Budva
,Budva is a coastal town located in Montenegro, known for its stunning beaches and historic old town. The town offers a perfect mix of history and modernity, with its ancient city walls standing in contrast to its vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing on the sandy beaches during the day and exploring the charming cobblestone streets lined with shops and restaurants in the evening.
With its picturesque setting along the Adriatic Sea, Budva is a popular destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please
- "Kako si?" - How are you?
- "Izvini" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Relaxing at the Beach
morning
:Start your day enjoying a refreshing swim at Mogren Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters. Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline and soak up the sun.
afternoon
:After lunch at a nearby beach cafe, spend your afternoon sunbathing or trying out water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing. Explore the natural beauty of the coastline.
evening
:As the sun sets, find a seaside restaurant for a delicious dinner. Enjoy fresh seafood while taking in the beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.
Explore the Old Town
morning
:Visit the charming Old Town of Budva, full of historical landmarks and cobblestone streets. Start your day at the Citadel for stunning views of the surrounding area.
afternoon
:Wander through the quaint alleys, stopping by local shops and art galleries. Don’t miss the beautiful churches, such as St. John’s Church and the Church of the Holy Trinity.
evening
:Choose a cozy cafe in Old Town for dinner and enjoy local cuisine. Afterward, stroll through the lit-up streets, taking in the lively atmosphere.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful beaches and stunning coastal views
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate
- Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe
- Variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports
Bad
- Tourist crowds during peak season can be overwhelming
- Limited public transportation options
- Some areas may suffer from overdevelopment
- Language barrier for non-Serbo-Croatian speakers
- Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities
- Economic opportunities may be limited for locals
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beach Volleyball
Play beach volleyball on the sandy beaches of Budva, such as Mogren Beach or Slovenska Plaža, enjoying the sun and sea.
Hiking to Sveti Nikola Island
Take a hike along the coast to the nearby Sveti Nikola Island, offering stunning views and opportunities for swimming and exploration.
Paragliding
Experience the thrill of paragliding over the stunning Adriatic coast and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Budva.
Scuba Diving
Explore the underwater world of the Adriatic Sea with scuba diving excursions that cater to both beginners and experienced divers.
Cycling along the Coast
Rent a bike and ride along the coastal paths, taking in the beautiful scenery of turquoise waters and lush landscapes.
Boat Tours
Join a boat tour to explore the stunning coastline, hidden coves, and nearby islands, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
Jet Skiing
Rent a jet ski and speed across the waters of Budva, enjoying an adrenaline rush while taking in the coastal scenery.
Fishing Trips
Embark on a fishing trip to experience the local fishing culture and enjoy a relaxing day on the water.
Wine Tasting Tours
Participate in wine tasting tours in the nearby vineyards, combining outdoor activity with a taste of local Montenegrin wines.
Historical Walking Tours
Take a walking tour of Budva's old town to explore its rich history, medieval architecture, and beautiful squares.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Budva with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Sveti Stefan
A small islet and resort in Budva, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding landscapes.
Mogren Beach
A beautiful seaside location with rocky cliffs and clear blue waters, perfect for photography and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Citadela
An ancient fortress offering panoramic views of Budva's old town and the coastline, creating an ideal setting for capturing memorable shots.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seafood Risotto
A rich and flavorful risotto dish made with locally sourced seafood such as mussels, shrimp, and fish, cooked in a savory broth.
Must-Try!
Grilled Octopus
Tender octopus marinated in olive oil and Mediterranean herbs, then grilled to perfection, often served with a side of fresh salad or potatoes.
Pršut (Montenegrin Prosciutto)
A dry-cured ham that is a staple in Montenegrin cuisine, usually served thinly sliced as an appetizer or paired with local cheeses and wine.
Kačamak
A traditional Montenegrin dish made from cornmeal (similar to polenta) and often combined with cheese, cream, and meat, creating a hearty and comforting meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Budva better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Budva City Market
Located in the heart of Budva, this bustling market offers a vibrant array of fresh fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, olives, and artisanal products. Visitors can also find street food stalls offering traditional snacks like burek (flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese) and cevapi (grilled sausage).
Pjaca Market
A charming outdoor market in the Old Town of Budva, showcasing a variety of local produce, cured meats, honey, and homemade preserves. The market is an ideal spot to sample authentic Montenegrin street food, including grilled fish sandwiches and pastries.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress Appropriately
When visiting religious sites or formal occasions, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully. For women, this may mean wearing clothing that covers shoulders and knees. For men, wearing long pants and short or long-sleeved shirts is advisable.
