Budva is a coastal town located in Montenegro, a country in Southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. Geographically, Montenegro is bordered by Croatia to the west, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the northwest, Serbia to the northeast, Kosovo to the east, and Albania to the south. It has a coastline along the Adriatic Sea, where Budva is situated. The country's capital and largest city is Podgorica, while Cetinje is designated as the Old Royal Capital.
The primary language spoken in Budva is Montenegrin, which, since Montenegro's independence in 2006, has been recognized as the official language of the country. Besides Montenegrin, other languages recognized in the Montenegrin constitution include Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, and Croatian.
Budva is a popular tourist destination, and as a result, the English language is widely spoken and understood throughout the city, especially in the hospitality and service sectors.
Budva, a picturesque town in Montenegro, operates on the Euro (EUR) as its official currency.
Budva's Old Town, one of the Adriatic's most ancient settlements, boasts a history that stretches back over 2,500 years. This historic heart of Budva, Montenegro, is a testament to the area's rich and layered past, having witnessed the rise and fall of many civilizations. Originally founded by the Illyrians, a group of tribes known for their warrior culture and skilled navigation, Budva (then known as Buthua) became a melting pot of cultures and influences over the centuries. The most significant transformations came under the Venetian Republic from the 15th to the 18th century, which is reflected in the architectural styles and urban layout that can be seen in the Old Town today. The Venetians reinforced the town's defenses, built imposing walls, and left a legacy of Renaissance architecture that gives Budva its distinctive character.
Despite suffering considerable damage from earthquakes, most notably in 1667 and 1979, Budva's Old Town has been meticulously restored. Its narrow, winding streets, small squares, and historic buildings give a vivid snapshot of its medieval past, while the town walls offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and Budva's beaches.
As of the latest data, the population of Budva is approximately 19,000 residents. This number significantly increases during the summer months, as the town becomes a magnet for tourists from around the globe, drawn to its Mediterranean charm, lively nightlife, picturesque Old Town, and its beautiful sandy and pebble beaches that stretch along the Budva Riviera.
From 2022 to 2023, Budva experienced a noticeable increase in the number of immigrants from Ukraine, Russia, and Israel, attracted by the town's welcoming atmosphere, moderate climate, and scenic beauty. This influx contributed to the town's cosmopolitan feel and dynamic cultural landscape. However, by the beginning of 2024, a reverse trend emerged, with a significant number of these recent arrivals choosing to leave. Some returned to their home countries, while others relocated within Montenegro, seeking quieter lives in less tourist-centric locales, or moved abroad in search of new opportunities.
As of now, Uber, along with other global giants like Yandex Taxi, Bolt does not operate in Budva or anywhere else in Montenegro. For even more valuable information, be sure to check out the article on Uber offering essential insights not only for navigating Budva but all of Montenegro.I’ll be sharing valuable tips, local contacts, and phone numbers you can save before your trip and put to use the moment you arrive.
Beaches in Montenegro are free to access, except for private areas, which are usually fenced off or staffed with personnel informing visitors that access is restricted to hotel guests or specific clients.
Beaches in Montenegro are mostly a mix of sand and pebbles, though there are also sandy beaches. For more information about the beaches, visit Beaches of Montenegro.
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