How do I get to Sveti Nikola Island?

You can take a boat taxi from the Budva Marina or the various piers along Slovenska Beach. Boats run frequently throughout the day, usually starting from 8:00 AM until sunset, costing around 5-7 Euros return.

Is the hike to Spas Hill difficult?

It is considered moderate. While the path is clearly marked, there is a steady incline and the terrain is rocky in places, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended.

How long does it take to walk from Budva to Bečići?

Walking along the seaside promenade and through the Zavala tunnel takes approximately 20-30 minutes. It is a flat, scenic route used by both locals and tourists.

Can I see wild animals in Budva?

Yes, you can see peacocks and rabbits near the Mercur Bus Station zoo gardens, and if you are lucky, you might spot wild deer on Sveti Nikola Island.

Is there a place to get fresh water on this walk?

Yes, there is a natural drinking water source located on the descent from Spas Hill toward the city. It is a popular spot for hikers to refill their bottles.

Is Sveti Nikola Island worth visiting?

Absolutely. It offers much clearer water for snorkeling than the main town beaches and provides a peaceful escape from the summer crowds, along with historic sites like the St. Nicholas Church.

What should I bring on this self-guided walk?

Wear comfortable walking shoes for the Spas Hill section, bring swimwear for the island, and carry plenty of water, although there is a spring along the way.

Island Escape: The Hawaii of Montenegro | Self-Guided Walking Tour

About This Guided Walking Tour

Escape the bustling beaches and neon lights of the Budva Riviera to discover a greener, more serene side of the Adriatic coast. This self-guided walk, titled 'Island Escape: The Hawaii of Montenegro,' invites you to explore the lush landscapes, hidden wildlife, and panoramic viewpoints that many travelers overlook. Your journey begins in the heart of the city at a surprising urban sanctuary—a collection of mini-zoos tucked away near the transit hub where peacocks and rabbits roam freely among the greenery. From there, you will traverse a series of Mediterranean parks, each offering a unique micro-climate and a chance to breathe in the scent of pine and sea salt. As you move away from the urban center, the route takes a moderate turn toward the Spas Hill Nature Park. This section of the walking route Budva offers some of the most breathtaking vistas in the region, overlooking the terracotta roofs of the Old Town and the crystalline waters of the bay. You will then transition from the heights down toward the coast, passing through the vibrant Dukley Marina and along the scenic promenade that connects Budva to the neighboring shores of Bečići. The final leg of your adventure requires a short, scenic boat ride to Sveti Nikola Island, affectionately known as 'Školj' by locals or the 'Hawaii of Montenegro' by visitors. Here, the Church of Saint Nicholas stands as a silent sentinel over secluded pebbled beaches and wild deer-filled forests. This audio walk is designed for those who want to experience the natural rhythm of Montenegro at their own pace, combining urban exploration with a rewarding hike and a peaceful island finale. Whether you are a photography enthusiast seeking the perfect sunset shot or a nature lover looking for a quiet retreat, this neighborhood stroll reveals the emerald soul of Budva.

Tour Highlights & Things to See

The surprising urban wildlife at the Zoo Garden Mercur

Panoramic views of Budva Old Town from Park Prirode SPAS

A peaceful stroll through the Mediterranean flora of City Park

The vibrant atmosphere of Dukley Marina's waterfront

The secluded beaches and historic church of Sveti Nikola Island

Walking the scenic promenade from Budva to Bečići

Tour Stops & Points of Interest (14)

Zoo Garden Mercur

Welcome to an unexpected start to your nature walk. Tucked behind Budva's main bus station lies Zoo Garden Mercur, a small, lush oasis that feels worlds away from the nearby traffic. This area is famous for its free-roaming inhabitants, including peacocks that display their feathers among the cafe tables and rabbits that dart through the shrubbery. It is a testament to Budva's love for green spaces, serving as a peaceful waiting area for travelers and a sanctuary for local birds. Take a moment to enjoy the shade of the tall trees before we move deeper into the city's green pockets.

Outdoor Mini Zoo

Just steps away, the Outdoor Mini Zoo continues the theme of urban wildlife. This space is less of a traditional zoo and more of a community garden where animals and people coexist. You might spot swans gliding in small ponds or deer grazing quietly. The presence of these animals in the middle of a bustling seaside resort is a unique characteristic of Budva’s 'Mercur' district. It reflects a Mediterranean tradition of keeping small aviaries and gardens within town limits to provide a natural cooling effect and a sense of tranquility for the residents.

Zoopark

Rounding out this trio of green spaces is the Zoopark area. As you walk through, notice the variety of Mediterranean plant species, from sturdy palms to fragrant oleanders. These gardens are maintained as a public resource, offering a soft transition from the transit center to the residential streets. The sound of birdsong here often drowns out the distant hum of the Adriatic Highway. This is the perfect spot to check your water supply and prepare for the more active segments of our walking route Budva as we head toward the sea.

Park 1312

We are now entering Park 1312, a dedicated green lung of the city. While Budva is often associated with its beaches, parks like this one provide essential shade during the hot summer months. The park is named to commemorate a significant date in local history, though today it serves primarily as a place for locals to play chess, walk their dogs, or enjoy a quiet morning coffee. Observe the architecture of the surrounding buildings, which showcases the transition from Yugoslav-era planning to modern Mediterranean resort styles, all while keeping the park at the center of community life.

