Top 5 Things to Do in Budva, Montenegro, The Ultimate Guide

Wondering what are the best things to do in Budva, or even if it’s worth visiting on a tight schedule?

I get it. I travel around a full-time job too, and so I’m always hunting for destinations that deliver maximum impact in minimal days.

When I touched down in Budva, I had just 72 hours and a long wishlist. And even after visiting almost all of the Balkan countries on weekend getaways, this Adriatic gem surprised me. From Old Town strolls and cliffside views to late-night cocktails by the sea, Budva packs a lot into a small package.

In this post, I’ll walk you through what to see in Budva for a quick but unforgettable visit. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or tacking it onto a longer Balkan itinerary, I’ll help you make the most of every minute.

1. Explore History In Budva Old Town

Budva’s Old Town is part old and historical and part modern and boujee.

It’s worth a visit during the day, for its coastal views and shopping. Then, don’t miss returning at night for a completely different vibe as its bars and restaurants come to life.

Wander Through Ancient Streets

The Old Town is like a maze of cobbled lanes, stone houses and little surprises around every corner.

Start at the iron gate, then wind your way through streets that have been walked by visitors for hundreds of years.

• I loved wandering aimlessly and stumbling across hidden cafes, shopping and buying gifts in artisan shops and resting in quaint courtyards
• The vibe is relaxed but also full of life
• It’s small, so easy to explore in a couple of hours – but note, the streets can get busy on an evening in the summer months

Visit the Citadel (Fortress)

There’s a reason why the Citadel is amongst the top things to do in Budva. It gives you those postcard-perfect views over red rooftops and out to sea.

• Entry is affordable (5 EUR), and the history is fascinating
• Climb the old stone steps for amazing photos
• There’s a small library and exhibition inside too

Just beyond the Citadel you can also walk the city walls for a small charge, and take in the sea views over the Adriatic Sea and Sveti Nikola Island.

Admire Holy Trinity Church

This pretty Orthodox church stands proudly in the centre of the Old Town.

• Look out for its colourful mosaic above the door
• It’s small but peaceful inside
• Free to visit, so it’s worth popping in while you explore – but make sure you’d appropriately covered up

Just opposite the church entrance you’ll find a beautiful small seaview point. I loved taking ocean vista photos here, and it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset – if you time it right.

Just round the corner from the edge of the Old Town, check out the ‘Budva Ballerina’ statue. I tried various angles and got the perfect photo with the historic buildings in the background.

Consider joining a walking tour of Budva if you’re travelling solo, or want to learn more about the city’s rich history.

2. Relax on Budva’s Beaches

Budva has SO MANY beaches. I was seriously spoilt for choice!

Its long and beautiful coastline means almost every inch has been set up for sea dipping and sunbathing, with sun beds, bars, restaurants and other amenities.

Mogren Beach

This was my favourite beach spot in Budva. Here’s why:

• This beach offered the clearest, most turquoise waters and softest sand
• You can walk between the two little bays linked by a rocky tunnel known as ‘Hole In Stone’ – it’s super Insta-worthy!
• There are plenty of sunbeds – although go early to grab one in high season

We parked on the main road, and followed the sign down a dirt path directly onto the beach. Once we were done sunbathing we had lunch at Mogren II Beach Bar & Restaurant then followed the walkway to the ‘Budva Ballerina’ sculpture and out into the Old Town.

Jaz Beach

If you like a bit more buzz, this one’s for you.

• It’s big, with a few beach bars and places to eat
• There are often live DJ sets, which are such a fun vibe
• Jaz Beach is easy to reach from the centre by taxi or local bus

Slovenska Beach

This one’s right in the heart of Budva, and always lively.

• It has loads of cafes and shops nearby
• It’s ideal if you’re staying central and want a quick beach fix
• Just bear in mind it can get busy, so it’s not ideal for total relaxation

Whatever’s on your list of things to do in Budva, you’re bound to end up relaxing or stumbling on at least a couple of its gorgeous beaches along the way.

