Things to Do in Budva – Best Tourist Spots
Budva is one of the most beautiful cities in Montenegro in terms of places to visit. Because it has many unique historic buildings, Old Town streets, stone houses, magnificent beaches, and crazy nightlife. So Budva does not disappoint the travelers’ expectations. It is one of the best tourist destinations in visa-free Balkans. So what are the best things to do in Budva? You will find the answer to it in this Budva Travel Blog.
Contents
- 1 Things to Do in Budva
- 1.1 Montenegro Budva Must-See Places
- 1.1.1 1- Old Town (Stari Grad)
- 1.1.2 2- Citadel
- 1.1.3 3- Holy Trinity Church
- 1.1.4 4- Sveti Stefan Island
- 1.1.5 5- St Sava Church
- 1.1.6 6- Santa Maria in Punta
- 1.1.7 7- St. Ivan Church
- 1.1.8 8- Budva City Museum – Things to Do in Montenegro
- 1.1.9 9- Sveti Nikola Island
- 1.1.10 10- Dancing Girl Statue – Places To Visit In Budva
- 1.1.11 11- Praskvica Monastery
- 1.1.12 12- Podostrog Monastery
- 1.1.13 13- Duljevo Monastery
- 1.1.14 14- Petrovac – Things to Do in Budva
- 1.1.15 15- Budva Beaches – Where to Swim
- 1.1.15.1 Plaza Ricardova Glava
- 1.1.15.2 Mogren Beach – Budva Beaches
- 1.1.15.3 Becici Beach
- 1.1.15.4 Rafailovici Beach
- 1.1.15.5 Jaz Beach – holiday in Budva
- 1.1.15.6 Kamenovo Beach
- 1.1.15.7 Queen’s Beach
- 1.1.15.8 Slovenska Beach
- 1.1.15.9 Sveti Stefan Island
- 1.1.15.10 Sveti Nikola Island
- 1.1.15.11 Milocer Beach
- 1.2 Nightlife – Things to Do in Budva
- 1.3 Where to Stay
- 1.1 Montenegro Budva Must-See Places
Things to Do in Budva
Budva is a very historic city. Because its history dates back 2500 years. So it is also a very special city in the world. Especially The Old Town, which is called Stari Grad, is on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. It is a very important place in terms of both tourism and world cultural history.
Budva is known as the Miami of Montenegro. It is one of the first destinations preferred by those who want to enjoy the sea around the Balkans. Because it has amazing sea, beaches, and the weather.
The city draws attention with its buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. Many tourists come here to see these unique houses. In addition, The Budva nightlife is very vibrant. Speaking as Nightlife, check Budva Nightlife guide.
Montenegro Budva Must-See Places
The city is quite small, but it is really enjoyable to walk around. Because you are traveling in time, especially when you step into the Old Town. Narrow streets, stone houses, and magnificent city walls take you back to the Middle Ages. These medieval old houses, historical churches, bells, and doors make you feel good.
Leaning its back on the mountain slope and facing the Adriatic Sea, the city is different from other Balkan cities. European tourists flock here. It gets incredibly crowded, especially when the summer season starts.
It’s time to talk about places to visit and things to do in Budva in this travel guide now. Be sure to check out the list below.
1- Old Town (Stari Grad)
Most cities in Europe and the Balkans have the Old Town. But this is completely different from the ordinary Old Towns. It has beautiful architecture that fascinates people with its seafront walls, Adriatic view, and appearance like a postcard.
Budva Stari Grad region, which is on the list of places to visit in Montenegro, is under the protection of UNESCO World Heritage. Because it was surrounded by walls dating back to the 5th century BC. It was built to protect from enemies.
There are many churches, monasteries, and old stone houses within the walls. You can explore all the highlights with ease, even by getting lost in its narrow streets. Do not forget to pass through the gate that opens to the seaside.
There are also cafes, bars, pizzeria, ice cream shops, wine shops, and restaurants in the Old Town. Budva nightlife is also very active in this magnificent region that smells of history.
One of the answers to the question of where to stay in Budva is Stari Grad Old Town. You can experience the harmony of the medieval age and modern life by staying in the heart of the city. As a suggestion, you can stay within the walls and 50 meters from Ricardova Glava Beach in a place called Sailor House.
2- Citadel
One of the must-see attractions during a trip to Budva is the Citadel. Citadel has a magnificent Adriatic view. I am sure you will like the view.
