S1: Budva Old Town

Summary

Introduction

The Old Town of Budva is a charming and historic district located on the coast of Montenegro, known for its medieval architecture, beautiful beaches, and cultural landmarks.

Getting There

From the Montenegrin town of Herceg Novi, visitors can take a bus or drive to the Old Town of Budva, which is located about 30 kilometers to the southeast. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Exploring the Old Town

Exploring the Old Town of Budva is a fascinating and rewarding experience. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, admire the ancient walls and towers, and visit the historic churches and palaces.

Natural and Cultural Highlights

The Old Town of Budva is home to several natural and cultural landmarks, including the Budva Riviera beaches, the nearby Sveti Stefan island, and the ancient city walls and fortifications.

Practical Information

Visitors to the Old Town of Budva should come prepared with appropriate clothing for a seaside town, as well as plenty of sunscreen and water. The town can be quite crowded during the summer months, so visitors should plan accordingly and book accommodations and activities in advance.

Length and Price

A trip to the Old Town of Budva can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on your schedule and interests. Admission to the Old Town is free, but visitors can also arrange guided tours through local tour operators. Prices for accommodations and activities vary widely depending on the season and location, but the town is generally considered to be a moderately priced destination.

What is it?

The Old Town of Budva is a charming and historic district located on the coast of Montenegro, known for its medieval architecture, beautiful beaches, and cultural landmarks. The town dates back over 2,500 years and has been influenced by a variety of cultures throughout its history, including the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans.

The Old Town is surrounded by ancient walls and fortifications, which have been well-preserved over the centuries. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, admire the ancient walls and towers, and visit the historic churches and palaces. Some of the most notable landmarks in the Old Town include the Church of Saint Ivan, the Citadela Fortress, and the Budva City Museum.

In addition to its cultural landmarks, the Old Town of Budva is also home to several beautiful beaches, including the Mogren Beach, the Slovenska Beach, and the Richard’s Head Beach. The town is a popular destination for beachgoers, as well as history buffs and cultural enthusiasts.

Visitors to the Old Town of Budva should come prepared with appropriate clothing for a seaside town, as well as plenty of sunscreen and water. The town can be quite crowded during the summer months, so visitors should plan accordingly and book accommodations and activities in advance.

Overall, the Old Town of Budva is a fascinating and rewarding destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and beautiful beaches.

Where can we eat?

There are many great places to eat in the Old Town of Budva, with a wide variety of options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are a few suggestions:

Konoba Jadran: This traditional Montenegrin restaurant is located in the heart of the Old Town and serves a variety of local specialties, including seafood, grilled meats, and homemade pasta.

Casa Mia: This cozy Italian restaurant is located in a historic building in the Old Town and serves a variety of delicious Italian dishes, including pizza, pasta, and seafood.

Jadran Restaurant: This upscale restaurant is located on the waterfront in the Old Town and offers stunning views of the sea. The menu features a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including seafood, grilled meats, and pasta.

Konoba Stari Grad: This family-owned restaurant is located in a historic building in the Old Town and serves a variety of traditional Montenegrin dishes, including homemade bread, lamb stew, and grilled meats.

Maslina Restaurant: This elegant restaurant is located in a restored 18th-century palace in the Old Town and offers a sophisticated menu of Mediterranean and international cuisine, including fresh seafood and homemade pasta.

What can we eat?

The Old Town of Budva is home to many great restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of local and international cuisine. Here are a few dishes and foods that visitors may want to try:

Seafood: As a coastal town, Budva is famous for its fresh seafood. Visitors can try a variety of grilled or baked fish, calamari, shrimp, or octopus.

Montenegrin lamb: Montenegrin lamb is a local specialty that is typically slow-cooked and served with potatoes or vegetables. This dish is a must-try for meat lovers.

Priganice: Priganice are a type of fried dough, similar to donuts, that are often served as a breakfast or snack. They can be sweet or savory and are usually topped with honey or cheese.

Burek: Burek is a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It is a popular dish throughout the Balkans and is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Prosciutto and cheese: Montenegro is also known for its excellent cured meats and cheeses, such as Njegusi prosciutto and kajmak cheese. Visitors can enjoy these as a snack or as part of a larger meal.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods that visitors can try in the Old Town of Budva. The town also offers a variety of international cuisine, such as Italian, French, and Asian, for those looking for something different.

Five fun facts?

  1. The Old Town of Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, dating back over 2,500 years.
  2. The town has been influenced by a variety of cultures throughout its history, including the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans.
  3. The ancient walls and fortifications of the Old Town were constructed over several centuries, with the oldest parts dating back to the 9th century.
  4. The Old Town is home to several historic churches, including the Church of Saint Ivan, which was built in the 7th century, and the Church of the Holy Trinity, which dates back to the 14th century.
  5. The Old Town of Budva is surrounded by beautiful beaches, including the Mogren Beach, which was named one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe by Lonely Planet.

 

Three good links?

Visit-Montenegro.com – Old Town Budva: This website offers a comprehensive guide to the Old Town of Budva, including information about its history, culture, and top attractions.

Lonely Planet – Budva Old Town: Lonely Planet provides a helpful guide to the Old Town of Budva, including tips on how to get there, where to stay, and what to see and do.

Budva.travel – Old Town: This official tourism website for Budva provides a wealth of information about the Old Town, including its history, architecture, and cultural events. It also includes a useful map and guide to the town’s top attractions.