Budva Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities
This coastal town features a mix of ancient architecture and modern amenities. It is known for its beaches, pleasant nightlife, and historic sites, including a well-preserved old town with narrow streets and stone walls dating back to the medieval period.
- Size
- 58 square km
- Airport
- Tivat at 20 km – Int'l & 1 other
- Est. Visit Days
- 3 days
Overview
Budva is a coastal city in Montenegro known for its beaches and historical old town. Pros include its vibrant nightlife, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage. However, it can be crowded during the summer months, which may detract from the experience. The prices for accommodations and dining can also be higher than in other parts of Montenegro. Overall, Budva offers a mix of relaxation and entertainment but may not suit everyone’s preferences.
Traffic & Transport
The city features a compact layout, making it easy to explore on foot, especially in the charming old town area where vehicles are restricted. For longer distances or nearby attractions, renting a bicycle or scooter is popular among tourists, providing flexibility and ease of movement. Public buses also connect various parts of the region, including nearby beaches and towns, offering an economical way to travel. Car rentals are available but may be less convenient due to limited parking in the city center. Reliable taxi services operate in the area, with local companies providing safe and efficient rides. Popular taxi-booking apps may not be widely available, so it's advisable to use traditional taxis or inquire at your accommodation for reputable providers.
History
This coastal city has a history influenced by various empires and powers, including the Romans and Venetians. It was part of the Byzantine Empire before falling under Venetian control in the Middle Ages. The area faced numerous conflicts, including battles during the Ottoman Wars. Commerce flourished due to its strategic location along trade routes in the Adriatic Sea. Cultural influences from different periods are evident in its architecture and traditions.
Itinerary Sample
Here is a 3-day itinerary for exploring Budva, Montenegro.
– First day: Explore the Old Town, visit the Citadel, and relax at Mogren Beach. Enjoy local cuisine at a nearby restaurant in the evening.
– Second day: Take a boat trip to Sveti Nikola Island for swimming and sunbathing. Visit Tivat in the afternoon for shopping and dining.
– Third day: Head to Becici Beach for leisure activities. In the evening, enjoy a sunset walk along the promenade and have dinner with sea views.
Near Excursion
This city offers a variety of day-trip options within a reasonable distance. Here are some suggestions:
– Kotor at 23 km: A UNESCO World Heritage site with lovely medieval architecture and scenic views.
– Lovćen National Park at 45 km: Known for its mountainous landscapes and the mausoleum of Montenegrin ruler Njegoš.
– Lake Skadar at 50 km: The largest lake in Southern Europe, ideal for bird watching and boat tours.
– Cetinje at 32 km: The old royal capital, rich in history with numerous museums and historical buildings.
– Ostrog Monastery at 80 km: A Serbian Orthodox monastery built into a cliff face, attracting pilgrims from all over the world.
Attraction
Known for its beautiful beaches and historic sites, it's a popular coastal destination for travelers.
– Old Town: A medieval walled city with narrow streets, charming squares, and historical architecture.
– Mogren Beach: A elegant beach surrounded by cliffs, offering clear waters and sandy shores.
– Sveti Stefan: A small islet resort connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway.
– Citadel: An ancient fortress providing panoramic views of the surrounding area and sea.
– Jaz Beach: One of the longest beaches in the region, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.
– St. Nicholas Island: Often called Hawaii of the coast, accessible by boat with secluded beaches.
Activity
In Budva, travelers can enjoy beautiful beaches, historic sites, and various outdoor activities along the Adriatic coast.
– Paragliding: Experience remarkable views of the coastline while soaring high above Budva's scenic landscape.
– Old Town Exploration: Wander through narrow streets filled with ancient architecture and local shops in Budva's charming Old Town.
– Beach Hopping: Visit different beaches like Mogren and Jaz for sunbathing, swimming, or water sports activities.
– Boat Tours: Take a boat trip to nearby islands or secluded coves for swimming and relaxation.
– Nightlife Experience: Enjoy pleasant nightlife at local bars and clubs that offer music and entertainment by the sea.
Cuisine
The city offers a mix of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, with seafood playing a central role in its culinary offerings. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Black Risotto: A creamy rice dish colored and flavored with cuttlefish ink.
– Njegusi Prosciutto: Dry-cured ham traditionally smoked and aged in mountain air.
– Buzara: Seafood stew typically featuring mussels or prawns cooked in wine, garlic, and herbs.
– Cevapi: Grilled minced meat sausages served with flatbread and onions.
– Baklava: Sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough filled with nuts and honey syrup.
Arts & Culture
The city hosts the annual Budva Music Festival, which features various genres and attracts both local and international artists. During the summer months, there are numerous theatrical performances and concerts held in historic venues like the Old Town. The Mediterranean Film Festival is another highlight, showcasing films from the region. Additionally, local galleries often exhibit contemporary art from Montenegrin artists.