The history of the Citadel dates back to the 6th century. It was actually built on a basilica. It was built to defend the city against enemy threats from the sea. Due to its high position, it is like a viewing terrace. The beaches, the maze-like historic streets of Stari Grad, and the forest landscape make people happy.
You have to pay a fee of around 3-4 Euros to get here. But it’s worth it. Therefore, it deserves to be on the list of things to do in Budva.
3- Holy Trinity Church
The Holy Trinity Church is among the historical touristic places to visit in Budva. The church was built in 1804. Despite its being more than 200 years of age, it is still one of the churches that the congregation worships.
The church that Orthodox Christians go to was built after the Venetian Republic collapsed. It is said that especially the support of the Montenegrin Bishopric played an important role in the preservation of the building until today.
In addition to its historical importance, the church manages to attract attention with its architectural features. The church decorated with frescoes fascinates those who see it.
4- Sveti Stefan Island
Sveti Stefan Island is one of the iconic destinations not only in Budva but also in Montenegro as well. The island, which has structures built on hard cliffs, has a magnificent appearance. In fact, we can say that it is a peninsula because it is connected to the mainland, even if it is small.
In the past, this place was used as a weapons depot. Later, with the development of tourism, it started to attract people’s attention. Since the island is now operated by Aman Resorts, no one is allowed outside the hotel. Actually, it was open to tourists visits in the past.
Therefore, if you want to explore the island from the inside, you need to stay at Aman Resorts/Hotel, a luxury hotel chain. If your budget is suitable for this, staying in such a unique and inaccessible place will make your Montenegro holiday special. Sveti Stefan Island can be an answer to the question of where to go on a honeymoon as well
You cannot enter the island, but at least you can walk to its door. Or you have the chance to tour around the island with a Budva boat tour. In addition, there are 2 magnificent beaches on both sides of the peninsula-shaped land where you can swim.
How to get to Budva Sveti Stefan Island? You can reach here in as little as 15 minutes with the buses departing from the city center. It costs 2 euros. The buses leave from the bus stop at the end of Mediteranska Street.
5- St Sava Church
Saint Sava Church is another church that you should see in the most beautiful city of Montenegro. Because the church, which dates back to the 14th century, is of great historical importance even though it is small. Even though it was hit by big earthquakes and wars, we can say that it is still standing with its charm.
St Sava Church is located to the west of the Citadel. In fact, it is usually closed to visitors. But you can take a breather here against the Adriatic view. So it is on the list of the best things to do in Budva.
6- Santa Maria in Punta
Santa Maria in Punta Church is one of the oldest religious buildings in Montenegro. Even if you get lost in the streets of Stari Grad, your path falls here.
The building was built in 840 AD. It also houses a monastery and the city’s oldest school. There are also the tombs of the clergy inside the church, which those who want to make a cultural trip may want to see.
Santa Maria in Punta stands side by side with the Church of Saint Sava. Famous exhibitions and concerts are sometimes held in the churchyard. You can even witness people dancing in the garden accompanied by a DJ performance for the nightlife of Budva. It must be a different feeling to dance and drink something with a modern DJ performance between medieval buildings.
7- St. Ivan Church
St. Ivan Church is also known as St. John’s Church. It is one of the iconic structures in Montenegro. It is possible to see this church on most postcards with its unique gothic architecture. Therefore, St Ivan Church deserves to be on the list of places to visit in Budva.
St John’s Church is a Catholic church. Its construction date goes back to the 13th century. A clock tower was added in the 19th century. There is also a bell in the tower.
When you enter the church, well-preserved monuments, frescoes, and wall paintings greet you. It is one of the tourist destinations worth seeing during your trip to Budva.
8- Budva City Museum – Things to Do in Montenegro
If you love to visit museums, you can visit the Museum of the City of Budva. Archaeological artifacts are in the foreground of the museum. The museum started its service in 1962. Its collection includes more than 2500 historical and ancient artifacts.
The museum consists of a 3-story building. This comprehensive museum is very useful for getting information about the history of Budva in Montenegro. In particular, artifacts from the Roman Empire, Habsburg, Byzantine, Greek, and Slavic periods draw attention. Pieces of high archaeological value are on display.
Where to stay in Montenegro? Check hotel list on the booking website.
9- Sveti Nikola Island
The touristic Sveti Nikola Island is located 1 km away. Access to the island is provided by boats or boats departing from the marina. It is also one of the stops of Adriatic boat tours. So it is one of the Budva beaches where you can swim if you can not decide where to swim.
