Top Things To Do In Budva

Thinking about a Mediterranean escape? Probably most of the tourists think about Kotor and Boka Bay when they mention Montenegro. But, Montenegro has lots of great destinations. 

Let me tell you about Budva, a nice urban coastal town. With its gorgeous beaches, Old Town, and very popular nightlife, Budva is a fantastic destination for all travelers. 

How To Get To Budva?

You can reach Budva by car, taxi or bus. Probably the most convenient way is to rent a car in Montenegro when landing at the airports of Podgorica or Tivat. 

Top Things to Do in Budva

If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro, here are some top things to do in Budva.

1. The Old Town

Budva's Old Town is an absolute must-see. It’s more than 2,500 years old, making it one of the oldest places on the Adriatic coast. 

As you walk through its cobblestone streets, you’ll find charming squares, ancient churches, and stone houses that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. 

The town is surrounded by medieval walls, and if you climb up, you’ll get a stunning view of the town and the sea. The price for entire medieval walls is around 2 EUR. 

Fun fact: over 50,000 tourists visit Budva’s Old Town every year, and it’s easy to see why—it’s a favorite for party lovers and photographers alike.

2. Enjoy Beaches

If you’re a fan of the sun and sea, Budva won’t disappoint. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, and you’ll have plenty to choose from. 

Mogren Beach is one of the most popular, and it’s just a short walk from the Old Town. It’s two beaches connected by a small tunnel, with clear waters and soft sand. 

For a bigger beach, head to Jaz Beach, which is a bit further away but perfect if you want to escape the crowds. Montenegro's coastline is about 293 kilometers long, and Budva’s beaches are some of the best.

Read more:

• Benefits of Renting a Car for Your Holiday in Montenegro

• How to rent the right car for a trip

• Tips for driving in Montenegro

3. Visit Sveti Stefan

A quick drive from Budva takes you to Sveti Stefan, a small islet that’s one of Montenegro's most iconic spots. It used to be a fishing village, but now it’s a luxury resort. 

Even if you’re not staying there, you can admire its beauty from the nearby public beach. Consider taking a guided tour if you want to learn more about this unique place. 

Sveti Stefan has been featured in so many travel magazines, and when you see it, you’ll understand why. The mix of red rooftops, green pine trees, and the blue sea is just stunning.

4. Take a Day Trip to Kotor

While you’re in Budva, make sure to take a day trip to Boka Bay or Cable Car Kotor. It’s only about an hour’s drive away and is another historic town you’ll love. 

Kotor’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its dramatic setting at the foot of towering mountains. 

If you’re up for it, climb the 1,350 steps to the St. Jovan Fortress for an unforgettable view of the Bay of Kotor. Each year, over 150,000 tourists visit Kotor, and many of them make the trek up to the fortress.

5. Party in Budva

Budva isn’t just about history and beaches—it’s also the nightlife capital of Montenegro. 

After the sun sets, the town comes alive. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. 

If you’re in the mood for a relaxed evening, check out the beach bars along the promenade. But if you’re up for dancing the night away, there are clubs with a more energetic vibe. Clubs like Top Hill are open from midnight to 5 AM, hosting regional and world superstars and DJs like Fedde Le Grand. 

During the summer, Budva hosts several music festivals, drawing visitors from all over Europe. 

6. Local Cuisine With Mediterranean Taste

No trip to Budva is complete without trying the local Mediterranean cuisine. Montenegrin food is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors. 

Fresh seafood is a highlight here, with many restaurants serving up dishes like grilled octopus, seafood pasta, and freshly caught fish. Our favorite is at “Jadran kod Korsta”. 

7. Explore Budva panorama by Boat

To appreciate Budva’s stunning coastline, you’ve got to get out on the water. You can rent a boat or join a tour to explore the Budva panorama. For a private tour, you will need to pay around 60 EUR per person. Short tours of 30 minutes are around 20 EUR per person.