Things to Do in Budva, Crna Gora / Црна Гора

Budva is Montenegro's premier coastal destination, renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and remarkably well-preserved medieval Old Town. This ancient settlement, dating back over 2,500 years, sits dramatically on the Adriatic coast surrounded by crystal-clear waters and backed by rugged mountains. The city seamlessly blends historical charm with modern resort amenities, making it equally appealing to culture enthusiasts and beach lovers. The heart of Budva lies within its fortified Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets wind between medieval churches, Venetian-era buildings, and charming squares filled with cafes and boutiques. Beyond the ancient walls, the city transforms into a bustling resort destination with some of Montenegro's most beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and a nightlife scene that rivals any Mediterranean hotspot. Budva serves as an excellent base for exploring the entire Budva Riviera, including nearby islands and coastal towns.

Top Things to Do in Budva

Explore Budva Old Town

Wander through the atmospheric medieval streets of Budva's fortified Old Town, discovering ancient churches, museums, and panoramic viewpoints. The compact area is perfect for leisurely exploration, with highlights including the Citadel fortress, Church of St. John, and numerous galleries showcasing local art. Climb the city walls for spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea and surrounding coastline.

Booking Tip: Entry to the Old Town is free, but the Citadel museum costs around €2-3. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday sun. Allow 2-3 hours for thorough exploration.

Beach Hopping Along the Budva Riviera

Discover some of Montenegro's most beautiful beaches, from the popular Mogren Beach with its dramatic cliffs to the expansive Slovenska Beach perfect for families. Each beach offers different amenities and atmospheres, from secluded coves to bustling beach clubs with water sports. The clear Adriatic waters and stunning mountain backdrops create picture-perfect settings for swimming and sunbathing.

Booking Tip: Beach chair and umbrella rentals cost €5-15 per day depending on location and season. Visit weekdays for better rates and fewer crowds. Bring water shoes for rocky beaches.

Boat Trip to Sveti Stefan and Coastal Islands

Take a scenic boat excursion to the iconic island-village of Sveti Stefan and explore hidden bays and beaches accessible only by sea. These trips often include swimming stops at pristine locations, snorkeling opportunities, and spectacular photo opportunities of Montenegro's dramatic coastline. Many tours also visit St. Nicholas Island, known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Booking Tip: Half-day boat tours cost €25-40 per person, full-day trips €40-60. Book through reputable operators with good safety records and included insurance. Best weather conditions are typically April through October.

Nightlife and Casino Experience

Experience Budva's legendary nightlife scene at beach clubs, rooftop bars, and nightclubs that keep the party going until dawn. The city is famous throughout the Balkans for its summer party atmosphere, featuring international DJs, themed events, and stunning seaside venues. The casino scene adds another dimension to evening entertainment options.

Booking Tip: Many venues have free entry before midnight, with drinks costing €5-10. Dress codes apply at upscale venues. Peak season (July-August) requires reservations for popular spots.

Day Trip to Kotor Bay

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor Bay, often called Europe's southernmost fjord, with its dramatic mountain scenery and medieval towns. Explore the ancient walled city of Kotor, visit the baroque town of Perast, and take a boat to the famous Our Lady of the Rocks island. The journey offers breathtaking mountain and coastal scenery throughout.

Booking Tip: Organized day trips cost €30-50 per person including transportation and guide. Self-driving allows more flexibility but parking in Kotor can be challenging. Allow full day for proper exploration.

Getting There

Budva is easily accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest airport is Tivat Airport, just 20 kilometers away, with regular shuttle services and taxis costing around €15-20. Podgorica Airport, Montenegro's main international hub, is about 65 kilometers away with bus connections taking 1.5 hours. By road, Budva connects to major Balkan cities via well-maintained highways, with regular bus services from Belgrade, Sarajevo, and other regional capitals. The coastal road from Croatia offers spectacular scenic drives, while ferry connections from Italy (Bar port, 60km south) provide an alternative arrival option.

Getting Around

Budva is compact and very walkable, with most attractions within easy walking distance of each other. The Old Town and main beaches are all accessible on foot, making cars unnecessary for city exploration. Local buses connect different parts of Budva and nearby towns along the coast for €1-2 per journey. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable for short distances, while rental cars or scooters are ideal for exploring the wider Budva Riviera and surrounding attractions. During peak summer season, traffic can be heavy, so walking or using water taxis between coastal points is often faster and more enjoyable.

Where to Stay

Budva Old Town

Slovenska Plaza

Becici Beach

Rafailovici

Przno Bay

Sveti Stefan area

Food & Dining

Budva's dining scene expertly combines traditional Montenegrin cuisine with international flavors and fresh Adriatic seafood. The Old Town harbors numerous atmospheric restaurants serving local specialties like fresh fish, lamb dishes, and regional wines in medieval settings. Coastal restaurants excel in seafood preparation, offering everything from simple grilled fish to elaborate seafood platters with stunning sea views. The city also features excellent Italian restaurants, reflecting historical Venetian influences, alongside modern fusion cuisine and international options. Local taverns (konoba) provide authentic experiences with traditional music, while beachfront establishments offer casual dining with your feet in the sand.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Budva is from May through September, when warm weather and calm seas create perfect conditions for beach activities and outdoor exploration. July and August offer the hottest weather and most vibrant atmosphere but also bring crowds and higher prices. June and September provide excellent weather with fewer tourists and better value, making them ideal for those seeking a more relaxed experience. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October) offer mild weather perfect for sightseeing and hiking, though some beach facilities may be closed. Winter visits are possible for cultural exploration and lower prices, but many tourist facilities close and weather can be unpredictable.

Insider Tips

Visit Mogren Beach early morning for the best light and fewer crowds - access is through a tunnel near the Old Town

Try local restaurants in the hills above Budva for authentic cuisine, better prices, and spectacular sunset views over the coast

Book accommodations well in advance for July-August, as the city fills up quickly during peak season, and consider staying in nearby Becici or Rafailovici for better value and easy access to Budva

Things to Do in Budva