Sveti Nikola Island is called the Hawaii of Montenegro. Because it almost looks like a tropical island in the middle of the Pacific. Apart from the beach, it also draws attention with its lush vegetation.
The beach with beautiful beaches is run by a private business. There are facilities such as cafes, sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. You may need sea shoes as the beach is stony and pebbly. I mean, keep that in mind.
10- Dancing Girl Statue – Places To Visit In Budva
The Dancing Girl Statue is quite an iconic structure. The aesthetic appearance of the sculpture on the rocks and the view of the Adriatic Sea and the Old Town in the background are truly magnificent. Really one of the places to post pictures on Instagram.
Where is the Budva Dancing Girl Statue? There is a footpath walking path from the Old Town towards Mogren Beach. By following this road, you will see this bronze statue on the road. Seeing this beautiful sculpture is one of the top things to do in Budva.
The statue has stories and legends in different versions that are told. When you go, you can ask Montenegrin people and listen to their stories. Still, let me briefly tell you about a few legends here.
A beautiful girl who is a dancer used to dance here while waiting for her boyfriend, who is a sailor. This statue was made in memory of that girl.
According to another legend, a girl who was a very famous gymnast of Montenegro died while trying to swim here. It is told that the girl is famous, but we still don’t know what her name is.
In another one, a couple went into the sea here. The girl somehow saved herself on the shore, but the boy was attacked by a shark and died.
11- Praskvica Monastery
Praskvica Monastery is a structure that you can visit on the way to Sveti Stefan Island. It is one of the most touristic places in Montenegro. The date of construction is the 11th century. In other words, it has sacred and historical significance for Christians.
The most striking thing about the monastery is its frescoes. In fact, these frescoes did not exist when the monastery was built. These frescoes were added to the building in the 17th century.
Among the places to visit around Budva, there are a few more monasteries like this one that you can explore. These are Gradiste Monastery and Stanjevic Monastery. If you are a traveler with the spirit of discovering every detail, I suggest you visit these places too.
12- Podostrog Monastery
Podostrog Monastery is one of the beautiful monasteries that I do not want to pass without mentioning in this Budva travel guide. Because it is one of the most visited tourist spots by tourists.
The monastery was built in 1350. But it was restored in 1630. After it was restored, the Montenegrin Royal Family used this religious building as a summer residence. By the way, this place is called Podmaine Monastery in some sources.
13- Duljevo Monastery
Duljevo Monastery is located outside the city. The church in the forests is a 14th-century building. As you can see, there are many historical buildings in the Balkans. It is like an invaluable blessing for those who want to make a cultural trip.
Since this place is outside of the city, there is no public transport or bus. Therefore, if you are doing a Balkan tour by car, you can stop by. In the monastery in the middle of nature, locals also produce and sell organic products such as fruit juice and honey. You can also try it.
14- Petrovac – Things to Do in Budva
Petrovac is one of the best places to visit near Budva, Montenegro. It is only a half hour away from the city. This is actually a pretty small beach town. But it is shown among the most beautiful holiday resorts in the Balkans.
Petrovac’s history dates back to the Roman Empire Period. During the period from the 1st World War to the 2nd World War, it was one of the holiday destinations preferred by the Yugoslav society and rich people.
Petrovac is an idyllic place for those who are tired of the tourist crowd. It meets expectations with its magnificent beach, modest hotels and restaurants.
15- Budva Beaches – Where to Swim
Where to swim in the Balkan Peninsula? There are several answers to this question. We can count Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia. But Budva is one of the most beautiful places to swim in, with its magnificent sea.
Budva also makes tourists fall in love with its beaches, beaches, and crystal clear sea. The Adriatic Sea is a great place to relax and enjoy the sea. There are beaches that are shown among the best beaches in the world. So where to swim here?
Plaza Ricardova Glava
Those who want to swim just close to the Old Town can choose here.
Mogren Beach – Budva Beaches
Mogren Beach is one of the most crowded beaches in the city. You arrive at the end of a 300-meter walk. If you are on a holiday in Budva, even if you do not swim in the sea, I would recommend you walk to this beach at least.
Becici Beach
Becici Beach is one of the biggest and most famous beaches in Budva. Located in the town of Becici, near the city center, the beach is a little rocky. It just gets deeper. That’s why there are so many lifesavers.
Rafailovici Beach
It is the most preferred beach after Becici Beach. Although it is small, its turquoise water will enchant you. One of the places you should stop by while traveling to Budva.
