tourist office budva

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Budva – the town of summer theatres and festivals, the location of the most beautiful beaches and night life

• Attractions
• Budva Beaches
• Budva Night Clubs
• Shopping in Budva
• Budva Food & Drink
• The History of Budva
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Once a small and quiet coastal town, today, Budva is a metropolis of Montenegrin tourism and one of the loudest and most packed towns at the Montenegrin coast during the summer. Its life began on the headland two and a half millennia ago and has poured out of the ramparts towards luxurious yachts, new buildings, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs where amazing fun awaits. Budva has its own Hawaii – an island opposite the city with beautiful beaches, ice cold refreshments and seafood specialties.

In the evening, on the promenade along the beach you will be overwhelmed by the loud music that comes from the cafes, the laughter and screams of children from nearby amusement parks, the scent of the sea mixed with the aroma of delicious barbeque, and beams of light from the disco that stroll through the sky. Budva is a big light show.

Budva seems to lead a double life – one in the old, and the other in the new part of the city. Bordered by the high ramparts and decorated with the architecture, dominantly Venetian, the Old Town guards historical and cultural treasures – Roman necropolis and an altar, antique pylons, pre-Christian basilica and many churches. It contains the open and boiling stage of the “Theater City”; literature evenings and concerts at the Poet’s Square, and exhibitions in the city gallery take place every summer. Outside the old town, the new city is expanding and the number of inhabitants is rising.

The Budva Riviera has sandy, stone and pebbly beaches, and those that once belonged to the royal family. None of them look alike. There are beaches with reddish, colorful or gray pebbles. Some of them have stepped into the sea, some are sheltered by the small bays, some are exposed to the sun, and some are protected with thick pine-tree shades. Some are facing the islets. But behind each of them there is at least one fishing village lurking, ready to provide private accommodation.

Budva is a city that is awake until dawn and where no one sleeps for too long. An intense night life, beaches with various activities, big water park in the hills and luxury hotels at the very seaside make the holiday here worth staying awake for.

Budva Attractions

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Budva Hotels

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Local tourism organisation of Budva

E-mail contact:

[email protected]

Phone contact:

+382 33 402 814

Quick overview

Tourism Organization of Budva  was formed on July 12, 2004. years, after the adoption of the Law on Tourist Organizations.

It operates on the principle of achieving public interest in the field of tourism without making a direct profit.

The tasks of the Organization are:

• Promotion and promotion of the original values of the municipality for which it was established;
• Creation of conditions for activation of resources in the territory of the municipality;
• co-operation with legal entities, entities, associations and non-governmental organizations that have tourism and catering or complementary activities for the purpose of business, with the aim of agreeing, establishing and implementing tourism development policy and improving the tourist stay conditions in the municipality;
• Development of tourist propaganda and other information material;
• Encouraging, coordinating and organizing cultural, artistic, entertainment, economic, sports and other events that contribute to the enrichment of the tourist offer;
• Provision of information to guests about available accommodation capacities in primary and complementary catering establishments, catering establishments providing food and beverage preparation and serving services and private accommodation capacities, cultural events, events and other service information on tourist services in the municipality;
• Providing information on the working hours of health institutions, banks, post offices, shops and other information necessary for the stay of tourists;
• mediating and providing assistance in booking and providing information on accommodation facilities if there is no registered tourist agency in the tourist site for which the tourist organization is established;
• Submission of registration and cancellation of residence in accordance with the law;
• Encouraging the activation of areas of the municipality which are not or are not sufficiently involved in tourist traffic;
• Encouraging and organizing actions aimed at the protection and preservation of the tourist space, environment and cultural heritage;
• Realization of the program of activities of study groups and journalists in the territory of their activity;
• Keeping records for the purpose of controlling and using accommodation units in condominiums and cottages, in cooperation with the competent local government bodies and producing reports, which are submitted to the line Ministry at least every two months;
• Organizing tourist information bureaus in places deemed necessary;
• Collecting and processing data (daily, weekly and monthly) on tourist traffic and their structure in the territory of the Municipality, as well as drafting a monthly report on tourist traffic for the needs of the competent local government authority, the competent authority for statistics and the National Tourism Organization;
• Keeping records on collection of tourist tax, excursion and tourist tax and membership fee, in cooperation with the competent body of local government;
• Assessment of unreported tourist traffic at the municipal level in accordance with the methodology prescribed by the line Ministry in cooperation with the competent local government authority;
• Cooperation with the competent authorities of the Municipality in order to adopt and implement local measures to improve the conditions of stay of tourists on the territory of the Municipality;
• Cooperation with local associations and non-governmental organizations in the field of tourism and catering and their complementary activities;
• Cooperation with other organizations in Montenegro;
• Conducting surveys and other surveys in order to determine the quality of tourism product in the municipality;
• Preparation of reports and information for the needs of the National Tourism Organization;
• Submission of an annual plan for tourism promotion and development for review and approval to the National Tourism Organization;
• Performing other activities in order to promote the tourism product on the territory of the municipality;
• Cooperation with the same or similar organizations outside Montenegro. "

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25 Best Things to Do in Budva Montenegro

BY SARAH PAVLOVIC  

Discover the 25 best things to do in Budva Montenegro. You’ll find everything you need for your stay including the best things to see in Budva Old Town, adventure activities, and beaches.

More ideas include things to do with kids, day trip ideas, and some off-the-beaten-track gems. You will also find the best free and cheap things to do, Budva sightseeing, places to find authentic experiences, and things to do at night.

If you're wondering what to do in Budva you've come to the right place. Read on for the 25 best things to do in Budva.

Best Things to Do in Budva | Getting to Budva | Frequently Asked Questions

1. Stari Grad - Budva Old Town

Budva old town is the site of one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. It was settled around 2,500 years ago by the Illyrians, but has also been ruled by Greeks, Romans, Venetians and Slavs.

Spend an hour or two leisurely exploring Budva Old Town's narrow streets, boutiques, and souvenir shops. Don't miss the view over the sea from the 12-th century Church of St. Sabba the Sanctified, it's especially pretty at sunset!

To get the most out of your time, take a guided Budva sightseeing tour of Budva Old Town which will show you the top sights and hidden gems.

2. Budva Citadel

Budva's Citadel was originally built in the 9th century and designed to help protect the town from attacks from the sea. Most of what you see today was built in the 15th century.

Inside the Citadel you’ll find a small library and a museum. You’ll also find the ruins of Santa Maria in Castello Church (12th – 14th centuries). 

There is also a popular cafe where you can enjoy the stunning views of the Budva Riviera and Sveti Nikola island. This is a great place to enjoy the local cafe culture and sea views.

The Citadel regularly hosts theater and music performances, particularly in summer. Check with the Citadel to find out what's on while you're there.

Pro Tip: 

Visit Budva's Citadel in spring to experience the stunning wisteria blooms!

3. Church of the Holy Trinity

Built in 1804, the Church of the Holy Trinity is an Orthodox church that stands about because of its distinctive architecture, featuring a bell tower and a beautifully decorated facade. 

Inside, you're greeted by an array of stunning frescoes and an ornate iconostasis, showcasing the rich religious artistry of this region. The church's peaceful ambiance offers a moment of tranquility amidst the bustling streets of the Old Town.

4. Ruins of early-Christian Basilica

In front of the citadel you'll see the ruins of an early-Christian basilica that's dated to the late 5th or 6th century. 

There are several ancient churches in Budva Old Town worth visiting:

• Church of St John the Baptist (Sveti Ivan), 17th century (but the original church was built in the 7th century)
• Church of Santa Maria in Punta, 840
• The Church of the Holy Trinity, 1804
• Church of St Sabba the Sanctified, 12th century

To experience some of the Budva Riverira's most beautiful monasteries, take this highly-rated guided tour of the coastal monasteries in Budva .

5. Budva City walls

In the corner where the citadel meets the outer wall, you'll find the entrance to the town walls, which you can walk around for the modest price of €2. 

Budva’s town walls date back to the 9th century and in the 16th century had six watchtowers. From the top of the walls you’ll get great views of the town and coastline.

6. Greek and Roman Necropolis

There's evidence that Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. In 1938 a Roman and Greek necropolis was uncovered by today’s Avala Resort .

The necropolis was in two parts – one part was Greek, dating from the 4th to 1st centuries B.C, and the other part was Roman, dating from the 1st to 2nd centuries A.D. You can see part of the ruins of the necropolis next to Avala Resort.

7. Budva Museum

Budva Museum is where you can see examples of life in Budva through the ages. The original town gates suggest Budva is as old as the 6th century B.C., when it was an ancient Greco-Illyrian settlement.

The museum has permanent exhibitions of archaeological and ethnographic collections as well as a lapidarium (exhibit of stone artefacts).

The archaeological collection has displays of weapons, tools, jewellery and everyday objects dating back to the 5th century B.C. They include artefacts from the Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, Venetians and Slavs who have lived here. 

The ethnographic collection shows you examples of traditional clothing, furniture and every day household items from the 18th to 20th centuries. 

8. Gallery of Modern Art

Opened in 1972, Budva’s Gallery of Modern Art has exhibitions and displays of modern art from local artists. It also houses an eclectic collection of modern art from around former Yugoslavia.

Download Google Maps on your phone to find these attractions in Budva. Click here for instructions on how to use Google Maps offline (without data or Wi-Fi connection.

9. Budva Ballerina Statue

The 'Ballerina' statue has become one of the most popular places to visit in Budva.

The most common story behind the statue is that it was  inspired by a girl who waited for her sailor to come back from sea. The sailor never came back and she died on this spot of a broken heart.

The truth is the sculpture is by Gradimir Aleksić  and is of the Yugoslav gymnast Olga Kalivoda who came to Budva on holiday in 1962 and trained on the beach.

You’ll find the statue on the walkway from Hotel Avala (by Ričardova Glava Beach) to Mogren Beach.

10. Mogren Beach

Right next to the old town you can grab a lounger on Ričardova Glava (Richard’s Head) beach.

But I recommend making the 10-minute walk along the seaside walkway to Mogren Beach. This idyllic beach has golden sand and crystal-clear water backed by sheer cliff.

It feels like a world away from the bustling resort of Budva town.

>> More about  Budva Beaches

11. Sveti Nikola Island

Sveti Nikola Island lies just in front of Budva Old Town and for  €3-5 per person you can get a round trip boat ticket from Budva to the island.

The island has beaches and a few restaurants, but there are no attractions to see on the island. You can rent loungers and sun umbrellas and the beaches are less crowded than those in Budva.

It can get very hot and the beach is rather rocky, so bring some water shoes !

Personally, I prefer Budva's other beautiful beaches like Mogren, Richard's Head (Old Town Beach), Slovenian Beach and Jaz Beach because they're more sandy and comfortable.

12. Kayaking and Stand Up Paddling

Budva's coast is ideal for exploring by kayak or SUP, especially when the summer temperatures are rising.  The water is around 26°C (79°F) in summer and it's mostly calm, so it's great for beginners and families.

The Adriatic Sea is also very clear, so you can go snorkelling and see a lot of sea life under the water. 

>>  Kayak and SUP Rental in Budva

13. Canyoning

Canyoning is a fun and exciting activity where you hike, abseil, swim, slide and jump your way through a canyon. There are lots of canyons where you can go canyoning in Montenegro and Budva has one right on its doorstep.

Drenovsnica Canyon is just a few minutes from the heart of Budva and it's suitable for anyone over 12 years old. The tour finishes with an optional zip line and lunch at a local restaurant.

>> Canyoning in Drenovsnica Canyon

14. Paragliding

Braić i, in the hills above Budva, is one of Montenegro's best paragliding spots. And from here you get views over the whole Budva Riviera.

You can take a tandem paragliding flight with an experienced instructor even if you've never been paragliding before. All you have to do is gather your courage and enjoy the ride!

>> Paragliding in Budva

There's a wide range of diving experiences, packages and courses available at the PADI dive centre in Montenegro.

Even if you've never dived before, you can book a dive experience and learn in just a day. If you've always wanted to learn, you can become a fully qualified diver in just 4 sessions. 

Read More: Diving in Montenegro

16. Day Trips From Budva

You can join full-day tours around Montenegro from Budva. These tours fit a lot into a day and they're the easiest and cheapest ways to see Montenegro if you don't have a rental car . 

Budva is very popular with Russian-speaking tourists and therefore many of the tours from Budva are in Russian. Most guides speak English too so you won't have trouble communicating, but the tour will mostly be in Russian, which can mean you don't get the full-benefit of your tour.

To avoid this I recommend booking tours through Get Your Guide or Viator which are aimed at English-speakers. If in doubt you can read reviews before you book. The following tours below are run by one of the best tour operators in Montenegro, and are strictly in English.

Durmitor, Tara and Ostrog Monastery Day Trip : this tour takes you to some of Montenegro’s most wild and dramatic scenery. You visit the Tara Canyon, the second-deepest canyon in the world, and can zip line across it, then visit the Black Lake in Durmitor National Park. To end, you visit Ostrog Monastery, built into a sheer cliff and Montenegro’s holiest site.

Montenegro: Full-Day Tour to Lovćen National Park and More : this tour takes you to Njeguši village to try rakija and prosciutto, then on to the Petar Petrović-Njegoš mausoleum in Lovćen National Park. A walking tour in Cetinje is followed by lunch and a boat trip at Rijeka Crnojevića and ends with a walking tour of Budva.

Boka Bay Day Cruise : this day cruise combines the beauty of the Bay of Kotor with a fun cruise and plenty of swimming. The cruise takes you to Our Lady of the Rocks, the Blue Cave and for lunch at a beachside restaurant.

Rafting in Tara Canyon : Rafting through the Tara Canyon is one of Montenegro’s top activities. The rapids are biggest in the spring and slowly get smaller throughout the summer. Whenever you go, this a really fun activity with lots of beautiful scenery and tasty, local food!

17. Water parks

Aquapark budva.

Aquapark Budva is Montenegro's top water park and it's a great place to spend a day, especially for families.

The park has something for everyone including 12 slides of various heights and speeds, 4 pools, a restaurant, a swim-up cocktail bar and VIP booths.

Aqua Park Mediteran

Hotel Mediteran has a small water park that has 7 pools, a lazy river, slides and sunbathing areas.

18. Pojata (formerly Krapina Estate)

Pojata is just 5km from Budva but this local secret feel like it's a world away. The village has a zipline, animals, walking paths, swimming holes, a waterfall and a traditional restaurant.

If you haven't got a rental car to drive here, you could take this highly-rated gastro tour to Kosmač Fortress, 14th-century Stanjevici Monastery and to a local family for a home-grown meal for a similar experience. 

19. Nightlife

Next to the beaches, Budva is also famous for its vibrant nightlife.  People come from all over Montenegro to party in Budva. 

It's easy to go bar-hopping in the old town. Most of the bars have outdoor areas - perfect for summer heat.

There's a 1am curfew for music in Budva Old Town, so when the bars shut down everyone heads up to Top Hill, on the hill just above Budva.

Top Hill is by far the most popular club in Montenegro. It fills with up to 5,000 people all summer. In fact, it's only open in July and August!

After the old town bars close, grab a cab up to Top Hill, just 5 minutes from town and party into the wee hours. Top Hill regularly features international djs and has wine, vodka and Jacuzzi bars as well as a VIP area.

20. Casinos

Many people come to Montenegro and want to visit the casino featured on 2006's James Bond film, Casino Royale. Unfortunately, it wasn't filmed in Montenegro! It was filmed in the Grandhotel Pupp in the Czech Republic.

So although you can't play at the same table as James Bond, you'll find casinos in these hotels:

• Splendid Conference and Spa Resort
• Avala Resort and Villas
• Falkensteiner Hotel Montenegro
• Maestral Resort and Casino

21. Podmaine Monastery

Podmaine Monastery, nestled on a hillside at the edge of Budva, is a serene 15th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery. 

This hidden gem is made up of two churches; the smaller one dates back to the 15th century, while the larger one was constructed in 1747. Both are adorned with beautiful frescoes, adding to the monastery's historical and artistic appeal. 

It offers a tranquil escape from Budva's busy vibe with stunning views over the Adriatic Sea. And just a short distance away, you'll find a lookout point that’s ideal for taking pictures of Budva from above.

22. Budva Promenade

Don't miss out on the lovely promenade stretching from the Old Town to Sveti Stefan. It's a lovely walk where you'll pass by some scenic spots like Slovenska Plaža, Zavala Cape, Bečići Beach, Kamenovo Beach, Pržno, and Sveti Stefan.

Remember to pack your camera and your swimsuit too – there are plenty of perfect places to take a dip along the way!

23. Sunset Dinner

Budva's sunsets are some of the best in Montenegro. And watching the sun set over the Adriatic Sea with your special someone is an experience that's not to missed!

You can't go wrong with a seaside seafood restaurant (called  konoba ). Some of my favorites are:

• Dukley Seafront Restaurant - high-end dining with spectacular views of the sunset and old town
• Jadran - good quality seafood and meat right on the water near Budva Old Town
• Blanche - high-end dining with magical sunset views in the picturesque seaside hamlet of Pržno

24. Sveti Stefan

Visiting Sveti Stefan from Budva is a must-do experience. This picturesque islet, connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus, is just a short drive from Budva. 

Once a 15th-century fortified village, Sveti Stefan is now a luxury resort, famed for its beautiful architecture, stunning Adriatic views, and idyllic beaches. Neighboring Miločer was a royal summer residence of the Karađorđević family.

You can stroll through Miločer Forest Park, swim on Queen’s Beach, admire former Miločer Palace. Although access to the islet is restricted, the nearby public beach offers a perfect spot to admire its beauty. 

Don't forget your camera – the views, especially at sunset, are truly unforgettable!

>> More about Sveti Stefan

25. Budva's Cats

Although Kotor Old Town is known as Montenegro's cat capital, cats are abundant throughout Montenegro and Budva is no exception.

To get a dose of head scratches and cats' amusing antics, visit Snack Bar Vihor in Budva Old Town. Aside from the resident cats, Vihor is popular with tourists and locals alike for its good coffee, reasonably-priced cocktails, and quirky yet comfortable atmosphere.

>> Montenegro's only high-quality, high-volume cat sterilization project .

More Great Budva Pages

• Best Budva Hotels

Best Budva Restaurants

• Best Things To Do in Sveti Stefan

Getting to Budva

Tours to budva.

The Montenegro Full-Day Tour includes a huge amount, including Lovćen National Park , Njeguši , Petar II Petrović-Njegoš Mausoleum , Cetinje , Pavlova Strana, Rijeka Crnojevića and Budva.

Say Hello to Budva is a private tour that includes Budva and Budva Riviera highlight, Sveti Stefan.

The Kotor and Budva Full-Day Tour from Dubrovnik is a group tour that visits both Kotor and Budva.

The best airports to fly into are Tivat (21km/12mi away) and Podgorica (65km/40mi away) airports.

You can also fly into Dubrovnik airport in Croatia (72km away) and travel to Montenegro . Beware that you may face lengthy queues at the border, the Kotor Bay ferry and on the roads between Dubrovnik and Budva in July and August, particularly on weekends.

Read More: Flights to Montenegro

Budva lies on the E80 Adriatic Highway. It’s very easy to drive yourself to Budva in your own car or with a rental car from the airport.

It's only a 30-minute drive from both Kotor and Tivat (longer in summer because of extra traffic). Be sure to stop at El Ray just before you descend into Budva for some beautiful views over the Adriatic Sea and Jaz Beach.

If you're staying in Budva it pays to choose accommodation with parking. Parking in Budva can be a challenge in the peak months of July and August.

My favorite car rental company in Montenegro is Localrent . Localrent is based in Budva and works with local car rental agencies to bring you the best choice and service at 5 - 25% below market rates.

Find a car hire deal in Montenegro here .

Read More: Dubrovnik Airport to Montenegro

You can easily book private transfers from any airport to Budva, and if you stay in a central location in Budva you can do without a rental car if you prefer.

You can walk to beaches and restaurants and use local taxis and tours to get around. If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing around Montenegro, I recommend hiring a car  because the public transport network is not suitable for sightseeing.

Budva’s bus station (Autobuska Stanica Budva) is in the center of town. You can catch regular intercity buses to Budva from elsewhere in Montenegro and neighboring countries like Serbia, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Local's Tip: Visit one of my favorites  Merkur Restaurant beside Budva Bus Station for excellent local food at local prices! They serve generous portions of Balkan grill, traditional roasts and seafood... and do all of them well.

There's also a little area with animals, which makes it a top choice for families.

You can’t get directly to Budva by train. The closest train station is in Bar (40km/25mi away). From Bar train station you can hire a car , get a bus or book a transfer to Budva.

There’s no direct ferry to Budva. The closest ferry port is in Bar (40km/25mi from Budva) and there are sailings from Bari and Ancona, in Italy, up to six times weekly.

Update: This ferry service has been suspended indefinitely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budva

Is Budva worth visiting?

Absolutely! Budva is a must-visit for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. The blend of modern amenities and ancient charm, like the Old Town, makes it a popular destination for travelers.

What is Budva famous for?

Budva is renowned for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and the historic Old Town. It's a perfect mix of sun, sea, and history.

Which is nicer, Kotor or Budva?

Kotor and Budva offer different experiences. Kotor is known for its stunning bay and medieval architecture, offering a quieter, more historical vibe. Budva is famous for its lively beaches and nightlife. It depends on whether you prefer relaxation and history (Kotor) or beaches and parties (Budva).

How many days should I spend in Budva?

Ideally, spend at least 3 days in Budva. This gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, enjoy the beaches, and experience the nightlife. If you can, extend your stay to relax more or explore more destinations around Montenegro.

Can you swim in Budva?

