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Travel Guide to Budva Riviera

Explore the Budva Riviera: Montenegro's blend of pristine beaches, historic charm, and vibrant nightlife along the stunning Adriatic coast.

Budva Riviera: Montenegro's Coastal Gem

Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, the Budva Riviera is a stunning stretch of coastline in Montenegro. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, it is a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure. The Riviera is home to the ancient town of Budva, which dates back over 2,500 years, making it one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. The old town is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming squares, all enclosed by medieval stone walls. Beyond the historical allure, the Budva Riviera offers some of the finest beaches in Montenegro. From the bustling Mogren Beach to the serene Jaz Beach, there is a spot for everyone. The crystal-clear waters and pebbled shores are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. If you venture a bit further, you will find hidden coves and secluded bays, perfect for a more private experience. The nightlife in Budva is legendary. The city comes alive after sunset with a plethora of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Whether you want to dance the night away at a beach club or enjoy a quiet dinner with a view, the Budva Riviera has something to offer. Additionally, the Riviera hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. For those interested in nature and outdoor activities, the Budva Riviera does not disappoint. Hiking trails with breathtaking views, boat tours to nearby islands, and diving excursions are just a few of the activities available. The blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities makes the Budva Riviera a must-visit destination.

Local tips in Budva Riviera

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially at popular beaches.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the old town's narrow, cobblestone streets.
  • Sample local seafood at one of the many seaside restaurants.
  • Take a boat trip to the nearby Sveti Nikola Island for a unique experience.
  • Check the local event calendar for festivals and cultural events during your stay.
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Popular Attractions in Budva Riviera

  • Budva Citadel

    Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at Budva Citadel, a stunning fortress overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

  • Jaz Beach

    Discover the sun-kissed shores of Jaz Beach in Montenegro, a premier destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.

  • Ploce beach

    Discover the serene beauty of Ploce Beach in Krimovica, Montenegro, where stunning views and crystal-clear waters await you.

  • Sveti Stefan great view

    Discover the stunning panoramic views of Sveti Stefan from this must-visit observation deck, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.

  • Petrovac beach

    Experience the unforgettable beauty and vibrant culture at Petrovac Beach, Montenegro's stunning coastal paradise.

  • Sveti Stefan Beach

    Discover the enchanting Sveti Stefan Beach, a stunning blend of history and natural beauty on Montenegro's pristine coast.

  • Fort Mogren

    Discover the historic Fort Mogren in Budva, Montenegro – a breathtaking fortress offering stunning sea views and rich cultural heritage.

  • Mogren beach

    Discover the stunning beauty of Mogren Beach, a serene retreat in Montenegro's breathtaking coastal landscape.

  • Mogren 2 Beach

    Discover the enchanting Mogren 2 Beach in Budva, Montenegro - a perfect blend of sun, sea, and relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty.

  • Podmaine Monastery

    Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Podmaine Monastery, a tranquil retreat in the hills of Budva, Montenegro.

  • Hawaii Beach

    Discover the stunning Hawaii Beach in Budva, Montenegro, where crystal-clear waters meet soft sands for an unforgettable beach getaway.

  • Sveti Nikola Island

    Explore the serene landscapes and rich biodiversity of Sveti Nikola Island, a hidden paradise in Montenegro's Adriatic coast.

  • Fort Kosmač

    Explore the captivating Fort Kosmač, a historical gem in Montenegro offering stunning vistas and a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.

  • Old Town of Budva

    Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Budva's Old Town, a captivating landmark on Montenegro's Adriatic coast.

  • The Church of Sveti Ivan (St. John)

    Discover the historic Church of Sveti Ivan in Budva, Montenegro - a stunning blend of architecture and tranquility by the Adriatic Sea.

  • Praskvica Monastery

    Discover the tranquility and rich history of Praskvica Monastery in Montenegro, a serene retreat for tourists and spiritual seekers alike.

  • Becici beach

    Discover the breathtaking beauty of Becici Beach in Montenegro, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for a perfect coastal retreat.

  • Trsteno Beach

    Discover the serene beauty of Trsteno Beach in Montenegro, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

  • Crvena glavica beach

    Discover the tranquil beauty of Crvena Glavica Beach in Sveti Stefan, Montenegro, where relaxation meets stunning natural landscapes.

  • Budva Dancing girl

    Discover the beauty of Budva through the enchanting Dancing Girl statue, a captivating symbol of art and culture by the stunning Adriatic coastline.

  • Slovenska Plaža

    Discover the breathtaking beauty of Slovenska Plaža, a stunning beach destination in Montenegro perfect for relaxation and adventure.

  • Museum of the City of Budva

    Uncover the rich history of Budva at the Museum of the City of Budva, where captivating artifacts and stories await every visitor.

  • Ivano Vidoni Beach

    Discover the serene beauty of Ivano Vidoni Beach in Sveti Stefan, Montenegro - a perfect seaside escape with stunning views and crystal-clear waters.

  • Sveti Stefan View Point

    Discover the stunning vistas of Sveti Stefan View Point, where the beauty of Montenegro's coast unfolds before your eyes.

