PLACES TO VISIT IN BUDVA
- berfinozelsel
- Jul 15, 2024
- 10 min read
Updated: Oct 12
MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE
BUDVA
Budva is located in the southwest of Montenegro, on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. It is approximately 60 km from Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro. Tivat Airport is the closest airport to Budva and is approximately 20 km away. It is also very easy to reach the city by road.
Budva is one of the oldest settlements in the region, with a history of approximately 2500 years. The city has a rich history dating back to Ancient Greek and Roman times. It remained under the control of the Venetians throughout the Middle Ages. This long and complex history is clearly visible in Budva's architecture and cultural heritage.
Budva's population consists of approximately 20,000 people, but during the tourist season this number increases exponentially. The city is flooded with tourists, especially during the summer months.
Budva has many beaches, as well as bays, cliffs and islands for you to explore. There are famous holiday beaches that highlight the Budva coastline.
Since we were driving through Albania; The first stop of our Montenegro holiday was Budva. Before reaching Budva city center, we stopped by the famous island of Sveti Stefan. After visiting Sveti Stefan, we continued towards Budva Stari Grad.
Sveti Stefan
Sveti Stefan is a magnificent island and hotel complex located on Montenegro's Budva Riviera. It attracts attention with both its natural beauties and historical structures. It is located approximately 5 kilometers southeast of Budva. The island is connected to the mainland by a narrow land connection (tombolo). This feature makes the island both easily accessible and provides great visual appeal. The island was founded as a fishing village in the 15th century. It was also used as a defense place against Ottoman raids. In the 1950s, the island was transformed into a luxury resort and became a world-famous holiday destination. In the early 2000s, it was restored and reopened by Aman Resorts.
Sveti Stefan is a luxury hotel complex currently managed by Aman Resorts, so it is closed to outside visitors. The hotel preserves the original village structure consisting of historical stone houses and narrow streets. There are two main beaches on both the north and south sides of the island. The beaches are famous for their clean and clear waters. There are historical churches and buildings in Sveti Stefan. Among these structures, St. Stephen's Church, dating from the 15th century, stands out. The hotel's restaurants offer flavors from Montenegrin and international cuisine. Eating at restaurants with sea views may be the right choice, so you can also have the opportunity to visit the island. Sveti Stefan also offers luxury spa and wellness facilities. You can also explore the island with daily tours.
There is a view point that sees the island from above, and you can take photos from the land below the Sveti Sava Church.
If you are visiting Montenegro, you should definitely see Sveti Stefan.
Budva Stari Grad
Budva Old Town is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. The city has been under the influence of many civilizations throughout history. The walls and structures built especially during the Venetian period can still be seen today.
In Budva Old Town, you will encounter narrow and winding stone streets, historical stone houses and churches. Architectural features from the Venetian period are evident in many buildings in the region. While wandering the streets of the old city, it is possible to encounter a different historical detail at every corner. While wandering the streets, you can come across various art galleries, boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Especially in the summer months, these streets and squares are very lively and lively. Located next to Budva Old Town, the marina is a point where luxury yachts and boats anchor. Here you can take a walk, sit in stylish cafes and enjoy the sea. There are many boutiques, souvenir shops and art galleries in Stari Grad. You can buy handmade jewelry, local artwork and souvenirs. Budva is known for its vibrant nightlife and Stari Grad has many bars and nightclubs. Located in narrow streets and squares, these venues offer entertainment with music and dance throughout the night. The farthest point of Budva Old Town goes to the Citadel castle.
St. Ivan Church: Built in the 7th century, this church contains valuable icons and religious artifacts.
St. Mary Church: Built in 840, this small church attracts attention especially with its Byzantine period frescoes.
Holy Trinity Church: Built in 1804, this Orthodox church is known for its impressive frescoes and architecture.
Budva City Museum: Exhibits the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Archaeological finds, old maps, writings and other historical artifacts are exhibited in the museum.
Citadela Castle - Budva Fortress
Budva Citadel (Citadela) and Budva Fortress refer to the same place. Both refer to this castle located in Budva Old Town (Stari Grad) and one of the most important historical buildings of the city.
It is an important defensive structure from the Middle Ages. The castle was built by the Venetians in the 15th century and was subjected to various attacks by the Ottoman Empire and other powers over time. For this reason, the castle has undergone repairs and reconstruction works in various periods.
