Budva

Budva is one of the most popular and vibrant tourist destinations on the Montenegrin coast. It’s located along the Adriatic Sea and is known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and lively nightlife. Here’s an overview of what makes Budva a great place to visit:

1. History & Old Town (Stari Grad)

Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, dating back over 2,500 years. The Old Town (Stari Grad) is a charming and well-preserved area, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, historical buildings, and Venetian-style architecture. Notable landmarks include:

• The Citadel: A fortress offering fantastic views of the town and sea, with a small museum inside.
• The Church of St. John: An Orthodox church in the Old Town, a beautiful example of religious architecture.
• The Walls of Budva: The remains of fortifications that once protected the city.

2. Beaches

Budva has a variety of beaches, from bustling, sandy stretches to more secluded, rocky coves. Some of the popular ones include:

• Slovenska Plaža: This is the main beach, located close to the town center, offering plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
• Mogren Beach: Split into two parts, this beach is quieter and more intimate, accessible via a scenic path from the Old Town.
• Jaz Beach: A larger beach, known for its beauty and being the site of various music festivals, such as the Sea Dance Festival. It has both public and private areas, with some naturist-friendly zones.
• Ploče Beach: A small, less crowded beach near the Old Town, ideal for those seeking tranquility.

3. Nightlife

Budva is often considered the nightlife capital of Montenegro. The town comes alive after dark with numerous bars, clubs, and open-air venues:

• Top Hill: One of the biggest and most popular nightclubs in the region, offering a large outdoor terrace with incredible views.
• Tropics Club: A famous beach club where you can enjoy music and cocktails right by the sea.
• Casper Club: Known for its international DJs and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a hot spot for partygoers.

4. Events & Festivals

Budva hosts several music and cultural festivals throughout the year:

• Sea Dance Festival: One of the biggest electronic music festivals in the region, held on Jaz Beach.
• Budva Music Festival: A festival celebrating Montenegrin music and dance.
• Montenegro Film Festival: Showcasing national and international films, the festival attracts filmmakers and cinema lovers.

5. Day Trips & Surrounding Areas

Budva is well-positioned for exploring other parts of Montenegro. Some nearby attractions include:

• Sveti Stefan: A stunning, small island resort that’s one of the most photographed places in Montenegro. It’s a short drive from Budva and offers picturesque views.
• Kotor: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its medieval Old Town and the Bay of Kotor. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Budva.
• Durmitor National Park: A bit further away but worth a visit for those who enjoy nature, hiking, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.

6. Restaurants & Cuisine

Budva has a great variety of restaurants, ranging from seafood eateries to international dining options. Some popular dishes to try include:

• Seafood: Fresh fish, shellfish, and octopus are abundant along the coast.
• Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat, served with bread and onions.
• Montenegrin wine: The region produces some great wines, so be sure to try a glass (or bottle) of local Vranac or Krstač.

7. Accessibility

Budva is easily reachable by car, bus, and even by sea. The town is about 25 km from the international airport in Tivat (Tivat Airport), and around 65 km from Podgorica, the capital city of Montenegro.

FKK & Naturism

While Budva’s main beaches are popular and have a lively, social atmosphere, naturism (FKK) is accepted on some of the more secluded or less developed beaches. As mentioned earlier, Jaz Beach has some naturist-friendly areas, though they aren’t officially designated. For a dedicated naturist beach, you might want to travel to Ada Bojana, which is known as Montenegro’s most famous FKK destination.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Budva is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is warm, the beaches are full of life, and the nightlife is in full swing. However, if you prefer a quieter experience, the shoulder months of May and October offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists.

Budva offers a blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and vibrant energy, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Montenegro. Whether you’re there to explore the rich culture, lounge on the beaches, or experience the nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this coastal gem.