  • Monastery Rustovo

    Explore Monastery Rustovo: A serene convent in Montenegro offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a tranquil retreat for soul-searching tourists.

  • Manastir Stanjevići

    Experience the tranquility and rich heritage of Manastir Stanjevići, a hidden gem in Montenegro's picturesque landscape.

  • Sveti Stefan Plaža 2

    Experience the idyllic beauty of Sveti Stefan Beach, where history meets the stunning Adriatic coast, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

  • Paragliding Montenegro Budva

    Experience the thrill of paragliding in Budva, Montenegro, and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the stunning Adriatic coastline and historic landmarks.

  • Budva Bell

    Discover the Budva Bell, a stunning historical landmark in Montenegro that offers breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience.

  • Beach Poseidon

    Experience the beauty of Beach Poseidon, a stunning beach in Montenegro known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

  • Milocer Beach

    Discover the pristine beauty of Milocer Beach, a serene coastal paradise in Montenegro, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters.

  • Sveti Nikola Beach

    Explore the serene and picturesque Sveti Nikola Beach in Budva, Montenegro - a perfect destination for relaxation and natural beauty.

  • Church of Virgin Mary in Budva

    Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of the Church of Virgin Mary, a must-visit Catholic church in Budva, Montenegro.

  • Bečićka Plaža

    Discover the beauty and adventure at Bečićka Plaža, Montenegro's premier beach pavilion with golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

  • Paragliding Montenegro Club

    Experience the thrill of paragliding in Montenegro, soaring over stunning Adriatic views and majestic mountains with expert instructors.

  • Bečići Paragliding Landing Area

    Experience the thrill of paragliding in Bečići, Montenegro, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Adriatic coastline and stunning landscapes.

  • Budva Meeting Point

    Discover Budva's beauty at Budva Meeting Point - your essential tourist information center for local adventures and cultural insights.

  • View of Budva

    Explore the breathtaking beauty of Budva, where ancient history meets modern vibrancy along the stunning Adriatic coast.

  • Tourist attraction - Great view

    Discover breathtaking panoramic views in Prijevor, Montenegro, a hidden gem for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

  • Bečići Paragliding Montenegro

    Discover the thrill of paragliding in Bečići, Montenegro, where stunning views and adventure come together for an unforgettable experience.

  • Waterfall Bečići

    Explore the natural beauty of Waterfall Bečići, a serene hiking area in Montenegro perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

  • Four Hooves Beach

    Experience the tranquil beauty of Four Hooves Beach in Budva, Montenegro, where relaxation meets adventure on the Adriatic coast.

  • Budva Tourist Capital

    Explore Budva, Montenegro's coastal gem, where history meets vibrant beaches, adventure, and unforgettable nightlife.

  • Budva, Trg pjesnika (Platz der Dichter)

    Explore Trg Pjesnika in Budva, a charming square filled with artistic sculptures, local cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and inspiration.

  • La Musorka

    Experience the beauty and culture of La Musorka, a tranquil tourist attraction in Budva, Montenegro, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

  • FKK Jaz Beach

    Experience the natural beauty and liberating atmosphere of FKK Jaz Beach in Montenegro, a serene destination for sunbathing and adventure.

  • Winery Kopitovic

    Experience the charm of Montenegro at Winery Kopitovic, where tradition meets breathtaking beauty in every glass of wine.

  • Jazz Beach N

    Discover tranquility at Jazz Beach N, a stunning destination in Montenegro, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking sunsets.

  • Luchki Park

    Experience the tranquil beauty of Luchki Park in Budva, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and families alike.

Popular Experiences in Budva Riviera

When is the best time to go to Budva Riviera?

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Popular Hotels in Budva Riviera

