The 17 Best Things to Do in Budva for First-Time Visitors

I’ve gotta admit, the Montenegrin town of Budva was never really on my travel radar.

I’d heard about it, sure – somewhere between a party town and a beach getaway – but I definitely wasn’t quite sure what to expect, even after reading countless travel guides.

But still, I booked the day trip from Kotor, as a solo female traveller, and within less than an hour I was already planning to come back again!

So if you’re planning your first visit and wondering what the best things to do in Budva actually are, you’re absolutely in the right place!

I’ve gotten lost in the quaint old town, watched the sunset from the mountains above, sunbathed on the beaches and even posed with a big bell (I’ll fill you in in a bit, don’t worry!)

This blog post is a compilation of the 17 things I loved most in Budva (and a few gems I almost missed!), so you can focus on the best things to do in Budva – without worrying that you’re missing out on the good stuff.

Ready? Let’s get to planning your dream trip to Budva!

Disclaimer: Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. That means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products, places and services I genuinely love and use on my own solo travels. Thank you for supporting my adventures so I can continue to provide free content on this blog! 💛

1. Get Deliberately Lost in Budva Old Town

Budva old town is without doubt one of the prettiest little old towns I’ve ever explored, with its weathered stone buildings, narrow alleyways, quiet courtyards and leafy squares.

Yes, it’s small (and it’s certainly less popular than the famous old town in nearby Kotor), but that’s part of its charm!

Budva old town is also much, much quieter than Kotor old town, and exploring its streets feels like walking onto a living, breathing film set!

This is easily one of the best places to visit in Budva, especially if you ditch Google Maps for a while and allow your feet to guide you. You’ll stumble across art galleries, tiny chapels, outdoor cafes, cats snoozing on steps, and so much more…

You never know what gem you’ll stumble across around the next corner, and that’s what makes Budva so magical!

Katie’s Top Tip: Budva old town is especially peaceful if you go early in the morning or late in the evening, when the day trippers leave.

2. Sunbathe on Mogren Beach

If you’re craving a day of sunbathing on a golden, Adriatic beach, head for the out-of-this-world gorgeous Mogren beach!

Hidden in two neighbouring coves (joined together by the “door in stone”), and connected to Budva old town by a little path carved into the rock, this beach is surrounded by high cliffs, which gives it a private, tucked-away feel despite its popularity.

Mogren Beach is easily one of the best things to do in Budva if you want to sunbathe, swim in the warm Adriatic sea, and enjoy picturesque views of nearby St Nicholas Island – without having to venture too far from the town.

(Seriously, Mogren beach is just 150m from the old town!)

But, Mogren beach is one of the most popular beaches in Montenegro, so it does fill up fast, especially in summer. You’ll want to arrive early to pick your spot!

There are also no huge facilities here, just a small café/restaurant on Mogren’s second beach – but that’s a big part of its charm too. (Just don’t forget to bring everything you need with you for the day!)

Katie’s Top Tip: Walk to Mogren beach via the scenic clifftop path from the old town (it starts near the ballerina statue), and go early (ideally before 10am), if you want to enjoy the beach for yourself for a while, before it fills up. I would also head to “Mogren 2 Beach” (through the door in stone), as it tends to be quieter.

3. Visit Budva’s Famous Ballerina Statue

You’ll spot her just a short walk from the old town walls, balanced mid-pose on a rocky outcrop with the sea behind her. (This is an ideal stop off on your way to Mogren beach).

The ballerina was sculpted by Gradimir Aleksic from Belgrade and is now an iconic symbol of Budva and Montenegro.

The “Dancer from Budva” is made out of bronze and is around 1.7m tall.

And if you like stories of myth and legend, her legend goes that every day the ballerina came to shore looking for her lost love (a sailor), waiting for him to return. When he did not return, the ballerina died of a broken heart, but still kept her faith and love for him.

Katie’s Top Tip: The photo of the Budva ballerina with the sea and old town behind her is an iconic Budva photo opportunity that you shouldn’t miss. It’s well worth arriving early or waiting your turn to take that iconic photo without people in the background!

4. Get Out on the Water

This is an iconic Montenegro day trip that you will never regret taking, and it’s hands-down one of the best things to do in Budva if you want to get out of town and see Montenegro’s natural beauty from a new angle!

