Монастырь и его окрестности
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Podmaine Monastery

4.8
·1k reviews·Budva, Montenegro

A serene 15th-century Orthodox monastery above Budva, known for its vibrant frescoes, spiritual teachings, and stunning Adriatic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quiet contemplation

CrowdLow
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Монастырь и его окрестности

Podmaine Monastery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quiet contemplation

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 15th-century Orthodox monastery above Budva, known for its vibrant frescoes, spiritual teachings, and stunning Adriatic views.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"A peaceful escape with breathtaking views and inspiring spiritual wisdom."

Vertical photo
TIP

Dress Modestly :dress:

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Many visitors appreciate this simple gesture.

Support the Monks :pray:

Purchase religious gifts from the shop; it helps fund their living.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

15th-Century Old Church

15th-Century Old Church

Main complex

Step back in time in the ancient stone church, a testament to centuries of faith and history.

Vibrant Frescoes

Vibrant Frescoes

Interior of churches

Marvel at the richly colored frescoes that adorn the monastery walls, telling stories of faith.

Panoramic Hillside Views

Panoramic Hillside Views

Monastery grounds

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic coast and surrounding countryside from this elevated perch.

Abbot Rafailo's Wisdom

Abbot Rafailo's Wisdom

Spiritual teachings

Experience the profound spiritual guidance and teachings of Abbot Rafailo, a beloved figure.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

To truly soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Podmaine Monastery, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. This avoids the midday crowds and allows for a more contemplative experience. Consider visiting on weekdays when local activity might be less intense.

Respectful Exploration

As an active Orthodox monastery, respectful attire is essential. Cover shoulders and knees. While entry is free, consider purchasing a religious gift from the on-site shop to support the monks' living. Photography inside the old church may be restricted.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quiet contemplation
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Did you guess correctly? One of the most beautiful countries in Europe, here are 5 beautiful places to visit in Montenegro (and trust me, there are plenty more!): 📍 Kotor – A stunning medieval town with jaw-dropping bay views, charming cobbled streets, and a hike up to the fortress that’s 100% worth the effort. 🏖 Budva Old Town – A coastal gem with a mix of history and nightlife where ancient wall...
@thechaosdiaries
450.1K likes • 5.1M views

Dress Modestly :dress:

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Many visitors appreciate this simple gesture. Instagram

Support the Monks :pray:

Purchase religious gifts from the shop; it helps fund their living. Reddit

Montenegro during the day vs at night 🌞🌜 an under-rated european summer destination best kept secret imo 👀 #montenegro #dayvsnight #budva #summerdestinations #europeansummerdestinations #underrated #kotor #balkan #travel #traveling #traveltiktok
@samricharrd
175.5K likes • 2.1M views
Father Rafailo, Abbot from Podmaine Monastery: “How did how ancestors live 500 years without health insurance? Who could insure them? Citizenship? What citizenship, what country? Work? What work? Diploma? What diploma? With trials we see heaven clearer, God reveals Himself” Fr. Rafailo is a spiritual father to 1000s of people and doesn’t even know it. Video credit: @poklonik.rs #hol...
pipermarko
85 likes • 4.2K views

Capture the Views :camera:

The panoramic views are stunning, especially during golden hour. Instagram

Embrace the Calm :leafy_green:

It's a peaceful escape from Budva's bustle. Enjoy the serenity. Reddit

Podmaine Monastery ⛪️🛐🇲🇪 #hiker #hikerlife #hikergram #viaje #trendingreels #reels #hike #senderismo #video #travel #travelblogger #traveller #explore #explorar #adventure #aventura #adventuretime #montenegro #montenegro🇲🇪 #montenegrotiktok #montenegrotravel #monastery #monasterio #monasterios
hernandezs.bryan
3 likes • 344 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Dress Modestly :dress:

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. Many visitors appreciate this simple gesture. Instagram

Support the Monks :pray:

Purchase religious gifts from the shop; it helps fund their living. Reddit

Capture the Views :camera:

The panoramic views are stunning, especially during golden hour. Instagram

Embrace the Calm :leafy_green:

It's a peaceful escape from Budva's bustle. Enjoy the serenity. Reddit

Old vs. New :church:

Explore both the historic 15th-century church and the newer one. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Podmaine Monastery for its serene atmosphere, beautiful frescoes, and stunning hillside views. Many find it a peaceful escape from Budva's hustle, appreciating the friendly monks and the opportunity to support their community by purchasing religious gifts. Some note the historical significance and the inspiring spiritual teachings available.

"Beautiful monastery. Very nice, old church. Old-style, julian calendar is used in here. Even if you are not orthodox i recommend to visit, have a look at mass and enjoy amazing view from monastery."

Jasiek Żeruń

"Great place to see some daily life of monks from Montenegro, there is free entrance and small but free parking in front of monastery. There is local shop with religious gifts and items as holy icons or books, bracelets, partying items that monks sell to visitors to have money for living. F
For me it was something else- a small pause for relatively fast visit during Budva exploration, recommend for having fuller taste of Montenegro diversity."