Yes, you can swim in Budva. This coastal town boasts some of Montenegro's most beautiful beaches with clear, calm waters, making it perfect for swimming, especially in the summer months.

Are beaches in Budva free?

Many beaches in Budva are free, offering easy access to the public. However, many beach areas, especially those near luxury resorts, charge for amenities like sunbeds or offer private sections.

Is Budva a party town?

Yes, Budva is often considered a party town, especially in the summer. It's famous for its vibrant nightlife with numerous clubs, bars, and beach parties that attract a lively, young crowd.

Is English spoken in Budva?

English is widely spoken in Budva, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. While not everyone may be fluent, you'll generally find that communicating in English is quite easy in this popular tourist destination.

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• Cheap flights with WayAway
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• Travel insurance with SafetyWing
• Top Montenegro Destinations
• Things to Do in Budva

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I'm a New Zealander who's lived in Montenegro since 2008. I love exploring this beautiful country and sharing the best of it with you!

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OFFICE DU TOURISME DE BUDVA (T.O. BUDVA)

Go there and contact.

Information office located in the main street of the old town but you can pass by without seeing it. The access is direct from the entrance on the esplanade. The office will be able to give you a lot of important information with complete brochures, but also maps. The office can also provide you with a comprehensive list of nearby hotels and information on homestays. It is open every day of the week.

Opening time and information on OFFICE DU TOURISME DE BUDVA (T.O. BUDVA)

Information points open from 8am to 9pm (in winter from 7am to 3pm, closed on Sundays). Free city map.

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15 Best Things to do in Budva, Montenegro

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Budva is THE premier beach destination of Montenegro — and a hotspot of the Balkans. There are a ton of things to do in Budva — a town with beaches, high-rise apartments and hotels, nightclubs, restaurants, and a small old town that feels like a miniature Dubrovnik.

While most visitors to Montenegro spend the bulk of their time in the beautiful town of Kotor , a lot of people are disappointed that there aren’t any decent beaches around the Bay of Kotor.

The solution? Head 30 minutes south to Budva! Montenegro’s glorious beaches extend southward along the Budva Riviera, including famous beach towns like Sveti Stefan and Petrovac.

I’ve been visiting Montenegro for more than a decade, and some of my best memories have come from Budva — especially the year I attended Sea Dance Festival, with incredible performances and dancing until dawn on Jaz Beach.

If you’re planning to explore Montenegro in depth, you can’t skip Budva and the Riviera! In addition to offering Montenegro’s best beaches, Budva is a great destination for history, culture, dining, and nightlife. It feels a little bit like Miami on the Adriatic.

Here are the best things to do in Budva, Montenegro — a town that I’m excited to share with you..

(Planning a trip to Montenegro? Be sure to check out my Ultimate Montenegro Travel Guide and 30 Best Things to Do in Montenegro !)

This post was published in January 2024 and co-written by Adventurous Kate and Dale Peterson.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Budva, Montenegro

Wander the old town.

Budva’s old town is like a smaller, condensed version of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It’s a historic walled city that juts out into the sea, filled with picture-perfect stone buildings with orange tiled roofs.

You can stroll along the Budva city walls and admire the views of both the town and the surrounding Adriatic Sea. The entrance fee for walking the city walls is only 3 EUR ($3.25 USD), a bargain in comparison to Dubrovnik’s 35 EUR fee (which has probably increased in the moments I’ve been writing this…).

Just outside the walls of the old town, you’ll find the Budva Dancing Girl statue, a beautiful sculpture with one of the best views of the old town behind it. This is worth a stop for photos at the very least.

If you’d prefer to explore Budva’s old town on a tour, you can book a walking tour with a knowledgeable tour guide who will show you the highlights of Budva.

Explore the Citadel Fortress

Citadel Fortress is a must-visit in Budva’s Old Town. This ancient fortress dates back over a millennia, and its strategic location perched on the Adriatic Sea made it an important fortification throughout Budva’s history.

Today, you can visit the Citadel Fortress in Budva for 3.50 EUR ($3.85 USD.) You can explore all the nooks and crannies of the fortress and take in great views of the Adriatic Sea and the Old Town from various lookout points.

Admission to the Citadel Fortress also includes entry to the Museum of the City of Budva.

Relax on the beach 

Beaches are what Budva does best — and Budva is THE place in Montenegro to experience great Adriatic beaches. There are quite a few beaches in and around Budva.

You shouldn’t expect sandy beaches here. In Montenegro (and the eastern side of the Adriatic), beaches here are almost always pebbled beaches, with wonderfully clear water. Water shoes are a huge help.

My personal favorite beach in Budva is Jaz Beach — it’s a 15-minute drive from the old town of Budva, but it’s worth visiting to get away from the crowds. This beach is a little quieter than some of the more popular beaches in Budva, though they still have restaurants and facilities. It’s also quite large, so there’s plenty of room to stake out a spot and relax.

Mogren Beach is another lovely beach close to Budva’s old town. It’s on the smaller side, but it’s very picturesque.

And if you want the big beaches with all the facilities, you can enjoy Slovenska Plaža, right in the middle of Budva, or Bečići plaža, just south of the main drag. Just know that these beaches (and pretty much all of Montenegro’s beaches) can get very busy in the peak summer months.

Visit the Museum of the City of Budva

If you want to learn more about Budva’s history, don’t miss popping into this museum inside the Citadel Fortress. As previously mentioned, admission is only 3.50 EUR ($4 USD) for the whole compound.

The museum contains several interesting exhibitions about Budva, including archaeological artifacts and small-scale model ships. You can easily spend an hour browsing the exhibits and gaining a deeper understanding of Budva’s history.

This museum is also the perfect place to cool off on a hot and sunny day. You’ll be wanting to visit those places if you visit Montenegro in the summer!

Spend a Day at Aquapark Budva

If you’re visiting Budva with kids, one of the best things to do is spend a day at Aquapark, a water park 10 minutes outside town. This isn’t just your typical water park. It’s situated on the top of a large hill, offering unbeatable views of Budva and the Adriatic Sea.

The park features water slides of various heights and speeds, some of which are kid-friendly and some that are better reserved for thrill-seekers only. There’s also a large swimming pool, a kids’ splash zone, sunbeds, a restaurant, and a snack bar.

Aquapark Budva is open daily from May 1 through September 30, and admission is 29 EUR ($32) for adults, 20 EUR ($22) for children under 140 cm (4’6”) in height, and free for children under three.

Go kayaking or paddleboarding

The Adriatic Sea is one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world, and there’s no better way to experience it than by getting out on the water. Kayaking and paddleboarding are two water activities you can try in Budva.

This kayaking or SUP experience includes the rental of a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, life jackets, and training on how to use your kayak or paddle board.

You can explore the area around Budva by kayak or paddle board, including Sveti Nikola, a small island just a few hundred meters off the shore.

Go paragliding

One of the more adventurous activities you can try in Budva is paragliding. Whether it’s your first time paragliding or you’ve done it before, there are few places more beautiful than the Budva Riviera to have this experience.

You can book a tandem paragliding excursion with an experienced guide who will show you the beauty of the coastline from above. During this activity, you’ll start by taking a scenic 15-minute drive from Budva to the takeoff point.

From there, you’ll glide above the Budva Riviera and take in the scenery with a bird’s eye view. Paragliding is by far one of the most unique experiences to try in Budva.

Visit Sveti Nikola

Sveti Nikola, sometimes nicknamed “Hawaii” by Montenegrins, is an uninhabited island off the coast of Budva. It spans 89 acres, so it’s pretty small — but it’s actually the largest island in Montenegro!

You can reach Sveti Nikola by boat from Budva. You’ll be able to buy tickets in Slovenska Plaza. A round-trip ticket is 5 EUR ($5.50 USD), and the journey takes 15 minutes each way. Getting to the island by kayak or paddle board is also possible.

On the island, there’s a small beach where you can relax and enjoy the sun or take a dip in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swim over to the Sveti Nikola cave, a popular spot inaccessible by land.

There are a few seasonal restaurants on the island, but they’re a lot more expensive than the mainland, so this is a great spot to bring a picnic lunch.

Take a boat tour of the Bay of Kotor

Budva has excellent beaches, but you can’t miss the breathtaking scenery of Kotor Bay. While Budva faces the Adriatic Sea, the Bay of Kotor (also known as Boka Bay) winds inland from the coast. It’s an area of spectacular natural beauty with a backdrop of mountains surrounding the water.

This all-day cruise starts in Budva and hits the highlights of the Bay of Kotor. You’ll begin with a boat ride from Budva, with an option to stop for swimming in the Blue Cave or at Zanjice Beach. Then you’ll continue to Herceg Novi, where you’ll have a short walking tour of the historic town before enjoying free time to swim or explore.

Next, you’ll enjoy more scenic cruising in the bay, stopping at Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island home to a blue-domed church.

You’ll finish in Kotor, where you’ll explore the Old Town via another walking tour before taking a bus back to Budva at the end of the day.

Want more time on the Bay of Kotor? Check out my guides to the two best towns on the bay: Kotor and Perast .

Visit Podmaine Monastery

For a more offbeat activity in Budva, pay a visit to Podmaine Monastery. This historic Serbian Orthodox monastery dates back to the 15th century and features original frescoes. The monastery also offers a great view of Budva from above. 

I love visiting Orthodox monasteries and churches in the Balkans — they have such bright, vibrant colors. If you’ve never visited one in your travels, this is a good one to start with.

Reaching the monastery on foot is about a 35-minute walk from Budva’s old town or the main beach. It’s important to note that it’s a fairly steep uphill walk — not the easiest on super-hot summer days. You can also drive or take a quick taxi ride to the top.

Since this is an active Orthodox monastery, be sure to wear modest clothing — shoulders and knees should be covered when entering the church. Some women cover their hair, but this is not a requirement.

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Party at Top Hill

Budva is known for being a fun nightlife destination, and there’s no better place to party than at Top Hill. While many of Budva’s bars and clubs are located down by the beach, Top Hill is situated on a hill high above the coast.

This open-air nightclub is one of Budva’s most remarkable spots to dance the night away. During the summer months, the club has an ever-changing lineup of electronic music artists.

Omnia is another one of the best nightclubs in Budva, while Torch Beach Club is a popular spot for day parties on the beach. For more nightlife in Budva, go bar-hopping in the old town before making your way to one of the clubs.

Visit Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan is a great little town to visit near Budva, home to one of the most iconic images of Montenegro. It’s located just 15 minutes away, along the scenic Budva Riviera.

The most famous part of Sveti Stefan is the tiny island connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge. Unfortunately, the entire island is a privately owned resort (and is currently being renovated as this is being published), so you can’t actually visit it, but it makes for a great photo op.

Several restaurants in Sveti Stefan are perched high up on the road looking down on the island, perfect for enjoying a drink or a snack with a view. (When I was rejected from visiting the island in 2011, lunch here made me feel a lot better!)

There are public beaches in Sveti Stefan near the island, though I recommend avoiding the massively overpriced beaches on either side of the island.

Getting to Sveti Stefan from Budva is a 15-minute drive or a 20-minute bus ride. Buses depart from Budva every 20 minutes or so, and the bus fare is 2 EUR ($2.20 USD.)

Visit Petrovac

Petrovac is a small, laid-back beach town along the Budva Riviera. It’s a bit quieter than Budva, but it’s still a vibrant destination with lots of charm.

If you want to check out other beaches along the Riviera, Petrovac has some of the best. Petrovac Beach is the most popular beach in town, but nearby Lučice Beach is quieter and has stunning clear water and sandy shores.

One nice thing to do is hike from Petrovac to the nearby town of Reževići. The trail begins behind the Danica Hotel and ends on a quiet, scenic beach. And if you’re up for a day of indulgence, check out Annina Wellness at the Hotel Ami Budva Petrovac, one of the best spas on the Budva Riviera.

Petrovac is just a 25-minute drive from Budva or a 30-minute bus ride. Bus tickets cost 3 EUR ($3.25 USD.)

Visit Kotor

Kotor is one of my favorite places in the world — and one of the best day trips you can take from Budva. Breathtaking mountains surround this historic town nestled on the still, glassy Bay of Kotor. It’s THE must-visit destination in Montenegro, in my opinion.

You can easily spend an entire day exploring Kotor. If you arrive first thing in the morning, hike up to San Giovanni Fortress for the best views of the Bay of Kotor and the Old Town. While the views are spectacular, they are at their best in morning — midday is too hot and in the afternoon the view is full of shadows.

Then reward yourself with lunch in Kotor’s old town, followed by a leisurely wander through the ancient stone streets. You can also walk Kotor’s city walls or pop into the quirky Kotor Cats Museum (you’ll spot lots of free-roaming cats in Kotor, fed and cared for by the locals).

Kotor is just a short 30-minute drive from Budva. You can also take the bus, a 45-minute journey, for between 3 and 4 EUR ($3.25-$4.35 USD.)

Read More: 17 Beautiful Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro

How much time to spend in Budva, Montenegro

How much time should you spend in Budva, Montenegro? If you’re short on time, you can do most of the top things to do in Budva in a single day. It also makes a good day trip from Kotor, especially when combined with nearby Sveti Stefan.

You can arrive in Budva in the morning, explore the old town, and enjoy some beach time before heading over to Sveti Stefan to admire the view. (If you see my Sveti Stefan photo above, it looks spectacular at sunset.)

But if you’re here for a beach trip, you’ll probably appreciate having several days to splash out and enjoy the sun and sea in Budva. Spending three nights in Budva will give you the perfect amount of time to relax at the beach and enjoy the town’s dining and nightlife — plus a day trip or two!

How to get to Budva, Montenegro

How do you get to Budva? If you have your own car, you can simply drive there. Budva is about 30 minutes from both Kotor and Tivat. There are plenty of parking lots around Budva, and some hotels offer free parking.

I recommend renting a car from Discover Cars, and you can check their rates here .

The closest airport to Budva is in Tivat, Montenegro, just a 30-minute drive away. Another option is flying into Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica, which is one hour and 10 minutes from Budva.

If you’re arriving by public transportation, several bus and shuttle companies stop in Budva from Kotor and Tivat. The fare is between 3 and 4 EUR ($3.25 and $4.35 USD), and it takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on where you’re coming from.

While no ride-sharing apps exist in Montenegro, you can book a taxi from Kotor or Tivat to Budva. Prices start around 25 EUR ($27.30 USD), but this is not a fixed price, and you may be quoted a higher fare during the peak summer season. Unfortunately, I have paid many inflated fares during my summer visits.

Where to stay in Budva, Montenegro

Where should you stay in Budva? There are two things to consider when choosing accommodation in Budva are proximity to the beach and proximity to the old town.

Many hotels in Budva are within walking distance of both, so if visiting Budva’s old town interests you, you may want to stay closer to the historic center. If you’re less interested in the old town, there are plenty of hotels further down the beach.

If you want to experience Budva’s nightlife, the Slovenska Plaža area is the best place to stay. This is the big, main beach in town.

Here are the top-rated places to stay in Budva:

• Top-Rated Luxury Hotel in Budva: If you’re looking to splurge in Budva, Boutique Hotel Vissi d’Arte is the best place to stay. This opera-inspired hotel is fabulous at every angle, and it’s just steps away from the beach and Budva’s Old Town.
• Top-Rated Mid-Range Hotel in Budva: For a solid mid-range option, Katamare Hotel is a great choice. This hotel has a nice pool and incredible views. It’s also very close to the beach.
• Top-Rated Budget Hotel in Budva: For travelers on a budget, Villa Skyprime is a good place to stay. It’s a bit of a walk from the beach, but it’s clean and comfortable.
• Find deals on places to stay in Budva here.

Best Time to Visit Budva, Montenegro

The best time to visit Budva may not be what you’re expecting. Budva is very much a beach destination, with the busiest and beachiest months being July and August. This is a fun time to visit, but you’ll have to contend with larger crowds and higher prices.

However, if you want summer weather with less crowds (and less traffic!) and lower prices, I recommend aiming for early June, late September, or even early October. Budva and the southern Balkans have a long summer season compared to other European destinations. You can still enjoy warm weather without things being as busy.

Keep in mind that if you want to swim, the water is warmer in early fall than in late spring.

You might want to keep an eye on the festival schedule for Budva as well. I attended Sea Dance Festival one July, which brought so many great bands to the beach, but it looks like the festival is now hopping between Budva and other locations on the Adriatic.

Budva is very quiet in the off-season, but this is still a city where people live year-round, so it’s not as dead as smaller towns along the Montenegrin coast. If you visit in the winter, you’ll still be able to find places to eat and shop, though many of the beachside restaurants will be closed.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Budva's best feature and star attraction is the Stari Grad (Old Town) – a mini-Dubrovnik with marbled streets and Venetian walls rising from the clear…

Sveti Nikola

Known locally as ‘Hawaii’, Sveti Nikola is Montenegro’s largest island, stretching to nearly 2km. Fallow deer wander about on this uninhabited green spot,…

Trg između crkava

Literally the 'square between the churches', this open area below the citadel provides a visual reminder of the once-cosy relationship between Orthodox…

The citadel at the Old Town’s seaward end offers striking views, a restaurant and a library full of model ships, rare tomes and maps displayed safely…

Ploče Beach

If the sands are getting too crowded in Budva itself, head out to this little pebbly beach at the end of a scrub-covered peninsula, 10km west of town …

Podostrog Monastery

From Podmaine Monastery, a walking track leads up the mountains for 2km to the fortified Podostrog Monastery. This was once a residence of Montenegro’s…

St John the Baptist’s Church

Budva's largest church was built towards the end of the 12th century, and served as its Catholic cathedral until 1828. Parts of it possibly date from as…

Podmaine Monastery

On the surprisingly peaceful northern slopes of town, this Serbian Orthodox monastery features the same stripes of pink and honey-coloured stone as the…

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Your Guide to the Best Time to Visit Budva: Tips for a Perfect Vacation!

Are you planning a trip to Budva , Montenegro, but wondering when is the best time to go? In this guide, we’ll help you decide when to visit based on factors like weather, events, and activities.

Factors to Consider

When planning a vacation to Budva , there are several factors to consider, including:

Budva has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The peak tourist season is from June to September when temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C. The shoulder season, from April to May and October to November, offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds. The winter months from December to March are the least popular time to visit, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall.

Budva hosts several events throughout the year, including the Budva City Theatre Festival in July and the Mediterranean Fair in April. These events can be a great way to experience the city’s culture and traditions.

Read Also: Discover Kamenovo Beach

Btw, if you are a looking for vegan food in Budva , look no further, read our amazing article on the best places for vegans to eat in Budva .

Budva offers a wide range of activities, from beach lounging and swimming to hiking and exploring historic sites. The best time to visit will depend on your preferred activities.

Best Time to Visit Budva: June to September

The peak tourist season in Budva runs from June to September, and for a good reason. This is when the weather is at its best, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city comes alive during these months, with a lively atmosphere and a wide range of activities and events on offer. Here are some of the reasons why June to September is the best time to visit Budva :

• Beaches: Budva is known for its stunning beaches, and the summer months are the perfect time to enjoy them. The water is warm, and the sun is shining, making it the ideal time to swim, sunbathe, and relax on the sand.
• Nightlife: Budva is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The summer months are when the city really comes alive, with live music, DJ sets, and parties taking place every night.
• Events: The summer months are when Budva hosts many of its most popular events, including the Budva City Theatre Festival, the Budva Music Festival, and the International Summer Carnival. These events are a great way to experience the city’s culture and traditions.
• Activities: The summer months offer a wide range of activities to enjoy in Budva , from hiking and exploring historic sites to water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. There are also boat tours that take you along the coastline and to nearby islands.

While the summer months are undoubtedly the best time to visit Budva , there are some downsides to consider. The crowds can be overwhelming, especially in July and August, and the prices for accommodation and activities are typically higher. If you’re looking for a quieter, more budget-friendly experience, the shoulder season might be a better option.

Also Read: How do I get from Budva to Kotor?

The Shoulder Season: April to May and October to November

The shoulder season in Budva runs from April to May and October to November. This is when the crowds start to thin out, and the prices for accommodation and activities are lower. The weather is also milder, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities without the scorching heat of the summer months. Here are some of the reasons why the shoulder season might be the best time to visit Budva :

• Weather: The weather in the shoulder season is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This makes it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the city’s historic sites.
• Crowds: The crowds in Budva are significantly lower in the shoulder season, making it a great time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter experience. You’ll also have more space on the beaches and in the restaurants and bars.
• Prices: The prices for accommodation and activities are typically lower in the shoulder season, making it a more budget-friendly option.
• While the shoulder season offers many advantages, there are some downsides to consider. The sea temperature can still be a little chilly, making swimming less comfortable. Also, some of the restaurants, bars, and shops might be closed during this time, so it’s worth checking ahead before booking your trip.

Read Also: Top Budget Hotels and Hostels in Budva that Won’t Break Your Bank

When is the best time to visit Budva for swimming and water sports?

The best time to visit for swimming and water sports is from June to September when the sea is warmest and the weather is at its best.

What are the most popular events in Budva?

Budva hosts several events throughout the year, but some of the most popular include the Budva City Theatre Festival in July and the Mediterranean Fair in April.

Is Budva crowded in the summer months?

Yes, the summer months are the peak tourist season in Budva , and the city can be crowded, especially in July and August.

Budva is a charming coastal city that offers something for everyone, from stunning beaches and historic sites to vibrant nightlife and cultural events. When planning your trip, consider the weather, events, and activities that are most important to you to decide when to visit. Whether you choose the peak summer months or the quieter shoulder season, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Budva .

For more information on planning your trip to Budva , check out our Ultimate Guide to Budva on Montenegro.org .