Local Phrases about Budva Riviera

    • HelloZdravo
      [Zdrah-voh]
    • GoodbyeDoviđenja
      [Doh-vee-jen-ya]
    • YesDa
      [Dah]
    • NoNe
      [Neh]
    • Please/You're welcomeMolim
      [Moh-leem]
    • Thank youHvala
      [Hvah-lah]
    • Excuse me/SorryIzvinite
      [Eez-vee-nee-teh]
    • How are you?Kako si?
      [Kah-koh see?]
    • Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
      [Doh-bro. Ah tee?]
    • Do you speak English?Govorite li engleski?
      [Goh-voh-ree-teh lee ehn-gleh-skee?]
    • I don't understandNe razumijem
      [Neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMolio bih meni, molim
      [Moh-lee-oh bee meh-nee, moh-leem]
    • I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
      [Neh yeh-dem meh-so]
    • Cheers!Živeli!
      [Zhee-veh-lee]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseHteo bih da platim, molim
      [Htay-oh bee dah plah-teem, moh-leem]
    • Help!Pomoć!
      [Poh-mohtch!]
    • Go away!Idi odavde!
      [Ee-dee oh-dahv-deh!]
    • Call the Police!Pozovite policiju!
      [Poh-zoh-vee-teh poh-lee-tsee-yoo!]
    • Call a doctor!Pozovite doktora!
      [Poh-zoh-vee-teh dohk-toh-rah!]
    • I'm lostIzgubio sam se
      [Eez-goo-byoh sahm seh]
    • I'm illBolestan sam
      [Boh-leh-stahn sahm]
    • I'd like to buy...Hteo bih da kupim...
      [Htay-oh bee dah koo-peem...]
    • I'm just lookingSamo gledam
      [Sah-moh gleh-dahm]
    • How much is it?Koliko košta?
      [Koh-lee-koh koh-shta?]
    • That's too expensiveTo je previše skupo
      [Toh yeh preh-vee-she skoo-poh]
    • Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cenu?
      [Moh-zheh-teh lee spoo-stee-tee tseh-noo?]
    • What time is it?Koliko je sati?
      [Koh-lee-koh yeh sah-tee?]
    • It's one o'clockJedan je sat
      [Yeh-dahn yeh saht]
    • Half past (10)Pola (10)
      [Poh-lah (10)]
    • MorningJutro
      [Yoo-troh]
    • AfternoonPopodne
      [Poh-pohd-neh]
    • EveningVeče
      [Veh-cheh]
    • YesterdayJuče
      [Yoo-cheh]
    • TodayDanas
      [Dah-nahs]
    • TomorrowSutra
      [Soo-trah]
    • 1Jedan
      [Yeh-dahn]
    • 2Dva
      [Dvah]
    • 3Tri
      [Tree]
    • 4Četiri
      [Cheh-tee-ree]
    • 5Pet
      [Peh-t]
    • 6Šest
      [Shehst]
    • 7Sedam
      [Seh-dahm]
    • 8Osam
      [Oh-sahm]
    • 9Devet
      [Deh-veht]
    • 10Deset
      [Deh-set]
    • Where's a/the...?Gde je...?
      [Gdeh yeh...?]
    • What's the address?Koja je adresa?
      [Koh-yah yeh ah-deh-sah?]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na mapi)?
      [Moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-kah-zah-tee (nah mah-pee)?]
    • When's the next (bus)?Kada je sledeći (autobus)?
      [Kah-dah yeh sleh-deh-chee (ow-toh-boos)?]
    • A ticket (to ....)Jednu kartu (za ....)
      [Yeh-dnoo kahr-too (zah ....)]

History of Budva Riviera

  • Budva Riviera's history stretches back over 2,500 years, making it one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. Originally established by the Illyrians, it later became a significant Greek and then Roman colony. Archaeological finds, such as the remains of necropolises, mosaics, and artifacts, provide a glimpse into its ancient past.

  • From the 9th century, Budva was part of the Byzantine Empire. The medieval era saw Budva frequently changing hands, from local tribes to Serbian and Zetan rule. In 1442, Budva fell under the control of the Republic of Venice, a period that lasted until 1797. The Venetians fortified the town and left a lasting architectural and cultural legacy, evident in the Old Town's Venetian-style buildings and narrow streets.

  • In the late 15th century, the Ottomans made several attempts to conquer Budva but were largely unsuccessful. However, their influence permeated through trade and intermittent control, leaving an imprint on the region’s architecture, cuisine, and cultural practices.

  • After the fall of the Venetian Republic, Budva was briefly controlled by the Napoleonic Kingdom of Italy and then the Austrian Empire in 1814. This period saw the construction of new infrastructure, including roads and public buildings, which significantly modernized the area.

  • During World War I, Budva was occupied by Austria-Hungary, and it suffered considerable damage. After the war, it became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later known as Yugoslavia. In World War II, Budva was occupied by Italian and then German forces. Post-war, it became part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, which led to significant economic and social changes, including the development of tourism.

  • Since Montenegro's independence in 2006, Budva Riviera has experienced a tourism boom, transforming into one of the Adriatic's premier travel destinations. The area is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical sites, seamlessly blending ancient history with modern luxury.

Budva Riviera Essentials

  • Budva Riviera is located along the Adriatic coast in Montenegro. The nearest international airports are Tivat Airport (approximately 20 km away) and Podgorica Airport (around 65 km away). From these airports, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use shuttle services to reach Budva. Public buses also connect these airports to Budva. Another option is to drive from neighboring countries, with well-connected roads from Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Albania.
  • Within Budva Riviera, options include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Local buses are economical and connect major towns. Taxis are readily available but ensure to agree on the fare before starting the journey. Renting a car offers flexibility and is recommended for exploring the scenic coastal routes and hinterlands. For short distances within Budva, walking is a pleasant way to explore the old town and beaches.
  • The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in Budva and other main towns along the Riviera. Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange offices.
  • Budva Riviera is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so be vigilant with your belongings. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and stay cautious when accepting help or offers from strangers. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always prudent to stay aware of your surroundings.
  • In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Budva. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available and can provide over-the-counter medications. Most medical staff speak English.
  • Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
  • To experience Budva Riviera like a local, visit the early morning markets where fresh produce and local goods are sold. Engage with locals; they are friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the local festivals, which offer a vibrant mix of music, dance, and cuisine. For a unique experience, explore the hidden beaches and coves that are less frequented by tourists. Also, try the local wines and seafood specialties for an authentic taste of the region.