Wielkopolanin

"A very peaceful small monastery beautiful inside set in once beautiful countryside...obviously now houses etc built around it, and they feed the local strays 😻"

Rosalind Evans

What People Like

Peaceful and calm atmosphere
Beautiful frescoes and views
Friendly monks and spiritual teachings

What People Dislike

Limited dining options nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Podmaine Monastery is located just a short drive or a moderate hike uphill from Budva. Taxis are readily available in Budva and can take you directly to the monastery. For those who enjoy walking, it's a scenic hike, offering rewarding views as you ascend. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a small, free parking area available in front of the monastery, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a popular option for hikers and offers beautiful scenery along the way. The walk can take around 30-45 minutes depending on your pace. Instagram

While the monastery itself offers great photo opportunities, the journey up can also provide stunning shots of Budva and the coastline. Consider a taxi for ease, or a hike for more scenic photo stops. Instagram

Public transport options directly to the monastery are limited. It's best to rely on taxis or consider it part of a scenic hike from Budva. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Podmaine Monastery is free. Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and churches without charge. Reddit

The monastery is generally open to visitors throughout the day, but specific hours for the churches might vary. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best experience. Instagram

Yes, you can attend Orthodox services. Visitors often find attending a mass a unique and moving experience, even if they are not Orthodox. Reddit

There's no need to book tickets in advance as entry is free. You can visit spontaneously. Reddit

While the monastery grounds are generally accessible, it's best to avoid very early mornings or late evenings to respect the monks' schedule. Instagram

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find both a historic 15th-century church and a newer one, both adorned with beautiful frescoes. The monastery grounds also offer peaceful spots and stunning views. InstagramReddit

Yes, Podmaine Monastery is an active Orthodox monastery, with monks residing and conducting services there. Instagram

It's historically significant as a place where Montenegrin ruler Petar II Petrović Njegoš sought treatment. It's also known for the spiritual teachings of Abbot Rafailo. TikTokInstagram

Photography inside the old church may be restricted out of respect. It's always best to check for signage or ask a monk if unsure. Instagram

Basic facilities are usually available for visitors, though they may be simple. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Yes, there's a small shop selling religious gifts, icons, books, and bracelets, which helps support the monks. Reddit

There are no restaurants or cafes within the monastery itself. You'll find dining options back in Budva. Instagram

The shop typically offers items like holy icons, prayer books, bracelets, and other religious artifacts. Reddit

Tipping is not customary for purchases at the monastery shop; prices are set. Reddit

The shop primarily focuses on religious items rather than local produce. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The monastery grounds offer beautiful architecture and stunning panoramic views of Budva and the Adriatic Sea. The interior frescoes are also a popular subject. Instagram

Photography inside the old church is often restricted to preserve the sanctity and the frescoes. Always check for signs or ask permission. Instagram

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for both the monastery and the surrounding landscape. Instagram

Drone usage is generally not permitted at religious sites like monasteries to ensure peace and respect. Instagram

You can capture wide shots of the monastery complex, detailed shots of the architecture, and expansive views of the coastline. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Podmaine Monastery can be a peaceful outing for families. While the historical and spiritual aspects might be more engaging for adults, children can appreciate the open grounds for a bit of exploration and the beautiful views. It's a good opportunity to teach children about different cultures and religious sites. Remember to ensure children are dressed respectfully and supervised, especially near the churches. Instagram

🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who enjoy an active exploration, the hike up to Podmaine Monastery from Budva is highly recommended. The trail offers scenic vistas of the coastline and the surrounding landscape, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. Instagram

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

This monastery is a haven for those seeking spiritual connection and reflection. The teachings of Abbot Rafailo are a significant draw, offering profound insights into Orthodox faith. The serene environment and the active monastic life provide a unique atmosphere for prayer and contemplation. TikTokInstagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Spiritual Heart of Budva: Abbot Rafailo's Teachings

Podmaine Monastery is not only a historical site but also a vibrant spiritual center, largely due to the presence and teachings of Abbot Rafailo. His sermons and wisdom, often shared online, resonate deeply with many seeking spiritual guidance. Visitors often mention the profound impact of his words, which touch upon faith, modern life challenges, and the importance of spiritual practices like fasting. TikTokInstagram+1

These teachings offer a unique perspective on Orthodox Christianity and its relevance today. Many find solace and inspiration in his messages, which are characterized by their directness and spiritual depth. The monastery provides a serene environment where these teachings can be contemplated, making it more than just a tourist attraction but a place for spiritual reflection. Instagram+1

A Glimpse into Monastic Life

Visiting Podmaine Monastery offers a rare opportunity to witness the daily life of monks. It's an active religious community, and observing the monks going about their routines can be a humbling experience. The monastery maintains both a historic 15th-century church and a newer one, showcasing the continuity of faith and practice. InstagramReddit

Visitors often note the peaceful atmosphere and the friendly demeanor of the monks. The on-site shop, where monks sell religious items, is a direct way for them to sustain their community. This interaction provides a tangible connection to their way of life and supports their endeavors. Reddit+1

Historical Significance and Views

Podmaine Monastery holds historical importance as the place where Montenegrin ruler and poet Petar II Petrović Njegoš passed away in 1851. This connection adds a layer of historical depth to the visit, drawing those interested in Montenegrin history and culture. Instagram

Beyond its historical and spiritual appeal, the monastery is celebrated for its stunning location. Perched on a hillside, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Budva and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. This combination of historical significance, spiritual tranquility, and natural beauty makes it a compelling destination for a diverse range of visitors. Instagram+1

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