Городской парк (City Park)

As we approach the coastline, we reach the primary City Park. This area is a classic example of Adriatic landscaping, featuring gravel paths lined with cypress trees and stone benches. In the spring, the park is alive with the scent of blooming jasmine. It serves as a vital buffer between the busy main road and the pedestrian-only zones of the waterfront. Many of the trees here were planted decades ago and have grown into a thick canopy that provides a welcome respite from the intense Montenegrin sun. Feel the temperature drop as you walk beneath the branches.

Dukley Marina

Emerging from the park, the view opens up to Dukley Marina. This is where Budva’s maritime heritage meets modern luxury. You will see everything from traditional wooden fishing boats, known as 'barke,' to sleek international yachts. The marina sits right at the foot of the Old Town walls, creating a stunning contrast between the ancient stone fortifications and the white hulls of the boats. This area has been a harbor for over two millennia, serving Illyrian, Roman, and Venetian sailors. Today, it is the heartbeat of Budva's nautical life and the primary departure point for boats heading to the islands.

City Park (Waterfront)

This smaller waterfront park offers a front-row seat to the Adriatic. From here, you can look out across the blue horizon and see your final destination: Sveti Nikola Island. This park often hosts outdoor art installations or small flower markets. It is a favorite spot for photographers because it offers a clear view of the 'Ballerina' statue and the Mogren Beach cliffs in the distance. Take a moment to enjoy the sea breeze; the air here is rich in iodine and pine resin, a combination many locals believe has healing properties.

Park Prirode SPAS

We now begin a moderate ascent to the Spas Hill Nature Park. This is a protected area that overlooks the entire Budva Riviera. The trail here is surrounded by low-lying maquis shrubland and wild herbs like sage and rosemary. Spas Hill is not just a natural landmark; it is a historical one too, as it once served as a lookout point for defending the city from inland attacks. The climb is rewarded with a shift in perspective, moving from the busy streets to the quiet, rugged beauty of the Montenegrin limestone karst landscape.

Viewpoint

You have reached the pinnacle of our hike. From this viewpoint, the layout of Budva reveals itself like a map. You can see the distinct shape of the Old Town peninsula, the long curve of Slovenska Beach, and the imposing mountains of the Lovćen range in the background. This is arguably the best spot in the city to watch the sunset, as the light hits the red roofs of the town and reflects off the sea. On a clear day, you can see all the way down the coast toward Sveti Stefan. It is a reminder of why this region is called the 'Pearl of the Adriatic.'

Drinking Water Source

Descending from the heights, we find a local treasure: a natural drinking water source. In the limestone mountains of Montenegro, freshwater springs are highly valued and have been used for centuries. This source provides cool, crisp water that is safe to drink and incredibly refreshing after a hike. Local legends often attribute long life and health to these mountain springs. Refill your bottle here, as we prepare to transition back toward the shoreline and the promenade leading toward Bečići.

Kanjon rijeke (River Canyon)

Before we hit the beach, we pass the small canyon of a local stream. While it may be dry in the height of summer, during the wetter months, this canyon carries mountain runoff directly into the sea. This geographical feature shows how the steep mountains of Montenegro interact directly with the coastline. The vegetation here is denser and greener, benefiting from the moisture in the ravine. It is a small, wild pocket of nature hidden just a few hundred meters away from the luxury hotels and beach bars.

Budva Promenade

We are now on the Budva Promenade, the city’s social artery. This palm-lined walkway stretches for kilometers, connecting the Old Town to the Zavala Peninsula. As you walk, you will pass open-air cafes, seafood restaurants, and street performers. This area embodies the 'vibe' of Budva—vibrant, energetic, and always moving. However, if you look toward the sea, the view remains timeless. The promenade follows the natural curve of the bay, providing a flat and easy walk that is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Hotel Splendid Private Beach

Continuing through the tunnel at Zavala, we enter the Bečići side of the bay. The beach area near Hotel Splendid is famous for its wide, sandy-pebble shore, which was once awarded the 'Grand Prix' in Paris for being the most beautiful beach in Europe. Even if you aren't staying at the resort, the shoreline is a public treasure. The water here is exceptionally clear, and the seabed drops off quickly, giving the sea a deep, dramatic turquoise color. This is the last stop on the mainland before we take to the water.

Church of Saint Nicholas

To reach this final stop, hop on one of the small boat taxis from the mainland to Sveti Nikola Island. You are now on the 'Hawaii of Montenegro.' The Church of Saint Nicholas, dedicated to the patron saint of sailors, is a modest but historic stone structure surrounded by ancient graves. The island was once a quarantine station during the plague, but today it is a sanctuary for wild deer and birds. Walk along the rocky paths to find a secluded cove, or simply stand by the church and look back at the mainland. You have escaped the city and found the true heart of the Budva archipelago.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 'Island Escape' route is the best choice, as it combines urban parks, the Spas Hill nature reserve, and a trip to Sveti Nikola Island. It focuses on the green spaces and panoramic views rather than just the historic Old Town.