Wonders of Montenegro: How to spend an unforgettable vacation in Budva

Do you love sun, sea and adventure? Then you should definitely visit Budva, the pearl of Montenegro, which will amaze you with its beauty and charm.

Budva is not only a popular resort with beautiful beaches, but also a city with a rich history, which is reflected in its unique architecture. Every tourist will find something to see in Budva, regardless of preferences. Here you can not only enjoy your vacation, but also culture, art and entertainment.

In this article we will share with you the most interesting and wonderful sights of Budva, which will make your trip unforgettable. Join us and discover Budva, a city that falls in love at first sight.

What to see in Budva for history lovers?

One of the best ways to experience Budva is to stroll through its historical sites, which reflect the rich and diverse heritage of this city. History lovers, get ready! We will tell you about five interesting places in Budva that will not leave you indifferent.

Old Town

This is the oldest part of Budva, with more than 2500 years of history. Here you can see traces of different civilizations that ruled the city in different eras: Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Ottomans.

The old town amazes with its architecture with elements of the Middle Ages, Baroque and Secession. You can admire the beautiful monuments - the statue of a ballerina, the Sea Nymph fountain and the monument to Miguel de Cervantes. Or visit interesting museums such as Budva Museum and Museum of Modern Art. Don't miss also the magnificent churches such as St. John's Church, Church of the Holy Trinity and Church of the Virgin Mary.

Budva Citadel

This is a fortress that dates back to the 15th century and served as a defense against attacks. It is located on the highest point of the Old Town and offers stunning views of the sea and the city.

Address: 7RGQ+V66, Budva, Montenegro

Website: http://www.imobilia.net/citadela_budva.html

Rating: 4.6 ⭐

Here you can learn more about the history of the city, visit the museum, which is located inside the citadel and contains exhibits that reveal not only the history but also the culture of Budva. And from the top of the citadel you can enjoy incredible views of the city and the sea.

Waterfront Budva Monasteries

Witnesses of Budva's ancient religious tradition and culture, which are located in picturesque places on the seaside. You can visit monasteries such as:

• Podmiane;
• Praskvica;
• Reževići;
• Stanjevici.

In these monasteries you will find ancient icons, frescoes, relics and manuscripts. And of course, silence and tranquility, which can only be in such holy places.

St. Stephen

This is a former fishing village turned into a luxury resort. It is located on a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow spit. You can learn about its unique history, which began in the 15th century when the locals built a fortress to protect it from pirates and ended in the 20th century when it became a favorite vacation spot for celebrities such as Sophia Loren, Kirk Douglas and Elizabeth II.

Enjoy an atmosphere that combines traditional and modern style and a beauty that includes beaches, gardens, churches and sea views.

Perast

This is a picturesque town on the shores of the Bay of Kotor, founded in the Middle Ages. It is famous for its architecture, which reflects the influence of the Venetian style. You can admire its palaces such as Buicevic, Zmajevic and Smekija, as well as its churches such as St. Nikola's Church, St. Mark's Church and the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin.

Visit the churches of Our Lady on the Rocks and St. George, which are symbols of Perast and its maritime history.

Budva has a lot to offer history lovers. Here you can easily plunge into the past and enjoy the beauty and atmosphere of the city.

The amazing nature of Budva

If you love nature and want to enjoy its beauty and freshness, Budva offers plenty of opportunities to do so.

Budva Riviera Beaches

These are some of the best beaches in Montenegro, which stretch for 35 kilometers along the coast. Here you can find a beach for every taste and mood, from sandy and pebbly to rocky and secluded. Visit beaches such as:

• Mogren - a secluded beach;
• Yaz - camping beach;
• Becici - the southeastern shore of Budva;
• Kamenovo - a popular pebble beach;
• Drobni Peski - white sand surrounded by a hidden cove.

On these beaches you can not only sunbathe and swim, but also engage in various water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and diving.

Skadar Lake

This is the largest lake in the Balkans and a national park that is home to many species of animals and plants.

