When you take a car rental in Budva, you should know what to visit. So let us go through the journey through Budva and its history!
History of Budva
Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, with a history dating back to the 5th century BC when it was settled by the Illyrians. Over the centuries, the city was conquered and ruled by several different powers, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians, each leaving their mark on the city’s architecture, culture, and traditions. During the Middle Ages, Budva was an important center of trade and commerce, with a thriving port and a network of fortified walls and towers that protected the city from invaders.
According to the legend the founder of Budva is Cadmus the Phoenician (the same Cadmus that founded Thebes!). He founded the town together with his wife Harmonia after his exile from Thebes.
Things to see in Budva
Situated on a small peninsula one of the most impressive features of Budva is its Old Town, which is one of the best-preserved medieval walled cities in the region. The narrow streets and alleys are lined with historic buildings and churches, and visitors can explore the ancient walls and fortifications that surround the town. The Old Town is also home to many museums and galleries, including the Museum of the Town of Budva, which offers an insight into the town’s history and culture.
Another popular attraction in Budva is the island of Sveti Stefan, which is located just off the coast and was once a fortified village. Today, it is home to a luxury resort that attracts visitors from around the world. Visitors can take a boat trip to the island and explore the picturesque streets and beaches, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding coastline. The Sveti Stefan beach is half clay and half sandy and is recognizable by its red clay.
To reach it, you can rent a car and drive for 15 minutes along the main road with beautiful landscapes and a panoramic view of Budva. When you arrive at Pržno, you can choose one of two ways to go to Sveti Stefan: through the Milocer park, basking in an incredible view of nature, or along the main road until the turn for Sveti Stefan.
Petrovac, a town settlement in the municipality of Budva, is also a famous summer destination. The charming promenade is filled with old, well-kept houses with apartments, restaurants, and cafes. The reddish sand of Petrovac beach is a unique feature, and just a short drive away, towards Bar, there is the longest beach on the Budva Riviera, Buljarica.
Lučice beach, one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the Montenegrin coast, is located 500m south of Petrovac, between two capes, and is surrounded by forests.
Budva is also known for its beautiful beaches, which are some of the best in Montenegro. The city’s most popular beach is the long and sandy Slovenska plaža, which is just a few minutes walk away from the Old Town and offers a range of water sports and other activities. Other popular beaches in the area include Mogren Beach, Jaz Beach, and Bečići Beach.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Budva is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The town has a wide range of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences, from trendy cocktail bars to traditional taverns serving local cuisine. The annual Budva City Theatre Festival is also a must-visit event for culture lovers, with a range of theatrical performances, concerts, and workshops taking place throughout the town.
The Church of St. John (crkva svetog Ivana) is another historical sight you should visit. It is situated just outside the Old town’s walls and its history dates back to the 7th century. Like many churches of coastal Montenegro, it is a mix of Byzantine and Romanesque architecture. Many beautiful frescoes and mosaics inside make it a must-visit destination for art and architecture lovers.
Another popular attraction is the Citadel, a fortress that overlooks the Old Town. It’s the perfect perfect viewpoint with stunning views of the coastline. Originally built by the Illyrians in the 4th century BC, the Citadel has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over the centuries. Today, it houses a number of art galleries and exhibitions. Its walls and towers offer a fascinating insight into Budva’s military history.
For those who want to learn more about Montenegro’s wine-making traditions, a visit to the nearby village of Brajići is a must. Visitors can sample a range of local wines and learn about the production process. The village also offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, making it a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
There are quite a few festivals in Budva. One of the most popular is the Budva Theatre City festival (Grad teatar). It takes place in August and it is dedicated primarily but not exclusively to theatre art.
The Sea Dance festival is held annually on the vast Jaz beach since 2014. Since its inception, at the European festival awards, it has been regularly nominated in the category “Best medium-sized festivals”, winning it once. It features a variety of genres such as electronic dance music, rock, pop, and hip-hop it is a paradise for music festival lovers, especially if they’re into electronic music.
During the annual international carnival, the mirthful atmosphere engulfs the city. The overabundance of lively colors, costumes, masks, parades, and music will energize you for at least a month or two.
For those interested in outdoor activities, Budva offers a range of options. Beyond hiking and cycling, visitors can try their hand at rock climbing in the nearby mountains, or go on a sea kayaking trip to explore the stunning coastline. The town also offers a range of water sports, including windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Finally, Budva is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a fusion of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors.
Conclusion
Budva offers a wealth of attractions and activities, from history and culture to nature and cuisine.
With so much to see and do in the Budva area, renting a car is the perfect way to explore this beautiful region.