Budva is a charming coastal town in Montenegro, known for its rich history, stunning surroundings, and vibrant nightlife. It is located on the Budva Riviera and is its main tourist city. Budva can be a great place for you to relax if you plan to see beautiful sights along the coast, as well as explore inland.
It is especially suitable for those who either do not want or are afraid to rent a car and explore Montenegro on their own. Instead, they choose public transport or excursions over driving. By basing yourself in Budva, you can organize such an active vacation.
This is exactly how we once discovered this resort town, staying in apartments and traveling around the country for a week. It was our first trip to Montenegro, and we decided to stay in Budva and explore its beaches and this wonderful country from there.
When is the best time to vacation in Budva
The best time to visit Budva depends on personal preferences, as each season has its own advantages. However, if you are looking for warm weather and pleasant sea water for swimming, then the peak season from June to August inclusive is the best time to visit.
Daytime air temperatures can reach up to +30°C, and water +25°C in July-August, making this time ideal for swimming and sunbathing. With this in mind, the Budva coast can be quite crowded with holidaymakers at this time. Accommodation and outdoor activities are noticeably more expensive during this period.
If you prefer peace or more free space at the beach in milder temperatures, then the ideal seasons are from April to May (the water is cold, but walking by the sea and exploring the country is a great time). Or from September to October—up to mid-September the water is still warm, you can sunbathe and enjoy empty beaches. The weather is still pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C.
Winter in Budva lasts from November to March and is the low season for tourism. The weather can be quite cool, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 12°C. Nevertheless, the town’s coastal location means it’s never too cold here.
Transport in Budva
Budva has very good transport connections. The city is served by excellent roads, such as the Adriatic Highway, and Tivat Airport is 20 km from the city. There are few trains, but buses will easily get you to any town along the coast.
Intercity buses in Montenegro
The bus connection along the coast is quite good. There is a regular bus service between Budva and the rest of Montenegro.
Buses to Sveti Stefan run every 10 minutes, and to Petrovac—hourly. There are regular services to/from Herceg Novi and Kotor in the north, Bar and Ulcinj in the south, and inland to Cetinje and Podgorica.
However, if you expect to see nice bus stations and a proper schedule—don’t. More often than not, these are simple buildings, sometimes resembling sheds with outdated printed schedules to benches on the street, or unmarked stops under trees by the roadside. The bus station in Budva is located here.
But don’t judge the bus system by the stations—on the website Busticket4.me you can easily figure out a very complete bus schedule. It’s convenient to use this website to plan trips across the country—information and schedules match reality.
You can buy a ticket to your destination at large stations (Podgorica, Kotor, Budva), but in smaller places you simply buy a ticket from the driver.
Attention: the website and bus station offices sell tickets even if the bus is full. Sometimes you have to ride on your own backpack or suitcase.
I also do not advise buying tickets online if you are not leaving from Budva or Podgorica. Most likely, you will have to exchange your self-printed ticket at the counter for a real ticket (and pay a station fee—1.5 Euro), and in smaller places they may not even accept it as a ticket.
In addition, this price, as well as the ticket purchased at the station, does not include luggage allowance. In other words, all luggage that needs to be placed in the bus baggage compartment must be paid for in cash to the conductor/driver during loading. You’ll pay about 1-1.5 euros per item of luggage.
Local buses in Montenegro
There are also local bus lines in popular regions, for example around Kotor and the Bay of Kotor, as well as along the Budva coastline.
The Blue Line covers the area from Herceg Novi to Kotor and Tivat, passing through Dobrota, Perast, Risan, and other popular stops. The Blue Line website is only in Montenegrin, but it has the schedule.
The Mediteran Express runs from Budva to Petrovac, passing through Bečići, Sveti Stefan, and other stops along the coast. It also goes in the other direction from Budva to the Yaz and Plaža beaches. It does not have a dedicated website, but the Budva tourist office has the schedule (plus the times are printed at the actual bus stops).
Olimpia Buses have a fixed fare of 2.5 euros per segment. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling Budva–Petrovac or Petrovac–Sveti Stefan, etc. In Budva, the buses depart from the main highway that runs through the city and goes to Sveti Stefan and Petrovac.
Budva mediteran express – these are buses that travel along the coast, the fare is inexpensive, payment is made to the driver, stops are usually on the main road.
Public transport from Montenegro airports
In fact, a common question for first timers is: is there public transport from the airport?
As for buses, the answer is no. None of the bus lines are directly connected to the airports.
Both Podgorica and Tivat airports are not served by any public transport. Therefore, taking a taxi (transfer) from each is unavoidable. This doesn’t necessarily have to be for the whole journey, but for part of it – yes.
