Budva Old Town
Coastal Region
Budva Old Town is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, boasting a history that spans over 2,500 years. It features well-preserved medieval walls and architecture that reflect its Venetian past, including fortifications built to defend against Ottoman incursions. The Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, stone buildings, and charming squares, offering visitors a glimpse into its complex history shaped by Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian influences. The town's cultural significance is enhanced by its ties to notable historical figures and its role as a religious center with a Roman Catholic diocese established around 1200. Despite suffering a devastating earthquake in 1979, the Old Town was meticulously restored to retain its original charm. Today, it stands as a vibrant hub for tourism, with sandy beaches nearby and a lively nightlife, making it a unique blend of history and modernity on the Montenegrin coast.
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Tip: The best time to visit Budva Old Town is during the late spring and early autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. Purchasing tickets for any guided tours in advance is recommended to avoid queues, especially in peak summer. Visitors can benefit from various discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Exploring early in the morning or late in the afternoon allows for a more peaceful experience away from the busiest tourist periods. Comfortable footwear is advised due to the cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.
Interesting facts
- •Budva is one of the oldest towns on the Adriatic coast, with origins dating back over 2,500 years.
- •The Venetian walls around Budva Old Town were constructed to defend against Ottoman invasions and remain a prominent feature today.
- •Budva was briefly under Ottoman rule between 1572 and 1573 before returning to Venetian control under the Treaty of Constantinople.
- •The catastrophic earthquake in 1979 destroyed much of the Old Town, but it was carefully restored to its original medieval appearance.
- •Budva was historically known as 'Budua' during Venetian rule and was part of the Albania Veneta territory.
History
Budva was first recorded in the 5th century BC, originally part of Illyria and later a Greek emporium during the 6th century BC.
It became part of the Roman Republic and Empire, followed by Byzantine rule in the 6th century.
The town experienced various rulers including Slavs, the Venetian Republic from 1420 to 1797, and briefly Ottoman and Austrian control.
The Venetian period notably fortified Budva with walls to protect against Ottoman advances.
After the fall of Venice, Budva shifted between Habsburg, Napoleonic, and Austro-Hungarian rule before becoming part of Yugoslavia and eventually independent Montenegro.
A major earthquake in 1979 severely damaged the Old Town, but restoration efforts have preserved its historic character.
Place Guide
Venetian Walls and Fortifications15th-18th century
These robust medieval walls encircle the Old Town, built primarily during the Venetian period to defend against Ottoman attacks. They offer scenic views over the Adriatic Sea and the town's rooftops.
Narrow Streets and Historic SquaresMedieval period
The Old Town's maze of narrow cobblestone streets and charming squares showcase centuries-old stone buildings, quaint shops, and cafes, reflecting the town's rich cultural heritage.
Church of Saint Johnc. 1200
A notable religious site within the Old Town, this church dates back to the medieval period and was part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Budua established around 1200.
