Montenegro is a small country that packs a massive punch for its modest size. The indented coastline, turquoise seas, majestic mountains, and dozens of vibrant towns make it a perfect destination for your next luxury charter cruise. Croatia is just next to it - you can travel from Tivat to Dubrovnik in just half an hour, or even less, depending on the speed your luxury yacht can accomplish.
The small coastal country has recently seen tremendous development and has become a playground of Russian billionaires whose influx has inspired many new marinas, upscale restaurants, and posh boutiques. Wherever you moor for the day during your stay in Montenegro, you will find a distinct charisma - from small, sleepy villages to UNESCO-protected cities like Kotor, every part of your itinerary will inspire you in its own right.
If sandy beaches are the most crucial attraction for you but don’t want to miss out on the buzz a busy city offers, then Budva will be the favorite part of your cruising itinerary. With endless sunkissed coves, striking monuments, and the best nightlife in Montenegro, this city stands out as one of the most popular destinations in this beautiful country.
Located in the Budva Riviera, this city is known for its posh restaurants and nightclubs. But its history goes way back - it is one of the oldest settlements in the Adriatic and even Europe, founded in the 5th Century BC.
The legend says that Budva served as an asylum for the exiled founder of Thebes, Cadmus, and his wife Harmonia, goddess of harmony and concord. Just hours after arriving here, you will be assured that Harmonia did her magic here. The sea, mountains, and verdant hills coexist here in peaceful balance, creating a unique setting that made Budva an epicenter of Adriatic tourism.
Best Things To See In Budva
When you leave your luxury charter yacht in the stylish Duckley Marina, which offers 560 berths for vessels up to 70m in length, you can start exploring the gorgeous city and its numerous landmarks from different eras of its turbulent history. The beaches might distract you from sightseeing - but try to make time for at least these few spots.
Budva Old Town
Being one of the oldest cities in the Adriatic, it comes as no surprise that Budva abounds in historical buildings that will spark your interest. You don’t need to escape the sunshine in order to explore its heritage - a fun walk, with plenty of ice cream stops, will be enough. The Venetians have left the most significant mark on the look of the Old Town, and it hasn’t changed much in 500 years.
To protect this idyllic town, Venetians erected fortified walls that are still here today and have additional towers and gates that you might find interesting. Perhaps the most admired is the citadel of the Old Town, built in the 5th or 6th Century BC, which now serves as a theatre. It’s also the highest point in Budva, giving exceptional views of the blue Adriatic.
The 9th Century Santa Maria In Punta is a small church that will be interesting to religious visitors and anyone who enjoys architecture and art. Not only is it spectacular in itself, inside it has Roman mosaics found in the Villa Rustica in Petrovac.
Continue walking a bit further, and you will end up on a beach any way you go, perhaps even on the prettiest beach of Budva, called Richard’s Head.
The Old Ballerina
If you find yourself to be a hopeless romantic at heart, take a look at this gorgeous sculpture behind which there lays a sad love story. Inspired by a ballerina who waited for her sailor to return, coming to check if his ship arrived at Mogren beach, the young girl died there of a broken heart. Sculptor Gradimir Aleksić immortalized her pirouette in solid bronze - miniature replicas of this monument are commonly sold in souvenir shops all over Budva.
Petrovac
The Romans sure knew where to build their villas, and this tiny village in the municipality of Budva confirms their good taste. Feel the fragrance of the Mediterranean herbs as they tangle with the scent of sea salt in the most idyllic Montenegrin place, once home to numerous antic mansions.
Best Beaches in Budva
We could mention more historical landmarks in Budva, but we are sure that the beaches will steal all your time. With some of the best beaches in the Adriatic and two small islands of ethereal beauty nearby (Sveti Stefan and Sveti Nikola), we are sure that a history hunt won't come high on your priority list.
Bečići
With a shoreline of 2km, swanky restaurants and bars, and pristine seas known to be the cleanest in Montenegro, Bečići is the most popular swimming spot for elite crowds who flock here each summer. While sunbathing in Bečići, you can use the opportunity to explore further: check out the two thousand old olive tree, head to the Bellevue Zavala for a panoramic view, or visit the St. Thomas church, surrounded by scenic Mediterranean greenery.