Address: 7686+MV4, Rijeka Crnojevića, Montenegro

Website: https://www.montenegro.travel/

Rating: 4.7 ⭐

Lake Skadar is home to a variety of birds, including pelicans, herons, and gulls. Take a boat tour of the lake and see its islands, monasteries, castles, and marshes. And be sure to try local specialties such as carp soup, dried fish and wine made from Vranac grapes.

Black Lake and Tarski Canyon

This is part of Durmitor National Park, which is located in the mountains in northern Montenegro. Black Lake is the largest and most beautiful glacial lake in the park, which is surrounded by pine forest and snowy peaks.

Tara Canyon is the second deepest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon, cutting through the mountainous terrain and creating spectacular scenery. You can get a bird's eye view of the canyon or go whitewater rafting down the Tara River.

Paragliding over Becici

This is one of the most popular extreme sports in Budva, which allows you to feel like a bird and enjoy incredible views of the sea and the city. You can choose different duration and difficulty of the flight, depending on your experience and desire. You can fly alone or paired with an instructor who will ensure your safety and comfort. Order videos and photos from your flight to preserve this unforgettable experience.

Hiking trails in the mountains

This is a great way to explore the nature and culture of Budva, as well as improve your health and mood. Choose different routes, depending on your fitness and interests:

• Budva-Brajići;
• Budva-Saint Stefan;
• Budva-Kotor.

On these routes you can see picturesque villages, ancient churches, magnificent sea and mountain views.

These are just some of the places that will allow you to see and experience the different facets of Budva's nature.

The unbelievable culture of Budva

If you love culture and want to learn more about the creativity and traditions of Budva, you should visit its cultural attractions that reflect its spirit and identity.

Grad Theater Festival Theater

This is the oldest and most prestigious cultural event in Budva, which has been held since 1987. It gathers the best actors, directors, musicians and artists from Montenegro and other countries. You can enjoy a varied program that includes drama, comedy, musical, opera, ballet and concerts. You can also check out the unique scenes that are located in the Old Town, squares, streets and citadel.

Budva Museum

This is the largest museum in the city and contains exhibits from different eras and civilizations. You can learn about the history, culture and art of Budva, from antiquity to modern times.

Address: 11 Petra I Petrovića, Budva, Montenegro

Website: https://muzejiigalerijebd.me/muzeji-i-galerije/muzej-grada-budve/

Rating: 4.3 ⭐

You can look at collections that include:

• archaeological finds;
• coins;
• weapons;
• jewelry;
• icons;
• costumes.

You can also visit different halls that are dedicated to different themes, such as Venetian times, Ottoman times, folk art.

Contemporary Art Galleries

These are places that present the work of local and international artists working in different genres and styles. You can admire their works that reflect their views, feelings and ideas.

Address: ul. Cara Dušana, 19, Budva 85310, Montenegro

Website: https://muzejiigalerijebd.me

Rating: 5.0 ⭐

Visit galleries such as:

• Jova Ivanovic;
• Stefan Mitrov Ljubiša;
• Reževići;
• Crvena komuna.

In these galleries you can see painting, sculpture, photography, graphics.

Music festivals

These are events that take place in Budva throughout the year and gather many music lovers of different genres and styles. Enjoy music that ranges from classical and jazz to rock and reggae. Visit festivals such as:

• Budva M'yuzik Fest;
• Budva Jazz Fest;
• Budva Rock Fest;
• Budva Reggae Fest.

At these festivals, you can see famous and up-and-coming performers and feel the atmosphere of fun and joy.

Budva's unique attractions

If you want to have fun and get a charge of adrenaline, you should visit the unique attractions of Budva, which will give you unforgettable emotions and impressions.

Budva Water Park

This is the largest water park in Montenegro, which offers a variety of rides, pools, cafes and animation.

Address: 7RVC+6J, Podostrog, Montenegro

Website: https://www.instagram.com/aquaparkbudva/

Rating: 4.5 ⭐

Water slides of varying complexity and height, wave and children's pools, Jacuzzis and lazy rivers await you here. Relax in the relaxation zone, have lunch in the restaurant or bar, watch a show or a concert.

