Budva

Budva is a coastal city in Montenegro whose old quarter sits within medieval walls on a small peninsula jutting into the Adriatic Sea. Around the historic center lie numerous sand and pebble beaches that extend along the coast to the north and south.

Illyrians founded a settlement here about 2500 years ago that later came under Roman and Byzantine rule. Venice controlled the town from the 15th to the 18th century and expanded the fortifications that were attacked many times but never taken.

The name Budva comes from Illyrian roots and today refers to a town defined by its compact walled quarter. Visitors walk through narrow lanes between stone houses that sit right against the sea and fill with restaurants and small shops in the evening.

The town is best visited in spring or fall when the weather stays warm but fewer people are around. Those exploring the old quarter should come in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest midday heat.

An earthquake in 1979 destroyed much of the old quarter but conservators documented every fragment and reassembled the buildings stone by stone. Today the walls and houses look as if they were never damaged even though many structures had to be completely rebuilt.