Exploring Budva, Petrovac, and Sveti Stefan: A Family Adventure
Exploring Montenegro’s coastal gems – Budva, Petrovac, and Sveti Stefan offer a mix of historic charm, natural beauty, and family-friendly activities. While each destination has its own vibe, together they make for a perfect day of exploration and discovery. Here’s our guide to experiencing these stunning spots with kids.
Exploring Budva, Petrovac, and Sveti Stefan?
These three locations on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast are packed with character. Exploring Budva’s Old Town brings history and culture to life, Petrovac is a quieter retreat with lovely beaches, and Sveti Stefan offers postcard-perfect views of Montenegro’s iconic island village. Whether you’re exploring as a family or looking for unique photo opportunities, these destinations won’t disappoint.
1. Exploring Budva: Old Town Charm Meets Busy Beaches
Exploring Budva and mainly its Old Town, encased in medieval walls, was a highlight for us. Its cobblestone streets, charming squares, and vibrant shops kept the kids entertained as we explored its historical allure.
- Old Town: A great spot to wander, this historic area offers plenty of opportunities for kids to let their curiosity run wild. We strolled the alleyways, admired the architecture, and discovered little surprises like quaint cafés and gelato stands.
- Beaches: While Budva’s beaches are well-known, we found them overcrowded and littered, which was a bit disappointing. However, if you visit early in the morning, it’s a bit more manageable.
- Ice Cream Stops: Our go-to family treat! We indulged in gelato while watching the bustle of Old Town—a simple but memorable highlight for the kids.
Check out our Montenegro Travel Guide for a detailed seasonal breakdown.
2. Petrovac: A Relaxed Coastal Retreat
Petrovac felt like a breath of fresh air after Budva’s busier vibes. This charming coastal town is known for its laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly appeal.
- Beach Time: While smaller than Budva’s beaches, Petrovac’s sandy shores were less crowded, making it a better choice for families with young children.
- Town Centre: We enjoyed a quick walk through Petrovac’s quaint centre, which offered a mix of restaurants and small shops. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite or enjoy a coffee with coastal views.
- Hidden Gems: On our way to Petrovac, we stopped at a few scenic overlooks to snap photos and take in the stunning Adriatic coastline.
3. Sveti Stefan: A Postcard-Perfect Stop
Sveti Stefan, an iconic islet connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, is one of Montenegro’s most photographed landmarks. While the luxury resort may no longer be open to the public, it’s still worth a visit for its stunning views.
- Scenic Stop: We parked near Sveti Stefan and took a quick walk to admire the islet. It’s an ideal photo spot, with its picturesque terracotta-roofed buildings and turquoise waters.
- Family Time: The kids loved wandering the surrounding area, spotting boats and watching the waves crash against the rocks.
- Quick Eats: There are a few cafés nearby where you can grab a quick snack or coffee.
Tips for Exploring with Kids
- Bring Snacks and Water: With lots of walking and exploring, keeping the kids fueled is key.
- Start Early: Beat the crowds and heat by exploring Budva’s Old Town and Sveti Stefan in the morning.
- Take Breaks: Petrovac’s quieter vibe makes it a great spot to relax after the busier Budva.
Our Favourite Moment
One of the highlights of this trip was the drive along the coastline between Budva and Sveti Stefan. The scenic route offers plenty of pull-off points for breathtaking views, making it a journey as memorable as the destinations themselves.
Final Thoughts
While Budva’s beaches didn’t quite meet our expectations, the charm of its Old Town and the beauty of Petrovac and Sveti Stefan more than made up for it. Together, these spots provide a wonderful mix of history, relaxation, and stunning landscapes, perfect for families exploring Montenegro’s coastline.
Looking for more family-friendly adventures in Montenegro? Check out our guides to Kotor with Kids and Hidden Gems of Bar and Beyond for more inspiration!
