Citadel
1 / 10

Budva Citadel

4.5
·4k reviews·Budva, Montenegro

A medieval fortress offering breathtaking Adriatic views and a unique dining experience within Budva's historic Old Town.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Avoid crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Citadel

Budva Citadel

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Avoid crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A medieval fortress offering breathtaking Adriatic views and a unique dining experience within Budva's historic Old Town.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"The views of Budva and St. Nikola Island are beautiful, but beyond that, there’s just a small "museum" room."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Capture Stunning Views

The panoramic views are incredible! Don't miss the chance to photograph the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be walking on ancient stone paths, so wear comfortable shoes. Not wheelchair accessible. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Adriatic Views

Panoramic Adriatic Views

Top ramparts

Soak in breathtaking vistas of the turquoise Adriatic Sea and Budva's charming Old Town rooftops.

Historic Fortress Exploration

Historic Fortress Exploration

Throughout the citadel

Wander through ancient stone walls, imagine centuries past, and discover hidden corners of this medieval stronghold.

Citadela Restaurant Experience

Citadela Restaurant Experience

Within the citadel walls

Dine in a 15th-century fortress with delicious food, great coffee, and a romantic ambiance under wisteria.

Ship Model Exhibition

Ship Model Exhibition

Small museum room

A glimpse into maritime history with a collection of wooden sailing ship models.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds and heat by visiting the Budva Citadel early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Many visitors find the midday sun intense, and the citadel can get busy with tour groups. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience.

Value for Money?

While the entrance fee is around €5.50, some visitors feel it's a bit high for the limited exhibits. However, the stunning panoramic views and the unique atmosphere of dining within a historic fortress are often cited as making it worthwhile.

Best Times

When
Morning or late afternoon
Why
Avoid crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Spring or Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Low
When
Evening (for dining)
Why
Romantic atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Wir hatten so viel spass in Budva 🥹 Summer 2024 ✨
@enisabukvic
84.8K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Capture Stunning Views

The panoramic views are incredible! Don't miss the chance to photograph the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be walking on ancient stone paths, so wear comfortable shoes. Not wheelchair accessible. :athletic_shoe:

kotor montenegro 🇲🇪 #kotor #budva #montenegro🇲🇪 #montenegro #travel #vacation #trip
@jandi.battal0000
78.1K likes • 1.4M views
Budva citadel and stormy sea 🌊 Shot on @djiglobal mini 3 pro OFX bloom, halation by @dehancer.film #budva #budvaoldtown #montenegro #drone #djicreator #dji #skypixel #dronepilot #droneoftheday #dronedaily #dronevideo #dehancerfilm #dehancer
sinaysky
14.5K likes • 158.3K views

💰 Skip the Restaurant?

While the restaurant has a great location, some find it overpriced. Enjoy the views, but consider dining elsewhere. :moneywithwings:

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

Most visitors can explore the citadel and enjoy the views in about 10-30 minutes. :stopwatch:

How to spend one perfect day in Budva 🇲🇪 Exploring the quiet charm of the Old Town, climbing the 15th-century Citadel for that panoramic view, taking a boat ride along the coast, and finishing the day with sunset and seafood by the sea🌊🦐 Budva really has it all with history, views, and those chill coastal vibes🏖️ What is your favourite place in Montenegro? #budvamontenegro #montenegroguide #l...
sofiryk
171 likes • 7.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Capture Stunning Views

The panoramic views are incredible! Don't miss the chance to photograph the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be walking on ancient stone paths, so wear comfortable shoes. Not wheelchair accessible. :athletic_shoe:

💰 Skip the Restaurant?

While the restaurant has a great location, some find it overpriced. Enjoy the views, but consider dining elsewhere. :moneywithwings:

⏳ Quick Visit Possible

Most visitors can explore the citadel and enjoy the views in about 10-30 minutes. :stopwatch:

📚 Relax in the Library

The library offers comfy armchairs and a peaceful escape. A unique spot to unwind. :books:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Budva Citadel for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the Old Town. The romantic atmosphere and the unique experience of dining within a historic fortress are also major highlights. However, some feel the entrance fee is a bit high for the limited museum exhibits.

"Definitely worth a visit! The view is stunning, and below there is a restaurant and a ship exhibition. There are also two libraries to explore. Well worth both the visit and the €4.50 entrance fee."

El Barto

"The €5.50 entrance fee feels quite high considering what’s inside. The views of Budva and St. Nikola Island are beautiful, but beyond that, there’s just a small "museum" room with a few ship models and a library with books behind glass and a couple of sofas. Everything can be done in 10 minutes. It’s a charming spot, but there isn’t much to see or discover."

Veronika Duffková

"Very interesting place if you are interested in knowing a little bit more about Budva and Montenegro’s history. The library is amazing (comfiest armchairs ever! Xd) and the views are BREATHTAKING. Don’t get scammed in the restaurant tho, it’s not worth it!!!"

