We will drive to Budva, Montenegro but first we will stiop to a small town called, Kruja. Rich in history and tradition, Kruja is home of the patriots and the epicenter of Albania’s independence from the Ottoman Empire. It was here that Gjergj Kastriot Skanderbeg, Albania’s greatest national hero, defended the country from the invasion of the Ottomans. The National Museum dedicated to the hero is housed in the famous Kruja Castle and shows both the legendary hero’s history and the traditional way of life of the city’s population. The city’s famous bazaar serves as a bridge between this glorious past and the present, offering a rich array of traditional products made from local artisans.

We drive to Budva for about 3 hours and we pass through the pretty town of Petrovac, visiting the old town, and see the famous island of Sveti Stefan. Budva’s old town is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic Sea. At around 2,500 years old it’s a beautiful and historical site. A wander through the town reveals ancient churches and palaces, all crafted from local grey stone. In front of Budva Citadel and Hotel Avala, the remains of the original settlement that were uncovered in an earthquake are on display. The Citadel itself and the museum in the old town are excellent places to learn about the history of Budva. We will visit the square in front of Santa Maria del Punta church, with its gorgeous view of the ancient church overlooking Ričardova Glava Beach. Overnight in Budva