Budva, although the most visited destination on the Montenegrin coast, is far more than an urban, modern hub of nightlife. Its cultural depth is immense and, as such, truly worthy of your attention.
The uniqueness of the Old Town is reflected not only in the distinctive beauty of its glamorous Venetian architecture, narrow streets, walls, and buildings made of finely cut stone, but also in a story that time has not silenced – a story 2,500 years old. From the Illyrians, Romans, and Byzantium, through the Nemanjić dynasty, the Venetian Republic, Napoleon, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, to the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, these spaces continue to captivate visitors with their rich cultural heritage and numerous legends tied to their origins, development, and enduring existence.
Today, the core of the old town consists of four churches – two Orthodox and two Catholic: Church of the Holy Trinity, Church of Saint Sava the Consecrated, Church of Saint John the Baptist, and Church of Santa Maria in Punta.
Although sacred architecture in the past withstood wars and the test of time, the Old Town was almost completely destroyed by the devastating earthquake of 1979. Thanks to the solidarity of the people of former Yugoslavia, however, it was fully restored.
During the summer season, the city squares transform into a unique stage, complementing the inherited cultural spirit of the area. At the Poets’ Square, poetry evenings and performances of the Grada Teatar Festival are held throughout July and August, while concerts, gastronomic festivals with free wine and fish, and various other cultural events take place on the large plaza in front of the Old Town.
Although a significant collection existed even before, many archaeological artifacts were uncovered after the 1979 earthquake, creating the need to display them in the City Museum in 2003.
A unique piece to see is the dragon mosaic, which dates back to the Roman period and once formed the interior floor of a luxurious Roman house or villa on the site of today’s Hotel Avala. In the museum, you can also observe a well-preserved collection of items from the large Roman necropolis, including glass vessels, weapons, ceramics, and gain a glimpse of the region’s rich past.
Ričardova Glava – a beach that is part of the Old Town, popularly known as the Hollywood Beach, named after actor Richard Widmark, who filmed The Long Ships there in the 1960s. Although not large, this modernly equipped beach is vibrant both day and night, thanks to the beach bars right on the shore. Its exotic charm comes mainly from the scent of the sea, the sound of the waves, the view of the Old Town, and the open sea beyond.
The Citadel – the tallest architectural complex within the walls of the Old Town. Once a military fortress, it served to protect residents and soldiers from enemies by using wooden gates that could be pulled to separate it from the city. Today, the gates have been replaced by massive stone steps rising from the plaza between the churches.
According to local legend, the name of Budva originates from the story of an impossible love, of lovers who jumped into the sea, and the saying, “K’o jedno neka budu dva” (“Let two be as one”). It is believed that by touching the sculpture of two fish on the Citadel walls, you will find your life partner and true love.
If you decide to explore this cultural and historical site, you will come across a beautiful green tunnel of carob trees, a library, and a restaurant. From the viewpoint, you will be amazed by the view of the once-great city of Budva.
The island of Sveti Nikola, once separated from the mainland by an earthquake, now appears to stand alone in the sea, while the underwater sandy reef remains the only evidence that the island was once connected to the coast.
The island is also home to the Church of St. Nicholas, after which it was named. You can reach the island by private or group boat tours departing from Slovenska Beach, where you will certainly find a much calmer atmosphere than on the city beaches.
The Mogren Fortress is an interesting and easily accessible site. Since its construction, it has been known as an Austro-Hungarian fortress and Fort Jaz, primarily serving to control sea routes and the approaches to the city. Today, it offers a glimpse into the region’s past.
It was significantly damaged in the 1979 earthquake. There has been interest in restoring and commercializing the fortress for tourism purposes, but so far there have been no major developments.
For now, the view from the fortress reveals the true beauty of its surroundings, including the Old Town of Budva and the beaches of Mogren and Jaz.
Cruising along the coast is something you simply must experience. Whether you choose short or full-day group tours along the coast, exploring the Old Town or the nearby beaches of the Budva Riviera, the view from the sea is priceless and certainly worthwhile.
We can also help you organize your own private excursion – feel free to contact us.