The Bay of Kotor is often called Europe’s southernmost fjord (although technically it’s an ancient submerged river canyon), and sailing through it is nothing short of picturesque, with rugged green hills, tiny villages perched on the shore and fascinating caves to explore.

I would recommend this full day catamaran cruise from Budva, which sails through the Bay of Kotor to reach the breath-taking Blue Cave. You will also visit the wealthy town of Porto Montenegro, sail past the ex-prison Mamula, visit the famous Our Lady of the Rocks island church opposite Perast, and even enter ex-Yugoslavian submarine tunnels!

Entrance fees to Our Lady of the Rocks church and museum, fresh fruit, welcome champagne and rakija shots are also included, and the boat offers a small group experience, only adding to the luxury of the day!

Katie’s Top Tip: If you only do one Montenegro day trip, let it be this one! This catamaran cruise truly was the highlight of my entire trip to Montenegro, and I 100% recommend it. The views are stunning, the atmosphere on the boat is very relaxed, and the stops are so interesting to visit!

5. Admire the Church of the Holy Trinity

Tucked inside Budva old town, just behind the citadel, this tiny Orthodox church may not look grand like the churches you’ll see in Kotor, but that’s what makes it so special and worth a visit.

Built in the early 1800s, it’s compact and unassuming on the outside, with a unique stripey façade. But once you step inside, the interior is rich and opulent, decorated with golds and deep blues.

Even if you’re not religious, it’s a beautiful place to pause from your sightseeing and reflect.

This church is tiny and won’t take you long to visit – and it’s definitely not one of the flashiest Budva tourist attractions (at least from the outside), but it is one of the most peaceful and is well worth a stop on your Budva itinerary!

Katie’s Top Tip: Bring a scarf or cover up if you want to go inside. This is a working church, and modest dress is appreciated.

6. For the Thrillseekers: Go Paragliding Over Budva

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying, this is your moment!

You’ll launch from the mountains, 765m above the coastline, and fly down slowly over the cliffs, beaches and old town rooftops.

It’s peaceful and thrilling all at once, as you watch the Adriatic grow closer below your feet!

During the flight, you’ll be strapped in with an experienced local pilot who handles all the technical stuff while you just enjoy the views.

The take-off happens from Brajici Hill, and you will be driven up as part of the experience, if you can’t reach the meeting point in Bečići.

You can also choose to pay a little extra (around 15 euros), for use of your pilot’s Go Pro and selfie stick, so you can capture amazing memories from your flight, without needing to bring expensive camera equipment yourself.

Paragliding over Budva is truly a once in a lifetime, bucket list experience and is one of the best things to do in Budva, Montenegro!

Katie’s Top Tip: Go2Fly is a great company for paragliding in Budva, and you can check out all of the details and book your tour here. I would just avoid booking it for your very last day, in case the weather doesn’t play ball on the first attempt.

7. Catch the Sunset at Budva Lookout

This is hands down my favourite viewpoint in Budva – and one of the best kept not-so-secret secrets!

(Does that make sense?! When I was up there, there was hardly anyone around, but I do know that a couple of the tours make stops up there if the sunset is extra special, so it’s not exactly a true secret!)

Marked as “Budva Lookout” on Google Maps (you’ll want to save it!), this little clifftop perch offers a panoramic view over the entire coastline: the old town as it meets the Adriatic, the curving Montenegrin coastline and St Nicholas Island in the distance.

Budva Lookout is high above Budva old town, next to the Budva zip line place.

As a result of this, you’ll need to take a taxi or your own rental car up for sunset. (Or you can hope that a tour to Lovcen National Park makes a stop there, but this isn’t guaranteed).

The lookout itself is just a flat rocky area by the side of the road with no railing, so be careful and watch your step, especially near the edge for photos.

There are also no facilities or seats, so bring water, something to sit on if you’re staying a while and maybe some snacks too!

But even though it may sound like a faff, I promise the sunset you’ll get up there is well worth the effort (and the taxi fare!)

Katie’s Top Tip: Go about 30 minutes before sunset so you’re not rushing, and bring layers – it cools down fast up there!

8. See the Budva Bell

This one’s a bit of a mystery to most tourists, mainly because there’s no info sign, no plaque and honestly, no explanation when you stumble across it (unless you Google it or you’re reading this guide, of course. Go you!)

