Budva is a sun-drenched town set on the Adriatic Sea. Sandy beaches, lively nightlife and a warm Mediterranean climate make it one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Balkans. The historic centre will charm you with its narrow streets, ancient stone walls and a magnificent seaside citadel.
Things to do in Budva
Budva is a gateway to the sun-drenched Budva Riviera. The gorgeous sandy beaches are popular with well-heeled holidaymakers from Russia and Ukraine. It’s not unusual to see multimillion-dollar yachts sailing into the exclusive marina.
Parts of the medieval old town, also known as Stari Grad, date back to the 5th century. It’s one of the oldest towns on the Adriatic and is filled with beautiful old buildings. Get lost in a maze of winding streets lined with stone houses. Flowers spill off the balconies and give Budva a storybook feel.
Stop to admire historic gems like the Church of Santa Maria in Punta. It was built in the 9th century by Benedictine monks and features stone walls, a red-tile roof and beautiful sea views. Walking around town, you’ll also see buildings with Venetian, Austrian and Turkish influences.
Budva Citadel towers over Stari Grad and was built to guard the town from Austrian invasion in the 19th century. View the model ships in the small museum and enjoy a meal at the excellent restaurant.
Buzzing bars and nightclubs have earned Budva a reputation as the Miami of Montenegro. It’s easy to set off for an early dinner and dance the night away until sunrise. If you prefer a quieter scene, there are atmospheric bistros, wine bars and seafood restaurants in the historic centre.
Getting around Budva
Budva is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, especially in Stari Grad. Taxis are a fast and easy way to get around. The town is a one-hour drive from Podgorica Airport and 30 minutes from Tivat Airport.