Budva

Budva, a picturesque coastal town in Montenegro, has a population of 19,218 residents and acts as the hub of Budva Municipality. Nestled along the Adriatic coast, this ancient settlement boasts a rich history that spans 2,500 years, establishing it as one of the oldest inhabited areas in the region. The town’s prime location and stunning landscapes have made it the centerpiece of Montenegrin tourism, attracting travelers from across the globe to enjoy its distinctive combination of historical allure and contemporary offerings.

The Budva Riviera, which includes the coastal region around the town, has established itself as Montenegro’s top tourist destination. The charm of this place is found in the seamless blend of a meticulously maintained medieval walled city, beautiful sandy beaches, and a lively nightlife atmosphere. The blend of cultural heritage and modern entertainment choices has established Budva as the leading resort town in the nation.

Tourism is essential to Budva’s economy, acting as the main catalyst for growth and development. The town’s appeal to travelers is clear in the remarkable statistics from 2013, which noted 668,931 tourist visits and 4,468,913 overnight stays. These figures highlight Budva’s significant role in Montenegro’s tourism sector, representing a considerable 44.8% of all tourist visits to the country and 47.5% of overnight stays. The figures underscore the town’s importance, serving not just as a local draw but also as a vital contributor to the country’s tourism sector.

While Budva’s long history and preserved Old Town provide insights into its past, the town has developed a distinct image that differentiates it from other historical coastal cities such as Kotor or Dubrovnik. Instead of focusing mainly on sightseeing or cultural tourism, Budva has fully embraced its identity as a vibrant beach resort. The atmosphere here is marked by its lively energy and vibrancy, especially highlighting its bustling nightlife. This distinctive combination of historical context and contemporary entertainment has established a location that attracts a diverse array of visitors, from history buffs to individuals in search of sun, sea, and evening festivities.

The beaches of Budva play a crucial role in its charm, providing numerous choices for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy water activities. Mogren Beach is undoubtedly one of the most famous and appealing beaches in Budva. Situated under the cliffs of Spas hill, between cape Mogren and the Avala hotel, this 350-meter stretch of coastline is split into two unique sections: Mogren 1 and Mogren 2. The approach to this beautiful beach is along a concrete path that stretches 150 meters along the cliffs from the old town, enhancing its secluded allure. For anyone looking to merge beach relaxation with a hint of history, the remnants of Mogren Fortress are accessible via hiking trails from Mogren 2, providing a distinctive combination of scenic beauty and historical discovery.

Although Mogren Beach is often regarded as the highlight, Budva boasts a variety of other impressive city beaches. Ričardova Glava Beach, charmingly known as “Richard’s Head,” along with Pizana Beach, is conveniently situated adjacent to the Old Town. Nevertheless, the largest city beach is Slovenska plaža, also known as Slav beach, which extends for an impressive 1.6 kilometers and constitutes the bulk of Budva’s coastline. This extensive, sandy stretch offers plenty of room for both visitors and locals to relish the Adriatic waters.

Outside the city limits, the Budva Riviera remains captivating with its varied coastal attractions. Jaz Beach, situated to the west of Budva, is renowned for its expansive shoreline as well as its surrounding area, which has emerged as a favored location for concerts, festivals, and camping activities. To the southeast, the resort town of Bečići features a long sandy beach, which is separated from Budva by the Zavala peninsula. This region signifies the onset of a more refined and upscale part of the Riviera.

As one travels further south along the coast, the essence of the Budva Riviera transforms into a more opulent and refined atmosphere. The transformation is exemplified by the renowned town of Sveti Stefan, a fortified island village linked to the mainland by a slender isthmus. Sveti Stefan, once a modest fishing village, has transformed into a renowned resort, epitomizing the height of luxury along the Montenegrin coast. The nearby Paštrovići settlements, originally established as modest fishing communities, have likewise been transformed into elegant destinations.

The region that includes Sveti Stefan and Pržno, along with the Miločer resort featuring its verdant park and hidden beaches, is considered the most prestigious part of Montenegro’s coastline. This area provides a more elegant and personal experience for those looking for seclusion and opulence, in stark contrast to the livelier vibe of Budva itself.

At the southern edge of the Budva municipality is the town of Petrovac, along with the untouched Buljarica field. These areas showcase a unique aspect of the varied Budva Riviera, blending quaint small-town allure with pristine natural beauty. The diverse environments along this compact stretch of coastline enhance Budva’s attractiveness as a destination that accommodates various preferences and budgets.

Sveti Nikola Island, located merely one kilometer from the Old Town across Budva bay, beautifully complements the attractions of the mainland. This island, accessible via water bus, is a favored destination for tourists, providing extra beaches and a refreshing alternative to the resorts on the mainland. The island enhances Budva’s remarkable selection of coastal attractions, offering visitors a chance to enjoy an island escape while remaining close to the town’s conveniences.