Budva Riviera Travel Guide

Explore the best of Budva Riviera, Montenegro with our comprehensive travel guide. From places to visit to what to eat, we cover it all. Discover everything you need to know to plan your trip today.


Do you dream of exploring scenic coastlines dotted with breathtaking landscapes? Look no further than Budva Riviera, located in the Balkans of Europe. With its history, culture, natural wonders, and delicious cuisine, it is a perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique travel experience. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best of Budva Riviera, so that you can make the most of your journey.

Introduction to Budva Riviera

Budva Riviera is an approximately 30-km-long stretch of coastline that runs between the towns of Budva and Bar in Montenegro. The region is blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 °C. The Adriatic Sea offers stunning landscapes and boasts crystal clear waters that attract thousands of tourists each year.

List of Places to Visit in Budva Riviera

Budva Riviera offers plenty of attractions for every type of traveler. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

In Budva Riviera, you can step back in time and explore the region’s rich history. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions include:

  • Budva Old Town: Consisting of narrow streets lined with historical architecture, galleries, cafes, and shops, Budva Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval walled cities in the Adriatic.
  • The Venetian fortress of Mogren: The Mogren Fortress is a symbol of the town of Budva, overlooking the beautiful beaches. Built in the 19th century, it is a perfect place to explore the history and take great photos.
  • The Museum of Budva: This museum houses exhibits that highlight the long and varied history of the region. The museum is housed in an ancient fortress that was built during the 17th century.
  • Skadar Lake: One of the largest bird reserves in Europe, Skadar Lake is located in the Shkoder region of Montenegro and is surrounded by impressive mountains. It offers a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.

Natural Attractions of Budva Riviera: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural landscapes and active outdoor activities in Budva Riviera make it a perfect place for adventure seekers. Some of the natural attractions to explore include:

  • The Bay of Kotor: The Bay of Kotor is a breathtaking bay surrounded by high mountains, sorrounded by ancient fortresses. It’s a perfect place to unwind and take in the scenery.
  • Lovcen National Park: Lovcen National Park is a stunning natural reserve that offers a range of hikes among magnificent views of the landscape and a closer look at various plants and animals that call the park home.
  • Montenegrin Beaches: With over 70 beaches around Montenegro, there are many opportunities for visitors to catch some sun or enjoy water sports.
  • Durmitor National Park: Durmitor National Park is a world heritage site, located amidst the natural splendor of the Montenegrin mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Budva Riviera

For those eager to challenge themselves, Budva Riviera offers several hiking and biking options. Some popular routes include:

  • Lovcen Hike: A great hiking option for those seeking an adventure, the trail starts at Ivanova Korita and ends at Njegos Mausoleum, offering some of the best panoramic views of the area.
  • Via Dinarica: Via Dinarica is a trans-Balkan trail that incorporates Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Albania, and Serbia, among other countries. Its Montenegrin section covers thrilling scenery as it passes through the Biogradska Gora National Park and Durmitor National Park.
  • Skadar Lake by Bike: A favorite of biking enthusiasts, the route circles the lake and offers stunning views of the beautiful landscapes that surround it.

Best Things to Do in Budva Riviera: Activities and Tours

From watersports and sailing to exploring the historical towns and hiking trails, Budva Riviera offers plenty of activities and tours. Some of the must-dos include:

  • Parasailing: An ultimate adrenaline rush, parasailing is a great way to enjoy spectacular aerial views of the beautiful coastline.
  • Wine Tours: Montenegro is a significant player in the wine world, and a visit to some of the local vineyards is the perfect way to experience the country’s viticultural heritage.
  • Boat tours: Montenegro boasts some of the best views of the Adriatic coastline, and a boat tour is an excellent way to soak in the beautiful views of the coastline and nearby islands.
  • Scuba Diving: A perfect activity for any nature lover, scuba diving will let you explore the underwater world’s beauty and immerse yourself into a new dimension.

Week-Long Itinerary for Budva Riviera

If you’re planning a visit to Budva Riviera, here’s a week-long itinerary to help guide your travel schedule:

Day One: Visit Budva Old Town and discover the city’s history and culture.

Day Two: Spend the day on the beach of Mogren and explore the Venetian fortress.