It has a typical Venetian castle architecture. It attracts attention with its thick stone walls, towers and defensive structures. The castle is located in a strategic position overlooking the Adriatic Sea, and thanks to this location, it protected Budva against attacks from the sea.
One of the Citadel's most appealing features is the spectacular views offered from the castle walls. The castle offers panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, Budva Old Town and the surrounding natural beauty. You can enjoy these unique views by walking along the castle walls.
There is a small museum inside the Citadel. This museum contains various exhibits and artifacts about the history of the castle and the past of Budva. Archaeological finds, historical maps and old photographs are among the important pieces that can be seen in the museum.
Restaurants and cafes located in and around the castle offer pleasant resting areas to visitors.
There is an entrance fee to the castle, which was built in 1836. There is a Citadel restaurant inside the Citadel. If you make a reservation at this restaurant, you will not pay the entrance fee to the castle and you will have your meal in a unique view. The Citadel also has a museum and a must-see Library, which you can also visit.
Ballerina Girl Statue
The name of the famous statue located in Budva is generally known as the "Dancing Girl Statue" (Dancer Statue), but it is also called the "Ballerina Girl Statue".
The Dancing Girl Statue is one of the iconic landmarks of Budva and is located by the sea, close to the city center, on the road to Mogren Beach. The statue is a short walk from Budva Citadel and Old Town (Stari Grad).
The sculpture depicts the figure of a dancing girl gracefully reclining towards the sea. This statue attracts attention with its graceful stance, reminiscent of a ballerina, and is therefore referred to as both "Dancing Girl" and "Ballerina Girl". The statue's stance symbolizes flexibility and elegance.
There is not much information about the exact story of the statue or the name of its creator. However, there are various legends and narratives among the local people. According to a legend, the place where the statue is located is where a young girl was lost at sea and this statue was erected in her memory. Another legend is that the statue was created as a work of art symbolizing the beauty and cultural heritage of Budva. It is believed that touching the statue brings good luck.
The Dancing Girl Statue is one of the most photographed places in Budva. It is visited and photographed by both tourists and locals. In the background of the statue is a magnificent view of the Budva Castle and the Adriatic Sea, making it a popular photo spot, especially at sunset.
It is quite easy to reach the statue. You can reach the spot where the statue is located with a short walk from Budva Old Town (Stari Grad). Since the statue is located on the path leading to Mogren Beach, you can enjoy beautiful views during this walk.
It enriches the cultural and historical texture of Budva with both its aesthetic appearance and the legends behind it. If you are visiting Budva, you should not leave without seeing this beautiful statue and the magnificent view in which it is located.
Sveti Nikola Island (Hawaiian Island):
Sveti Nikola Island is an island located in the Adriatic Sea opposite Budva and is often referred to as the "Hawaiian Island".
Sveti Nikola Island is located approximately 1 kilometer off the coast of Budva. The island can be reached in a short time by boat tours from Budva.
The island is one of the largest islands in the Adriatic Sea and is approximately 2 kilometers long. The island has three large beaches and many small bays. It is known for its clean and clear waters, natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Sveti Nikola Island is famous for its clean and beautiful beaches. The beaches are generally pebbled and have clear blue waters. It is possible to rent sun loungers and umbrellas on the beaches of the island. Additionally, water sports activities can be done on the beaches.
The island attracts attention with its natural vegetation and forest areas. For those who want to hike, there are various paths and areas to explore. With its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, the island is an ideal getaway for nature lovers.
There are some restaurants and cafes on the island. In these places, you can enjoy seafood and local Montenegrin cuisine.
The name of Sveti Nikola Island comes from a chapel dedicated to St. Nicholas located on the island. St. Nicholas is known as the protector of sailors. There are various local legends and stories about the island.
The waters around the island are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Clear waters are full of rich marine life and colorful fish. You can discover the beauties of the underwater world by snorkeling.
You can reach the island with boat tours departing from Budva. These tours usually include cruising around the island and swimming breaks in various bays. Boat tours are a great way to explore the island and enjoy the sea.
Watching the sunset on the island is an unforgettable experience for visitors. The view of the sun setting over the Adriatic Sea creates a romantic and peaceful atmosphere on the island.
