Things To Do
in Budva
Budva is a sun-kissed coastal town on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, famed for its ancient walled old town and expansive beaches. The old town sits on a narrow peninsula, crowned by theences and palaces that whisper centuries of maritime history. The Budva Riviera blends medieval charm with buzzing nightlife, waterfront promenades, and hillside viewpoints.
With a rugged coastline, clear blue waters, and abundant seafood, Budva offers a compact, flavorful slice of the Adriatic experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café in the Old Town, savoring local pastries and strong Montenegrin coffee. Afterward, take a guided walking tour through the cobbled streets of the historic center, marveling at the ancient city walls and charming architecture. Visit the iconic Citadel for stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding landscape.
Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, where fresh seafood is the highlight of the menu. Post-lunch, explore the fascinating Maritime Museum, learning about Budva's rich seafaring history and its significance in the Adriatic trade routes. Spend some time wandering through the small boutiques and artisan shops, picking up unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a comfortable spot at a beachfront bar to enjoy a cocktail while watching the horizon change colors. Consider dining at a local restaurant serving traditional Montenegrin dishes, such as Njeguški pršut and fresh grilled fish. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and the sounds of the sea.
After breakfast, head to Mogren Beach, one of Budva's most popular beaches, where soft sands and clear waters await. Rent a sunbed and parasol for a relaxing morning under the sun, or take a refreshing dip in the Adriatic Sea. If you're feeling adventurous, try paddleboarding or kayaking, which are readily available for rental.
For lunch, enjoy a beachside meal of grilled calamari and a refreshing salad at one of the local beach bars. Afterward, join a fun-filled jet ski tour along the coast, experiencing the thrill of speeding across the waves while taking in the stunning coastal views. Alternatively, relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
As the day winds down, head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Choose a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the beach, where you can indulge in a delicious seafood platter accompanied by local wine. Conclude your evening with a beach bonfire or live music at a nearby beach bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚍Public transport day pass | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course restaurant meal | $25-40 |
| 🏖️Beach chair/umbrella | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Adriatic coastline and historic old town
- Great mix of culture, beaches, and nightlife
- Compact size makes day trips easy
- Excellent seafood and Mediterranean cuisine
- Seasonal crowds in summer
- Higher tourist prices during peak season
- Narrow roads and limited parking in Old Town
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gdje je..." - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Budva
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic fortress walls offer dramatic angles of the old town, harbor, and coastline, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful stone lanes with arches, lanterns, and historic façades perfect for atmospheric street photography.
Atlantic-blue water framed by cliffs and crystal-clear sands; ideal for golden-hour beach scenes.
Boat access nearby provides vantage points of the island and coast; sunset can produce striking silhouettes.
Long shoreline with pine-backed cliffs offering wide-angle sea and horizon shots.
Food in Budva
Budva Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dry-cured ham from the Njeguši region, typically served with cheese and olives. Find it in markets and tavernas around Budva.
Must-Try!
Cornmeal porridge served with creamy kajmak cheese; a comforting Montenegrin staple often paired with grilled meats.
Traditional fish soup featuring fresh Adriatic fish, tomatoes, and herbs; a warming starter in coastal restaurants.
Flaky pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach; widely available at bakeries and casual eateries near the coast.
Small grilled minced meat sausages served with onions and flatbread; a popular street and tavern dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively farmers market offering fresh produce, olives, cheese, honey, and regional specialties; great for a food-street sampling experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello (Dobar dan) and a handshake are common. Address people formally unless invited to use first names.
Modest attire is respectful when visiting churches; remove hats and observe quiet behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Budva
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a 5–10% tip is common if service is not included; rounding up the bill is also appreciated. For bars and cafes, leaving small change is typical.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; cash in euros is handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures around 15–22°C; calmer beaches, blooming hills, and fewer crowds make for relaxed sightseeing and photography.
Hot, sunny days with sea temperatures in the mid-20s°C; busy beaches and vibrant nightlife; ideal for water sports and sunset cruises.
Warm seas into early autumn with comfortable temperatures; fewer crowds and good conditions for hiking and outdoor dining.
Mild coastal winters with occasional rain and strong winds; some tourist services reduce hours, but the coastline is quieter for exploration.
Budva at Night
Hiking in Budva
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Stunning hikes with panoramic views of Kotor Bay and Cetinje; includes the Njegoš Mausoleum trail.
Scenic trail along the coast with sea views, moderate difficulty, suitable for a half-day trek.
Gentle forested trails with viewpoints over beaches and pine forests near Budva.
Airports
How to reach Budva by plane.
Closest international airport to Budva, about 20–25 km away; connected by road or shuttle services.
Montenegro’s main international airport, roughly 60–70 km away; longer drive but broader flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Montenegrins and coastal families; strong ties to fishing and tourism heritage.
Seasonal and long-term visitors in hospitality, construction, and marine services; a multicultural presence in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Jet-skiing, parasailing, paddle boarding, and kayaking off Becici and Mogren beaches.
Local matches and casual games are common around town; fans are passionate and welcoming.
Indoor and outdoor courts available; street games and organized leagues occur seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Budva.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in budva—look for salads, vegetable-based dishes, dairy-focused plates like kajmak, and grilled mushrooms; most restaurants can adapt dishes if you ask.