Gareth Popovic

Hi there, my name is Gareth Popovic. I was born and raised in the suburbs of Brisbane, Australia, but my passion for the great outdoors led me to Montenegro. Now, I call the charming town of Niksic my home. I spend my days exploring the rugged mountains and crystal-clear waters of this stunning region. From hiking and rock climbing to swimming and kayaking, there's always an adventure to be had.

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• The Top Things To See...

The Top Things to See and Do in Budva, Montenegro

Montenegro’s most popular summer playground, the Budva Riviera, is all about the glittering sea, glistening bodies and summer fun. But Budva is also an ancient settlement, with history and culture that dates back some 2,500 years, and it’s one of Montenegro’s must-see places . Whatever your holiday style, there’s plenty to do in Montenegro’s famous seaside resort.

Soak up the sun, sea, and sand.

The Budva Riviera is famous for its glorious beaches, with miles of fine pebble and sand beaches. Slovenska Plaza and Bečići are the most popular with tourists. Then there’s Mogren Beach, found by following a seaside path from the old town. Jaz Beach is a lively cove and home to one of Montenegro’s most popular music festivals, Sea Dance Festival . Further up the coast there are dozens of little beaches, like local favourite Drobnji Pijesak, to while away the summer days in the sun.

Montenegrin beaches always have sunbeds and umbrellas for just a few euros, and handy bars where the local bartender will mix you delicious cocktails. With everything you need seaside, it’s only too easy to spend every day soaking up the sun on Budva’s beaches.

1. Splashdown at Aquapark Budva

On Topliš Hill, just above the town, Aquapark Budva is fun for all ages. There’s a playground with slides, buckets and plenty of dripping water for little ones. There are also wave pools, waterspouts, a lazy river and swim-up bar, all spread over three levels. But the real fun is on the water slides. There are seven different slides, and visitors fly down them at up to 80 kilometres per hour.

Aquapark Budva, Topliski Put, Budva, Montenegro , +382 68 334 433

2. Get lost in the old town

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. Don’t miss the square in front of Santa Maria del Punta church, with its gorgeous view of the ancient church overlooking Ričardova Glava Beach.

@passporttherapy / © Culture Trip | @passporttherapy / © Culture Trip

3. Catch a boat to Hawaii

In the height of summer, skip the more crowded beaches in Budva and take a boat over to Sveti Nikola Island. Also known as Hawaii Island, the outcrop is inhabited only by deer, and is just off Budva’s shore. The island has a long stretch of beach, and a restaurant and facilities. It’s an idyllic escape for a beach day in Budva.

Sveti Nikola, Budva, Montenegro

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4. Live the fairy-tale life at Sveti Stefan

Architectural Landmark

Woo your sweetheart

No list of things to do in Budva would be complete without a romantic sunset dinner. The sunsets over Budva’s coast are legendary, and there’s nothing better than sharing a candlelit dinner with that special someone. For a quiet dinner, avoid the busy old town and head over to Pržno’s Langust restaurant, Olive in Sveti Stefan or Dukley Lounge on Zavala Cape.

Walk the promenade

The Budva Riviera has a seaside promenade that connects the town all the way to Sveti Stefan. Wander along Slovenska Plaža to Zavala Cape, and then along Bečići Beach to the seaside hamlets of Rafailovici, Pržno and Sveti Stefan. There are dozens of swimming spots, romantic seaside restaurants and beautiful sunset views.

Get a bird’s-eye view

The Brajiči hills above Budva are ideal for paragliding. Paragliders can be seen taking off and spiralling down towards the coast all year round. Book a tandem flight and get a bird’s-eye view of the coast that has been loved and admired for thousands of years.

Hit the clubs

After a hard day on the beach, it’s time to brush of the sand and get ready for a night on the town. The old town’s bars come alive after dark, with dancing and drinking until 1am. When the curfew hits, everyone heads to Top Hill , a world-class club that features global DJs and artists every night through summer. Top Hill accommodates up to 5,000 people at a time and has a vodka bar, wine bar, Jacuzzi bar and VIP area.

Go off track

Beyond the tourist highlights there are some real gems in Budva. Head up to Krapina Village to ride the zipline and take a dip under the waterfall, or visit Podmaine or Rustovo Monasteries to experience Montenegrin spirituality. Away from the seaside, Merkur Restaurant serves some of the best Montenegrin food in Budva. Try traditional roast ispod sa č , octopus or the ever popular Balkan grill. There’s also a little garden with rabbits, tortoises and ducks and a playground, which makes this a family-friendly favourite.

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Best things to see and do in Budva, Montenegro

Budva has received the popular nickname of “the Miami of Montenegro” due to its agitated nightlife, but truth be told, there is much more to this beautiful old town. During your trip to Montenegro, we definitely recommend visiting Budva and, in this guide, we have put together all the  best things to see and do  in the city.

Best things to do in Budva, Montenegro

Whether you plan to stay only one day or more in Budva, here are the most important attractions you do not want to miss while visiting the city.

1. Walk around the beautiful Budva Old Town

Budva’s Old Town is the number one attraction you should visit. Dating back to the 5th century, it is now considered a  UNESCO-protected site  and it is extremely well preserved. Walking around the Old Town, you will pass through picturesque alleys, restaurants, churches, and cafes.

Getting lost in the cobblestone alleys was my favorite thing to do in Budva as it feels like you are going back in time. The numbers 2 to 4 of this list are suggestions that will walk you through the most important places inside Budva’s Old Town.

Budva’s Old Town was severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, and then later in 1979. Most of the ancient buildings and churches you see around were restored or rebuilt, but I love that they kept the unique character of the city.

2. The Fortress of St Mary, aka, the Citadel

The most iconic attraction in town, the Citadel is not only a beautiful and impressive site but also very important for the city’s history. The Citadel was built as a  second layer of protection  for the city of Budva, in case the city walls weren’t enough.

The Citadel used to be equipped with weapons and also food supplies, so it could be used as a base in case the city was sieged. Nowadays, the Citadel is a popular tourist attraction and one of the best locations to visit in Budva for  panoramic views of the city  and the Adriatic Sea.

Engraved in the Citadel walls is the sculpture of the unofficial symbol of Budva –  two fish intertwined . This symbol comes from an old local legend that represents two lovers who were thrown at sea and turned into fish because their love was not accepted by their parents. Tradition says you should make a wish while rubbing the fish.

Tickets cost 2 € per person and give access to a library, museum, and observation deck. The library is nothing special in my opinion, but the ticket price is worth it for the view.

3. Walk along the city walls

Still, in the spirit of having the best views from the top of Budva, the next attraction on the list is to  walk along the city walls . You will have beautiful panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea on one side and Budva Old Town on the other.

Tickets cost 3 € and you can access the city walls from two places: near the Citadel or from the Old Town Main Entrance. 

Note that the Budva city walls do not complete a full circle, which means at some point you will have to turn around and return. It is worth it though.

4. Visit the beautiful churches inside Budva Old Town

Budva’s Old Town may be small inside, but there is a lot to see in these narrow alleys. One thing you will definitely notice is the number of churches. Here are the main ones you should look for:

• Church of St Ivan  – a Catholic church, one of the largest in Budva. It faces the old Bishop’s Palace.
• Church of Sveti Trojica  – an Orthodox church located close to the Citadel. If you find this church open, make sure to check inside as it is not so common to have such luck.
• Sveta Marija  – the oldest building in town, dating back to 840 a.d.

5. Strike a pose along the Ballerina of Budva

Located a bit outside the city walls, the statue of the  Ballerina of Budva  is one of the main symbols of the city. It takes less than 10 min by foot to reach the sculpture and it stands in one of the most beautiful angles of Budva.

The story behind the Ballerina of Budva:

According to the legend, a dancer and a sailor who lived in Budva were madly in love. Every time the sailor would sail into the sea, she would wait for him at the shore, dancing and waiting until his ship came back. One time, he departed for a long trip and did not return. The dancer, always hopeful and faithful, kept coming to the same place and dancing expecting his arrival, which didn’t happen.

The dancer soon died without her love, and the story became a strong symbol of love and loyalty. The bronze sculpture was made by Gradimir Aleksić, a Serbian artist.

6. Enjoy the beaches around Budva

If there is one other thing Budva is known for, besides the nightlife, is the  amazing beaches . If you will be traveling to Montenegro in the summer, make sure to save some time to enjoy the sun and the Adriatic Sea around Budva.

Check our  list of the best beaches  in Budva to know where to go.

7. Enjoy the festivals and nightlife in Budva

If you ask people what is the best thing to do in Budva, going out will probably be among the top answers. Budva is known as a  festival and party destination , which brings a lot of European and American tourists into town.

Here are some of the most famous nightlife places in Budva:

• Top Hill  – By far the most famous nightclub in Budva, this place is literally located at the top of a hill called Topliš, which means you need to take a taxi from the Old Town. Opens only in July and August.
• Sea Dance Festival  – Named one of the Top 10 Summer Festivals in Europe by Forbes, the Sea Dance often hosts big DJ names and can be quite affordable if compared to other major European festivals. The festival usually takes place in August.  See more about the festival here.
• Ploce Beach  – The place to check out if you are into beach parties during the summer. They often have foam parties, festivals in the pools, and high summer vibes.

8. Have a day trip to Sveti Stefan

Since you will be visiting Budva, we definitely recommend making your way to Sveti Stefan. This beautiful island is located only 10 km away (20 min drive) from Budva’s Old Town.

The best thing about visiting Sveti Stefan is that you can make a day out of it and walk all the way from Budva through the promenade. On the way, you will find beautiful beaches and places to stop. If walking is not for you, you can also drive, take a taxi or a bus.

Sveti Stefan became quite popular online, mostly because it is so picturesque. However, I didn’t really get the hype. The entire island is a private property that belongs to a hotel called  Aman , so you can only enter if you are staying at the hotel or if you have a reservation at the restaurant.

You can still enjoy the views from above or chill at the beach on the side of Sveti Stefan. The best viewpoint is on the road before you get down into town, and it is well marked in Google Maps.

Pro tip : If you are going for the views, don’t go at the end of the day because you will get the sunset right behind which means you won’t really see the blue water color of the beaches and the island itself. We did this mistake and maybe this is why we left a bit disappointed. 

9. Day trip to Hawaii, the island of Sveti Nikola

Located right in front of Budva is the  largest island of Montenegro , Sveti Nikola. Popularly known as Hawaii, this island offers incredibly blue waters with beautiful mountain cliffs and a unique landscape.

The best way to visit Sveti Nikola from Budva is to book a  day trip by boat . However, during the low tide, it is technically possible to walk all the way from Budva to Sveti Nikola. I can only recommend this option if you check it thoroughly beforehand to not be caught by surprise about the changing tide.

Best beaches in Budva

By this point, you know that Budva is surrounded by the beautiful Adriatic Sea, which means there are many crystal-clear beaches around. But which one is the  best beach near Budva ?

To help you answer this question, we have put together a list of some of the most beautiful beaches located around Budva Old Town:

• Mogren Beach  (picture below) – often listed as the best beach of Budva, it is located a bit outside the Old Town and it is a bit secluded since you can only access it from the small sidewalk. Mogren beach is actually divided into two parts and the cliffs form some interesting beach caves. Don’t get fooled by the websites that say this place is secluded and empty. During the summer, Mogren Beach gets really crowded and is nothing close to peaceful. If you want to find it empty, aim for early mornings.
• Jaz Beach  – located around 6.5 km away from Budva’s Old Town, Jaz Beach is a beautiful paradise with very clear blue waters. It also gets busy during the summer, but it is quite extensive so people can easily spread around. The right corner of the beach is a nudist area.
• Slovenska Plaža  – Located only 1.4 km away from Budva’s Old Town, Slovenska Plaža is the largest beach around Budva. There are quiet parts that are great for families and other agitated sections with lively beach clubs frequented by the young crowd. Since it is very easily accessible, it does get quite busy, so we recommend arriving early to secure yourself a nice spot.
• Bečići and Rafailovići beaches  – If you like a good sand beach, this is where we recommend you to go. This is a great beach near Budva for families as it is quieter and has very clean and calm water.

How long do you need in Budva?

Budva’s Old Town is quite small and can easily be explored within one day. To make sure you have enough time to enjoy the day trips and attractions close by, we recommend spending  1-2 days in Budva .

If you are planning a party or beach trip, this can easily be extended to 5 or 6 days as you will then have enough time to enjoy the sun and the different locations Budva has to offer.

During our trip, since we were traveling with family and did not have nightlife as a focus, we decided to  stay in Kotor  and just spend an entire day in Budva. For us, we felt that one day was enough, we were able to visit the entire Old Town and also drive to Sveti Stefan. The one thing I do regret is not having enough time to visit Sveti Nikola island so this is why I recommend 2 days in this guide.

How to get to Budva and move around the city?

Since Budva is one of the most important cities in Montenegro, it is very easy to find transport options. The alternatives available to you will depend on where you will be coming from, but here is  how long it takes to get to Budva  from other destinations in Montenegro:

If it suits your budget, we definitely recommend  renting a car for your trip to Montenegro . The country has some of the most beautiful road views and having your own vehicle will give you a lot of freedom in regard to your itinerary.

Read more about  how is it to drive in Montenegro.

Parking in Budva is very easy. There is paid parking located only  2 min away from the Old Town , which is perfect if you will be visiting Budva on a day trip like we did. There are also options for free public parking located +1 km away from the center. If you don’t want any trouble with parking, we recommend getting accommodation that offers parking included.

Need to rent a car for your trip? Get a quote here!

Another alternative is to use public transport to get to Budva from other cities in Montenegro. There are buses available, but we recommend planning the trip ahead because bus trips tend to take longer than by car. We usually use  Rome2Rio  to check the best bus routes available.

Do I need a car to get around Budva?

Not at all. Budva’s Old Town is very small and you will be able to  do everything on foot . If you don’t mind walking, you can easily explore the beaches around Budva and walk the promenade until Sveti Stefan if you like.

From our experience, you will miss a car only if you want to move around the country and visit other cities. You can explore by bus, but a car will give you much more freedom.

Where to stay in Budva?

Most people have a hard time deciding whether to stay in Budva or Kotor. Both cities are very close by so you can choose one to use as your base and explore the other during the day. 

We recommend staying in Budva if you are interested in the nightlife especially.

If you would like a more quiet location with historic sites, Kotor would be the best option for you.

Read also:  Choosing between Budva and Kotor, pros and cons of each

If you decide to stay in Budva, here are our  hotel recommendations in the city :

• Hotel Villa Gracia  – One of the best-rated properties in Budva. It is located 700 meters from Slovenska Beach and offers private parking.
• Twister Apartments  – This unique-looking building is located only 15 minutes walk away from Budva city center, and Mogren beach. It offers modern rooms and free parking.
• Apartments Inspiration  – If you want to enjoy inspirational views from your balcony, this is the place to be. Being located only 350 meters from the closest beach and 500 meters from the city center, this property offers amazing views from its balconies.

General tips for organizing the perfect visit to Budva

To make sure your Budva vacation goes perfectly, here are some basic tips:

• Most of the beaches are made of small rocks, so bring a  sandal or waterproof beach shoes
• If you plan to stay all day long on any beach around Budva, we recommend  paying for a sunbed and umbrella . You will find them in most beaches around Budva
• Budva is the perfect destination for a  romantic dinner ! Book yourself a table during sunset in one of the many restaurants in town that offer beach view
• Don’t miss the chance to enjoy  local seafood dishes , Montenegro has incredible octopus and squid dishes that are to die for
• If you are interested in  water activities  such as jet skiing or kayaking, you can find them outside the Old Town on the way to the Ballerina statue

Other places to visit near Budva

Extend your trip to Montenegro by visiting other amazing destinations in the country. Here is a short list of places you should definitely add to your list:

• Herceg Novi
• Lake Skadar

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Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Montenegro, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

• Flights : Get affordable flights to Montenegro on  Skyscanner.com . 
• Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
• Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
• Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
• Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.
• SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

Edin (Edo for friends like you) is the Slovenian half of Mauka. Even though Edo was born in Novo Mesto (Slovenia), he has Bosnian origins and has spent most of his life exploring the Balkan Region. Now, with Fernanda, he has expanded his travel borders to explore more of Europe, South America, and the rest of the world. He is the technical master behind the blog, but he also adventures as a writer when it comes to giving tips about destinations he is passionate about.

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Budva travel blog — the fullest budva guide & top things to do in budva.

Budva is a small town similar to Kotor , small and lovely and brings bold Italian style. So, is Budva worth visiting, what to do in Budva and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Budva, montenegro for the first-time? Let’s check out our Budva travel blog with the fullest Budva travel guide (Budva guide) from how to get to Budva, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Budva to find out the answer!

• Kotor blog — The fullest Kotor guide & top things to do in Kotor, Montenegro for first-timers

Australia travel itinerary 10 days. How to spend 10 days in Australia?

When I went to Budva, I had been in Montenegro for less than two weeks. At that time, because I traveled a lot, I met many friends, so I was already tired, so I didn’t expect much but just thought that I could relax as much as I could. One day I even sat on the pedestal of the city wall looking at the sea, listening to music, doing nothing. But it turned out that Budva brought me extremely deep memories. I met a beautiful and gentle Russian girl. When we say goodbye, I have never seen such a beautiful life. Relationships between people can be very strange – knowing each other for a few days but can be close, and say goodbye before seeing the other person’s dark side.

But the miracle is still behind. I met her again in Amsterdam. Twice destined to meet, twice to say goodbye, once in the bustling darkness of Budva, once in the dazzling sunshine of Amsterdam. It was thanks to this chance relationship that Budva became a special existence for me.

In this article, I will share everything I known about Budva: How to visit, where to go, what to do, what to note.

Budva guide: How to get to Budva?

I came to Budva from Kotor. This is very simple way, go back to Kotor’s bus station and take the bus. There are many trips to Budva. Tickets seem under 5 euros/one-way. You don’t even have to look up, just go out there and wait for a bus. If you don’t know which bus, there will always be a station conductor who will guide you.

The ride takes almost two hours. The bus will drop off at Budva bus stop. The stop is far outside, a few minutes walk to the main beach. From the beach, it takes about 10 minutes to reach the old town of Budva. When you get off, you should ask for directions. Or before you go, you should look up the road from the bus station to the old town, because the road is not straight but a bit curvy. It takes less than 20 minutes to get there by taking a taxi. Be sure to negotiate the price in advance. Taxis in poor countries tend to “cut and slash”.

In addition to Kotor , there is a direct bus to Budva from Podgorica, Bar, Tivat (generally the one from the coastal towns and the capital). Tickets are all cheap. However, there is no direct bus from Tivat airport or Podgorica airport.

There is no train to Budva. The nearest station is in another town. I don’t remember which town, but in general, this is not a reasonable choice because of having to go around.

In addition to buses from popular destinations, one thing is for sure, there are many buses/tours from Dubrovnik, Croatia to Budva. If you want to come from other European countries, you can only go to Dubrovnik first and then take a bus from there (or go to Podgorica or Tivat).

Getting to Budva is not difficult, as long as you choose the right departure point. And the most convenient is to take the bus.

Budva travel blog: Where to stay in Budva?

As usual, the best options come from Hostelworld, Booking, Agoda or Airbnb. Generally, Budva is a city that favors couples and families, so traveling alone can be a bit lonely.

In Budva, I don’t dare to recommend any place to stay in particular, and I am a bit hesitant to mention that my place that I stayed is Freedom Hostel. This hostel… the staff is super friendly, always trying to help, the location is great – right in the old town, easy to find. However, the facilities are really not commendable. A bit cramped, the toilet is “tattered”, so terrible. Luckily, it is equipped with air conditioning and cheap. Moreover, many young tourists gather here. If you like to make new friends, it’s fine to come here. But if you want to have a little better vacation conditions, it is not very suitable.

I was lucky because on the second day I met that Russian friend while eating. We talked right away, very match and she invited me to live together in her room for my remaining days… It was a bit of a shock at the time. Why does she trust people like that, maybe she was nice and kind. But the condition of my hostel is really bad. The place she rented was bright, spacious, and had… three beds. So, I took my backpack to move in immediately.

However, I found that in Budva there is a branch of Montenegro Hostel B&B Budva , like the one in Kotor I used to stay. This one I highly recommend. The Kotor branch is too good, Budva’s one can’t be so bad.

Going with two or more, Airbnb is the most convenient.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Kadmo ( Agoda , Booking )
• Avala Resort & Villas ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Aleksandar ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Slovenska Plaza ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Astoria ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Budva on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

So, you already know basically how to get and where to stay in Budva when deciding to travel to Montenegro. But this is just the beginning.

Budva guide: What to do in Budva & things to do in Budva

Budva is very pretty, more suitable for couples, honeymooners and families than going alone. If you’re not a super sociable person who makes friends easily, you might feel a little lost here. When I came, it was the last days of a long trip, a bit tired. I spent the whole first day to sitting on the wall overlooking the sea, doing nothing.

But one day later, when I was hungry, I chose to eat out. I chose L&M restaurant (recommended). It’s outside the old town, the menu is diverse, the seafood dishes are very special, tasty, especially squid! Due to its location, it is quiet and tranquil. Moreover, it was here that I met a beautiful Russian girl. At that time, I just wanted to smoke so I asked the waiter if there was a table outside. He asked me to come sit with the girl outside. We saw each other and just exchanged greetings, and immediately became friends. From the meeting, we started to explore Budva together. And here comes the list below!

What to do in Budva? Going to the sea, of course, swimming!

Around Budva there are many beaches: Morgen beach, Jaz beach, Slovenska Plaza beach. Personally, I recommend Jaz beach, quite airy, comfortable, not noisy. Morgen Beach and Plaza are often crowded, jostle and hustle, full of sun loungers of restaurants. The average price for a pair of sun loungers ranges from 10 to 20 euros. Family seats are more expensive. But that is still considered acceptable. I was overwhelmed with a seat of 200 euros in Italy.