Transportation to Sveti Nikola Island is provided by regular boat services departing from Budva. During the summer months, boats run frequently and the trip is usually short. You can reach the island by various boats from the port in Budva or on the beach.
Jovo Ivanovic Modern Gallery:
Jovo Ivanovic Modern Gallery is an important art gallery located in Budva and hosting modern works of art. This gallery contributes to the cultural richness of the region by exhibiting various branches and artists of modern art. The gallery is centrally located in Budva Old Town (Stari Grad).
The gallery is named after local artist Jovo Ivanovic and is dedicated to his works and artistic legacy. Ivanovic is an important figure in the world of modern art and contributed greatly to the development of art in Budva with the establishment of the gallery.
The gallery exhibits works by Jovo Ivanovic as well as various local and international modern artists. Paintings, sculptures, photographs and other modern art forms are featured in the gallery. These works represent different styles and techniques of modern art. In addition to its permanent collections, it also hosts temporary exhibitions.
The gallery is open to visitors throughout the year. Opening hours and entrance fees may change periodically, so it will be useful to check up-to-date information before visiting.
Jovo Ivanovic Modern Gallery is a cultural center that makes a significant contribution to Budva's modern art scene. It offers visitors a rich artistic experience with modern works of art, temporary exhibitions and art events. It is a must-see for art lovers visiting Budva. If you are interested in modern art, you should not miss the opportunity to discover both local and international works of art by visiting this gallery.
Roman Necropolis
The Roman Necropolis is one of the important archaeological sites in Budva and a valuable site that reveals the rich history of the city. It is located in the center of Budva, close to the Old Town (Stari Grad).
The necropolis is a cemetery dating back to the Roman Empire. It shows that Budva was an important settlement in ancient times and reflects the cultural and religious beliefs of the people living here.
Excavations in the Roman Necropolis have revealed various types of tombs. These tombs include sarcophagi, cremation tombs, and various types of burial. Sarcophagi are made of stone or marble and are carefully carved and decorated.
During the excavations, various items buried with the graves were also found. These items include ceramic vessels, glass objects, jewelry, weapons and other objects used in daily life. These findings provide important information about the daily lives and rituals of people living in Budva during the Roman period.
There are inscriptions on gravestones and sarcophagi containing information about the deceased and religious symbols. These inscriptions provide valuable information about the language, writing style and belief systems of the period.
The Roman Necropolis is an important archaeological site that reflects the historical richness of Budva and provides important information about the ancient Roman period. Tombs, grave goods and inscriptions provide an in-depth understanding of the lifestyle and belief systems of the period. If you happen to be in Budva, do not forget to visit the Roman Necropolis and discover the rich cultural heritage this historical site offers.
BUDVA BEACHES
Slovenska Beach: It is one of the most popular beaches in Budva. It is famous for its clean waters and various water sports activities. There are many cafes, bars and restaurants along the beach. You can enjoy the sea during the day and walk along the beach in the evening.
Mogren Beach: Located within walking distance of the city center, Mogren Beach consists of two small bays and has crystal clear water. The beach is known for its natural beauty and calm atmosphere.
Sveti Stefan: Located about 5 km southeast of Budva, this small island has been transformed into a luxury resort. Sveti Stefan is famous for its red-roofed stone houses and magnificent beaches. The island is generally open for private visits, but spending time on the surrounding beaches is also quite enjoyable.
Jaz Beach: Located in the west of Budva, Jaz Beach is a favorite of both locals and tourists. It is filled with its long and wide sandy beach, especially in the summer months. It also hosts various music festivals and events.
Petrovac: Located approximately 17 km from Budva, Petrovac offers a quieter holiday experience. Petrovac, a small seaside town, is known for its historical buildings, beautiful beaches and friendly atmosphere.
Becici Beach: Located right next to Budva, Becici Beach is famous for its long sandy beach and blue flag sea. There are many hotels, restaurants and cafes along the beach. It also offers many activities for water sports enthusiasts.
Budva is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Montenegro with its historical texture, magnificent beaches and lively nightlife. It offers countless options for both history buffs and sea and sun lovers. By visiting Budva, you can discover the beauties of the Adriatic and have an unforgettable holiday experience.
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