Greetings
In Montenegro, a warm handshake is a common greeting. When addressing someone, using their first name with a respectful title (such as Mr. or Mrs.) is appreciated. Close friends may greet each other with kisses on both cheeks.
Dining Etiquette
If invited to a meal, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as dessert or wine, for the host. During the meal, it is polite to wait until everyone is served before starting to eat, and to keep hands on the table, but not elbows.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Budva with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Budva, Montenegro, tipping is customary and appreciated, especially in the service industry. It is common to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service is satisfactory. In more upscale establishments, a tip of 10-15% may be expected. Tipping taxi drivers is also common, with rounding up the fare being a typical practice.
Payment
Payment methods in Budva are quite flexible. Most restaurants, shops, and hotels accept credit and debit cards, with Visa and MasterCard being the most widely accepted. Cash payments in the local currency, Euro (EUR), are also common. ATMs are readily available, providing easy access to cash. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets that may not accept cards.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Budva.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring is one of the best times to visit Budva, Montenegro. The weather is mild, and the landscape is blooming with colorful flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the Old Town without the summer crowds.
Summer
Summer is high season in Budva, Montenegro. The town is vibrant with tourists, and the beaches are bustling with activities. The weather is hot, perfect for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
Autumn
Autumn is another great time to visit Budva, Montenegro. The weather is still pleasant, and the summer crowds have thinned out. It's a good time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Winter
Winter in Budva, Montenegro is quiet and peaceful. While the town may not be as lively as in other seasons, it's a good time for travelers looking for a serene atmosphere and lower prices. The coastal views are still stunning, and you can experience the local culture without the tourist crowds.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lovćen National Park
A beautiful national park with stunning mountain views, rich biodiversity, and various hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
Avala Mountain
Located near Budva, Avala Mountain offers several hiking paths with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding landscapes.
Sveti Stefan Trail
A scenic trail that leads from Budva to the iconic island of Sveti Stefan, with beautiful coastal views and lush Mediterranean flora.
Mount Vrmac
Provides a challenging hike with incredible views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding area, making it a favorite among local hikers.
Kotor to Njeguši Trail
An adventurous hike that connects Kotor and Njeguši through the mountains, featuring historical landmarks and breathtaking vistas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Budva through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Budva by plane.
Tivat Airport (TIV)
The nearest international airport to Budva, located about 20 kilometers away, serves numerous international flights during the tourist season.
Podgorica Airport (TGD)
The capital's main airport, approximately 65 kilometers from Budva, offering a broader range of international flights year-round.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
Located in Croatia, about 80 kilometers away from Budva, serves many international destinations, especially popular during the summer months.
Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ)
About 200 kilometers from Budva, this airport offers several international flights and is a key entry point to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Montenegrins
The largest ethnic group in Budva, making up a significant portion of the population.
Serbs
A prominent ethnic group in Budva, with historical ties to the region.
Bosniaks
A smaller demographic in Budva, primarily associated with the Muslim population.
Croats
An ethnic group present in Budva, though not as numerous as others.
Albanians
A minority group in Budva, primarily residing in specific areas.
Other Ethnicities
Includes a variety of smaller groups and individuals from diverse backgrounds.
The Soul of Budva
Discover the essence of Budva through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Budva, with local clubs competing in various leagues and a strong following among fans.
Water Polo
Budva has a rich history in water polo, with several successful clubs and a passionate community that supports water sports.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity in Budva, with local teams competing in regional leagues and many young athletes participating in the sport.
Volleyball
Beach volleyball is particularly popular in Budva due to its coastal location and vibrant beach culture, attracting both locals and tourists.
Tennis
Tennis is widely played in Budva, with numerous courts available and a growing number of players participating in local tournaments.
Sailing
Given its coastal location, sailing is a favored activity in Budva, with many regattas and a thriving community of sailing enthusiasts.
Cycling
Cycling is popular in the surrounding areas of Budva, with numerous trails and scenic routes attracting both recreational cyclists and serious riders.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian Options
Most restaurants and cafes in Budva offer a range of vegetarian dishes, such as fresh salads, grilled vegetables, cheese platters, and pasta dishes, providing ample choices for vegetarian travelers.
Vegan Options
While vegan-specific eateries are limited, many restaurants are accommodating to vegan requests and can customize dishes using locally sourced produce, grains, and legumes. Additionally, health-focused cafes often have vegan-friendly menus.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerances will find that several restaurants and cafes in Budva cater to gluten-free dietary needs, offering gluten-free pasta, risotto, and seafood dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly with the staff for a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Budva with these cultural adventures.