Going to these places, having a picnic, drinking beer and relaxing is more suitable. It’s best not to go during the hottest time – because everyone goes at that time.

Walking around the old town and playing with cats

Like Kotor, Budva is a cat’s paradise, and it also has a cat museum. The cats here are docile, friendly, and lazy, lovely. We walked on the street and saw them sleeping everywhere, so adorable.

In addition, the old town of Budva is very beautiful, small and very private. Small streets, tiny houses, many low walls overlooking the sea. You can buy tickets to access the city wall to go for a walk to see the sea. Prices range from 7 to 14 euros (I’m not sure because I did not take a walk), also a great way to relax. But when the sun is out, let’s go. And it closes around 6, 7pm or something like that.

See Sveti Stefan, swim in sea with pink sand beach

Sveti Stefan is a very beautiful small island, connected to the mainland by an artificial road, it looks like Taormina. However, normally you cannot go to the island because it is owned by a private resort, you have to stay there to get on. But you can totally bathe at the two pink beaches overlooking the island, enjoy a relaxing session!

Important note: The north beach is still belong to the Aman resort on Sveti Stefan but open to the public, but you have to pay 80 euros to access it to swim! The other beach is completely open to the public, each pair of sun loungers costs around 15 euros. Please ask carefully.

And if you don’t want to go on a tour, don’t want to go to the resort, there is still a way to access the island, which is to order a meal (preferably sunset dinner) at Adrovic restaurant – this place has a balcony overlooking the beautiful Sveti Stefan with reasonably priced. You can check the menu and prices here.

How to get to Sveti Stefan? There are two ways. One is if you just want to get a view, you can go on a tour. The other way is to catch a bus from the bus station. Price of 2 euros each way, go straight there. Very easy.

Nightlife in Budva

In Budva, it’s only late at night when bars, music, parties start to come to life. It is advisable to go out for a walk, sit around somewhere to enjoy the youthful atmosphere with friends. We didn’t sit in particular, but crawl from one bar to another. Although the curfew is at 1pm. But since then there are private parties, there are famous DJs of all kinds, around Budva. You should ask the receptionist where you stay for more information!

Hawaii without pineapple, no huhulala

Budva’s Hawaii! This is a small island near Budva called Saint Nikola’s Island, about 20 minutes by train to get there, the two-way ticket is under 10 euros. You can go back and forth anytime. The island is incredibly small but nice, with a few pebble beaches – nothing but the sea. But here, it’s deserted, quiet, the sea is very beautiful, ideal for sunbathing and bathing.

Behind the island there is a big restaurant, the food is very good, the price is reasonable, absolutely not get rip-off. I love fish soup and wine here, very chill. A pair of chairs is 10 euros. Very reasonable.

If you want to find the pier, just go along the beach and you will see full of signs. They also stand to distribute leaflets everywhere. Note that the last trip back from the island is around 5 or 6 pm or something like that, remember to pay attention.

So that’s tight enough, isn’t it? But not enough! Please read section 3 below to know more about a hidden gem of Budva.

A day at Skoljke Boke oyster farm near Budva

After the fun things to do in Budva above, this part I would like to introduce the Skoljke Boke oyster farm – a secret gem near Budva that not everyone knows. But if you know it, I’m sure everyone will like it!

As you’ve heard me crap, after a two-day break with that lovely Russian girl, we decided to explore a little further. Specifically, she wants to go to eat oysters at an oyster farm near Budva. The only information we know is… there is an oyster farm where can reach by bus, walk down when get off until you see a pink car, it’s there. Generally extremely vague. Especially the “pink car” sign. But at least we know it’s real, because she found a picture and described the place on Instagram (that’s why there’s the “pink car” instructions).

We went and found it, so fun.

At that time, I followed her, but when I came back to find information, I found out that this place is not very famous, but it is present online. At that time, the name of the oyster farm was Skoljke Boke. So, now I am confident to write the article to guide you here.

How to get to Skoljke Boke?

To get to this oyster farm, it’s not difficult and also not easy. It’s not difficult because just go to the bus station, ask the ticket seller for this point, or ask the driver of each passing bus until you find someone who will drop you off there or know about that spot. The “not easy” of this place is that not many drivers know, not many of them driving pass through it. When they dropped us off right in the middle of the road, we walked for a while and saw a private beach of a hotel. After that, I had to turn back, walk more and more tired as I thought I was going nowhere, then suddenly I saw… the pink car as described on Instagram. That’s when it came out. Oh it’s real…

So, the best way is probably to ask the receptionist where you rest. And if no one knows, find the bus from the bus station to Orhovac, and then ask from there. This oyster farm is not in Orhovac but outside, midway between the main road in front of Orhovac town, something like that.

Although I’m sorry that I can’t describe it in more detail, if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Budva for a day of simply enjoying the tranquility of the sea and delicious food, premium wine, you should give it a try!

Here is the detail information about it including a phone number and address.

Oyster Farm Školjke Boke Address: 291 E65, Dobrota, Montenegro Hours: 1–7PM Phone: +382 69 496 606

What to do at Skoljke Boke oyster farm?

Of course… eat oysters.

There are fresh oysters here, delicious! They picked it up straight from the sea, peeled off the shells and put it on a rock. You just need to eat, fresh, delectable and cheap. Price is 1.5 euros for 1 oyster. We order 2 times, 1 time of 10, 1 time 6 or 7 oysters, something like that (for that prosperous night). Very worth it.

Westerners pass on the experience of eating oysters in the months with the letter “R” in the month’s name, that is, January (January), February (February), March (March), April (April), September (September), October (October), November (November) and December (December). These months are cold, oysters store fat, so they will be fatter, greasy and sweeter. While it is hot from May to August, oysters are quite thin.

Just hearing it doesn’t feel very convenient, because everyone doesn’t go to summer. The good news for you is that the sea is cold here, although the oysters are not fat, they are quite juicy and delicious, but not boring!

Besides oysters, there are also vongole. This is also a family with shells, which look like clams but black shells, are parasitic on rocks, thick and very tasty meat, the love of the Mediterranean countries, especially in Italy when it perfect pair with spaghetti. They sold by the pound here. We only ate oysters, didn’t try vongole, but it was still very fresh.

These sisters ​​are delicious when they are fresh. Oysters only need a little lemon juice to be ecstatic. Vongole is boiled and then squeezed lemon is the 1 kg gone in “one note”. Also here they sell local white wine, it’s very good to drink! Each bottle costs around 7 euros, not expensive not cheap. One bottle for two people is enough.

When you get there, just follow the stairs down to see the farm. The farm owner could be there then. We walked around for a while before they appeared. Just ask the amount of food you want and then sit at the table or go to the beach to try!

Go to the beach!

Right next to this oyster farm is a very very mini pebble beach, only 3 4 people sitting in is tight. A little further is the open-air toilet. Peeing looking at the immense sea, the feeling is very funny. My friend who made stories on Insta showed off it, very cure, haha.

Grab your ass and you can swim there. That beach they spread a few pairs of chairs. But if someone comes first, it’s fine. We arrived early to capture a beautiful place, just lounging, sunbathing, swimming in the sea, eating oysters and drinking wine. Very good!

In fact, the farm is tiny, not much to explore, mainly for those who like to relax and have more options to do to avoid hanging around with activities popular with tourists in Budva. Considering that, you could easily spend an entire afternoon here.

How to get back?

Going back is simpler… a little bit. There is a bus stop not far away, (according to legend) there is a bus back either Kotor or Budva. However, whether that bus passed or not is still to be considered… That time we waited patiently at the station with another backpacking couple for almost an hour but no bus passed. In the end, all four of us teamed up to hire a local driver to take them back to Kotor . That time each paid 5, 7 euros or something, I don’t remember clearly. But this is a warning that: as confusing as the way to go, the way back is equally ambiguous.

So if you decide to go, consider all the events! But anyway, I hope you try and experience this place. A Budva’s secret gem!

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Montenegro you can refer to

• Bay of Kotor Whole Day Tour in Montenegro from Dubrovnik
• The Best of Montenegro Day Tour from Dubrovnik
• Montenegro Day Tour from Dubrovnik

Read more Montenegro guide here .

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29 Fun Things to Do in Budva, Montenegro

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Set right on the Adriatic coast, Budva is Montenegro’s most popular destination. As you wander through its winding streets and past medieval walls, you’ll discover how this quiet city seamlessly mixes a long history that goes back over 2,500 years with new experiences, great art, and modern cuisine.

In addition to sun-soaked beaches and waters perfect for sports and adventures, Buda is also home to a vibrant nightlife, museums, and even ancient ruins. For those wanting to explore Montenegro’s beautiful nature, there are also plenty of canyons, mountains, and rivers just minutes outside the city.

Whether you want to soak up some sun, dance the night away, or discover ancient history, there’s no shortage of things to do in Budva .

1 – Wander through the enchanting Budva Old Town

Explore the charming streets of the Old Town when looking for things to do in Budva. Over 2000 years old, the Budva Old Town is a beautiful medieval area filled with a maze of narrow cobbled alleys and old stone houses. Walking tours in Budva often start or at least stop in the Old Town so visitors can learn more about the area’s rich history and culture.

The Old Town’s ancient walls are still standing and provide a great introduction to the centuries-old city. Once through the city gates, you’ll find plenty of cafes, boutiques, and galleries to keep you entertained. The 7th-century Church of Sveti Ivan (St. Ivan) is located here, and so is the citadel and a number of other magnificent old buildings.

The Old Town also sits against the sea (there’s even a small beach on the side of the citadel) and you can access beautiful views over the water from inside the church’s tower.

• walking tours in Budva

2 – Explore the historic Budva Citadel

The Citadel, with its rich history, awaits those seeking cultural things to do in Budva. Built atop a rocky peninsula, the ancient citadel dates back to the medieval period, though it’s been modified and rebuilt over the years. Today, you can still see sections of the former barracks, the original gates, and ruins of the fortress walls.

Visitors can explore the small on-site museum retelling the history of the citadel and the area around it or sit at the on-site restaurant serving traditional local food and snacks. There’s also a library, which contains rare books and manuscripts. The main attraction, however, is the observation deck, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and Budva’s Old Town.

Every July and August, the citadel hosts the “City Theater” festival, where theatrical performances, concerts, and other cultural and artistic events transform the ancient construction into a work of art.

3 – Seek serenity at the Church of Sveti Ivan

Also known as the Church of St. John, the Church of Sveti Ivan was built in the 7th century and is now one of the most prominent landmarks in Budva. At the heart of Budva’s Old Town, the church has undergone numerous renovations and changes throughout the centuries. Despite showing Romanesque, Byzantine, and Gothic architectural styles, the current structure was mostly rebuilt during the 15th century.

The church’s inside is decorated with colorful frescoes, ancient icons like the 18th-century Madonna in Punta, and manuscripts. Outside, the imposing bell tower makes the church a recognizable landmark in the Old Town and a perfect spot for photos.

• city tours in Budva

4 – Marvel at the graceful Budva Ballerina

The Budva Ballerina, also known as the Budva Dancing Girl statue, is a bronze statue of a ballerina frozen in a graceful pose. It’s located on the shoreline of Mogren Beach, right against a background of clear blue waters — the perfect spot for photos.

Legend goes sculptor Gradimir Aleksich was inspired by a few local legends to create the famous statue — stories about lost love, a young woman falling into the sea, and a broken-hearted woman dancing while waiting for a sailor who never returned.

No matter which story you choose to believe, this ballerina dancing on the edge of the Adriatic Sea is a must-see. For even more stunning photos, stop by at sunset time.

5 – Paddle through waves with a kayaking adventure

Among the more adventurous things to do in Budva is exploring the hidden coves and caves on a kayaking tour. Budva’s beautiful coastline and crystal-clear waters offer the ideal backdrop for a kayaking adventure — no matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned kayaker.

Along the coast, kayakers can venture close to hidden coves and rocky outcrops or just paddle downstream to enjoy panoramic views of the town and its historical landmarks. For a unique experience, join a night kayaking tour . Kayaking under the moonlight and twinkling stars is magical on its own, but guided tours will also take you to areas where bioluminescent organisms make the experience even more stunning.

Whether it’s a short paddle, a longer adventure braving the waves, or a nocturnal excursion, kayaking in Budva is a great way to discover a different side of Montenegro’s coastal jewel.

• kayaking in Budva

6 – Bask on the best beaches of the Budva Riviera

If you’re seeking relaxation, the beautiful beaches offer a perfect escape and rank high among things to do in Budva.

Budva’s most famous beach is probably Jaz Beach, which spans just half a mile. In addition to being a favorite among sunbathers, it also hosts many music festivals and summer events and hosts water sports facilities.

Spanning over 1.2 miles, Becici Beach is one of Budva’s largest beaches. A pebble-sand shoreline with sun loungers and parasols, Becici Beach also provides easy access to a number of cafes and food stands. Also in the heart of Budva is Old Town Beach, which extends to the side of the city walls. Although only about 500 feet long, its central location makes it a very popular summer destination.

If you prefer a more intimate space, you will love Mogren 2. Stretching about 350 feet, this quiet beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs has basic amenities but plenty of privacy.

7 – Soar the skies while paragliding in Budva

Seeking a unique experience? Paragliding over the coastal landscape is one of the adrenaline-pumping things to do in Budva. The stunning landscapes of the Adriatic coastline are a popular destination for paragliding — not only because of the great views but also because of optimal flying conditions.

A favorite paragliding location for both novice and seasoned paragliders is Becici Beach, where thrill-seekers can glide over the golden sands and turquoise waters. The coastal town of Petrovac is another popular paragliding destination — it’s filled with historical sites and scenic bays that will provide an unforgettable flight. And so is Kotor Bay, where dramatic fjord-like cliffs and stronger winds make for a more intense experience.

There are plenty of guided tours departing from Budva to these unique paragliding destinations. Most places offer tandem paragliding, so you can be soaring in the sky within minutes, even if you’ve never tried it before.

• paragliding in Budva

8 – Set sail to the picturesque Sveti Nikola Island

Sveti Nikola Island is located just half a mile off the coast of Budva. Surrounded by the beautiful deep blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, the island spans an area of 89 acres and it’s well-known for a stunning mix of golden beaches and lush greenery.

Sveti Nikola Island’s only residents are deer, and it’s not possible to stay overnight or camp here. Most visitors arrive as a part of a day tour or on a rented barge, though it’s technically possible to kayak to the island if you want to enjoy a few hours under the sun.

Once on the island, you can snorkel and dive in the crystal-clear waters around it. A small restaurant also serves daytime visitors. For those wishing to explore the scenic landscapes, there are plenty of beautiful corners and local fauna to discover.

9 – Revel in nature’s beauty at Skadar Lake

A short drive away from Budva, Skadar Lake is the largest lake in the Southern Europe region. Famous for its unique biodiversity, the lake is a paradise for birdwatchers — over 270 bird species, including the rare Dalmatian pelican, live here.

The lake is surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges and traditional fishing villages and filled with over 200 islands and inlets. This creates a picturesque backdrop for many water activities, including boat cruises , swimming, and kayaking.

Guided tours are a great way to explore the lake too, as they stop at points of interest and provide insight into the beauty and history of the area.

• Skadar Lake tours from Budva

10 – Splash and play at Aquapark Budva

This massive waterpark just outside Budva offers thrilling experiences for visitors of all ages. A bus stop departs every day from the Old Town directly to the park.

Aquapark Budva is home to seven slides that twist and shake riders before dropping them into a pool below. Adrenaline seekers shouldn’t miss the Kamikaze slide, a steep ride and drop at a heart-pounding 50 miles per hour. For a beach-like experience, there’s a large wave pool and a Lazy River provides a gentle, winding float.

A dedicated Kids’ Zone, complete with mini slides and splash areas, will keep the younger visitors entertained. The park also offers a number of food areas and lounges if you need a break from the water.

11 – Hike the scenic Seven Bay Trail

Whether you’re an avid hiker or just want to explore the outdoors for a little while, the Seven Bay Trail is a nature lover’s dream. The 12-mile-long Seven Bays Trail runs along the Montenegrin coastline, crossing through lush pine forests, golden beaches, and rough, rocky terrain.

Hikers can join the trail right from Budva, walking over moderately challenging terrain with stunning views around every corner. If you’re up for breaks along the way, bring a picnic and take a break on the sand or under a tree.

Along the way, you’ll also catch sight of Sveti Stefan, a historic island turned luxury beach resort. In addition to beautiful beaches against the deep blue of the Adriatic, the island also offers access to the historical Praskvica Orthodox monastery.

12 – Dive into history at the Museum of the City of Budva

Located in the heart of the Old Town in a 19th-century building, the Museum of the City of Budva focuses on the city’s history and heritage. Originally created to house archaeological finds in the area, the museum has now grown to also house glass, ceramics, and bronze from the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations that once inhabited the area.

One of the museum’s highlights is its collection of ancient pottery and Hellenic gold, as well as a large collection of ethnographic objects from the 18th century. Jewellery, ornaments, tools, and silver dishes complete the many artifacts on display.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, often focused on local artists. Although small, the museum is a great place to hide from the rain and discover a bit of ancient Budva in the process.

13 – Discover underground wonders at Lipa Cave

Located near the town of Cetinje, Lipa Cave is actually a massive system of caves — 1.6 miles of passages, chambers, and halls filled with limestone formations. Lipa is currently the only cave in Montenegro that’s officially open to tourists.

Set up with colorful, ethereal lights and organized with easy-to-follow paths, the cave provides access to an underground river and beautiful underground spaces. Guided tours are available for those who want to get a deeper understanding of the cave’s history and geology.

Combine a visit to the cave with an exploration of Cetinje, a charming historic town and the former royal capital of Montenegro.

• Lipa Cave tours from Budva

14 – Unearth military history at Jaz Battery, Fort Mogren

If you’re up for a bit of a climb, the Jaz Battery, Fort Mogren is a significant historical site. Once a military fortification designed to protect the area from naval attacks, the battery and fort still guard the entrance to Budva’s old town.

Built on a steep cliff, the ruins of the 1860s fort are now best known for offering breathtaking views over the Adriatic Sea. For those visiting, however, the weathered walls are also a great reason to explore around — especially since access is free.

The ruins haven’t been maintained and there are no informational plaques or anything to give you a glimpse into their history, so make sure you read about it in advance before you visit.

15 – Reflect at the historic Podmaine Monastery

The 15th-century Podmaine Monastery (also known as Podostrog) offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life. The Serbian Orthodox monastery actually contains two different churches as well as a bell tower, all displaying beautiful frescoes and iconography.

Many of the original frescoes in the churches were destroyed when the monastery burned down in 1869, so much of what you see today are new paintings added after the last reconstruction. The new frescoes and religious icons throughout the monastery depict a mix of biblical scenes and religious symbols. There’s also a carved water tank (bistierna) inside one of the churches.

Visitors can enjoy the well-maintained gardens and surroundings, as well as tour the buildings and attend events within the monastery throughout the year.

16 – Ride the rapids with a thrilling rafting excursion

Budva’s great location right on the Adriatic coast means there are plenty of opportunities for thrilling rafting experiences available. It’s the Tara River, however, that’s the centerpiece of Montenegro’s rafting scene. Nestled in the heart of the deepest canyon in Europe, the Tara River offers a wild rafting experience that works for both both beginners and seasoned rafting enthusiasts.

Plenty of companies offer rafting guided trips, so you can let others do the planning (and the driving. With a tour, you don’t have to worry about rentals or moving the necessary equipment — companies will provide everything you need, including safety tips and instructions if this is your first time in the water.

• rafting near Budva

17 – Explore ancient culture at the ruins of Ruins of Roman-era Necropolis

Discovered during the 1930s during the construction of a local hotel, the ruins of the Roman-era Necropolis date back over 2,500 years and are one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast.

A mix of burial structures, tombs, and artifacts, the ruins offer a captivating insight into the funerary practices of the ancient local inhabitants. Although most of the artifacts (including pottery, jewelry, and coins) have been moved to the Budva City Museum, you can still visit the remnants of several graves from Roman times.

This is a small site and better visited if you’re in the area for something else — the Modern Gallery of Art and Budva Beach are both just minutes away.

18 – Experience the cultural charm of Cetinje

Located about 22 miles from Budva, Cetinje is considered Montenegro’s cultural and spiritual center. If you’re visiting for just a day, there are plenty of remarkable historical landmarks worth a visit. The medieval Cetinje Monastery should be your first stop, but the 15th-century Vlaška Church (built in 1450 ), the Montenegrin Royal Palace of Nicholas I, and the Royal Theater.

The National Museum of Montenegro, also located here, houses an impressive collection that includes ethnographic artifacts, works of art, and historical items. Visitors can also stop by the Biljarda Palace, a formal royal residence that looks like a fortified feudal castle. Currently managed by the National Museum, the palace is open to visitors, who can turn the rooms and see original art and furniture.

• Cetinje tours from Budva

19 – Admire contemporary art at Jovo Ivanovic Modern Gallery

Named after renowned Montenegrin artist Jovo Ivanovic, the Jovo Ivanovic Modern Gallery showcases mainly contemporary art with an emphasis on artists from Montenegro and neighboring Yugoslavia.

The gallery’s collection includes paintings, watercolors, drawings, photography, and sculptures. which mainly have been gathered in collections as gifts to the country. The gallery also has a particularly large collection called Modern Expressionists, which features abstract and figurative art.

