Budva
One of the premier beach towns on Montenegro’s Riviera, Budva is much more than just marinas and sandy beaches. Dating back approximately 2500 years, Budva is one of the oldest towns on the Adriatic. It’s also a good mix of modernity and old world character, as high-rise condos overlook the ramparts and citadel of the medieval old town.
Budva has been occupied and influenced by the greatest empires of the world, including the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Ottomans, creating a rich history and culture that is evident all over the city. More recently, after the breakup of Yugoslavia in the early 1990’s, Montenegro has emerged as one of Europe’s new coastal destinations, benefiting from the influx of tourists and investors. Budva has significantly benefitted from this increase in investment, evidenced by numerous high-rise condos and other large-scale projects currently under development.
Getting Lost in the Historic Old Town
Budva’s Old Town is a quintessential medieval town, built as a stone fortress. There are towering walls with strategically placed gates, and once you pass through the main gate, you begin a journey along narrow pathways that wind in all directions. Numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes line the streets, with the main thoroughfares a bit wider and more lively. We encountered a few street musicians performing in various squares, which added to the charming atmosphere. The stone buildings and pathways are exceptionally well-maintained, and the town is incredibly picturesque at every turn.
Fortress Citadela
Budva’s Citadel is an impressive structure. It includes well-preserved walls, the remains of St. Mary’s Church, and the former barracks. In addition to offering stunning views of the bay and surrounding mountains, the citadel also houses a vast collection of books and maps related to the Balkans.
Budva’s Citadel is not only a fascinating place to explore but also provides a picturesque backdrop for the beach just outside its walls. As the town’s most prominent point extending into the bay, the beach lines one side of the walls, while the marina borders the other.
The Marina
Budva’s Marina, located just north of the fortress, features a pleasant promenade along the bay. It’s an ideal spot for strolling and admiring the boats, or stopping at one of the many restaurants for fresh fish and a glass of Montenegrin wine. It’s also a great place to observe the numerous Budva cats (there are plenty!) lounging around and waiting for a generous local fisherman to return for the day.
The walk along the marina continues north around the bay to Greco Beach. This area connects the modern part of town to the old town and is a convenient way to enter Budva’s historic center.
Budva’s Ballerina
Located on the shoreline of Mogren Beach, Budva’s Ballerina or Gymnast, holds her pose for the many selfies and IG posts that she stars in. Dancing to stave off her broken-heart from the loss of her sailorman, she is glorious to look at with the sparkling bay and the Old Town of Budva acting as her canvas.
The statue is not only part of Budva’s lore, it has become part of its tourism as well. It’s very common to see little Budva Ballerina statues being sold in the shops around town. Additionally, it’s supposedly good luck if you give her a good rub. A statue made of bronze, it’s quite obvious where Miss Ballerina girl gets rubbed the most.
Sveti Ivan Church
Saint Ivan’s Church is one of the iconic buildings in Budva, and the tower is probably the most recognizable structure. With a history that dates all the way back to the 7th century, the church that we see today was part of construction and rebuilding that took place during the 15 century.
The church has a beautiful exterior, and like most parts of the old town, it’s in remarkably good condition. Unfortunately, the church had a project going on while we were in town and we were not able to access the interior.
Beach Life in Budva
Budva not only boasts fabulous beaches but also has many right in the heart of the city, making them easily accessible and affordable for tourists and locals alike. Mogren and Greco Beach are two of the main beaches, but there are numerous other sandy destinations further out, including island beaches that are well worth the boat ride.
As Montenegro continues its journey toward joining the European Union, and as nearby Kotor solidifies its reputation as a port destination for cruise ships and the affluent yachting community, there is no doubt that Budva’s star will continue to rise as a major European beach destination.
Sveti Stefan Island
Just a short drive south of Budva is Sveti Stefan Island. The island’s rich history is highlighted by its stone buildings, dating back to the mid-15th century, along with quaint cobblestone streets and picturesque courtyards. Once the capital of the Pastrovici Community, who were under Venetian rule at the time, the Pastrovici and the Venetians built and fortified the island as a defense against the Turks.
More recently, in the 20th century, Sveti Stefan gained fame as a unique and luxurious destination, attracting Hollywood celebrities like Kirk Douglas, Sofia Loren, and Marilyn Monroe.
A New Era Of Luxury
Following its recent history of luxury and exclusivity, Aman Resorts leased Sveti Stefan Island in 2007 and undertook extensive renovations over the following two years. According to the Aman Sveti Stefan Island Resort website: The carefully restored stone buildings now house the 51 Rooms, Cottages, and Suites on the island, each one individually styled to showcase original details and harmonize with the centuries of history that give the isle its unique charm.
Which Way to Budva?
Located approximately halfway down Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, Budva can be accessed in various ways. Situated between Croatia and Albania, Budva is a scenic 3-hour drive from Dubrovnik and Tirana. The city is also a 1-hour drive from Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica.
The nearest airport to Budva is Tivat, located 30 minutes away. The airport serves many of Europe’s low-cost airlines and is the perfect size for quick travel. They offer numerous rental car options, and taxis are very affordable in Montenegro.