Technically, there is a train station at Podgorica Airport. However, it’s best used by adventure lovers or those who have minimal luggage (and lots of spare time), as the station is a 10–15-minute walk from the airport. It’s toward the city, under the overpass, and is only served by intercity trains. Keep in mind, there are no amenities: the station is just a concrete shed.
If you do take the train, then a short trip to the city will cost you only 1–2 euros.
Where to stay in Budva
Budva, over two and a half thousand years old, is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast, making it an ancient and fascinating place to visit.
Budva is home to just under 20,000 people, including the wider area that covers neighboring towns and hotel villages. An example is Jaz, an ideal place to relax in Budva for families, with fantastic beaches and amazing scenery. If you want to enjoy a holiday with a nice beach and quieter accommodation, head to Bečići.
However, many tourists visiting Budva for the first time choose the Old Town. In this antique quarter within ancient walls, there is much of interest, especially for those wanting to immerse themselves in the authenticity of the city’s historical sights.
Though Budva is quite an old city, it’s not silent like small, old Adriatic towns. On the contrary, the center of Budva is endless parties in bars and nightclubs located along the Budva promenade, where you can enjoy the Adriatic Sea while sipping a cocktail.
Old Town – if it’s your first time in Budva
The ancient strong fortress, Old Town – a great place to stay in Budva if you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of historical landmarks.
Although it was quite heavily damaged during the 1979 earthquake, much painstaking work was invested in restoration to rebuild the old walls. You wouldn’t even guess that most of them are reconstructed buildings. But this speaks to the quality of the restoration, making everything as it was.
Most of the buildings in Old Budva are small hotels and guesthouses, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. You can also find apartments here, but markets and large supermarkets are outside the Old Town. You’ll have to carry shopping bags by hand.
Advice: if you are traveling in Montenegro by rental car – it is better to avoid hotels in Old Budva. You can’t drive in here, and you’ll have to park outside the Old Town. The streets are so narrow that even delivering goods for restaurants and shops is difficult here.
What to see and do in Budva Old Town
- Stroll along the ancient defensive walls surrounding the Old Town. They date back to Venetian rule, and have many features such as towers and gates!
- Admire the main gate along the walls—the impressive Porta di Terra Ferma, that leads into the city from the west.
- Walk along the city’s main street, Njegoševa Street, where you’ll see some of the city’s most luxurious architectural sights.
- In the Old Town there are several ancient churches like St. John’s Church dating from the 17th century, the Holy Trinity Church from 1804, and the oldest church in the Old Town, Santa Maria in Punta, dating from 840 AD.
- Budva is famous for its Avala Casino—as an option, you can try your luck here.
Hotels in Budva Old Town:
- FREEDOM HOSTEL≫ – a very nice hostel located right in the center of Budva Old Town. It is exceptionally clean, the kitchen is bright, spacious, and well-equipped; only two bathrooms but they are spotless and private.
- Apartman Senka≫ – Great location, in the center of Old Town, but not too noisy. The apartment is well-equipped and very clean.
- Guesthouse Bogdanovic≫ – great location inside the Old Town walls. Small, but very tidy apartment with everything needed for a good rest.
Podmaine – budget accommodation in Budva
To the north of the city center is the Podmaine district. If you are looking for more budget accommodation, this area may suit you. In the beautiful countryside surrounding Budva, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. If you rent a car, you’ll always find a place to park here. If you travel by public transport, be prepared to walk uphill and remember this area is the farthest from the beach.
There are practically no hotels in Podmaine, but a huge selection of apartments. So this is more convenient if you plan to cook for yourself, or want to live in Budva for a few months.
Podmaine, what’s interesting nearby
- Podmaine Monastery, built in the 15th century, is a wonderful quiet complex worth visiting when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the town center.
- Here you also find the Church of St. Petka, next to which is a small quiet park.
- Love nature? Why not go hiking to Podostrog—one of the most scenic and popular tourist spots in Budva.
- Take a trip a little north to Kosmač Fortress—a ruined stronghold from ancient times.
- For those planning to cook for themselves, there is a large Lidl supermarket in this area.
Accommodation in Podmaine:
- Apartment Pegaz≫ – Nice place, good kitchen, friendly owner. Very convenient, modern apartment equipped with everything you need. There is even a sea view :) Great contact with staff, who help with all questions.
- Sonja Apartment≫ – Clean, small apartment, great for a couple, perfectly equipped—has everything needed.
- Apartments Blanco≫ – Very clean, everything you need in the kitchen. New renovation and has an elevator, very convenient. Free access to the washing machine, large water heater. Very welcoming staff.