The gallery also works to showcase emerging talents through temporary exhibitions. There are also educational programs, guided tours, and interactive workshops available, where visitors can engage with artists, open artistic dialogue, and even take their first steps into creating art.

20 – Make a splash at Aqua Park Mediteran

A visit to Aqua Park Mediteran provides a fun-filled family day out and is a top choice for things to do in Budva. Montenegro’s newest water park is part of Hotel & Resort Mediteran. Those looking to beat the summer heat will appreciate the park’s large space filled with palm trees, rides, slides, and attractions.

From exhilarating water slides that twist and turn to lazy rivers and an impressive seven pools, Aqua Park Mediteran has something for everybody — young and old, thrill-seekers and those looking for relaxation. Children have their own areas to splash around, including kiddie pools with miniature slides.

Plenty of sunbathing areas and numerous bars and restaurants are waiting to be discovered for those looking to unwind out of the water.

21 – Glide across the water with paddleboarding

The Adriatic Sea’s natural beauty and tranquil serenity are the perfect setup for a paddleboarding adventure. For those who want to make the most of it, you can join a guided paddleboarding tour of the enchanting Blue Cave, known for its turquoise waters and geological beauty. There are other hidden coves and plenty of rugged coastlines to explore in the area as well.

If you would rather explore on your own, you can also rent a paddleboard and set off to discover the beauty of Budva on your own. Rental shops cater to both beginners and seasoned paddleboarders, and many will offer mini lessons to help you get started so you can feel comfortable in the water.

• paddleboarding in Budva

22 – Experience authentic Montenegro in Krapina Village

If you’re eager to discover Montenegrou’s rural charm, a day trip to Krapina Village will provide the perfect escape. Nestled in the serene countryside, Krapina Village offers a window into Montenegro’s traditional way of life and rich cultural heritage.

The village’s narrow, winding streets are lined up with old homes, shops selling traditional crafts, and small cafes and restaurants serving regional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Krapina’s church is worth a visit too — simple yet beautiful, the church is also an important community center.

The stunning Krapina Canyon nearby should be on your list too when visiting. The steep cliffs and crystal-clear waters are a favorite destination for hikers and those looking for a canyoning adventure.

23 – Party at Budva’s best beach clubs

Budva is home to some of the most luxurious beach clubs along the Adriatic Sea.

Beach Club Torch takes things up a notch by adding Mediterranean cuisine and plush cabanas during the day. At night, the club comes alive with live music and international DJ.

For the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity, try the Dukley Beach Club & Dukley Beach Lounge , both part of the exclusive Dukley Hotel & Resort. In addition to fine wines and sunbeds overlooking the blue sea, the club and lounge also offer gourmet dishes and great music.

24 – Explore the hidden depths of the Blue Cave

A thrilling addition to things to do in Budva includes joining a guided shore excursion to explore coastal gems — especially a tour with a stop at the famous Blue Cave. The Blue Cave is one of Budva’s best-known natural attractions. Located in the Lustica peninsula, the cave is a short boat ride away from Budva — a perfect day trip for those who want to enjoy some time in the water. The cave can only be reached by boat. You can kayak to it or join a boat ride — either way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the rugged coastline on your way there.

The cave gets its name from the beautiful blue glow that covers the entire cavern interior, created when the sun reflects on the crystal-clear waters. It’s an incredible visual experience that you have to see to believe, so make sure you bring a camera with you.

The entrance to the cave is small and tight and can only be accessed with very small boats or by swimming into it.

• Blue Cave tours from Budva

25 – Indulge in culinary delights at Budva’s best restaurants

Montenegro’s cuisine is a fun mix of Mediterranean and Continental flavors, famous for its meat dishes like Ćevapi (grilled minced meat served with bread) and its njeguški sir sheep’s milk cheese.

For a taste of Montenegrin cuisine, start at Konoba Stari Grad restaurant. Serving a mix of seafood, rich stews, and homemade cheeses, it’s like taking a step back in time. For a more modern gastronomic twist, try Smsom, which mixes local ingredients with international flavors. Famous for its deserts, Smsom also serves a popular beetroot risotto.

Kužina (which means “kitchen”) serves “food that reminds you of your childhood.” This includes everything from slow-roasted vegetables to thick stews. Finally, there’s the fun Mercur, which comes with its own private garden and is famous for its meat dishes, including pljeskavica (minced meat with onions and spices).

26 – Dance by the sea at the Sea Dance Festival

A massive music festival held every July or August, the Sea Dance Festival attracts over 40,000 people for two days packed with concerts, performances, and non-stop energy. Both local and international bands and DJs from all over Europe perform here.

Up until 2022, Sea Dance Festival was hosted on different beaches in Montenegro, including the famous Jazz Beach in Budva. Starting in 2023, however, the festival is moving to the neighboring island of Krk, the largest island in Croatia.

The new stage, right on the golden sands of Krk, will also see stars from other parts of the world, including well-known DJs from the US, Brazil, and the UK, and masters of the world electronic scene like Paul Kalkbrenner and Nina Kraviz.

27 – Savor local flavors on a wine tour

Montenegro has a long wine-making tradition, and the area around Budva — with mild weather and rich soil —offers plenty of opportunities to sample some of the finest local wines.

One of the most popular destinations for wine enthusiasts is Rijeka Crnojevića, where traditional wineries offer a chance to learn about indigenous grape varieties while tasting regional wines and brandies.

One of the largest vineyards in Europe, Ćemovsko field, is also located here. Visitors can stroll among the vines here, as well as witness firsthand the skill that go into every bottle. Many tours also include guided tastings, where experienced sommeliers are in hand to explain the unique characteristics of local wines.

• wine tours from Budva

28 – Experience the vibrant nightlife in Budva

Things to do in Budva are not limited to the daytime — the vibrant nightlife offers entertainment long after the sun sets.

One of the most famous clubs in the Balkans, Top Hill is a massive venue that can fit thousands of dancers and partygoers. In addition to offering panoramic city views, Top Hill also hosts international DJs and a state-of-the-art sound system perfect for the club’s electronic, house, and pop music nights.

Another place to party the night away is Omnia Night Club, which blends live performances, DJ nights, and cutting-edge light shows.

For a more relaxed night out, try Old Fisherman’s Pub, where you can relax with a drink while listening to live music in a cozy, intimate setting. Casper Bar gets points for location (it’s in the heart of Budva’s old town) but also for its mix of contemporary and classic tunes and great outdoor seating.

29 – Try your luck at Budva’s exciting casinos

There are four major casinos in Budva, catering to both novices and seasoned gamblers as well as offering great entertainment and luxury.

Located inside the five-star Splendid Conference & SPA Resort, Merit Casino Royal Splendid is the most upscale casino in Budva. In addition to gaming tables and slot machines, Merit also offers stunning panoramic sea views and table-side dining.

Just minutes away is the Merit Casino Avala. With over 100 state-of-the-art gaming machines and a number of gaming tables (including different types of poker), the casino will keep you busy for hours. There’s also a restaurant and bar on the premises for when you need a little break.

The Maestral Resorts and Casino is another must-visit. It features the hottest slot games in the market, roulette tables, poker, high-stakes games, and tournaments. Maestral is also the best casino option if you want to enjoy live entertainment — it regularly hosts concerts, shows, and music.

Lastly, there’s the Falkensteiner Casino Queen. Although small, it offers an elegant gaming atmosphere for a quick round or two of your favorite games.

How to get to Budva?

Budva’s main arrival point is Tivat Airport, located about 13 miles away from the city. From there, you can get to the city through taxis or buses, though public transportation can be complicated during the busy summer season. Airport transfers in Budva are a better option for a stress-free, more comfortable ride

After you settle down in your hotel, shore excursions in Budva provide an excellent way to explore the beautiful coastline. These excursions often include boat tours and guided visits to nearby attractions for a unique opportunity to discover the breathtaking beauty of Budva.

Where to stay in Budva?

Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Avala Resort & Villas offers sleek, contemporary rooms with plenty of charm. It also packs on the amenities with its very own spa, pools, and gourmet restaurants. The 5-star Hotel Splendid Conference & Spa Resort is another beachfront property full of luxurious details, a world-class spa, and a mix of dining options that will please every palate.

If you’re looking for something more central, Hotel Astoria is located within the Old Town walls. In addition to amenities like a lounge bar, Hotel Astoria also offers chic, modern rooms with plenty of luxurious details.

For a mix of relaxation and entertainment, try the Maestral Resort & Casino , where guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a casino, and fine dining options.

• best hotels in Budva

Visiting Budva on a budget?

Hoping to explore Budva without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! The city offers plenty of budget options, including affordable hotels, markets selling great snacks and pocket-friendly lunches, and lots of free attractions.

Make sure to join one of the free walking tours in Budva too. It’s a fantastic way to discover the city’s charm without spending a cent.

Where to go next?

Budva is the perfect place to start exploring the Balkan region, but there’s a lot more to see beyond Montenegro’s borders. Multi-day trips from Budva are captivating for those looking to discover more of the country. For example, you can explore Northern Montenegro with a three-day tour that takes you to the country’s majestic mountains and deep canyons.

There are many fun things to do in Kotor as well. Just a short drive from Budva, this UNESCO-protected town is filled with beautiful cobblestone streets and historic churches.

To see more of the Balkans, head to Dubrovnik , Croatia, next, where the majestic city walls and historic center give you a taste of what this ancient city offers. Sarajevo , Bosnia, and Herzegovina’s capital, is the place to be to learn more about the Balkan’s Ottoman past. If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife and grand architecture, there’s also Tirana , Albania.

Final thoughts

The enchanting coastal town of Budva has plenty to offer to visitors. From its medieval Old Town streets to outdoor adventures to museums and historical churches, the list of things to do in Budva goes on and on.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or history, Budva’s vibrant atmosphere will inspire you to walk its ancient streets for days. Both solo travelers and those traveling in groups or with family will find Budva’s charm hard to resist. Not only is the city a budget-friendly destination, but it also showcases the best that Montenegro has to offer, including great food, fun attractions, and beautiful outdoor spaces.

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Of Montenegro’s seemingly never-ending chain of picturesque coastal towns, Budva is by far the most popular. Filled to the brim with bars, restaurants and limestone houses, its Old Town is almost as pretty as the one in nearby Kotor, and there’s plenty of fun to be had on the beaches, as well as at the seafront bars which pop up in the summer.

Beaches and islands

Eating, drinking and nightlife, the old town, sveti stefan, water activities in budva.

Budva’s focal point is the Old Town – more of a place to stroll and sip coffee than sightsee – though most travellers are here for the beaches , and there are plenty to choose from.

Travel ideas for Montenegro, created by local experts

17 days  / from 3401 USD

Balkan Puzzle

A visit to the Balkans is an incredible experience, get ready for memorable flavours of the traditional cuisine and hospitable locals while you explore the sights: stunning panoramic views, tiny to the Adriatic coastline, idyllic and fertile valleys, pristine rivers and lakes.

7 days  / from 1755 USD

A Montenegro Adventure

This is exactly what it sounds like - a trip that will take you across the small, yet magical country of Montenegro and allow you to explore its beauty from the stunning coast on the South, to the mountains and lakes on the North.

9 days  / from 1965 USD

Epic Montenegro

Do you want to experience the joy, both of simple mountain life as well as the modern, luxurious spirit of the coast, then Montenegro is just the right place for you! Enjoy rafting, canyons, national parks and old towns and make your trip unforgettable.

10 days  / from 2327 USD

Southern Pearls

This ten-day trip will take you around three adjacent countries, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Your tour starts in Split, Croatia, moving south (hence the name "Southern Pearls") over the island of Hvar and Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina to end up in Montenegro.

14 days  / from 2807 USD

Serbia & Montenegro

If you are curious and looking for a remarkable journey filled with true wilderness, lovely people and life-changing adventures then Serbia & Montenegro are a must-visit! Enjoy the diverse UNESCO sites, glorious mountain peaks and crystal blue waters during this exciting 14-day trip.

13 days  / from 3153 USD

Balkan Extended

The Balkan Extended tour truly showcases the finest of Balkan’s heritage and natural beauty as you make your way through the 5 countries. Learn about the Serbian Athens, climb the splendid Old Bridge in Mostar, observe Slovenia's water castle and dive into the pearl of Croatia's beauty in Istria.

If you’re not met at the bus station – you almost certainly will be in summer – your best option for private rooms is to head to Ata ( t 033/452000, w www.adria.travel ) in the Old Town who can make bookings for €15–35/room.

The main beach, Slovenska Plaža , curls a few pebbly kilometres east from the Old Town, but far nicer are the sandy Mogren beaches, west of the Old Town, which attract a more youthful crowd. Better still is the beach on uninhabited Sveti Nikola Island , which you’ll see jutting up offshore. In summer, regular water taxis will shuttle you across, though you’ll have to haggle – prices start at €5 for the boat.

You’ll be able to fill up on €1 slices of pizza around the Old Town. On summer evenings Budva can be quite wild, especially the open-air bars dotting the harbour road – pole-dancers, rakija and Russian tourists are a potent mix.

The highlight of the Old Town is the area around the Church of the Holy Trinity , itself home to frescoes that, while far from ancient, are rather beautiful. Looming over this is the fifteenth-century citadel , which offers splendid views of the Adriatic waves pummelling in. Still, you’re best advised to save your money and try to hunt down the entrances to the Old City wall , which boasts even better views. There are only two of these, meaning that almost no tourists ever get up there – one is just to the left when you enter through the Terra Ferita gate, and the other is an alley off Hong Kong restaurant. Also in the Old Town are the Town Museum , which houses Greek and Roman booty from the ruins being unearthed beneath the citadel, and a Museum of Modern Art .

A few kilometres south of Budva (most easily accessed by taxi), and visible from the road if you’re heading to or from Bar, is the incredibly picturesque island of Sveti Stefan , an old fishing village fishscaled with orange roofs. It’s now cordoned off as luxury accommodation, but never mind – all the tourist brochure shots are taken from the road anyway, and you can do the same for free.

The Watersports Centre on Slovenska Plaža, the main beach, is the place to head for all kinds of watery fun. Jetskis and parasailing are on offer for the adventurous (€60/hr), while kayaks and pedaloes are a calmer option (€3–5/hr).

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The Ultimate Budva, Montenegro Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know About This Riviera Gem

Laidback, fun, and luxurious, Budva is often called “ The Miami of Montenegro ” — and for good reason!

Although the city is associated with clubs and nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Budva ! For example, the city has a sprawling Old Town overlooking the Adriatic Sea, as well as dozens of beaches, a charming seaside promenade, and chic cafes to cool off during the afternoon.

If you want to live the good life, then Budva is definitely calling your name. Check out my Budva travel guide and I’m sure you’ll want to add it to your itinerary ! 

PSA: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book something through them. This is at no cost to you and helps keep this site running. Thank you! 

BUDVA CITY GUIDE Perfect for … The nightlife capital  💃 An Old Town to rival Kotor’s 🏰 Plenty of beaches 🏖

Each country has its own place to go all out and party: there’s Ibiza in Spain, Pattaya in Thailand, Las Vegas in the United States… You get my point.

Of course, Montenegro is no exception! With names like Omnia nightclub, the Sea Dance Festival (voted one of the Top 10 Europe Summer Festivals by Forbes!), and Top Hill, Budva is  the  place for nightlife .

In fact, I wasn’t too keen on adding Budva to our itinerary because we aren’t party people, but I’m glad I changed my mind. Although Budva might be primarily associated with nightlife, it’s much more than that!

Even if you don’t plan to go out past 9 PM, there’s still a ton of things to do. We spent the first day walking around and admiring the walls of Budva’s Old Town — it’s more than 2,500 years old! — and checking out Sveti Stefan the day after. Of course, there were plenty of cafes, seaside strolls , shopping, and visits to museums in between. 

How many days do I need in Budva?

One or two days is plenty if Budva is part of a larger itinerary. However, Budva is an excellent ‘home base’ if you want to explore the rest of Montenegro but want to stay in one place. 

Prefer something with a touch of luxury? There are also all-inclusive resorts all along the Montenegrin Riviera — I have plenty of recommendations below :)

HOW TO GET TO BUDVA 

If Budva is your first destination in Montenegro, I recommend flying to Tivat airport (TIV) — from there, it’s a short drive to the city of Budva. For those flying into Montenegro’s second airport, Podgorica (TGD), it’s a bit further out and takes a little over an hour to get to Budva. Make sure to choose wisely when booking your airline tickets . :)  

Traveling to Budva from other cities? Thanks to its central location, Budva can be accessed from virtually any city in Montenegro. Here are some examples so that you can see the distance and approximate travel time (by bus/car): 

Kotor to Budva — 26 mins | 23 km Tivat to Budva — 30 mins | 25 km Podgorica to Budva —1 hour 10 mins | 65 km Herceg Novi to Budva — 1 hour 20 mins | 66 km (Croatia) Dubrovnik to Budva — 2 hours 20 mins | 115km 

You can look up schedules on the www.busticket4.me and then buy tickets online or at the bus station. I recommend booking early (especially during the summer!) because Budva is a popular destination and tickets are often sold out. In fact, we had to wait for an hour because the bus we wanted to take to Budva was sold out.

Once you arrive in the city, Budva bus station is a 15 minute walk to the Old Town. 

TRANSPORTATION & GETTING AROUND BUDVA  

Although Budva is slightly larger than its sister city, Kotor , getting around Budva is still a breeze. The entire city can be explored on foot and it should take most people a leisurely 30 or 40 minutes to get from one end of the city to the other. 

If you want to stay close to all of the attractions, I recommend staying near the waterfront (i.e. anywhere from Budva Old Town to Slovenska Plaža) as that’s where all the action happens. 

Likewise, if you plan to visit the postcard-perfect Sveti Stefan, you can take an Olimpia Express  bus from the main street that runs outside the Old Town for 2.50 EUR one way. It also stops at Jaz Beach and Petrovac if you want to check them out too. :) 

WHAT TO DO IN BUDVA

Ahh, the age old question: What are some of the best things to do in Budva ? Although I originally thought that Budva was only good for nightlife and partying, it turns out that there’s so much more to this city! 

Get Lost in the Old Town

… And when I said ‘get lost’ in Budva’s Old Town, I really mean it: it feels like a maze once you’re deep inside! We spent around 30 minutes trying to find a specific store before realizing we were going in circles. 

Budva’s historical center is similar to Kotor’s Old Town but smaller and more compact: you’ll find plenty of explorable alleys that lead you to secret nooks and crannies, cobblestoned plazas to take a quick break, and fantastic finds in local boutique stores. 

If you’re wondering what to do in Budva’s Old Town, I recommend checking out the city museum (listed simply as Muzej on Google Maps), sitting in the plaza and checking out the nearby Saint Ivan Church, or relaxing on Old Town Beach. For amazing views, you can check out the Citadel.

The beauty of Budva’s Old Town is that you can spend hours slowly strolling around and taking in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the place. :) 

See the Famous Ballerina Statue

The quintessential symbol of the city, Budva’s Ballerina Statue has been featured on virtually every brochure and travel guide to the city. Funnily enough, people aren’t sure if she’s really a ballerina or actually a gymnast!

The statue has at least a dozen legends, including a story about a local gymnast who fell into the water and died, or a young couple who were playing near the water and the boy drowned. However, the most popular story is that of a young couple: the girl was a dancer and the boy was a sailor who had to sail one day on a mission. The girl waited by the water every day, hoping that he would return soon, but he never did.

Enjoy a night out and experience Budva nightlife

Of course, we can’t forget Budva’s legendary nightlife. As I mentioned in the beginning of this section, Budva is considered the party capital of Montenegro, especially during the summer season (June through August). Here are a few spots to check out if you want to spend a night out: 

🎉  Budva Old Town — Surprise, surprise! Although the Old Town is a great tourist attraction during the day, it’s also a fantastic place to pre-game or pub crawl during the evening as well. Get the party started at one of the pubs and bars found in the old town, or enjoy a quieter night out by drinking craft beer at the aptly-named Old Town Pub. 

🎉   Top Hill — Located at the top of a hill, you’ll need to take a taxi to get to this nightclub. However, this is one of Budva’s best nightclubs and definitely the place to go clubbing. 

🎉   Omnia Night Club — Although it doesn’t quite reach the status of the nightclub with the same name in Las Vegas, Omnia is located right in the center of Budva and often features top guest DJs. 

Travel tip: Most nightclubs in the Balkans don’t have a ‘dance floor’ per se. Instead, there are tables scattered around the club where you and your group can hang out, dance, and order drinks/food. 

… And then chill out on the beach

Thankfully, Budva has more than 30 beaches in its vicinity! Here are just a few of the top beaches in Budva to get you started:  

⛱   Jaz Beach — Located 6 km west of Budva is this lovely beach, which has 1.2 km of coastline and plenty of activities. It’s great for families or day trippers because there are cafes and restaurants nearby, plenty of parking, and kiosks where you can rent a paddleboat, kayak, or even a jet ski.

⛱   Richard’s Head Beach — Don’t want to spend time walking to far-off beaches? No problem – Richard’s Head beach is located right off to the side of Budva’s Old Town! Although it’s smaller than other beaches, it’s convenient to access and has everything you need (as well as being pet friendly).  

⛱   Becici Beach — Clear water, beautiful views, and convenient amenities – what’s not to like? If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to get here early and grab the best spot. 

Start off with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Smyrna ( Turkish cuisine ) before heading over to try a delicious bowl of Tom Yum soup at Taste of Asia ( Thai / Asian fusion cuisine ). For something a little closer to the Balkans, Restoran Sarajevo ( Bosnian cuisine ) makes mouth-watering ćevapčići (their national dish!), or for a taste of Russia, Alinka cafe. Heck, you can even try Californian cuisine at Bermuda cafe, which specializes in smoothies and healthy dishes. 