The beauty of this Budva beach is no news, as it was proclaimed the most beautiful European beach already in 1935. While it is primarily sandy, some parts have small pebbles. There are plenty of activities to keep kids busy, including a playground and watersports, as well as entertainment options for visitors of all ages. You can rent parasols, sun loungers, and Balinese beds.
Mogren Beach
You will find two surreally beautiful beaches just minutes away from the Old Town. Mogren I and II are two small swimming coves connected by a short canal known as some of the most prestigious summer destinations in the Adriatic. Those who fancy a gourmet bite while spending the day swimming will not be disappointed, as there are several posh restaurants by the sea. Because of its beauty, Mogren is a protected monument of nature and attracts fishing enthusiasts and adventurists even off-season.
Jaz Beach
The longest beach of the Budva Riviera that spreads over 1,2 km is another protected natural monument with fresh spring water. Lonely Planet proclaimed the beach to be the prettiest in Europe in 2015. The intense blue seas are calm and quiet, perfect for kids learning to swim. You can easily find parasols for rent or Balinese beds, and many organized activities will keep you entertained here. If you’re feeling especially daring on your beach day, there is a large nudist area for the bravest charterers.
St. Stefan and St. Nicolas Islands
Use the advantage of your luxury charter yacht to explore the unique islands in the Budva Riviera. St. Stefan even has a pink beach, much like one found in Cretes, that belonged to Queen Mary of Yugoslavia. This island was a closed resort that welcomed the rich and famous, most notably Elisabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. The island of St. Nicolas contacts its polished neighbor with wild, untamed nature and a population of deers. Here, you’ll find three sandy beaches that are 840 m long and abundant greenery untouched by civilization.
Best Restaurants In Budva
This ancient city has adapted to visitors of refined tastes and offers a plethora of restaurants where you can try the tastiest dishes and enjoy the elegant setting. When choosing where to book a table, you might find yourself overwhelmed with options - here are our top picks to help you narrow the choices.
Dukley Seafront Restaurant
Just by your marina, you will find an elegant restaurant with a menu that would wow even the most discerning of guests. A contemporary, stylish look, views of the endless blue horizon, and an extensive wine list make Dukley one of the best restaurants in Budva. The chefs prepare each dish with utmost attention to detail, from carpaccios to sushi rolls. The beach club is right there, so if you feel that you’ve had a bite too many, you can shave off the calories by swimming.
Restaurant & Beach Bar Azzurro
If you decide to spend the day in Bečići, don your chicest caftan and head to Azzuro to indulge in the tastiest seafood specialties. Salmon and lobster ornate with edible flowers, black risotto, and delicate desserts will exceed your expectations, and so will the fine terrace that overlooks the translucent seas.
Kafana Rivijera
The restaurant with the most authentic Montenegrin ambiance and traditionally prepared dishes is an excellent option for a casual family lunch while exploring the labyrinth of Budva’s old alleys. Whether you go for the tasty cuts of meat or decide to stick to a seafood diet, try the strong local brandy called rakija, often offered as a complimentary drink with lunch.
Best Nightclubs In Budva
The story of Budva wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the bustling nightlife scene. So wear your latest designer buy and dance the night away in one of these chichi clubs.
Top Hill
As much of an attraction as the sandy beaches and history-drenched Old Town, Top Hill was named the World’s best nightclub by Montecarlo’s MICS Festival. Located on an elevated hill overlooking the entire city, this nightclub can welcome hundreds of people and has a very strict VIP policy, with a staff that devotes the highest standard of service to A-lister guests. Even if clubbing is not your cup of tea, a visit to Top Hill is an expedition into the cultural scene of Montenegro and, as such, a place you should definitely try to see.
Club Perla
Club Perla gathers regional celebrities and highly regarded DJs almost every night throughout the summer. The atmosphere gets quite heated, and the club doesn't close its doors until early in the morning.
Club Ambiente
Dance by the beach in this famous “it spot,” which only closes its doors by 5 am and serves some of the best cocktails in town.
Additional tip:
Budva is often referred to as the “Montecarlo of Montenegro,” and one of the reasons is the numerous casinos where you can test your luck. If you feel like playing rulet or blackjack, head to Queen, Avala, or Admiral and try to beat the house.
