom Line: If you want to learn real Ulcinj recipes in a cozy setting and enjoy a homemade dinner, this class delivers.
2. Ulcinj: Local taste. Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner
At number two, this tasting tour offers a laid-back way to experience Ulcinj’s local lifestyle through its food and markets. During about 2 hours, you’ll explore the town center and visit the green market, where fresh, organic ingredients are on display. This tour emphasizes organic, homemade food—most ingredients come straight from the market, seen from the host’s balcony, and are prepared with care.
The highlight is the chance to sit down and enjoy local dishes and drinks in a friendly family setting. Visitors love the intimate atmosphere—sitting on the rooftop of a family home adds a special touch. The host Leha is often praised as a “beautiful host,” making the experience warm and personal. Guests also enjoy a special gift at the end, which adds to the thoughtfully curated nature of this experience.
This tour ranks slightly higher in ratings and is perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed, cultural exploration rather than a cooking lesson. It’s a good fit if you want to see the market, taste fresh food, and understand everyday Ulcinj life. The organic focus and local setting make it especially appealing for eco-conscious visitors.
Bottom Line: For a casual, authentic taste of Ulcinj with a personal touch, this tour is a superb choice.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two wonderful options, consider your travel style and interests. If you enjoy learning new skills and want a full hands-on cooking experience that ends with a hearty meal, the cooking class is ideal. It’s well-suited for foodies eager to bring home recipes and enjoy a quiet, local setting.
On the other hand, if your priority is to immerse in local culture through casual tasting and exploring the markets, the local taste tour provides a relaxed, authentic experience with plenty of opportunities to chat with a warm host and enjoy fresh, organic food.
Both tours are around the same length and offer excellent value for authentic culinary insights. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, as these experiences are popular with travelers seeking genuine local flavors and cultural moments.
Ulcinj’s food scene is more than just a meal; it’s a doorway into everyday life. Whether you opt for the hands-on cooking class or the relaxed tasting tour, you’ll leave with a fuller belly and a better understanding of Montenegrin hospitality. For those who want to make the most of their time, consider pairing either experience with a stroll through the old town or a visit to the green market. Whatever your choice, these tours promise an authentic taste of Ulcinj that you won’t forget.
Looking for a memorable culinary adventure in Ulcinj? Now’s the time to book early — these experiences fill up quickly, especially in summer. Indulge in local flavors, learn new skills, and enjoy the hospitality that makes Ulcinj special.