DAY TRIPS FROM BUDVA

Sveti Stefan — One of Montenegro’s famous attractions is the half-island of Sveti Stefan . It originally used to be a fishing village in the 15th century, fell into disrepair, and was renovated into a luxury resort. Sveti Stefan’s guest sheet reads like a list of celebrities, from famous actors to musicians, writers, sportsmen, and more. Who knows, maybe you might have shared the same room as Orson Welles, Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, or even Marilyn Monroe?

Although the actual grounds of Sveti Stefan are off limits to everybody except hotel guests (prices start around 800 EUR/night), you can take a paid walking tour or admire the islet from afar. There are plenty of fantastic viewpoints near the road to get that perfect shot, as well as mini hiking trails. 

Hawaii island — Did you know that you can visit the island of Hawaii without leaving Montenegro? That’s right! 

Located just one kilometer off the coast of Budva is Saint Nikola Island, or better yet known as Hawaii thanks to its blue waters and sandy beaches scattered around the island. You can catch a ferry to the island for around 3 EUR per person, and visit as a quick trip or spend an entire day exploring. 

WHERE TO STAY IN BUDVA ACCOMMODATIONS IN BUDVA

BUDVA HOSTELS

Freedom Hostel Budva — A hostel located in the old town, Freedom also offers day tours around the area and has bike rentals available. Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com    

Montenegro Hostel B&B Budva — This was the first ever hostel in Budva and is still going strong after a decade! Prices start at $9 for a bunk bed in a shared room, or a bit more for a private room. Best of all, the hostel is right in the center of Budva’s old town! Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com || Hotels.com  

HOTELS IN BUDVA

Anyway, back to business: Fontana is located steps away from the main beach and promenade, and has spacious rooms with fantastic views of the sea. Guests love the attention and high level of service from the employees, and, like the name mentions, the food here is delicious. Check Availability & Book @  Booking.com || Hotels.com  

Hotel Aleksandar Rafailovići — Want to feel like you’re living the posh lifestyle without paying the $$$ price tag? Voila! With amazing sea views, a private beach, and an upscale interior, Hotel Aleksandar feels like a high-end hotel but with a very moderate price. Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com  

Hotel Kadmo — Located in the center of Budva, Hotel Kadmo is a smaller family-run hotel with impeccable service. It’s great for families or romantic getaways, and breakfast is included. Tip: Book the Deluxe Suite with Sea View to have your own private terrace with jacuzzi! Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com || Hotels.com  

BUDVA LUXURY RESORTS

Boutique Hotel Vissi d’Arte — Phew, where do I even start? Vissi d’Arte is easily the best-rated hotel in this entire section (it has a 10/10 rating!) and is the epitome of luxury. There are plenty of high-end touches throughout the hotel, such as having a personal butler assigned to you, as well as gorgeous decor. In fact, one reviewer even noted that “the rooms are decorated better than a 5 star hotel, [and] the view leaves you speechless.” 

Each suite is equipped with premium beds from Hästens, as well as a personal balcony/terrace, luxury toiletries, and a complimentary breakfast every morning. Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com || Hotels.com    

La Villa Boutique Hotel — True to its name, La Villa is a lovely boutique hotel with only five suites and very cozy boho decor that’s reminiscent of the Budva riviera. 

Thanks to its small size, each guest gets personalized service from the staff from the moment they check in to the daily breakfast, concierge recommendations, and check-out. The hotel is located in the middle of Budva’s old town and features two in-house restaurants: a traditional Mediterranean restaurant called LaVilla and Asian cuisine at Shanghai. Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com || Hotels.com    

Avala Resort & Villas — For those who want to be close to Budva’s tourist attractions, it doesn’t get more central than Avala! Located just 50 meters from the Old Town, as well as some of Budva’s best beaches and the seaside promenade, Avala is a great choice if you want an ‘all in one’ hotel. Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com || Hotels.com  

Hotel Zeta — Although Zeta is a fantastic choice for any traveler visiting Budva, what really sets it apart is the beautiful view — as one reviewer noted, “[the] view from the room is one of the best I’ve ever seen.” 

Zeta also offers complimentary breakfast that’s made to order off the menu. For those craving peace and quiet, I highly recommend booking this hotel – it’s actually located in the small village of Rafailovici on the eastern end of Budva and has easy access if you want to visit Sveti Stefan. Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com || Hotels.com  

BUDVA APARTMENTS

This four-star villa in Budva offers different room options, from cozy studios to spacious one-bedroom apartments. Best of all, there’s an amazing pool and garden with jasmine flowers and exotic plants. Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com || Hotels.com

Marinero Apartments — From budget-friendly studios to private apartments with spa baths (seriously, check out the Duplex Two-Bedroom Apartment with Spa Bath, it’s jaw-dropping), Marinero has it all. 

The apartment is centrally located and is a 10-minute walk to Budva bus station and an 8-minute walk to the Old Town. It’s also fantastic for groups, especially because you can rent multiple apartments in the same building (or a whole apartment for smaller groups!) Check Availability & Book @ Agoda || Booking.com || Hotels.com  

See all accommodations in Budva here

WHERE TO EAT IN BUDVA

Bermuda Cafe – Located just outside of the old town, Bermuda Cafe is a cute tropical-style cafe that serves delicious sandwiches, brunch, smoothies, and more. 

Restoran Sarajevo – Hands down, one of the best restaurants in Budva. The waiter was so nice and guided us through the entire menu, which prepared us for the rest of our Balkans trip — we even tried our first ćevapčići here and were impressed with how juicy and flavorful it was. :) 

Forsage Gastro Lounge – A lovely upscale restaurant just outside the center of Budva, Forsage specializes in meat and seafood, and creates beautiful presentations for their dishes.  

Verde – Budget-friendly prices, vegan options available, and delicious street food. One reviewer even said, “don’t go to Greece for your gyros, go to Verde.” 

COFFEEMONKEY – A cozy cafe near the central mall that makes delicious coffee. There’s a children’s play area and a few tables that are work-friendly.  

USEFUL REFERENCES FOR TRAVELING TO MONTENEGRO

Looking for more information before your trip to Montenegro? I recommend the following websites that I personally used:

🛂 Need a visa to Montenegro ? Check out iVisa for more information . 

✈️ Once you have your visa all set, it’s time to book airline tickets ! I use both CheapOAir and SkyScanner to book flights.

🛏 Book accommodations on Booking or Hotels . These two offer fantastic options for every traveler, from hostels to hotels, apartments to penthouses, local guesthouses, and everything in between! 

✨  Speaking of amazing accommodations… I have an entire blog post dedicated to the best guesthouses, apartments, and Airbnbs in Montenegro !  

📷   Find tours, day trips, or sightseeing activities at Get Your Guide or Viator .  

❗️ One of the most popular day trips is the All Montenegro Tour .  This 12-hour tour gives you a taste of Montenegro as you enjoy breakfast at a local village, tour the Old Royal Capital, visit the birthplace of the Petrović dynasty, enjoy a boat ride through River Crnojevica, and finish the day with a panoramic view of the famous Sveti Stefan.

🚗 Prefer to carve out your own itinerary ? Rent a car through RentalCars.com, which has the biggest selection of car rentals and the company that I use whenever I rent a car.

🧳 Not sure what to pack ? I have an entire blog post that details what to pack for a trip to Montenegro for all four seasons! 

🇲🇪 Looking for even more information before traveling to Montenegro ? Check out my Ultimate Montenegro Travel Guide for everything you need to know before your trip OR 17 Montenegro Travel Tips for some bite-sized tips…

🇲🇪 … Or check out all of my blog posts on Montenegro here ! Happy travels :)

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Wow, I want to go to Budva. Thank you so much, very interesting blog.

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Home > 13 Things To Do In Budva Montenegro Travel Guide

13 Things To Do In Budva Montenegro Travel Guide

Written by our local expert Bram

Bram was born and raised in Belgium and has traveled the Balkans & beyond. He is a professional freelance travel writer and photographer specializing in outdoor travel with an emphasis on national parks, nature, and wildlife.

Budva is set in the middle of the coast of the Adriatic Sea, and it’s the center of tourism in the lovely place called Montenegro. Here is a list of things to do in Budva that show you why it is worth visiting the place that is called the Montenegrin Miami!

Budva, set in the middle of the coast of the shimmering Adriatic Sea in Montenegro , it’s the center of tourism in this small Balkan country .

Filled with restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops, there are plenty of things to do in Budva. After all, this is Montenegro’s most popular destination for beach holidays  and home to some of our favorite luxury hotels in the country !

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Best Things To Do In Budva

1. stari grad – the old town.

The absolute star of all Budva attractions is Stari Grad or the Old Town in English. A miniature version of Dubrovnik and one of the oldest towns along the Adriatic Coast (2,500 years old and counting!), this historic town is surrounded by fortified walls. It is home to cobbled streets and beautiful buildings. You can walk the town walls and visit historical sites such as the Citadel and numerous striking churches.

Exploring the Old Town of Budva is among the top things to do in Montenegro. The best Budva sightseeing happens here and nowhere else! It’s busy from early in the morning to well into the night and is a great place to eat and shop.

2. Citadel Fortress

As mentioned, when in Old Town, the Citadel is a historical place you’ll want to explore. The fortress is located on the highest point of Old Town, and while construction started in the 9th century, most of the remaining structure was built in the 15th century.

Today, the Citadel is home to a library, museum, and restaurant. The restaurant overlooks the water, so it’s a popular spot for dinner. Art and theater performances are also held on the Citadel grounds during summer.

3. Walk The Town Walls

Walk on the city walls for a truly unique view of Old Town and the sea. The cost to do so is 2 Euros, and you will find the entrance to walk the wall in two locations – near the Citadel and on the other side of Old Town.

4. Archaeological Museum

If you want to visit a museum in Budva, the Archaeological Museum is a superb choice. Encompassing three floors, this fascinating history museum retraces the complicated history of Budva in various exhibits. This is one of the best places to visit in Budva if you want to learn more about this ancient region’s culture and history.

5. Spend A Day At The Beach

If you ask people what to do in Budva Montenegro, almost everyone will say, “Go to the beaches.” the Budva Riviera, as this region is called, is home to nearly twenty beaches. It’s one of the absolute top beach destinations in the Balkans.

In the peak summer months, the Budva beaches are packed with sunbathers and dotted with beach towels, and the town’s harbor is filled with shiny yachts. This is one of the places where Europe’s rich and famous head to and show off their wealth and success—it’s a popular destination among wealthy Russians and Ukrainians.

Budva is the busiest town on the Montenegrin coast. After the sun has gone down at night, the seaside bars scrawl with young partiers, temptingly clothed women , and rich men. If you’re looking for a historic city to hit the beach and party the night away, this is where you should go.

• Mogren Beach
• Beach Greco
• Kamenovo Beach
• Becici Beach
• Przno Beach
• Slovenska Beach
• Old Town Beach

6. Podmaine Monastery

A little off the beaten path , the Podmaine Monastery is a less-often-mentioned attraction in Budva. A prominent family built the 15th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery, featuring two churches decorated with beautiful frescoes. It’s a great place to discover spirituality in this part of Montenegro .

7. Aquapark Budva

If you are traveling as a family, your kids will love Aquapark Budva. There’s something for everyone here: pools, waterslides, kid’s attractions, restaurants, and bars. 

The park is located on Mount Topolis and is open during summer. You can buy full-day and half-day passes depending on how long you want to stay.

8. The Ballerina Statue

Also known as the “Gymnast of Budva,” this bronze statue of a girl dancing can be found on the rocks by Mongren Beach. With the Old Town and the sea in the background, this statue makes for some lovely photos and has become an icon of the city.

Gradimir Aleksić, a sculptor from Belgrade, created the sculpture. The myth behind the dancer’s story is that she fell in love with a sailor who sailed off to make money for the couple to live on. She would wait by the sea for him each day, but he never returned until, sadly, one day, he was found dead on the rocks she now stands on.

9. Party At Top Hill

If you’re ready for a night of techno music, head to Topliš Hill, overlooking Budva, to this famous club. Known throughout Europe as the place to be, the club hosts famous DJs and can accommodate up to 5000 guests. 

The club is open during July and August.

10. Sveti Nikola

The island of Sveti Nikola lies only a kilometer from the Budva waterfront. This rocky island is home to a sheer cliff that rises 121 above the Adriatic waters. At the same time, other parts are home to wonderful sandy beaches , including three large beaches and numerous smaller ones.

The only permanent inhabitants of this wonderful island are deer, but there are a few human-made facilities. There is, for example, a restaurant, a small harbor, a concrete waterfront, and restrooms. Nicknamed “Hawaii Island,” it makes for a great day trip from Budva, especially after a quieter beach day.

Boats are available to transport visitors to this stunning island.

11. Sveti Stefan

Five kilometers (three miles) to the south of Budva lies Sveti Stefan. This unbelievably picturesque town is set on a peninsula and features 15th-century terracotta-roofed buildings. The whole town is now a luxury resort , but you can admire it from the mainland beach.

This photogenic town is one of the best day trips from Budva. You don’t even have to drive to get to Sveti Stefan from Budva! A seaside promenade between both places runs alongside beautiful beaches and through tiny coastal villages . On the way, you’ll find plenty of excellent swimming and sunbathing spots , great restaurants with sea views, and various places where you can enjoy the sunset.

12. Outdoor Adventures

Budva offers many outdoor activities like many other tourist destinations in Montenegro, including Lake Skadar, Durmitor National Park, and the Bay of Kotor . It may be, first and foremost, a hip and trendy seaside town, but adventure is always around the corner.

There are many different outdoor pursuits to quench your thirst for adventure, from hiking and cycling to diving , rafting, paragliding, and bungee jumping. The town is home to many tour operators and dive centers that offer excursions of all kinds.

If you want an alternative to the beach, head out on the water or immerse yourself in the region’s beautiful nature. Particularly, the nearby Brajiči Hills, which are basically behind Budva, are a popular paragliding starting point.

13. Eat & Drink In Budva

Casper Bar & Coffee Roastery 

In the middle of Old Town, this is an excellent stop for a glass of wine, craft beers, cocktails, and coffee drinks.

Enjoy your drinks in the outdoor courtyard while listening to DJs with chilled-out beats. 

If you love seafood, this is the place for you. This airy waterfront restaurant serves up some of the city’s best local fish and seafood dishes. The grilled meat entrees and the extensive wine and cocktail list are also highly recommended. 

Knoba Stari Grad

Old Town charm is on the menu here! This rustic setting is perfect for dining on traditional Montenegrin cuisine alongside specialty seafood dishes. 

Restaurant & Beach Bar Azzurro

For a fancy night out on a terrace overlooking the sea, Restaurant & Beach Bar Azzurro is an excellent choice. The restaurant is on Becici Beach and offers a variety of food choices, from pizza and pasta to seafood and Mediterranean dishes. 

Brands We Use And Trust

Where to stay in budva, ready to visit check out these top budva accommodations, geography and climate of budva.

Located on a peninsula that juts out into the Adriatic’s azure waters, Budva, with its fortified city walls and long, rich history, is historically one of the most important towns on the coast of the Balkans. Besides the peninsula, the local geography also features several islands and a bay.

The coast around Budva is no less than 21 kilometers (13 miles) long and has 17 beautiful beaches.

The combination of this many beaches and a downright superb climate is why this is Montenegro’s tourism epicenter.

The town enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate. With warm to hot summers, mild, comfortable winters, and no fewer than 230 days of sunshine, Budva is the perfect destination for a beach vacation .

What is Budva known for?

Budva is known for its beach scene along the Riviera and is home to an Old Town like Dubrovnik’s, just smaller.

How many days should I spend in Budva?

If you are looking for a beach holiday, Budva is a great destination to spend a week. However, if you’re hoping to see more Montenegro sites, 2-3 days are sufficient. 

What’s another good city to see nearby?

Combining both Budva and Kotor for a summer break is genuinely remarkable. Both are different and worth exploring. 

Is it expensive to visit Budva?

Budva isn’t cheap, yet it still becomes less expensive to visit than most places in the United States. During peak season (July), you can expect to pay anywhere from 50 Euros to 150 Euros per night. Meals will run 10 Euros to 25 Euros per person.

How can I get around in Budva?

Walking is easy in Budva, and most people can walk from one side of the city to another in 30 minutes or so. Buses and taxi boats are also available in the town if you choose to visit an island.

What should I eat in Budva?

Njegusi Proscuitto, Black Risotto, Burek , Ispod Saca and Cream Pie

History Of Budva

This area, however, is not only about the best beaches in Budva . The town’s well-filled history and its architecture are well worth exploring, too.

Strong archaeological evidence (see “things to do” below) shows that Budva is one of the Adriatic’s oldest human settlements. It’s been inhabited since as early as the 5th century BC. Greek colonization of the area started in the 4th century BC, and in the 2nd century BC, the area was incorporated into the ever-expanding Roman Empire.

After the fall of the once-mighty Roman Empire, Budva was ruled by various foreign empires, including the Byzantines, the Serbians, the Venetians, and the Habsburgs. After the collapse of Yugoslavia, Montenegro became independent in 2006. Budva quickly grew into the new country’s premier tourist destination.

Nowadays, Budva is somewhat of a cultural treasure chest. From Turkish to Austrian and Venetian influences, its various cultural and political influences have resulted in a town with stunning architecture and many monuments.

Because of its phenomenal beaches and magnificent harbor, Budva has been a tourist destination since the 1930s. Beach tourism in the area began with the arrival of the very first foreign tourists—affluent Czechs. The town remains a hugely popular beach destination in this part of Europe, visited by more than 650,000 tourists every year (which accounts for about 44% of all tourist visits in Montenegro, just in this small coastal town).

It’s grown into a modern, well-established town featuring beaches, cultural attractions, and fantastic nightlife. People visiting Montenegro nowadays will typically spend at least a day in Budva. Especially its vibrant party scene sets it apart from other tourist hotspots in the region, such as the Bay of Kotor and Dubrovnik .

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How To Get To Budva

Two major highways serve Budva. The E80 runs along the Adriatic Sea coast and connects Budva with Kotor in the north and Ulcinj in the south. The M2.3 is an inland highway running from Budva to the capital city of Podgorica .

Public transportation options from all major towns in Montenegro are also abundant. This is, after all, the nation’s biggest tourist destination.

• Guide To National Parks In Montenegro
• Coastal Villages And Towns In Montenegro
• Things To Do In Montenegro
• Things To Do In The Bay Of Kotor
• Best Beaches In Montenegro
• Fun Facts About Montenegro To Help Plan Your Travel
• Lake Skadar Montenegro: Exploring the Balkans’ Largest Lake
• The Bay of Kotor Montenegro Will Blow Your Socks Off – Here’s Why
• Buying A SIM Card In Montenegro
• Best Places To Visit In Montenegro
• Check Out Montenegro In Winter
• Things To Do In Montenegro For Every Type Of Traveler
• Fun Things To Do In Podgorica
• Durmitor National Park Hiking Adventures in Montenegro
• Bar To Belgrade Train

Comments (11)

Love the spots. So much appreciated. Thanks for this

Budva is becoming one of the most attractive location! All this lands are natural and uncontaminated! A paradise!

What a beautiful place. I would definitely love to go.

Wow, It is pretty nice place …. I do recommend it

Great spots. Budva is such a charming place to visit and its history is quite interesting to read.

After seeing these pictures i did reserved some space in my bucket list for this amazing place….How beautiful it is? Really addicted now….Urging to travel there… Thanks for sharing..

Budva looks super cool! I wish I had more time in Montenegro to check this place out. Now I’m regretting it.

That always happens to me too.. all the more reason to head back :D

Budva is outstanding, Bram! You included everything worth knowing about this amazing city.

Great post..! Thanks for sharing… This place is looks a dream land. The beautiful backdrops of the nature and the architectures make this place a heaven, really urges me to go there.

BEACH LIFE IS WHAT I WOULD GO FOR.

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15 Exciting Things to Do in Budva, Montenegro

Despite being famous as an aspiring party destination of this part of the Mediterranean, there is certainly a lot more to things to do in Budva other than just disco lights and nightclubs.

Situated on one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines, with its long and rich history as well as its grandiose architecture, Budva is, without any doubt, one of the tourist capitals of Montenegro.

Blessed with a harmonious mix of the stunning nature and impressive cultural heritage, Budva is definitely the right place for a dreamy Adriatic coastline getaway.

15 Best Things to Do in Budva

Travel back in time inside budva’s old town.

Dating back to the 5th century BC, the Old Town is Budva’s primary landmark with its immense historical, cultural, and architectural value. The ancient Old Town architecture reflects its long and tumultuous history, as Budva used to be a part of Ancient Rome, the Venetian Republic, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Getting lost in the narrow passages exploring the hidden treasures of this charming part of the town may feel a bit like time travel. It is possibly the best way to understand why Budva is one of the most attractive destinations on the Adriatic sea coastline.

The Old Town of Budva, which is a UNESCO-protected area, is home to numerous cultural monuments and attractions, churches, a grand fortress, art galleries, as well as authentic restaurants, open bars, cafes and adorable little courtyards that make this place look even more magical.

Take a glimpse at Budva’s panorama

On the edge of the Old Town settlement stands the unwavering and proud Fortress of St. Mary in Budva, better known as the Citadel fortress.

The turbulent history of the fortress goes back to the 15 th century when, according to the historical sources, it was utilized as a bastion whose main purpose was to store the ammunition and repel the attacks coming from the sea. Today, it represents a settlement of an enormous cultural and historical significance for both Budva and Montenegro.

Each year the fortress hosts plenty of events including numerous art festivals, exhibitions, and music concerts. Within the area of the fortress, there are museums and restaurants, as well as the observation point with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Budva. Entrance to the fortress costs 2 euros.

