Rafailovići: A Peaceful Fishing Village Just 4 km from Budva You’ll Fall in Love With
Table of Contents
Rafailovići
If I had to choose just one place to stay on the Montenegrin coast—with no option to move around—it would definitely be the small town of Rafailovići. It’s not heavily promoted, nor is it as popular among tourists as its neighbors Bečići and Budva, but it has a special kind of charm.
Rafailovići is an old fishing village that still carries that vibe. Countless little boats, possibly the best seafood restaurant in the entire country, sea rocks covered in shells, and a certain “feels like home” atmosphere floating in the air. That sense of safety and belonging is reinforced by the tall natural wall of rocks behind you—always there, guarding your back—while the open sea stretches out in front of you, full of freedom and possibility.
If you ask me, Rafailovići is a gem. Many people confuse it with Bečići, as it blends seamlessly into it, and few even notice the transition—until you pass the iconic “green rock,” the symbolic gateway to Rafailovići along the seaside promenade.
Rafailovići Through Time: From Fishing Village to Coastal Retreat
Today, Rafailovići may seem like just another coastal settlement, but it has a story to tell. The village was named after the Rafailović family, among the first to settle here and leave their mark.
It began as a humble fishing hamlet, devoted to the sea, the wind, and the shells—with only a handful of houses facing the open water. Life revolved around the sea: fishing, drying nets, repairing boats—daily rhythms dictated by the tides.
For centuries, the village quietly endured, tucked away from trade routes and conflict zones. In the 20th century—especially after World War II—tourism slowly began to develop. The long Bečići beach drew the first visitors, but many, in search of a more peaceful spot, ended up in Rafailovići.
From the 1960s onward, the village underwent gradual urbanization, yet it managed to keep the soul of a fishing settlement. Today, old stone walls mix with modern apartments, and small boats still gently rock in the bay—as a quiet reminder that everything here began with the sea. That spirit—the scent of salt mixed with the daily life of people who lived by the water—still lingers in the coves and restaurants.
Rafailovići: Practical Information for Visitors
How to Get There
Rafailovići is located between Budva and Sveti Stefan, right next to Bečići. It’s only 4 km from Budva and easily reachable by car, taxi, or on foot via the scenic seaside promenade. The nearest airport is in Tivat (about 25 km away), with Podgorica Airport located approximately 65 km from the village.
Beaches & Swimming
The beach in Rafailovići is sandy, clean, and peaceful, with a shallow entry into the water—perfect for families with children. The sea is clear and often calm. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, and part of the beach is free to use with your own towel.
Interesting Facts
Rafailovići is home to 149 adult residents, with an average age of 36.5 years (36.3 for men and 36.7 for women). The village has 67 households.
Source: Wikipedia
Accommodation
The village offers a wide range of private apartments, villas, and small hotels. Prices are often more affordable than in nearby Budva. Most accommodations are just a short walk from the sea.
Top Place to Eat in Rafailovići: Our Favorite Local Restaurant
Food & Drink
In the village center, you’ll find several well-known restaurants specializing in seafood—most notably Tri Ribara (Three Fishermen), famous for its fresh fish and shellfish. They even own their own fishing boat, ensuring that the catch served is always from the very same day, guaranteeing exceptional freshness.
What’s especially interesting is that in the evenings, you’ll often find Tri Ribara completely full, with almost no available tables, while neighboring restaurants remain mostly empty. This lively scene repeated itself almost every night during my stay, a true testament to the restaurant’s popularity and quality.
Things to Do
- The seaside promenade leads all the way to Budva (about a 30-minute walk).
- Rent a boat, pedal boat, or jet ski.
- Join organized boat trips to Sveti Nikola Island, Petrovac, or the Bay of Kotor.
- Dive with the Nautilus diving club.
- Perfect for those seeking a peaceful holiday, with Budva just around the corner.
An Unexpected Sight Above Rafailovići
Above Rafailovići, perched on the hill overlooking the town, a large illuminated Orthodox cross can be seen glowing at night. Installed high above the coastline, the cross is lit with LED lights and is visible from nearly every part of the area, especially striking after sunset when it stands out against the dark hillside.
eyond its symbolic religious meaning, it often catches the eye of visitors and is a popular subject in photos capturing the town’s unique charm. Its quiet presence adds a special touch to the evening atmosphere, particularly during seaside strolls or while watching the sun dip behind the mountains.
Video from Rafailovići Beach – Small Fishing Boats and Coastal Atmosphere
Video by Balkscape.com. Do not use without permission.
About the Author:
The author spent several years living and working in Montenegro, immersing themselves in the local culture and lifestyle. Drawing on this deep connection and firsthand experience, the articles aim to bring authentic insights and practical tips to travelers exploring places like Rafailovići, Bečići, and other Montenegrin gems.
Written with warmth, humor, and respect, the content reflects a genuine appreciation for Montenegro’s unique spirit — no stereotypes, just real stories from someone who truly knows the country.
Book your stay in Rafailovići here and start planning your Montenegrin escape today!
ACCOMMODATION RAFAILOVIĆI
Rafailovići, Montenegro
Nearest airport: Tivat (30km), Podgorica (60km)
By car: Coastal highway E80 connects Budva with other major towns
By bus: Regular connections from Kotor, Podgorica, and Nikšić
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