The water park is open from June through September from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission prices depend on age and season, but average around 20 euros for an adult and 15 euros for a child. The water park ensures the safety of its visitors by having lifeguards, medical staff and video surveillance.

Budva Amusement Park

This is a modern amusement park that is located on the seafront.

Address: 7RMV+X2G, Budva, Montenegro

Website: https://www.facebook.com/LunaParkPopivoda/

Rating: 4.3 ⭐

Here you can try different games, carousels, simulators and shows. You can ride on the Ferris wheel, roller coaster, driving range, swings. There is a shooting gallery, bowling alley, billiards and air hockey. And also wonderful show programs with tricks, illusions and fireworks. The park is open all year round from 10:00 to 24:00.

Ballerina Statue

This is the symbol of Budva and a romantic place for lovers. It is a bronze statue of a girl in a ballerina pose, which stands on a rock by the sea.

Address: 7RHP+228, Budva, Montenegro

Website: https://budva.travel/

Rating: 4.7 ⭐

It was installed in 1962 by artist Gradimir Aleksic. The statue embodies beauty, grace and freedom. According to legend, the statue is dedicated to a young ballerina who died during the war when she tried to escape the enemies by jumping into the sea.

Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoša

Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš is a monument-tomb of the last spiritual ruler of Montenegro, metropolitan, poet and philosopher, who lived in the XIX century.

Address: Unnamed Rd, Raičevići, Montenegro

Website: https://narodnimuzej.me/

Rating: 4.7 ⭐

It is located on the top of Mount Lovcen, in the national park. The mausoleum was built in 1974, designed by the famous sculptor Ivan Meštrović, on the site of an old chapel that Negoša himself founded and in which he wanted to be buried. In the mausoleum you can see the 28-ton statue of Njegoš, his sarcophagus, and enjoy a panoramic view of the whole Montenegro from the observation deck.

Njegoš Mausoleum is one of the symbols of Montenegrin history, culture and identity

These places are a must visit in Budva for fun and adrenaline boosting activities, as well as to learn about the legends and history of the city.

Budva Culinary Journey

If you love cooking and want to try local dishes and drinks, then you should visit Budva's culinary places that will delight you with their taste and quality. In this section, we will tell you about five such places that will not leave you hungry.

National cuisine restaurants

These are restaurants that offer delicious and fresh meat, fish, vegetable and cheese dishes. Here you can try traditional Montenegrin dishes:

• Buzara is a dish of seafood stewed in wine with garlic.
• Lamb in milk is soft and flavorful lamb meat stewed in milk with vegetables.
• Priganice are fried doughnuts without filling, served with cheese, yogurt or smoked meat.
• Negush prschut is a smoked ham made of pork, which is first smoked and then dried. This dish has a special flavor and aroma due to the smoke from beech logs.
• Cevapi are sausages made of minced meat with spices, which are grilled. They resemble lula kebab and are popular throughout the Balkans.

Visit such restaurants of national cuisine:

• Konoba Portun is a restaurant specializing in seafood, located near the modern gallery. Here you can order deliciously prepared octopus, sea bass and grilled squid. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and attentive staff.

• Konoba Stari Grad - located in the historical center of Budva, in a Renaissance building. It serves traditional Montenegrin dishes such as pasticada (meat in wine and cream sauce), gnocchi (potato dumplings) and prsut (cured ham). The restaurant is also known for its homemade desserts such as palacinke (pancakes) and crosthule (crispy cookies).
• Konoba Langoust - named after one of the most delicate seafood, the lobster. Here you can enjoy fresh and quality seafood cooked on the grill, in the tandoor or in soup. The restaurant also offers a variety of salads, risotto and pasta.
• Konoba Demizana - located on the seafront of Budva, overlooking the sea. Here you can try a variety of fish and seafood dishes such as fillets, cutlets, stews and paella. The restaurant is also famous for its homemade bread, tomato appetizer and garlic in olive oil.

In these restaurants you can enjoy not only the food but also the atmosphere, service and sea view.