3. Admire Sveti Stefan Viewpoint

This was so high on my list of what to see in Budva, because every photo I’d seen just looked so beautiful.

And in person, I can confirm that Sveti Stefan is straight out of a fairytale. It really is one of the most iconic shots in Montenegro.

• It’s a private resort now, but you can admire it from the mainland. We drove there and enjoyed golden hour views from the main road above – it was absolutely stunning.
• Worth the short drive from Budva centre just for the scenery
• The beach just beside the island is open to the public, and offers a great view from ground level

You’ll need a car to get here, as it’s a little way out of Budva centre. Or, take a tour that includes a stop here as part of the itinerary.

Can’t choose a beach to visit? Try this beach-hop guided tour with time to relax, sunbathe and swim as well as explore the vibrant marine ecosystem.

4. Enjoy Outdoor & Water-Based Activities

Budva’s expansive coastline means there is no shortage of outdoor and water-based activities to enjoy during your stay.

Boat Tours

Seeing Budva from the water is an absolute must – believe me, it’s just stunning. And there are different ways to enjoy those stunning views.

• Take a boat to Sveti Nikola Island (locals call it “Hawaii Beach”)
• Go snorkelling and watch the sealife beneath the surface
• You can also book boat tours around Boka Bay, rides to the Blue Cave and sunset cruises

We took this all-day cruise and it was the best way of seeing Budva’s beautiful shoreline. We swam in the turquoise waters too, which was just unforgettable.

Jet Skiing and Parasailing

For those looking for thrilling things to do in Budva, there are plenty of water sport options to increase your adrenaline levels!

• Jet ski rentals are dotted along the beaches
• Go parasailing – I’ve done this once and I felt like I was flying!
• Prices vary, but group deals are often available with savings offered if booking for two or three people. We found 50 EUR for 1 person, 80€ for two or 100€ for three people to be a typical price for parasailing.
• You’ll need cash (Euros) to pay for these activities

You can also take a kayak or paddle board tour along the stunning Budva coast and to explore beautiful caves.

Hiking

If you prefer to keep your feet dry and firmly on land, then you’re in luck because Budva offers some incredible hiking trails.

Hikes range between 2km and 25km and vary in difficulty and elevation. And getting a bird’s eye view gives you a great advantage to working out what to see in Budva.

One of the most popular hikes is a 7-bay trail, which starts at Budva bay (or begin further along at Mogren Beach) and takes you along the coastline. You’ll walk past Rafailovici bay, Komenovo Beach, Przno bay, Queen’s Beach, King’s Beach and finish at the stunning Sveti Stefan.

5. Experience Budva’s Nightlife

Budva knows how to party, and after sunset the city truly comes alive! Experiencing it is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Budva after dark.

Lively Bars and Clubs

Budva at night has a definite holiday party vibe in some areas, and is the perfect place to show off your golden tan over a cocktail or two.

• Start your evening in a chilled cocktail bar like Casper or Juice Bar.
• Then head to Top Hill – an open-air club up on the hill with insane views
• Music ranges from house to Balkan beats

Waterfront Dining

For a more laid-back vibe, head to one of the many lamp-lit restaurants on the edge of the Old Town or waterfront, like I did.

• I had an unforgettable seafood dinner at Jadran by the Sea – the sea bass dish was delicious, one of the best I’ve had!
• The views, the wine, the sunset… perfection
• Most places along the promenade offer fresh fish and Mediterranean dishes

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Budva really does tick all the boxes – charming old town, gorgeous beaches, exciting nightlife and stunning views. There was always something to do and see.

If you’re planning a short trip to the Balkans, this gem on the Adriatic coast is a top pick.

And if your flights are already booked, don’t forget to pre-book your activities before you depart to save your spot! With Get Your Guide, you can usually book now and pay later, and reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours before.

You can also check out my personal favourite Montenegro experiences here.