The last thing to do after touring this magnificent building is to make a wish while rubbing the symbol of Budva – two fish engraved into the wall of the fortress. According to local legend, this unofficial symbol of Budva represents two young people whose love was forbidden; as a result, they decided to jump together into the sea.

Address : Citadela Fortress, Budva, Montenegro

Get your mandatory dose of vitamin D in a hidden paradise

The hidden pearl of Budva’s shore and one of the most beautiful beaches in Montenegro is situated only a hundred meters away from the Old Town city walls. Mogren Beach is an isolated beach surrounded by scenic caves and colossal rocks on one side and the sky blue Adriatic Sea on the other one.

Despite being only a few minutes’ walk away from the Old Town area, rich and dense vegetation gives it a sense of wilderness and inaccessibility. Reaching the beach is possible only through the narrow pedestrian passage and that’s probably why spending time here will feel very intimate and calming.

Strike a pose or two with Budva’s most famous ballerina

Halfway between the Old Town and Mogren Beach emerges one of the most popular tourist attractions in Budva, the statue of the naked dancer called “The Ballerina from Budva.”

There are quite a few legends about who this girl was; whichever you to choose to believe in, you won’t be wrong. The sculptor Gradimir Aleksich, who created the bronze statue, was fascinated by the story of the girl dancer who was in love with the sailor from Budva.

According the legend, every time the sailor took upon a long trip, the girl waited at the exact same spot for her sailor to come back home. While waiting for him to arrive, she’d dance and stare into horizon, hoping for her man to return. One time she waited and danced, but her sailor never came back to her. The statue symbolizes her loyalty and fidelity.

Nowadays, taking memory-worthy photos with Budva’s favorite ballerina is basically mandatory when visiting Budva.

Address: 37 Primorskog bataljona, Budva, Montenegro

Catch sight of the most the beautiful church in the town

 The magnificent construction of the Church of the Holy Trinity is located in the heart of the Old Town ramparts, surrounded by the impressive palm trees. 

Built at the end of the 18 th -century after the downfall of the Venetian Republic, when Budva became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the church reflects Budva’s fruitful, multicultural, and multiethnic history. The iconostasis of the church, painted by the Greek icon painters in the 19 th century, has tremendous cultural and religious value.

Be sure to both admire the alluring beauty from the outside and the splendid work of art inside the most significant Orthodox Christian chapel in Budva!

Address : Trg od Crkava, Budva, Budva Municipality, Montenegro

Witness Budva’s magical art scene

While wandering through the narrow paths of the Old Town, you may stumble upon the Magic Yard Gallery. This authentic art gallery displays the artwork of local artists and is the perfect spot for all art lovers and admirers. Right upon arrival, visitors are usually served rakija, the traditional Montenegrin spirit! The gallery stocks a great variety of artwork where Balkan-inspired symbols and artistic influences prevail. The uniqueness of this place goes even further. Besides paintings, they also display handmade jewelry, ceramics, glassware, as well as textiles that can be bought for pretty reasonable prices.

After going through copious distinctive and often quirky art pieces, guests can take some rest and hydrate in a tiny, perfectly-nested courtyard and bar nearby.

Address: Iva Mikovica 2, Budva, Budva Municipality, Montenegro

Website: For more information, visit their Facebook page

Visit Budva’s only ‘cat cafe ‘

The tourist favorite, Snack bar Vihor, surely adds to the Old Town’s charm!

This café and snack bar with cute, artistic interior and a sweet courtyard is Budva’s unofficial cat café. It provides food and shelter for a great number of cats inside the Old Town. The bar itself was named after one of the locals’ favorite cats!

Known for the amazing cocktails, reasonable prices, and friendly staff, Vihor is a wonderful spot to relax and take in all the beauty of the antique part of the town, with a background of purring cats!

Address: Iva Mikovica, Budva

Unwind at the ultimate chill-out zone

Tucked between the tall and narrow streets of the Old Town, surrounded by the ancient walls on one side and dense tree branches on the other one, Casper is the ideal chill spot for anyone finding themselves in Budva.

During the scorching summer days, the bar serves as an oasis, where you can escape the heat and enjoy the shade of the Old Town architecture while sipping your favorite drink.

Popular for its variety of high-quality craft beers, cocktails, and coffee blends, Casper bar accommodates everyone’s needs and preferences.

When the night comes, this outdoor bar frequently turns into a dance floor. The atmosphere gets cranked up with some of the hottest regional and Montenegrin DJs playing house, disco, and funk music rhythms.

Location: Cara Dusana 10, 85310 Budva

Website: More information on their Facebook Page

Go on a cruise around the largest Montenegrin island

Only a kilometer away from the shore stands the largest Montenegrin Island called Sveti Nikola.

A short and inexpensive boat ride to the island may easily be as enchanting as the island itself! On the way to the island, you’ll find yourself amazed by the sight of imposing, giant rocks emerging from the sea.

The beach on the island is named Hawaii, most likely due to the color of the sea reminiscent of the bright blue sea around the tropical islands in the Pacific Ocean.

Those with an adventurous spirit may also try taking a walk to the island instead of opting for a boat ride! Namely, there is a sandbar connecting the mainland with the island and during the low tide, it is absolutely possible to reach the island on foot. Whatever way you decide, visiting this unique island will most definitely be worth it.

Lay your eyes on Hollywood’s favorite resort

It takes only a quick drive a couple of miles outside of the city center to reach a trademark of Montenegrin coastline, the renowned Sveti Stefan islet.

Previously an island, Sveti Stefan is now connected to the mainland with a narrow tombolo and in 2009 it became a part of the luxurious hotel chains Aman Hotels and Resorts.

Throughout history, this now world-wide known tiny islet-resort had been used as shelter and protection from Ottoman Turks’ attacks on their quest to annex the Adriatic Sea territories.

In 1955, this islet was turned into a luxurious town-hotel. Since then, it has always been a place where some of the greatest celebrities in the world choose to have their perfect Adriatic Sea coastline hideaway. Sofia Loren once said about her stay on Sveti Stefan: “it is just as if I have returned to town from the most beautiful fairytale of my childhood.”

However, entering the gates to the resort is reserved only for the wealthy, for the opulent price of $800 per night! Despite that, a few hundred meters away on the mainland, anyone can enjoy this mesmerizing view of one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entirety of Montenegro.

Swing by the tiny romantic town of Petrovac

Among the plethora of sheltered bay beaches within the bounds of the Budva Riviera, you’ll most likely stumble across Petrovac, a little town in Budva municipality.

A wide range of beautiful beaches nestled between dense olive groves and pine forests undoubtedly label Petrovac as one of the most attractive places for having a peaceful and lazy seaside getaway.

Stroll down the long promenade along the beach and reach the Castello Fortress dating back to the Venetian Republic era and embrace this peaceful and romantic small Mediterranean town.

Take a closer glance at Islets of Katic and St. Nedelja

Two lonely miniature islets appear amid the open sea, a kilometer away from the Petrovac coast. The islets of Katic and St. Nedelja seem rather like two cliffs emerging from the sea. They are known as some of the most popular tourist attractions in this part of the Montenegrin shore.

As claimed by the local legend, after the shipwreck in the middle of a disastrous storm, a couple of sailors survived by finding shelter on St. Nedelja islet. In gratitude to God for saving their lives, sailors built a tiny chapel on the islet that’s now believed to be the protector of everyone sailing in these waters.

Thanks to their popularity, it certainly won’t be much of a hassle getting there as you may join the organized boat tours or rent a kayak, speedboat or even a paddleboat.

Observing these breathtaking wonders of the Adriatic sea up close will definitely remain etched in one’s memory for a very long time.

Experience Budva from the birds’ perspective

For those adrenaline-driven visitors, always asking for a bit more, paragliding over Budva is going to be once in a lifetime experience.

Budva Paragliding provides adventure seekers with a safe and well-instructed flight and the opportunity to get to know Budva from up to 1200 meters above sea level. High-resolution photos and videos of this extraordinary venture are both included in the price.  

Experience a breath-stopping sunset

Right beside the main road, only a few kilometers away from downtown Budva, you can reach the perfect spot for admiring a picturesque sunset.

El Rey café-restaurant, located above the sheltered bay and one of the most attractive beaches named Jaz, is certainly a place for capturing the moment to enjoy a serene Adriatic sunset.

 This place provides a perfect mixture of Mediterranean seafood and Montenegrin traditional cuisine to nibble on, best enjoyed while sipping a Montenegrin wine and watching the sun vanishing behind the horizon.

Address: Seoce Jadranski put, Budva 85310

Slide the day away at a waterpark with a breathtaking view

Positioned on the top of the hill amidst the dense forest vegetation, offering jaw-dropping views of Budva and its coastline, Aquapark Budva should certainly be on your itinerary while visiting this part of the Adriatic coast.

Unique on the Montenegrin seaside, this 41,800-square-meter complex offers a complete water entertainment experience for all water enthusiasts.

Aside from the pools, giant slides, rafting areas, and an amusement section for kids with over 50 attractions, the aqua park offers a wide range of additional facilities including restaurants and bars, accessory stores, photo booths, and massage areas.

With this being said, visitors seeking a more calm and relaxing time could as well do nothing and enjoy this incredible view from the cozy sunbeds, sipping their favorite drink!

Address: Topliški Put, Budva 85310, Montenegro

Website: Check here for admission costs, hours, and more information.

Where to Stay in Budva

Budget: If you’re staying in Budva on a backpacker’s budget, definitely check out Freedom Hostel 2, located in the Old Town. With an eclectic mix of modern and vintage elements, it’s aesthetically pleasing, budget-friendly, and best of all, it has an amazing location! Dorms and private rooms are available.

>> Check prices, reviews, and availability here.

Mid-Range: For a 4-star experience for a 3-star price, check out the lovely Avanti Hotel & Spa, available for well under $100 USD per night even in the high season! It’s about 2 kilometers outside of Budva center, so you’ll probably want to take a taxi into the city, or it’s a 15-minute walk to Jaz Beach. However, in exchange for that, you get an absolutely gorgeously designed hotel, spa facilities like a sauna and pool, beautiful views from the balconies, and so much more.

Luxury: For the ultimate in luxury during your stay in Budva, check out the 5* Dukey Hotel & Spa. It has gorgeous landscaping, beautiful sea views, an infinity rooftop pool, and several fine dining and bar options. Rooms include modern home-away-from-home amenities such as a kitchen, dining area, bathrobes and slippers, flat-screen TVs, A/C, WiFi, and more. Best thing? Golf carts are available to transport you around the resort and boat transfers to Budva Old Town can be arranged!

What to Bring with You to Montenegro

If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro, you’ll want to pack all the normal essentials, but here are a few things we strongly recommend bringing that may not have crossed your mind. For more, check out our  complete Montenegro packing list.  

–  A physical guidebook, in paper or on Kindle . We recommend the  Lonely Planet Western Balkans  which includes Montenegro but also Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Serbia. Blogs are great, but a combination of a blog and a guidebook is key to having the best access to information easily at your fingertips.

–  A water bottle with a filter . While generally, the tap water in cities and towns in Montenegro is drinkable, especially in touristic towns such as in Kotor, Budva, and Zabljak, we generally recommend using a water bottle with a purifying filter regardless.

It’ll help to reduce your plastic consumption and ensure you won’t drink any funny-tasting water on your stomach that could make your trip unpleasant! We recommend  the GRAYL water bottle  – it filters water perfectly in an instant so that you can even drink from lakes, bad taps, etc.

–  Motion sickness pills . Montenegrin bus and car rides can be winding and cause motion sickness! If you have a weak stomach as we do, save yourself and bring some  non-drowsy motion sickness pills .

–  Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, TP & other Balkan transit needs.  Bathrooms at gas and bus/train stations in the Balkans can sometimes be… how can we say it?… not so well-stocked. Save yourself the disappointment and bring a mini-rescue pack of  wet wipes  &  hand sanitizer .

–  Travel safety items . We think Montenegro is very safe to travel, but at the same time, it never hurts to be prepared! Some people like to carry  money belts , but neither Stephanie or I use these.

Instead, we both carry the same  PacSafe anti-theft backpack . It has locking zippers, slash-proof construction with metal mesh hidden in the fabric, and tons of other smart security features — all while being cute and stylish enough to be our everyday bag. We recommend it highly for both male and female travelers, as it’s neutral enough to be unisex. We also strongly recommend travel insurance! Our recommendation is at the bottom of the post.

Read more:  Essential Montenegro Packing List: What to Wear & Pack for Montenegro

More Montenegro Travel Resources

We are in the process of writing our Montenegro city guides, but for now, you can check out  our 1-week Montenegro itinerary  and  our Kotor Instagram and photography guide.

Also visiting Kotor? Check out where to stay in Kotor .

We also have a post on the  best places to visit in Montenegro  to help inspire you before your trip, as well as a post on the best Montenegrin beaches to visit in the summer!

If this will be one of your first trips in the Balkans, check out our massive  list of things to know before traveling the Balkans  as well as our  Balkan bus ,  road trip , and  itinerary  guides. 

Finally, if you’ll be headed to Montenegro as part of a larger trip around the Balkans, check out our  Balkan currency guide  which explains how money and tipping work in the different countries here.

We publish new content nearly every day! Bookmark our pages on  Montenegro  and the  Balkans  so that you don’t miss out on any new info or resources that we publish before your trip!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Finally, make sure you always travel to Montenegro with a valid  travel insurance  policy. Montenegro is a very safe place to travel, but accidents or theft can easily ruin your trip if you don’t have the travel insurance coverage to recover the losses!

For travel insurance, I use  World Nomads . I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here <<

Pin This Guide to Things to Do in Budva!

Nikola M. is a native Montenegrin, English teacher, and political scientist writing about a variety of social topics. He particularly takes pleasure in traveling, discovering new places, and exploring cultural differences in the process. He is passionate about animal rights and environmental protection. He also enjoys cinematography, discovering new music, and cooking.

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Tourist’s guide to Budva: attractions of the city and surroundings

Budva is a famous resort and tourist city. Located in the central part of the Adriatic coast in Montenegro. The city and surroundings are known as the Budva Riviera. The latter is famous for its clean sand beaches, diverse architectural monuments and vibrant nightlife.

This article describes the sights of Budva, what to see in the main resort of Montenegro and its environs. All interesting places of Budva can be reached on foot or by public transport.

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In order not to look for a long time what to see in Budva, first of all it is worth getting acquainted with a typical medieval settlement. To do this, go from the modern part of the resort pearl to Stari Grad through the central gate. Or use one of the six remaining passages for the ancient walls. By the way, 3 of them are opposite the yacht moorings.

Fortress walls

One of these entrances, “Doors at Sea,” is currently not functioning. It has turned into a romantic secluded corner with ancient doors entwined with ivy, and is located at some height from the ground. But taking pictures in a picturesque place where not every tourist will wander is a good idea. Landmark for the search for “Doors at Sea” – English Pub in Old Town.

The old city is surrounded by a fortress wall in the form of the letter “P”. To climb it, you must use any of the 2 existing entrances leading to the wall of the fortress. You will find one in front of the kitchen owned by the Mozart confectionery. Another – find the sea opposite the Citadel, but if you don’t suddenly go through the gate, go through the fence.

Citadel and Library

The Citadel is the main fortification built in 840. Until the present day, mostly buildings of the 15th century have survived, which protected this area. Near the Citadel there were other fortifications connected by a fortress wall, and a village where locals and defenders of the fortress lived. The village, in fact, became the Old Town.

In the Citadel you can visit the Budva Museum, see the symbol of the city – two connected fish, denoting lovers Marco and Elena. There is also a library, organized one and a half centuries ago. It is considered one of the oldest in the country, in the library collection – over 60 thousand books, including very rare and valuable publications.

Archaeological Museum

Being in the Old Town, you don’t have to worry about what to see in Budva. Visit the museums of Archeology and Contemporary Art. Archaeological works from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8 am to 9 pm. On Saturday – Sunday – from 14 to 21 hours. Ticket – 1.5 – 2 euros.

Gallery of Modern Art

The Gallery exhibits the work of sculptors and artists from Montenegro and Serbia: paintings, drawings, sculptures, engravings.

Churches of Old Budva

You cannot pass by and cannot fail to hear the beautiful chime of the bell tower of the Catholic Church of St. John, which rises above Budva. The bell tower was erected in the 7th century. AD, but it was rebuilt a lot.

At the bell tower – a cathedral with a modest exterior in the Gothic style. However, its interior is rich and luxurious. You can admire the icon with the miraculous face of the Virgin Mary, painted by St. Luke himself, and get acquainted with the exhibits of the rich library. One of them is the chronicle, which describes the events taking place on these lands in the 18-19 centuries.

Also among the attractions of Budva and the surrounding area, where it is not difficult to go on foot – the nearby Holy Trinity churches – an Orthodox church in the Byzantine style of the early 19th century. and the church of St. Mary “on the cape” (“in Punta”).

The date of construction of the monastery and St. Mary’s Church that once existed here is 840. Now it doesn’t work, but it looks well preserved, and here you can admire Roman mosaics dating back to the 2nd century. AD And thanks to the wonderful acoustics of the temple, you can enjoy music concerts that are held regularly.

Stary Grad is far from everything that you can see in Budva on your own; other sights are available to any tourist.

Ballerina Statue

This stele is a symbol of the city, its visiting card and the most photographed place in Budva. In addition, the best panorama of Old Town opens here: the sea, mountains, fortress walls and terracotta tiled roofs of houses – all in one frame.

The stela of the dancer lurks among the rocks on a boulder on the way to Moren Beach. Finding this monument is easy if you know where to go. You need to walk along the path to the right of the walls of the old city, and after a few turns you will certainly see it.

Walking in Budva

As in any coastal city, you can take a walk in the heart of the Budva Riviera along the promenade. It is possible to rent a boat or boat, go fishing or just go for a walk in the water.

At the charming Promenade, everything is at the disposal of tourists: souvenir shops and cafes, reputable restaurants, fast food and attractions. The prices here are reasonable, and the species are especially pacifying. Closer to night, disco bars open their doors, so the question of where to go in Budva day or evening, young or adult, practically does not arise.

Central market

For a change, it’s worth visiting the central market of Budva – Zelena Pijaca (Zelena Piaca). It works from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Sundays – until 13 p.m. Here you can fully enjoy the local culinary exoticism: cheeses, prshut, homemade olive oil, sea fish, popular wines – white “Vranac Prokorde ”And red“ Vranac ”, grape rakiya and“ Bitter leaf ”liqueur.

All the pickles, in the hope of buying, give a try. Here you can boldly, convincingly and politely bargain, and as a result, take away home-made edible souvenirs that are cut and neatly packed in a vacuum shell.

Budva neighborhood

If you decide to explore the surroundings of Budva, there are many educational sights within walking distance.

For an active pastime in the evening, you can choose a club on the Budva hills Top Hill. It is one of the most popular in the country. A distinctive feature – it works all night. Evenings are often hosted by world-famous disc jockeys and MCs.

Right behind the club is a water park that opened in July 2016. A ticket can be purchased for half or full day.

Mogren Fortress and panoramas of Vidikovac

If you like walking, you can independently get to this place. You need to get through the bush up the cliffs from Mogren Beach. Or go to the tunnel that leads to Jaz beach and to Tivat, on the left there is a trail. A few minutes – and you are already on a hill near the remains of a fortress built in the mid-19th century. You will have stunning views of the island of Nikola, part of Budva, the sea and the turquoise Yaz Beach.

Visiting these sights of Budva and the surrounding area, you can also see the city from the height of the observation deck at the Vidikovac Hotel. She is nearby. The hotel is surrounded by white gates, to the right of them is a path. After descending the stairs, go to the white arches and to the viewing platform. The fabulous views of Old Budva and a memory photo will remain in your heart for a long time. By the way, you can also get to the indicated facilities by taxi.

Sveti Nikola Island

Also, from places that you can see in Budva on your own, the island of St. Nikola is of interest. Here is a nature reserve with pheasants, hares and deer. Entrance there, unfortunately, is strictly prohibited. But there is also the Church of St. Nicholas, a pleasant coolness of the green forests, clear sea water and sand and pebble beaches. But vacationers on them are much less than in the city.

You can get to the island by water taxi or boat. Price from 3 to 25 euros.

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Sveti Stefan

The symbol of all Montenegro is considered to be the island of St. Stephen. From Budva to it – 7 km. Once it was a fishing village, and now it is a fashionable resort. He is not missed by Hollywood stars.

In fact, this is a whole town-hotel, which occupied the whole island. But you can get here if you book a tour. You can get from the city to the island by bus from Budva for € 1.5 and 20 min. either by taxi.

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As you can see, Budva (Montenegro) is not poor in sights, and what to see is up to you. The local monasteries, seascapes, islands and panoramic views can not leave anyone indifferent, you want to come to the memorable Budva again and again.

Video with the sights of the city.

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11 Things to do in Budva, Montenegro, the Jewel of the Adriatic Coast

T ucked away on the Adriatic coast is the town of Budva, Montenegro.  I knew almost nothing about Montenegro or Budva before I landed there for a month, and it completely surprised me, in a good way!

Surrounded by the Dinaric Alps on three sides, and the Adriatic Sea on the other, the scenery is spectacular. Pristine, green mountains dramatically fall off into the ocean.  Budva is often called the Miami of the Balkans, but I think a more apt name is the Hawaii of the Balkans.  Being by the mountains reminded me a lot of living in the Indian Himalayas .