Budva Promenade – the place for nightlife in Budva
Over the past couple of years, several wonderful nightclubs have appeared on the Promenade, especially right on the seashore. You can enjoy amazing views while sipping a cocktail or delving into delicious local cuisine.
There are also daytime activities – there is a marina nearby, so you can look at luxury boats! There are also beaches where you can cure a hangover by swimming in the sea.
What to see and do on Budva Promenade
- Go down to Dukley Marina, where you will see some of Montenegro’s famous luxury yachts and admire the blue Adriatic Sea.
- Cure your hangover by swimming in the sea or sunbathing during the day at Greco Beach.
- Another beach you can enjoy, which is a bit quieter, is Slovenska Plaza. There is a bit more pebbles, but the water is deep and blue, and it offers amazing views further down the coastline in both directions.
- If you are relaxing with children, you can go to Luna Park Popivoda – a fun amusement park for people of all ages.
- In recent years, many nightclubs, restaurants, and bars have opened along the promenade. It’s the perfect way to enjoy food or drinks while looking at the bay.
Hotels on Budva Promenade:
- Montesun Fontana Apartments≫ – Great location of the apartments – close to the promenade and the sea, the old town, shops, restaurants. Relatively new furniture and renovation. Stable and fast internet. Having a dishwasher and a washing machine is a big plus.
- Hotel Oaza≫ – Great location, in the center of Budva with the possibility to walk to the beach or the old town. Also very close to Budva bus stop (13 minutes on foot) and Sveti Stefan bus stop (5 minutes on foot). It’s a 12-minute taxi ride to Jaz Beach.
- Orange Apartment 2≫ – Easy access to the city center, markets, and organic market. Very good transport connection. The beach is very close, as well as the promenade with restaurants.
Jaz – the best place for family holidays in Budva
Jaz is a beautiful area just around the corner from Old Town Budva. Here you will find white sandy beaches and the deep blue sea, surrounded by amazing historical landmarks.
If you want a quiet family vacation without missing out on Budva’s sights, Jaz is the best place for you!
What to see and do in Jaz:
- The most famous feature of Jaz is its idyllic beach, where you can sit, relax, and bask under the gorgeous Montenegrin sun. It’s also known as the site for several summer festivals like the Sea Dance Festival.
- Jaz Battery Fort Mogren is the best place to visit if you like family outings with breathtaking views.
- Show your kids the amazing view of the Adriatic Sea from the Budva Vista Point observation deck. It’s worth seeing the sunset over the water or simply enjoying the blazing sunlight reflecting on the waves.
- If you want to relax on a slightly quieter beach, then you need to go down to Mogren Beach. If you want to spend a family beach day, this is the best place for you.
Hotels in Jaz – near a wonderful beach with sea views
- Guesthouse P&A≫ – Nice apartments, the room has everything you need, clean, quiet place, friendly hosts, good location if you have your own car, it’s 3 minutes’ drive to Jaz Beach.
- Poseidon The Beach Hotel≫ – The hotel has a great location near the sea, comfortable beds, good shower, friendly and welcoming staff, tasty breakfast, calm and nice beach right by the hotel, with several activities for kids (slide, some beach activities, swings, great view from the balcony, very clean.
- Seoce Villa≫ – Apartments near Jaz Beach. Great terrace, incredible breathtaking view of the mountains and sea, very well-equipped kitchen with everything you need, including a coffee machine.
Bečići – the best place to stay in Budva
You can consider Bečići a separate town or a suburb of Budva – it’s up to you. In reality, Bečići is located just around the corner, behind the rock that separates it from Budva. But we simply walked there on a path leading from Slovenska Beach along the sea to Bečići and further to the island of Sveti Stefan.
Take a walk from the center of Budva, or, conversely, stay in one of the nice hotels or apartments in Bečići – it’s your decision. It depends on whether you want to relax by the beautiful beach in Bečići or be closer to the bustling epicenter of Budva and transport links if you travel without a rental or private car.
I would recommend Bečići to those who want a good holiday by the sea, families with children, and travelers who come to Montenegro with their own car (or have rented one in Budva). You’ll get a great combination of a nice beach and the ability to travel the country without restrictions.
Hotels and apartments in Bečići:
- Hotel Svarog≫ – Hotel location – 3 minutes to the sea, and 25 minutes on foot from Budva. Luxurious view from the window with a balcony overlooking the sea and mountains. New furniture and renovation. Responsive and lovely staff. The price is totally fair and probably the best value on the coast.
- Hotel Montenegro≫ – Wonderful hotel for a vacation: from cleanliness, comfort to tasty cuisine in the café (great varied food), free sun loungers, and a playroom for children.
