This small islet on Montenegro's coast is a luxury resort with 15th-century stone villas. It connects to the mainland via a narrow isthmus and sandy beaches.
Sveti Stefan is a small islet on Montenegro's Adriatic coast, connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. This former fishing village now houses an exclusive luxury resort. While the island itself is off-limits to non-guests, you can admire its 15th-century stone buildings from nearby public beaches, explore the mainland town, or dine at some of the resort's restaurants with a reservation.
Location and Geography
Sveti Stefan is on Montenegro's Adriatic coast, about 6 kilometers southeast of Budva. A narrow tombolo connects the islet to the mainland, creating a unique geographical feature. The surrounding area includes 2 kilometers of coastline, with the mainland part of Sveti Stefan town opposite the island. The region has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
Beaches and Coastline
The beaches around Sveti Stefan are among the most beautiful in Montenegro. Sveti Stefan, Miločer Beach, and Queen's Beach form part of the coastline. While some sections are reserved for resort guests, there are public areas where you can enjoy the Adriatic Sea. The beaches consist of a mix of sand and fine pebbles, which appear pink when sunlit.
Aman Sveti Stefan Luxury Resort
The Aman Sveti Stefan resort occupies the entire island and part of the mainland. It has 58 rooms, cottages, and suites on the island, plus 8 suites in Villa Miločer on the mainland. The resort maintains the historic exterior of the island's buildings while providing modern amenities inside. You can dine at some of the resort's restaurants with a reservation. The Piazza, an open-air square in the heart of the island, houses several dining options including the Taverna and Enoteca.
How to Get There
You can reach Sveti Stefan by flying into either Tivat Airport (TIV) or Podgorica Airport (TGD), both about an hour's drive away. From Budva, it's a 15-minute drive or you can take a bus for about €2. If you're driving, you'll find parking near the island for €2 per hour, or it's free if you spend €20 at the Olive Restaurant. Taxis are also readily available from nearby towns.
Nearby Places to Visit
While in Sveti Stefan, explore the surrounding area. Take a walk through Miločer Park, once the summer residence of the Karađorđević royal family. Hike in the mountains above Sveti Stefan for views of the island and coastline. Visit the medieval monasteries of Praskvica, hidden in the nearby woods. The town of Budva, with its well-preserved old town and active nighttime scene, is just a short drive away.
Where to Stay
If you're not staying at the Aman resort, consider other options in the area. Hotel Adrovic offers rooms with views of Sveti Stefan beach. Hotel Azimut provides rooms and apartments overlooking the bay, with a terrace restaurant serving seafood. For a more budget-friendly option, look into one of the many privately-run apartments in the mainland part of Sveti Stefan.
Best Time to Visit
Visit Sveti Stefan between June and August when temperatures average around 28°C (82°F). This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. For a calmer experience, consider visiting in May or September when the weather is still warm but there are fewer tourists. Winter months can be cold and rainy, and many facilities may be closed.
Historical Notes
Sveti Stefan was first mentioned as a coastal fort in 1442, built as a defense against Turkish invasion. It gradually transformed into a village, and by the 19th century, it had a population of about 400 people. After World War II, the Yugoslav government converted the island into a luxury resort, relocating the inhabitants to the mainland. In 2007, Aman Resorts won the contract to renovate and manage the island resort, completing the refurbishment in 2009.