There are also many restaurants in Budva where you can enjoy Mediterranean and Balkan cuisine.

• Konoba Bocun is a cozy tavern serving traditional Montenegrin dishes such as lamb in milk, meats, salads and cheeses. Here you can feel the real atmosphere of Budva and enjoy the view of the old town.
• Restaurant & Beach Bar Azzurro is a modern restaurant located on the beach of Sveti Stefan. Here you can try Italian pizza, seafood, pasta and other Mediterranean dishes. The restaurant has a spacious terrace overlooking the sea and the island.
• Rivijera Restaurant is an elegant restaurant located in the Splendid Hotel. Here you can order a variety of seafood, meat dishes, salads and desserts. The restaurant is known for its high quality service and exquisite interior.

• Kuzina is a family restaurant where delicious Balkan cuisine is prepared. Here you can try cevapi, pleskavica, sarma, grah and other national dishes. The restaurant has a cozy courtyard with greenery and a fountain.
• Dvoriste by Bahce is a restaurant that combines Montenegrin and Turkish cuisine. Here you can enjoy grilled meat and fish dishes, as well as try Turkish sweets, coffee and tea. The restaurant has a beautiful garden with flowers and palm trees.

Ice Cream Cafe

Attract visitors with different flavors and forms of ice cream. Here you can try ice cream for every taste, from classic to exotic, from cream to fruit, from balls to cones. Visit cafes such as:

• Cafe Morgan - located near Mogren Beach and offers a variety of ice creams, fruit salads, drinks and snacks. Here you can enjoy the sea view and fresh air.

• Il Gelato di Salvatore - The ice cream cafe specializes in Italian ice cream, including those suitable for vegans. Here you can choose from over 20 flavors, as well as try cakes, pastries and coffee.
• Casper Bar is a bar and café where you can not only drink and eat, but also listen to live music, watch sports broadcasts and play billiards. The ice cream here is also very tasty and high quality, and the choice is large.

In these cafes you can not only enjoy ice cream, but also eat other desserts such as cakes, pastries, waffles.

Wineries

These are wineries that produce wine from local grape varieties and offer tastings and tours. Here you can taste wine of different colors, aromas and strengths, from whites and rosés to reds and desserts, from dry and semi-dry to sweet and semi-sweet. Visit wineries such as:

• Plantage Winery;
• Radovic Winery;
• Lipovac Winery;
• Kopitovic Winery.

In these wineries you can not only enjoy the wine, but also learn about its history, production and storage.

Fish markets

These are markets that sell fresh and quality fish and seafood. Here you can buy fish of different kinds, from mackerel and sardines to salmon and tuna, from whole and fillets to smoked and dried fish. You can also buy seafood of different kinds, from squid and shrimp to oysters and crayfish. You can visit fish markets such as Budva Fish Market, Petrovac Fish Market, St. Stefan Fish Market and Kotor Fish Market. At these markets you can not only buy fish and seafood, but also consult the sellers on how to prepare them.

Budva is one of the most beautiful and fascinating resorts on the Adriatic coast in Montenegro. This city is suitable for every type of traveler, as there is something for everyone. Budva combines ancient history, modern culture, delightful nature, entertaining activities and delicious cuisine.

Budva is a city that will not leave you indifferent, because here you can get unforgettable impressions and emotions.

Finally, a few tips on how to plan your vacation in Budva.

First of all, choose the right time for your trip. Budva has a Mediterranean climate, so it is warm and sunny almost all year round. However, the best time to go is in spring or fall, when the air and water temperatures are comfortable and there are not so many tourists.

Secondly, choose a suitable place to stay. Budva offers you different accommodation options, from luxury hotels and apartments to cozy hostels and campsites. You can choose a place that suits your budget, style and preferences.

Thirdly, choose the right transportation to move around. Budva has a good transportation infrastructure, so you can easily reach any place by bus, cab, bike or on foot. You can also rent a car, motorcycle or boat if you want to be more independent and explore the surroundings.

Plan your perfect Budva vacation and discover all its charms. Enjoy your trip and have an unforgettable experience.