- Apartments Ivanović≫ – Spacious clean studio rooms with mountain and sea views, all new. Quiet street within walking distance to the beach, pleasant hostess. 5 minutes on foot to the beach, 10 minutes to a large grocery store. There is free parking near the house. Good value for the money.
Beaches near Budva
The city boasts several beautiful beaches – from quiet and secluded sandy stretches to lively bays that create the perfect setting for swimming and water sports.
If you want to enjoy a seaside holiday with your furry friends, head to Slovenska Beach – it’s officially allowed here. Swim in the shallow and calm waters of Mogren Beach, which feels like a lagoon, and enjoy quiet time at the secluded Trsteno Beach. At Ploče Beach you can take surfing lessons, and you can eat well or have a cold drink at cafés and restaurants on Buljarica Beach. The choice is yours!
Slovenska Plaza – the most popular beach in Budva
- Ideal for: those looking for a lively atmosphere, want to be in the center of an active city, close to a large selection of restaurants, children’s entertainment, etc.
Slovenska Beach is probably the most popular and easily accessible for tourists in Budva. This beach stretches for more than 1.5 kilometers and is located close to the city center. Slovenska is also a pet-friendly beach, so you can take your furry friends with you.
Its shores offer soft sand, exciting waves, and a friendly atmosphere where you can be sure to have a good time.
The beach is also well-equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, so you can sunbathe. And the crystal clear water of the Adriatic Sea makes Slovenska Beach ideal for swimming and water sports.
Mogren Plaža – the best beach in Budva
- Ideal for: lovers of safe, peaceful relaxation, watching sunrises and sunsets.
You will love the charming Mogren Beach, located in a bay just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town. The beach is divided into two parts by two rocks, which means there are no big waves here. It’s safe to say that this is the perfect place for swimming.
The beach is divided into two parts – Mogren I and Mogren II, both connected by a small tunnel carved into the rock.
The sea here is shallow, making swimming safe for children. Moreover, the beach offers lifeguard services, showers, and changing rooms, so your safety and comfort are guaranteed. If you wish, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas or relax on your own towel.
Tip: On your way to Mogren Beach you can see Richard’s Head Beach, which is located right under the fortress walls of Old Budva. It is a small beach – 200 m, sandy/pebble shore, there are sun loungers, a café, and a bar. You can also relax there for a change.
Kamenovo Plaža – the most family-friendly beach in Budva
- For whom: for families and couples who want to sunbathe on a sun lounger with cold drinks.
One of the best family beaches near Budva is Kamenovo Beach. It offers various beach amenities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants, and beach bars.
The beach is surrounded by green vegetation and a stunning mountainous backdrop, and the water is clear and shallow. In addition, various water activities are offered on the beach, such as water skiing and parasailing, which are ideal for older children and adults.
Plaža Jaz – very nice sand and scenery
- Who it’s suitable for: those who want to relax well on the beach and be able to take pictures of the majestic surrounding landscapes.
This long sandy beach called Jaz is just a few minutes’ drive from the city center and offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
It has become quite a popular place for both tourists and locals due to its lively atmosphere and wonderful views.
Jaz Beach is also ideal for visitors who want to be at the epicenter of music festivals and cultural events that are held here throughout the year.
Trsteno Plaža – the quietest beach in Budva
- For whom: travellers and families who want to enjoy a quiet and secluded beach.
Trsteno Beach is a small secluded beach on the outskirts of Budva, surrounded by lush green hills, in a scenic bay with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. It’s the perfect place for visitors who want to avoid the crowds and treat themselves to peace and quiet.
Of course, the waters at Trsteno are so pristine that you can try snorkeling here (and of course swimming and sunbathing). We ended up here while traveling along the coast on a boat tour – we really enjoyed swimming here because there were hardly any people.
Bečići Beach – the most beautiful beach for a long vacation in Budva
- For whom: for families with children, for those who want to stay on the Montenegrin coast as long as possible.
Bečići Beach is located in the village of the same name. The shore is gently sloping and sandy, with small pebbles at the entrance to the sea. The entrance to the sea is gentle, but it’s better to swim in beach shoes. Free entrance, there are paid sun loungers and umbrellas, there is a toilet, shower, restaurant, and bar. The shore is gently sloping and sandy.
Buljarica Plaža – the best beach in Budva for surfing
- For whom: for those seeking the opportunity to snorkel in its clear waters and in a calm environment.
Located between the towns of Petrovac and Bar, Buljarica is a quiet beach that stretches for 2 kilometers.
It offers ideal conditions for surfing with its strong, steady waves. It is also known for its clean and transparent water, which makes it a popular place for diving and snorkeling.