To look at it, it’s just a massive bronze bell and an anchor casually sitting on the floor outside the old town walls. (No, you can’t ring it. Yes, people still try!)

But here’s the fun part: it’s not some ancient artefact or maritime relic like most people assume.

It’s actually a film prop that was left behind!

Montenegro (and Budva), have been popular choices with film crews over the years, thanks to the country’s insane scenery. And during the shoot of a historical drama in Budva old town, this oversized bell and anchor were part of the set.

When filming wrapped, the production decided to leave them behind as a thank you to the people of Budva for being so welcoming!

Katie’s Top Tip: These days, the Budva bell is an unofficial landmark for the town. It’s a great photo stop, so don’t skip it!

9. Day Trip to Lovcen National Park

Just an hour’s drive from the old town, Lovcen national park is home to Montenegro’s most iconic viewpoint: the Njegos Mausoleum, perched at 1,660m above sea level.

You’ll climb 461 stone steps to reach it, but the 360-degree view across the spectacular Montenegrin countryside and mountains makes it well worth the climb!

I would recommend you visit Lovcen national park as part of this full day guided tour, as they will pick you up in Budva.

As well as a visit to the mausoleum, the tour also includes a cable car ride in Kotor or a drive along the Serpentine Road (for some seriously unreal views over the bay!), time for breakfast in Njegusi village, a 1 hour walking tour through the fascinating city of Cetinje, a 1 hour boat ride along the River Crnojevica, and loads of stunning viewpoints along the way!

Katie’s Top Tip: Don’t forget cash for entrance fees. At time of writing it’s €11 for Lovcen national park and Mausoleum and €5 for Skadar Lake national park.

10. Paddleboard or Kayak to Coastal Caves (Day or Night!)

This is one of the most unique (and fun!) ways to experience Budva’s coastline.

Budva Day Kayak Tour

This 3 hour kayak or paddleboard tour (you can decide which you’re most comfortable with!), takes you out along the shoreline, where you’ll find hidden caves, secluded beaches, and breath-taking views of Budva old town.

All the gear you need is included in the tour.

Plus, you’ll get a lesson from an experienced guide, to ensure you feel confident before you head out on the trip. So this tour is perfect even for beginners!

Your guide will also take photos and videos from your trip and share them with you afterwards, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery and the experience of paddling, without having to worry about getting the perfect shot!

Budva Night Kayak Tour

And if you want an even more unique and thrilling experience?

Budva also offers 2 hour night kayaking trips, with LED lights built into the bottom of the kayak to guide your way!

Again, all equipment you need is provided and an experienced guide will give you a lesson before you head out.

You’ll kayak silently over the water, with your LED lights lighting up the sea beneath you and the stars overhead.

You’ll paddle out to St Nicholas Island for a night-time swim, before letting the lights of Budva old town guide you back to an incredible view of the old town’s illuminated walls.

It’s a surreal experience and totally unforgettable – definitely one of the best things to do in Budva!

Katie’s Top Tip: Book your tour in advance, especially in the peak summer season. These tours are very popular (especially the night kayaking), and spots are limited so reserving your place is essential.

11. Swim or Sunbathe at Greco Beach

Bigger and easier to access than Mogren beach, this sandy stretch sits right on the edge of Budva old town (on the opposite side), and is a popular spot with both locals and visitors.

Greco beach also has plenty of facilities, so you’re never too far from a cold drink or delicious Montenegrin food for lunch or a snack! There are also sunbeds for hire here, plus plenty of free spots if you’re happy just lying on a beach towel.

The water is calm and swimmable, and the beach is a mix of sand and small pebbles.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you want the quieter side of Greco beach, head to the far left end (as you face the sea). It’s further to walk – but that’s why it’s less crowded! There, you’ll find it’s much quieter and more relaxed for both sunbathing and swimming. Just bring plenty of snacks and drinks with you, as there are less facilities further out.

12. Day Trip to Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park might not technically be in Budva, but if you have an extra day in your Montenegro itinerary, it’s 100% worth the time!

The UNESCO-listed Durmitor National Park can be found in the north of Montenegro, with glacial lakes, rugged mountains and epic river canyons to admire.

It’s one of the most breath-taking, stunning places to visit in all of Montenegro!