Best Things to do in Budva

Many tourists head to Kotor Bay, further up the coast, but Budva has plenty of charm, is less expensive, and less crowded.  Here are the best things you can do in Budva:

1. Enjoy the Beaches

Mogren Beach in Budva

There are gorgeous beaches up and down the coast in Budva. Greco Beach is the beach right in town, and the easiest to get to. It’s well-serviced by the restaurants that line the waterfront.  Considering it’s in the middle of town, it’s pretty good, but not the nicest of the Budva beaches.  If you walk a little further (5-10 minutes) you’ll find Mogren Beach which is better.  

Mogren Beach is quieter and you can easily walk there by following the footpath along the rocky coast past the Budva Dancing Girl statue.  There’s toilets, a restaurant and you can rent beach loungers and umbrellas for the day.  I enjoyed swimming there early in the mornings before it got busy.  

The most spectacular beach in Budva is Jaz Beach.  Jaz Beach is further up the coast, about 2 km from town.  You can walk along the Adriatic Highway to get there, but the best way is to grab a taxi from town. Jaz Beach is the longest beach along this part of the Riviera and well serviced. You can easily spend the whole day there.

2. Explore Stari Grad (Old Town)

Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, and it has a walled medieval city known as Stari Grad or Old Town.  Stari Grad is dominated by a citadel and huge fortification walls that were finished in the 15 th century by the Venetians. It’s full of shops, cafes, and several churches with beautiful frescoes.  There’s even two Moritz Eis gelato stores (the famous Austrian brand).

This is a charming part of Budva and attracts a lot of visitors, so try to go in the morning.  It’s not big and very easy to navigate.  Although it’s a bit touristy, strolling through the labyrinth of cobblestoned lanes and exploring the old buildings is a pleasant way to spend an hour or two. The Citadel is now a museum with great views of Budva and the marina. 

3. Eat Seafood at One of the Ocean Front Restaurants

Budva has terrific seafood.  In fact, if you head to the marina early in the morning, you’ll see the fishing boats returning with the day’s catch.  You’ll find a lot of restaurants along the promenade by the water. Some even have tables set up right on the beach. The restaurants closer to Old Town have the nicest views.  Take your pick, and enjoy fresh seafood on the beach.  Black risotto with squid is a local specialty.  

4. Relax with the Coffee Culture

Sidewalk cafes are everywhere in Budva, especially close to the waterfront.  It seems everyone takes time to sit down and enjoy a coffee.  The local coffee is black and thick like Turkish coffee, but cappuccinos, lattes, and espressos are readily available also.  Relax, sip your coffee, and enjoy one of the most popular past times in the country.

5. Walk to Podmaine Monastery

Budva is built on the side of a mountain, with the main retail and commercial hub at the bottom by the sea.  But higher up are quiet residential neighborhoods and olive fields.  This is where Podmaine Monastery is located.  The Serbian Orthodox Monastery was originally built in the 15 th century.  It’s a quiet, pretty monastery.  I was there on a Sunday morning and locals were streaming in for Sunday service.   The walk from town is a bit steep in places, but very manageable.  It’s not a big place, but it’s quaint and peaceful. 

6. Visit Nearby Sveti Stefan

Just 10 km down the coast from Budva is the little town of Sveti Stefan. Sventi Stefan is mostly famous for the walled island fortress connected to the mainland. The entire island is a private resort, but during the pandemic, it closed down and has not reopened. The island is still gated off to the general public, but there was a wedding going on when I visited – apparently, it can be rented out for events.  

But the big plus is the beautiful beaches that were for the exclusive use of resort guests, are now open to everyone.  

If you take the small forest path at the far end of the main beach, you’ll come across Villa Milocer, the former summer residence of Queen Marjia Karadordevic. It’s part of the Aman Sveti Stefan resort and also currently closed.  But the beach in front of Villa Milocer is open to everyone now and lovely. You can also swim from the cave at the far end of the beach with a terrace to sunbathe and jump into the water from.

The views of the island from the main road are spectacular – this is one of the most photographed spots of the entire Adriatic coast.  Don’t miss it! You can get to Sveti Stefan by bus or taxi from Budva.  

7. Go Sea Fishing on a Full Day Tour

Many boats offer full or half-day fishing tours.  These usually include gear, bait, the services of a guide, and sometimes even lunch. Depending on the time of year, the most common fish are sea bass, mackerel, snapper, tuna, and shark.  Many operators combine fishing with some sightseeing and swimming. 

Keep in mind hobby fishing is subject to daily limits, and tourists require a fishing license.  Make sure you discuss this with the tour operator before you book anything.  You’ll find the fishing charters at the marina near the Old Town.

8. Take a Taxi Boat to Sveti Nikola

Just a few hundred meters off the coast of Budva is the largest island in Montenegro, Sveti Nikola. It’s named after the 16 th- century church St. Nicholas which is perched on the northern side of the island, but locals call the island ‘Hawaii.’  Most of the island is closed off and not possible to explore, but if you want a fun boat ride and some unique beach time, this is well worth doing.  The taxi boats leave from the waterfront by Slovenska Plaza.

9. Party the Night Away at a Beach Club

The Budva nightlife is famous. While there are loads of bars and clubs along the waterfront, especially by Slovenska Plaza, Budva also regularly hosts summer music festivals and concerts at Jaz Beach. The Rolling Stones even played Jaz Beach in 2006.  Things were quiet when I was there during the month of May, but locals told me it gets very busy in July and August.

10. Do a Day Trip to Perast or Kotor

Perast or Kotor are two of Montenegro’s most popular and beautiful towns on the Bay of Kotor.  Both towns are easy to reach from Budva by one of the daily buses from the Budva bus station.  Taxis also make the trip.  

Kotor is a UNESCO site and much larger than Perast. There’s plenty to see, including a walled old town, like the one in Budva.  But Kotor also gets crowded, especially when the cruise ships come in. Perast is much smaller and quieter.  It’s a bit more authentic than Kotor. Both are worthwhile, and it’s a matter of personal preference about which one you should visit.

11. Eat Burek

Burek is a dish you will see all over the Balkans.  It’s a savory pastry made from layers of phyllo rolled around a filling and baked until crispy.  The most common variations are spinach, cheese, and meat, but I’ve also eaten zucchini, potato, and mushroom burek in Budva.  It’s a popular breakfast/lunch/snack food that is widely sold in bakeries all over.  

The Wrap-up on Best Things to do in Budva

Budva has a reputation for being the party place of Montenegro, and this nearly put me off going, but I’m so glad it didn’t.  Apart from a few locals having a couple of drinks, I didn’t come across or hear any hedonistic partying.  I’m sure things get lively at the waterfront bars during high season, but if you stay on the other side of the Adriatic Highway you shouldn’t be disturbed by any of that.

It’s a lovely, beachside town (or small city, depending on who you talk to), that has a lot to offer.  You can easily explore the rest of Montenegro from here, there’s an excellent network of buses, and the bus station is right in town.  The nearest international airport is Tivat, less than 20 km away.  

Make sure you add Budva to your Montenegrin itinerary, it’s a gem on the Adriatic coast and worth the time.

Guest Author : Suzanne Hooker of Suzanne Wanders Delhi

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Best Things To Do in Budva, Montenegro on a Day Trip From Kotor

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Budva, Montenegro is a historic, walled city that sits on a south facing, half moon bay on the Adriatic Sea. The Budva Riviera, with beaches extending to both the east and west, is a well-known Montenegro holiday hot spot. Budva is only 15miles from Kotor, which also makes it a perfect destination for a Kotor day trip.

Why Visit Budva, Montenegro

More developed for tourism than Kotor, but with an equally rich history, there are many things to do in Budva Old Town and beyond. The most popular Budva beaches are lined with resorts, shopping centers, fun nightlife and heaps of entertainment earning it the moniker of Montenegrin Miami.

While travelers spending long holidays in Budva will have plenty of time to experience all that it has to offer, visitors on day trips from Kotor will want to plan how to best spend their day!

Planning a Trip to Budva, Montenegro

In this article we are featuring the must-see Budva sights and fun activities for your trip.

Regardless of whether you plan on staying one day in Budva or are spending a week, you will want to make a plan for your time.

Travelers arriving from overseas can start by using our Guide to European Vacation Planning for tips on how best to make their Budva, Montenegro trip plans. Our printable Travel Planner will help keep you organized as you research trip ideas and make bookings!

4 Best Things To Do in Budva, Montenegro

In this Budva travel guide, we are highlighting our top recommended Budva activities for a day. We also share pertinent details – like how to get there, a Budva visitor map and additional Budva travel info, which you will find at the end of the article.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our list of Budva Things To Do for your vacation to Montenegro!

#1 Explore Budva Old Town

Old Town Budva, Montenegro – also called Budva Stari Grad – is the best place for day trippers to start their exploration. It is the oldest part of the city with origins that date to the 5th century BC – making it one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coastline.

The entire Budva Old Town, which is surrounded in protective walls (built by the Venetians), sits on a rocky outcrop. Stari Grad Budva is car-free – making it a perfect place to just wander aimlessly. Within the old city walls of Budva, Montenegro, the cobblestone lanes are filled with souvenir shops, jewelry stores, restaurants and cafes.

Rather than purposely navigating through the Budva Old City center, we think it is most enjoyable to wander the tangle of narrow streets just to see where each lane leads. Some streets end at windows that overlook the sea, while others open onto pretty squares…and a few continue through the ancient Budva city gates.

Pro Tip: If you want an actual Budva map to find your way through the Old Town, you can pick up one at a Budva tourist info kiosk. 

#2 Visit the Budva Citadel and Churches

The Budva Citadel and three churches are located on the southern tip of Old Town Budva – and are must-see sights!

Constructed into the sea-facing stone fortifications, the Budva Citadel was built in the Middle Ages. Throughout the centuries, the fort – once called the Castle of St. Mary – was expanded to include towers and a church. For a small fee, visitors can go inside the Citadel of Budva Museum, the church ruins and take in the views from an observation deck.

Standing on the square that fronts the Citadel are three churches: St. Ivan, Holy Trinity and Santa Maria in Punta.

St. Ivan Church (or Church of St. John) is a Catholic church that was built in the 15th century on the site of a former 7th century church. The exterior is decorated in the Gothic style and the bell tower was constructed in 1867.

The small church in the square is the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church. It was built in 1804 and is adorned in colorful artwork. At the back of the church, Budva visitors are invited to buy candles to light and set in the votive stands.

Santa Maria in Punta is the oldest church in Budva, dating to the year 840. The small church was also built directly into the Budva town walls and today includes a café as well as occasional performances and art displays.

Pro Tip : Kotor is also known for an abundance of impressive churches! Get all the details in our article: The 10 Best Churches in Kotor .

#3 Soak up the Sun on Budva Beaches

Outside of the old city walls, the Budva Riviera stretches along the coast both to the east and west, with numerous coves boasting beautiful Montenegrin beaches.

Old Town Budva Beach (Plaza Ricardova Glava)

Following the main street away from the square, an old city gate leads to through the walls and onto the Budva Old Town Beach. The small beach has a massive beachfront restaurant that is popular on sunny days. The beach sits under the imposing city walls of Budva, which stand tall and strong against the sea.

Mogren Budva, Montenegro Beach

To the west, a shoreline path wraps around rocks to another small beach, Mogren Beach. Quieter and more serene than the bustling Old Town Beach makes it quite popular with locals and tourists alike.

At the far end is a stellar viewpoint, but we think the best views of the Budva Old Town are from the path between Mogren Beach and the Budva center (near the Ballet Dancer Statue), which is especially beautiful under the glow of the setting sun. Walking a bit further to the west brings you to the remains of the old Mogren Fort/Jaz Bastion as well as the even quieter Calypso Beach.

Jaz Beach in Budva, Montenegro

Even further west, Jaz Beach is a long, mostly sandy beach with clear water and beach clubs plus other amenities. On the east end of Jaz beach is an FKK Beach (a.k.a. Nudist Beach).

However, visitors on a day trip to Budva will find Jaz beach is quite far from the Old Town – and it is best reached with you own transportation.

Budva Riviera Slovenska Plaza

The longest beach on the Budva Riviera, Slovenska Plaza stretches for over a mile – from the Greco Beach to Dukley Hotel and Resort. The narrow beach consists of both pebbles and sand – and features shops, food kiosks and sunbed rentals, as well as free places where guests can spread out their own towels and beach equipment.

Sveti Nikola Island ‘Hawaii Beach Budva’

The uninhabited island that sits just south of Budva Old Town is Sveti Nikola. Featuring nice beaches and rustic amenities on the northern end, the southern side has secret caves, hidden coves and rugged terrain for curious explorers. Visitors can get to the island via an inexpensive 10-minute boat ride.

#4 Discover the Budva Marina

Outside the old city walls is the large Budva Harbor, housing everything from row boats to luxury yachts. Old men fish from the docks, sitting on small stools and just passing the time.

Some of the best restaurants in Budva line the entire length of the harbor and continue down to Greco Beach. A few even offer food service at tables on the sand!

More Things To Do in Budva, Montenegro

Most day trip visitors from Kotor will find that our above outlined Budva activities will fill an entire day. However, there are many more Budva things to do!

Podmaine Monastery

Located on a hillside north of the Budva Riviera is the lush and serene Podmaine Monastery. The small and beautiful monastery dates to the 15th century – and monks still reside there today. 

Visitors can reach the monastery on a short walk or via car to see the impressive interior and intriguing architecture.

Aqua Park Budva, Montenegro

The massive Budva water park complex is located north of town on Toplish Hill. While the main attractions are the slides and pools, there are also on-site restaurants, bars, kids activities and stunning views over the Budva Riviera.

Budva Nightlife

The nightlife in Budva, Montenegro is legendary. The Top Hill nightclub is considered to be one of the best clubs in the Balkans and is a popular spot for Budva party goers. To get to Top Hill Budva, it is a short hike from the Old Town.

Trocadero on Slovenska Beach and Omnia are other popular Budva clubs that features DJs and dancing until dawn.

Budva Shopping

The TQ Plaza Budva shopping center is the largest mall in the city and hosts well-known, international brands. It’s the best mall in the Budva municipality. 

On the other hand, the Budva shops in the Old Town are mostly boutiques and local craft shops geared towards tourist looking for Budva souvenirs.

Budva Casino

Budva, Montenegro is home to numerous casinos, with the Merit Casino Royal Splendid and Maestral Resorts and Casino receiving the highest marks. These popular casinos in Budva are part of larger resort complexes, where visitors can stay, eat, drink and play.

Spa Budva, Montenegro

There are numerous spas in Budva where guests can receive wellness treatments. Many of the city’s luxury spas are found at the upscale resorts along the Budva Riviera.

Budva to Sveti Stefan, Montenegro

The famous Sveti Stefan islet is located 3 miles from Budva just off the Montenegrin Coast. The island is now occupied by the exclusive, 5-star Aman Sveti Stefan Luxury Resort – and it seems that they only welcome hotel guests and people with prior restaurant reservations onto the property.

Visitors who just want a glimpse of the island can certainly make the trek (or take the bus) to the island. The coastline Olive Budva restaurant offers a fine dining option with a view of Sveti Stefan, too.

Budva Tours and Activities

Guests visiting Budva, Montenegro in a day will certainly be pressed for time, but adventurers might want to fit in a few fun tours or outdoor activities into their itinerary.

Kotor – Lovćen Cablecar

New in 2023, the gondola from Kotor to Lovcen whisks riders to an elevation of nearly 6,000 feet in 11 minutes. At the summit, explorers can set off on hiking and biking treks or just enjoy the splendid views.  More details here !

Budva Boat Tours

Visitors interested in Budva boat trips have a few options – like coastline cruises , island exploration and private tours . There are also opportunities for kayaking and whitewater rafting.

SUP or Kayak Budva

Embark on a 3-hour Stand Up Paddle Board or Kayak tour along the Budva Riviera. Guests will have the chance to swim and snorkel near hidden Budva beaches, too! Get the details!

Budva Whitewater Rafting

A full day adventure, participants go rafting down the Tara River through a picturesque canyon. Get more info!

Extremely limited on time, but want to make the most of your Budva day trip from Kotor? Join a Montenegro coastline tour that explores Kotor, Boka Bay, Perast, and Budva. Find out more!

Visit to Budva, Montenegro: What You Need To Know

Before setting off on your day trip from Kotor, we have a few more tips for you!

Budva Weather

The Budva climate is Mediterranean – meaning mild winters and sunny summers. In the summertime, the weather in Budva, Montenegro is hot, with temperatures exceeding 90-degrees Fahrenheit. While the Budva winters are generally mild, it can be windy and rainy from mid-autumn until early spring.

When To Visit Budva, Montenegro

Budva, Montenegro is a year-round destination – but busiest in the summer months when the weather is ideal for swimming in the sea. 

Visitors who would rather avoid the crowds should consider going to Budva in the shoulder seasons – spring or autumn. It is often still warm enough to enjoy the beaches in Budva, but far fewer fellow tourists. 

How To Get to Budva, Montenegro

While you can arrive by boat, travelers typically get to Budva by car, bus or plane. 

Budva Airport

There is no airport in Budva, but the Tivat Airport (TIV) is only about a 30 minute drive away. The Podgorica and Dubrovnik Airports are also regional options. Begin your search for the best airfares on flights to Montenegro on SkyScanner .

Day Trips from Kotor: How To Get From Kotor to Budva

For day trippers from Kotor or Tivat, there are a few ways to get between Kotor and Budva, Montenegro – including bus, rental car or taxi. 

Budva-Kotor Bus

We used public transportation to get between the two cities. The Kotor-Budva Bus route takes 45 minutes to an hour – depending on whether or not it makes a stop in Tivat. A one-way ticket from Budva to Kotor costs about €3 and there are numerous daily departures.

Rent a Car in Montenegro

Another option to get from Kotor to Budva is to rent a car . Self-driving allows for much more area exploration. There are several parking lots within walking distance to Budva Old Town. Check out our article to get the Best Tips for Cheap Car Rentals .

Taxi Budva-Kotor

Taxicabs are a quick and easy way to get from Kotor to Budva. The ride takes just over 30 minutes and will cost €20 to €30.

Where To Stay in Budva, Montenegro

Day trip visitors will not need to book a Budva, Montenegro hotel, but for those who are trying to decide between staying in Budva or Kotor will find there is a range of hotels in Budva – from luxury resorts to simple hostels.

Before making reservations, be sure to read our tips for Finding the Best Hotels . 

Best Budva Hotels

We are highlighting a few of the best hotels in Budva for travelers who decide to stay in Budva, Montenegro for their vacation.

Hotel Splendid Budva

A premier 5-star resort in Budva, Hotel Splendid is a beachfront property with sea view rooms, modern amenities and an onsite spa. Check rates and availability for your stay!

Hotel Budva

A luxury property, Hotel Budva has a prime location on the sandy Slovenska Beach. Guests give it rave reviews for the comfortable beds, breakfast options and superb service. Check rates!  

La Villa Boutique Hotel

Situated in the heart of Old Town Budva, La Villa offers spacious rooms, marina views and exceptional service. Check availability!  

Pro Tip: We recommend searching for hotels on Booking.com . Visitors looking for holiday homes will also find numerous choices for Budva, Montenegro Airbnb apartments. Travelers booking a Budva Airbnb should first read our Airbnb Tips for Guests . 

What To Pack for a Trip to Budva, Montenegro

Now that you know what to see in Budva and how to plan your trip, we have a few suggestions on what you will want to pack in your suitcase or backpack . We share more advice on our Travel Packing Page – and you can download a Free Printable Packing List , too! 

Budva Beach Wear and Gear

If you are planning a Budva, Montenegro beach vacation, be sure to pack your beach necessities! Your accommodations will likely have beach towels (but it’s a good idea to check first), but don’t forget your swimsuit , plenty of sunscreen , a fun beach hat , maybe snorkel gear and polarized sunglasses . 

Of course, you will want to bring a beach bag and day pack to haul all your gear to the beach, too!

The Right Shoes

You will most definitely want to pack a pair of flip flops , but remember to pack comfortable shoes for exploring, too. Read our top tips and honest reviews for the Best Travel Shoes !

Travel Camera

Montenegro is stunningly beautiful! We think it is best to capture the beauty of the country with a real camera . We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens . We love that it’s easy to use, takes quality photos, and is a DSLR camera at a budget price . 

Montenegro Trip Insurance

Travel insurance may cover costs for inconveniences – like flight delays or lost luggage , and could also assist if you become ill or get injured abroad. Check what’s covered on the comprehensive policies with World Nomads .

Montenegro Travel Planner and Documents

Remember to pack your must-have travel documents – like your passport, boarding passes and travel planner ! 

Budva, Montenegro Map

Our map of Budva highlights the best things to do in the city. Use this link to Google for an online version of our Budva Map.

Montenegro Travel Tips

We have highlighted the best Budva, Montenegro things to do, but we have a few tips for regional travel, as well. 

Other Top Montenegro Destinations

Budva is a top destination for beaches, but there are other places to visit near Budva that are worth seeing, too. 

Kotor – and it’s amazing hiking trails – is a top place to go to Montenegro. Travelers who are staying in Kotor can also plan day trips to Perast and Herceg Novi . 

More Destinations in the Balkans

Visitors who want to see more of the Balkans can easily do so from Montenegro! We love visiting the Balkans and share top travel tips on what to see and do in the most popular destinations . 

Travelers going to Croatia can use the guides on our Croatia Travel Page – which includes tips for Hvar , Dubrovnik , Split and Zagreb (among many,  many other places!). 

We also share tips for visiting Bosnia Herzegovina , top destinations in Kosovo , what to see in North Macedonia and sightseeing tips for Serbia . 

We Want To Know : Do you have any tips for what to see in Budva, Montenegro? What are your favorite things to do in Budva? Give us your best advice in the comments below!

Start planning your trip to Montenegro ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

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