Day Three: Enjoy a day trip to Skadar Lake, the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula, and take a kayak tour of the lake.

Day Four: Explore the Bay of Kotor and enjoy a boat tour around the lovely islands.

Day Five: Visit Lovcen National Park and enjoy the beautiful landscapes while hiking or biking.

Day Six: Take a wine tour of the Montenegrin vineyards.

Day Seven: Spend your last day in Montenegro by taking a boat tour of the Blue Cave and soaking in the beautiful scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Budva Riviera

No travel experience is complete without exploring the local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local drinks of the Budva Riviera:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buzara: A dish made with fresh seafood cooked with spices, garlic, and wine
  • Njeguški Stek: A grilled dish made with pork or ham from the region with local cheese and potatoes
  • Kačamak: A traditional mashed potato and cheese dish served with meat or yogurt

Local Beverages

  • Rakija: A popular local spirit made from fermented fruit, such as grapes and plums
  • Vranac: A red wine unique to Montenegro, renowned for its distinctive flavor and aroma.
  • Nikšićko pivo: A popular local beer that is brewed in the north of Montenegro

Where to Stay in Budva Riviera: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Budva Riviera has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Some of our favorite picks include:

  • Hotel Splendid Conference & Spa Resort- A perfect destination for those seeking luxury and style. With an exclusive spa, extensive pool facilities, and a beautiful beach, the hotel captures the vibe of the Riviera lifestyle.
  • Fontana Hotel- Fontana Hotel is situated in the heart of Budva’s picturesque Old Town, and is merely two minutes from the beach.
  • Hotel Montenegro- Hotel Montenegro is in a prime location in Budva, just a 10-minute walk from the beach.

What to Buy in Budva Riviera: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Budva Riviera, make sure to shop for local products and souvenirs. Here are a few things to keep/souvenirs to lookout for:

  • Olive oil
  • Handmade souvenirs
  • Traditional Instruments
  • Jewelry with Montenegrin symbols

Local Culture and Customs of Budva Riviera

Montenegrins are proud of their cultural identity and traditions. Expect kindness, hospitality, warmth, and respect for other cultures. Note that Montenegrins are conservative and value modest dress codes, so dress appropriately for visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Budva Riviera

The best time to visit Budva Riviera is between May and September. The summer months, specifically July and August, are the busiest and have higher temperatures, making it perfect for swimming and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Budva Riviera

Do:

  • Take part in local festivals and celebrations
  • Visit the religious sites to learn about the country’s religion and history
  • Wear appropriate clothing
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Respect the cultural values and traditions

Don’t:

  • Take pictures of individuals without asking for permission first
  • Take stones from the beach or nature reserves
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Budva Riviera

Montenegro is a safe travel destination. Still, tourists must use caution and follow general safety measures, such as not leaving their valuables unattended and being sensible when out exploring the towns and cities.

Health in Budva Riviera

Montenegro has a good healthcare system, but it is essential to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Drink bottled water, especially when visiting rural areas.

Getting to Budva Riviera: Transportation Options and Logistics

Budva Riviera is easily accessible from many parts of Europe. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Budva Riviera

  • Tivat Airport (20 km)
  • Podgorica Airport (65 km)
  • Dubrovnik Airport (80 km)

Bus Stations Near Budva Riviera

  • Budva Bus Station
  • Bar Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: Montenegro has a modest rail system, which is mostly suited for traveling to and from Belgrade or Bar.
  • Rent-a-car: A good option for exploring the beautiful landscapes and natural wonders of Budva Riviera, car rental companies are available.

How to Get Around in Budva Riviera

There are plenty of transportation options available for getting around Budva Riviera, but we recommend:

  • Renting a car
  • Using local buses
  • Taking a taxi

Where to Go Next from Budva Riviera: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Montenegro offers many other exciting destinations to explore. Here are some suggestions for your next destination:

  • Cetinje
  • Kotor Bay
  • Podgorica
  • Skadar Lake

Conclusion

Montenegro’s Budva Riviera is a hidden gem that boasts natural landscapes, rich history, and exciting cultural experiences. With this comprehensive travel guide, you will be well-equipped to explore the region’s wonders. Plan your trip today and discover one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe.



    Bečići
    Budva
    Petrovac
    Sveti Stefan