Escape from the cruise crowds and enjoy your private day in the metropolis of Montenegrin tourism, Budva. This city not only has beautiful beaches and hotels but also hides a unique history over 2,500 years. You will walk the streets of the Old Town and immerse yourself into the past ages. Then you will return to Kotor and explore the intricate streets of the old town and admire the very well preserved buildings and monuments that make this city a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will meet your private guide at your Kotor cruise terminal. On board your air-conditioned transportation, you will enjoy a 30-minute scenic drive to the south side of the Adriatic coast to the ancient town of Budva. On your way, you will see the area of Becici, whose beach was proclaimed as the most beautiful beach in Europe and Rafailovici, best known for their resorts and small marinas. Before arriving at Budva, you will stop at the road viewpoint so you admire the islet of Sveti Stepfan, once a walled fortress town, it was turned into a luxury hotel back in the 60\'s by the Yugoslav government during Tito\'s regime. After your stop, it is time to head on to Budva!
Budva is well known for its coves, sandy beaches and caves but also because it is one of the oldest settlements in the Adriatic Sea coast. The legend tells that the city was founded by Cadmus the Phoenician, a hero exiled out of Thebes, Greece. They directed themselves to the land of Enheleans - the oldest citizens in the area of Budva and founded a new town Bouthoe - Budva. While you walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town for about 1.5 hours, your guide will tell a little about the vast history. The city fortress is a top attraction and it dates from the 5th century BC, which is today a stage of the famous City Theater. Another important building is the church of Sveti Trojica (St. Trinity) built in 1804 and keeps the tomb of the write Stjepan Mitrov Ljubisa. There are many other buildings that you would be able to admire like the church of St. John, St. Sava and the town fortressed walls.
Continuing your adventure, you will return to Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town was settled back in the 12th century and was ruled by the Nemajic Dynasty until 1371, then the Venetians took control and remained until 1797. Between 1797 and 1814 this area was occupied by Russians, French, and Austrians. The town is a captivating mix of Baroque, Venetian and Austrian architecture. You will be impressed while you walk the cobblestone streets of the old town and admire the marble piazzas and noble palazzos. One building that stands out is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, on the inside you can see gold relics and Greek frescos. You will also notice the well preserved medieval fortifications, the walls extend for about 3 miles (4.5 km) and reach a maximum height of about 65 feet (20 meters).
Your private excursion finish at this point, you can continue exploring on your own or return to your Kotor cruise terminal. If you decide to continue exploring, your guide would be more than happy to give suggestions for shopping, lunch or sightseeing.
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