Jaz Beach – holiday in Budva
Where is Budva Jaz Beach and how to get there? It is approximately 3 kilometers from the city center. It is one of the most preferred beaches to go with the family. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, also lay your own towel and enjoy the sun.
The most important feature of Jaz Beach is that it was chosen as the best beach in Europe in 2015 by Lonely Planet. You know it is one of the leading brands in the travel industry. So, one of the fun things to do in Budva is to visit Jaz Beach.
Kamenovo Beach
Kamenovo Beach is one of the best beaches in Budva. So Kamenovo Beach is a must-see place near the city.
Queen’s Beach
If you want to take a vitamin sea, you can choose Queen’s Beach, one of the beach alternatives. It has more expensive operating prices compared to other beaches. The beach was named after Queen Marija Karadjordjevic.
Slovenska Beach
It got its name from the Slovenians who came to build it here in the 1900s. Slovenska Beach is one of the most preferred beaches for swimming due to its easy accessibility. It is also very enjoyable to watch the sunset here.
Sveti Stefan Island
I have already mentioned the island in the list of things to do in Budva. But it still needs to be mentioned. There is no beach on Sveti Stefan Island, but as you will see on the way to the island, there are 2 beaches on the right and left. You can swim in the sea here.
In fact, the sea is the same, but while the left side is free (you can only pay for the sunbed if you want), a fee of 50 Euros is charged on the right side at the entrance.
Sveti Nikola Island
Sveti Nikola Island is like a tropical island in the Philippines. There is no entry fee to the island. If you want to rent only sunbeds and parasols, you pay 10 Euros.
Milocer Beach
Known as King’s Beach, Milocer Beach is the place where the deep blue sea and exotic tree and plant species dance in harmony.
Nightlife – Things to Do in Budva
The question of whether it is Kotor or Budva for nightlife is asked a lot. In my opinion, Budva nightlife is more exciting and lively. Especially in the summer season, clubs, bars, cafes, etc. are so crowded in the evenings.
Especially foreign tourists flocking to the city sit and drink their drinks after the sun goes down, while others dance crazily at nightclubs. So this city is one of the most vibrant holiday destinations with nightlife.
The city is known as the Miami of Montenegro. So it has many quality entertainment venues. By the way, you don’t have to sit anywhere to have a drink. Because you can go to the seaside with your beer or other drinks that you bought from the market, or you can hang out in the Old Town walls with the Adriatic landscapes.
I can recommend the following places in this Montenegro Budva travel guide.
- Old Town Pub: It is an ideal bar for drinking beer. It is located in the center of the Old Town.
- Casper Bar: You can go to listen to a live jazz performance while having a drink.
- Stara Budva: It is one of the famous places with pizza and beer.
- Torch Beach Club: It is a beach club that has crazy parties on Slovenska Beach during the summer months.
- Top Hill: One of the most popular places among Budva nightclubs.
- Old Fisherman’s Pub: You can drink champagne, wine, or beer according to your mood, or you can dine here in the evenings.
- Omnia Night Club: You can dance crazily at Omnia. Especially DJ performances and laser light shows are very impressive.
Where to Stay
You will see many accommodation facilities while you are on a Budva trip and a holiday tour. Of course, the important thing is to make a reservation before going here. Because in the high season, finding an available place can be a problem.
Budva is a bit expensive compared to other touristic Balkan cities, as it is a popular holiday destination and has magnificent beaches. However, it is still possible to find hotel rooms for every budget. There are many options that are both safe and comfortable.
I recommend you to use the sites or applications called booking or HotelsCombined when making a hotel reservation. Because you can sort the cheapest hotels by price and evaluate them according to customer reviews.
- Sobe Nedovic: I stayed here. It’s like a hostel or guest-house type. The host is a very sweet and helpful woman. Although it is about 20 minutes away from the Old Town on foot, it is only 2-3 minutes from the bus station. I would definitely recommend it.
- Hotel Lusso Mare: Although Hotel Lusso Mare is not very central, Dukley and Slovenska Beaches are very close. If you want to swim in the sea every day during your trip to Budva, you can stay here.
- Freedom Hostel: An ideal option for backpackers who want to stay cheap.
- Hotel Astoria: It can be preferred to wake up in front of the fascinating view in the Old Town.
- Old Town Skyline Apartments: If you want to stay in the comfort of your home, you can book here.
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