As a bonus, Buljarica Beach is relatively uncrowded. You will find cafés and restaurants scattered along its shores, so you can enjoy delicious food or a refreshing drink. It’s definitely a good place for a scenic walk or sunbathing.
What to see and do while on vacation in Budva
- The Citadel – hike up to the historic Venetian fortress on the hilltop overlooking the picturesque Old Town and the Adriatic Sea.
- Budva City Walls – admire panoramic views of the city and the sea and take memorable photos by the well-preserved medieval defense system.
- Old Town – visit one of the most famous medieval towns, which is now a World Heritage site, and explore its charming cobbled streets and historic buildings.
- Take a boat tour – explore the city and its surroundings by joining a boat tour around the coastline.
- Taste traditional seafood in one of Budva’s fish restaurants. I really liked the restaurant Tri Ribara.
- Explore Budva’s coastline while exercising and discovering coastal caves by kayaking and SUP.
What to see around Budva
- Explore the quirky and famous island village of Sveti Stefan, which houses a luxury hotel, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway.
- Lovcen National Park – relax in a nature lover’s paradise, offering stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Montenegrin coast and surrounding mountains.
- Trsteno Arboretum – enjoy a charming view of the Adriatic Sea from this historic 15th-century garden.
- Miločer Park – explore the green oasis filled with exotic plants, trees, and flowers on the city’s outskirts.
- Bar – discover this charming historic town with roots dating back to Roman times.
- Petrovac Fortress – climb to the top of the 16th-century fortress, which was used during the Ottoman Empire, and treat yourself to a panoramic view of the coast and surroundings.
- Durmitor National Park – discover charming villages on a scenic drive and admire the stunning mountain massif, glaciers, lakes, and canyons during a tour of Durmitor National Park.
Bonus – Montenegrin food
There are many restaurants and cafés on the coast of the Budva Riviera, there are also places with local fast food. Those on the promenade and in Old Budva are more expensive. Those within the city and farther from the tourist promenade are cheaper.
In a fish restaurant in Budva, our average bill for three was about €80. We ordered a dish with fish and seafood, salad, and wine. Many restaurants and cafés also offer set lunches: soup, salad, side dish + meat or fish. The price for such a meal is €12-15 per person.
If you choose restaurants in neighboring towns: Petrovac or Rafailovići, the average bill will be cheaper. For example, a fish dish in Petrovac cost about €30, so our family meal was up to €50 by the sea with a wonderful view. A separate dish with chicken or pork schnitzel, French fries, and vegetables costs €8-10 per portion. Salads – from €3-4, a large meat plate (700-1000 grams) – €12-14.
Montenegrin street food
An alternative is Montenegrin street food. What they call a hamburger is homemade bread, very similar to ciabatta, with meat straight from the oven placed into the cut bread. Then you can add any vegetables you like: tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, lettuce, sliced onions. And sauce of your choice – tomato, sour cream, or something in between our cream and soft cheese – kajmak. Ćevapi/Ćevapčići – a grilled minced meat dish, similar to lula kebab.
We decided to cook for ourselves – it’s much cheaper than eating out every day. No wonder we stayed in apartments with a small kitchen. Food in Montenegro is inexpensive and very tasty. We liked visiting the Budva Market after the beach, located in the city center.
There you’ll find a variety of fruits and vegetables, pickled olives, bryndza cheese, pršut. There are also many supermarkets in the city with all the necessary products: dairy, bread, wine. I really liked Montenegrin pršut – the local version of Italian prosciutto. Dry-cured pork ham with a taste that melts in your mouth. The tastiest pršut is sold at the market in Budva – you can try it there and order the amount you want sliced with a slicer. Average price is 15-17€ per kilogram. Another topic is dairy products. Such delicious yogurts and milk I haven’t eaten anywhere else.
It’s also convenient to buy ready meals at small butcher shops. Here you can choose a steak, shashlik, or kebab, which will be grilled for you in 10-15 minutes. And don’t forget Montenegrin wine – Vranac, which pairs perfectly with meat.
Useful links for planning your trip:
Car rental in Montenegro – cheap car can be found through the aggregator DiscoverCars
Hotels and apartments – I traditionally book via Booking.com
Travel insurance with discounts – online at HotlineFinance
What else to read:
- Review of a holiday in Croatia – Baška Voda on the Makarska Riviera
- Primošten – review of a beach holiday in Croatia
- Brela – the most beautiful beaches of the Makarska Riviera
- How to Rent a Car in Podgorica, Montenegro Without a Deposit and Credit Card
- The best beaches of the Budva Riviera: from Budva to Sveti Stefan
