As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Montenegro, Budva has plenty to see and do both in the city and outside of the city. The Old Town provides a wealth of history and culture, beaches provide some relaxation time and attractions, and walks outside the city give the destination more diversity. There is also a great variety of things to do with children, making it a great choice for families. To help you decide what to do and experience while you are there, here is our pick of the 10 best things to do in Budva, Montenegro:
1. Budva Old Town
Designated as a world UNESCO heritage site and surrounded by fortress walls, the old town of Budva is arguably the highlight of the city. With small cobbled streets, museums and churches there is plenty to keep visitors busy and interested. There are also restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops throughout the old town, making it perfect for exploring. This should be a top priority on anyone’s list of things to do in Budva. You can check out the Old Town and the best walking route around it by watching our Budva Old Town walking tour video here.
2. Mogren Beach
Situated just 5-10mins walk from Budva Old Town is Mogren Beach. The beach is formed of two cove beaches that meet together in the middle with a small walkway between them, through some rocks. The beach and its water have been given a blue flag for quality which, alongside the available water activities, makes coming to this beach a pleasure for both swimmers, adventure seekers, and those just wanting to sunbathe on the soft, fine sand.
3. Sveti Stefan
One of the most scenic sights along Montenegro’s coastline is Sveti Stefan, an island resort made up of 15th-century stone buildings, that now form a 5-star hotel. Unfortunately, the resort is only accessible to paying guests but visitors can still use the promenade and the beach on the left side of the island for free. Located 6km from Budva, there is a shuttle bus that leaves from a stop near Budva’s old town, every 10min during peak season and costs approx €1.50 ($1.75) for a ticket. It takes around 25-30min to get to Sveti Stefan. You can also take the coastal walk which will take around 2.5-3 hours or go by boat. This is one of the most popular things to do in Budva for visitors and tourists, due to how beautiful this island looks along the coastline in Montenegro.
- Opening Times: Island is not open to the public, only paying guests
4. St Ivan and Holy trinity church
Situated next to each other in Budva’s old town, these churches are just two of the many historical sites to be explored. St Ivan church is a Catholic church and the Holy Trinity church is an orthodox church. St Ivan church is a beautiful old building with a landmark bell tower as well as an iconic stained glass window.
- Opening Times: Varies
- Entry/Tickets: Both are free to enter
5. Aquapark Budva
The largest waterpark in Montenegro, Aquapark is located 2.5km from the centre of Budva, around 10min away by car or taxi. With slides and activities for both adults and children, great views over the nearby city and coast, and facilities such as cafes and restaurants, there is plenty to keep everyone entertained. This is one of the top things to do in Budva if you’re visiting with kids.
- Opening Times: May – September from 10:00 to 20:00
- Entry/Tickets: €19 ($22.50) for children, €24 ($28.50) for adults, half day tickets are also available as well as family tickets
- Where to Buy: In person, on entry
6. Citadel Fortress
Located in the heart of the old town, and one of the most historically important buildings in Budva’s Old Town, the Citadela Fortress was built in 1936 by the Austrian army. It is thought to have been built on the ancient acropolis. As well as the impressive 360-degree views on offer, overlooking the old town and Adriatic sea, there is also a library and exhibitions.
- Opening Times: Daily from 09:00 to 22:00
- Entry/Tickets: €3.50 ($4) per person
- Where to Buy: In person, on entry
7. Sveti Nikola
This is Montenegro’s largest island, stretching 2km and a popular place for tourists to day trip to in the summer months, due to its greenery and beaches. The island is uninhabited so it is not possible to stay there. Regular ferry boats over to the island are available in peak season from Budva. Another option is to kayak over, given its proximity to the Budva.
- Opening Times: Depends on boat times
- Entry/Tickets: From €3 ($3.50) per person for the boat
- Where to Buy: In person, at the port
8. Podmaine Monastery
Consisting of two churches, this monastery is made up of one older, smaller church of Presentation of the Mother of God, built in the 15th century, and one larger church that was built in 1747. The monastery is historically important in Montenegro and is located on a hillside in Podmaine, which is 2km from the centre of Budva, 5-10min by car or taxi.
- Opening Times: Daily from 07:00 to 20:00
- Entrance: Free
9. Walk The Promenade
The coastline of Budva has a pathway stretching around 2km, which overlooks the sea and beaches, making for an enjoyable walk. There are great views from the walk, overlooking Budva Old Town, and a good selection of bars and restaurants on the way. The walk takes around 30min one way, so an hour round trip and is perfect for a sunny afternoon.
10. Archaeological Museum
With over four floors of displays and exhibitions, the Budva archaeological and ethnographic showcases Budva’s rich history, dating from 500BC. Included in the collections they hold are Greek and Roman jewellery and ceramics. The museum is located in the heart of the Old Town, easily accessible by foot.
- Opening Times: Tues – Fri from 08:00 to 21:00, Sat – Sun from 15:00 to 21:00, closed Mondays
- Entry/Tickets: €3 ($3.50) per adult, €1 ($1.25) per child
- Where to Buy: In person, on entry
Let us know in the comments below if you have done any of these things to do in Budva, and if you enjoyed them. For all the information you need to travel to Budva, check out our Budva travel guide, complete with everything you need to know about how to get to Budva, where to stay, and when to go. We also have a collection of other Montenegro travel guides if you’re planning to visit more of the country.
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