Laura Carril Herrera

What People Like

Stunning sea and Old Town views
Romantic atmosphere
Unique dining experience

What People Dislike

High entrance fee for exhibits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Budva Citadel is located within the Old Town of Budva. You can easily walk to it from most parts of the Old Town. If you're arriving by car, park outside the Old Town walls and walk in. Taxis are also readily available to take you to the Old Town entrance. Instagram

Unfortunately, the Budva Citadel is not wheelchair accessible due to its ancient stone paths and uneven terrain. Visitors should be prepared for walking on historical surfaces.,Reddit Instagram

The Old Town is pedestrian-only. The nearest parking is available outside the walls. Many visitors arrive by bus to Budva and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the Old Town. Instagram

While some drone footage exists, be aware of local regulations regarding drone usage in historical areas and near the coast. Always check current rules before flying. TikTok

Budva is a popular coastal town and can be a good base, especially for exploring the southern coast. For national parks like Durmitor, it's a longer day trip. Some travelers prefer splitting time between Budva and Kotor for better access to different regions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Budva Citadel is approximately €5.50 per person. This fee typically includes access to the citadel grounds, the small museum, and the library. Reddit

The opening hours can vary seasonally, but generally, the citadel is open daily from morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to check locally for the most up-to-date hours, especially outside peak season. Instagram

Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance to the citadel. Advance booking is generally not required unless there's a special event, like the music ritual mentioned for July 13th. Instagram

The fee typically covers access to the fortress, the panoramic viewpoints, a small exhibition of ship models, and the library. Some visitors feel the 'museum' aspect is minimal. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely available. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival if you believe you might qualify for any concessions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The ramparts offer the most iconic shots of the Adriatic Sea and the Old Town. Look for angles that capture the ancient stone architecture against the blue water. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.,Instagram Instagram

Yes, St. Nikola Island is clearly visible from the Budva Citadel, offering a picturesque view across the water. Reddit

The citadel provides beautiful views, and while you can see the sunset over the sea, the Old Town itself might block direct views depending on your vantage point. The golden hour light on the stone is stunning. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details. Drones can offer unique perspectives, but check regulations. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, always be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage within the citadel. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant called Citadela located within the walls of the Budva Citadel. It's known for its unique dining experience in a historic setting.,Instagram Instagram

Reviews suggest the food is refined and delightful, exceeding expectations for a restaurant in such a historic location. It's praised for its tasty dishes and good coffee.,Instagram Reddit

Some visitors find the restaurant to be on the pricier side, suggesting it might be more about the experience and location than just the food cost. Reddit

The atmosphere is described as peaceful, romantic, and chill, especially when dining under the wisteria with a sea breeze. It's a perfect spot to relax. Reddit

The Old Town of Budva is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bakeries offering local Montenegrin cuisine, seafood, and international options. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Budva Citadel offers a touch of history that can engage older children, especially with its fortress setting. The panoramic views are also a hit, providing a sense of scale and adventure. However, be mindful that the terrain is uneven and not stroller-friendly, so younger children might need to be carried. Instagram

While the ship model exhibition is small, it might capture the imagination of some kids. The restaurant within the citadel offers a unique dining experience, but consider if the atmosphere and potential cost are suitable for your family. For a more relaxed experience, focus on the views and the exploration of the ancient walls. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The €5.50 entrance fee is a modest investment for the stunning views and historical ambiance. While some find the exhibits limited for the price, the photographic opportunities and the sheer beauty of the location are often considered worth it. Reddit

To save money on dining, consider enjoying the views from the citadel and then exploring the numerous cafes and bakeries in the Old Town for more affordable meals and snacks.,Instagram Reddit

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Budva Citadel offers a wonderfully romantic setting, especially during the late afternoon or evening. The panoramic sea views, the ancient stone architecture, and the peaceful atmosphere create an idyllic backdrop for couples. Reddit

Dining at Restaurant Citadela within the fortress is a particularly special experience, offering a memorable evening with delicious food and a captivating ambiance. Enjoying a drink under the wisteria while watching the sunset over the Adriatic is a quintessential romantic moment.,Instagram,Instagram Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Budva Citadel is a testament to the town's long and storied past, dating back centuries. Originally a fortification to defend against invaders, its stone walls have witnessed numerous historical events. The citadel's architecture reflects various periods of influence, showcasing its strategic importance on the Adriatic coast. Exploring its ramparts offers a tangible connection to the generations who lived and defended this vital outpost.,Instagram Instagram

Within the citadel, you'll find a small museum that, while modest, houses a collection of ship models, offering a glimpse into the region's maritime heritage. The library is another unique feature, providing a quiet space with comfortable seating, a welcome respite for visitors. These elements, combined with the ancient architecture, create a layered experience that goes beyond just scenic views. Reddit

While the primary draw is the historical ambiance and stunning vistas, the citadel also hosts occasional events. For instance, a unique music ritual was planned within its ancient walls, transforming the fortress into a venue for sound and rhythm, highlighting its potential as a cultural space. Instagram

The Dining Experience at Citadela

For a truly memorable meal, consider dining at Restaurant Citadela, located within the historic fortress itself. This isn't just a meal; it's an immersion into history, with tables set amidst ancient stone walls and passages. The ambiance is frequently described as romantic and peaceful, enhanced by the gentle sea breeze and the shade of wisteria.,Instagram,Instagram Reddit

The cuisine at Citadela is noted for being refined and delicious, often exceeding expectations. Visitors praise the quality of the food, coffee, and the overall dining experience. It's a perfect spot to unwind, enjoy a cold drink, and soak in the unique atmosphere after exploring the citadel's historical sites. Reddit

While the location and ambiance are undeniable highlights, some reviews suggest that the prices might be higher than average, reflecting the exclusive setting. However, many feel the unique experience of dining within a 15th-century fortress makes it a worthwhile splurge for a special occasion or a memorable travel moment. Reddit

Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips

The Budva Citadel is a photographer's dream, offering a wealth of visual opportunities. The most sought-after shots are the panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town. The ramparts provide the best vantage points for these sweeping vistas.,Instagram Instagram

For the best light, aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The warm sunlight bathes the ancient stone walls in a beautiful glow, creating a magical atmosphere. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery, and a standard zoom for details of the architecture.,Instagram Instagram

Don't forget to capture the historical details within the citadel itself – the texture of the stone, the archways, and the charming nooks. While drone footage can offer unique perspectives, always ensure you are aware of and comply with local drone regulations. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2