From Budva, Durmitor is about 3.5–4 hours away by car, so most travellers book it as a guided day tour, like this one that I took.

This full day guided tour is very long, but there are plenty of incredible stops at the Black Lake, the Tara Canyon bridge (you can also do ziplining here!), and the atmospheric Ostrog Monastery.

The pickup is early, the drop off is late, and there are more than a few bumpy, narrow roads along the way – but the views are seriously incredible and this day trip is well worth it!

Durmitor National Park is one of those best places to visit in Montenegro that absolutely shouldn’t be missed off of your itinerary!

Katie’s Top Tip: Don’t forget to bring layers. Even in July or August, the mountains can get chilly. Trainers or light hiking shoes are also a must, as the ground gets uneven in places, even though you are delivered to all of the spots by bus.

13. Explore the Budva Citadel

If you want to step back into Budva’s history (while also enjoying some more beautiful views!), head straight to the Budva Citadel.

Perched at the southern tip of the old town, this centuries-old stronghold once protected Budva from pirates and invaders, and now it offers one of the best panoramic viewpoints over the sea!

It’s also surprisingly quiet, considering it’s one of the main Budva tourist attractions.

Just be aware that there’s minimal signage or information boards, so if you’re into history you might want to do some extra research before you go.

It’s a short, easy visit (around 45 minutes), but it’s a great way to break up your beach day with some history!

Katie’s Top Tip: Even if you’re not interested in learning about Budva’s history, the Citadel is well worth a visit just for the spectacular views alone!

14. Take a Private Walking Tour

Budva is compact enough to explore solo, but there’s something about exploring with a local guide that will really bring the city to life – especially if you want to actually understand the place you’re visiting, rather than just tick off landmarks.

This 1 hour, private walking tour around the highlights and hidden gems of Budva old town will give you insight into everything from the city’s Venetian origin to how it’s changing with modern tourism, with plenty of fun facts and local stories you’d never find out otherwise!

For solo travellers in particular, a walking tour with a local is a great way to get your bearings on your first day and maybe even pick up some local recs while you’re at it, to guide the rest of your trip!

Katie’s Top Tip: Ask your guide to recommend where to eat that isn’t on TripAdvisor. Locals always know the best family-run spots where you’ll get homemade food without the tourist markup!

15. Enjoy Budva’s Buzzing Nightlife

Okay, so Budva is known as Montenegro’s party town and yes, if you want neon-lit nightclubs, you’ll find that here.

But Budva’s nightlife scene is way more varied than it gets credit for, especially if you’re not looking for a classic all-nighter. From relaxed wine bars tucked away in the old town to live music and laid-back restaurants, there’s something for every travel style!

Casper Bar in the old town (open from 10am till 2am), is a great, more low-key option, with a varied menu, great cocktails, live music and a very atmospheric location.

And if you are in the mood for something livelier, check out Top Hill, a nightclub perched above Budva, high in the hills. It has incredible views, a great selection of drinks and hosts international DJs.

Or Omnia Nightclub is a good option closer to the centre. It’s open from 11pm to 5am and has a great atmosphere and often live music.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re a solo traveller, sit at the bar. It’s a great way to meet new people and enjoy a drink alone, that also feels comfortable.

16. Visit the Budva City Museum

This little museum doesn’t make it onto every Budva travel list (but that’s exactly why it’s worth popping into!)

Tucked inside an unassuming townhouse in the heart of Budva old town, the City Museum gives you a fascinating look at the layers of history that have made this bustling seaside town the place it is today.

From the original Illyrian inhabitants, through to the Greeks, Romans, Slavik tribes and more recent history, this museum is home to four floors of archaeological artefacts, precious jewellery, mosaics, paintings and information to learn from.

Entry is only a couple of euros and it’s rarely crowded, making it a great escape when the afternoon heat kicks in.

So if you’re someone who likes to understand a place beyond its photo opportunities and beaches, this is one of the more underrated Budva tourist attractions to explore!

Katie’s Top Tip: The museum is only small and will only take around 30-45 minutes to visit, but I would recommend you take your time beyond this, to truly take in all of the fascinating history.

17. Meet Budva’s Fluffiest Locals: The Cats!

I don’t know about you, but I am obsessed with cats and always get so excited when I spot them out and about on my travels.

(And if that does sound like you, then you’re in luck: Montenegro is famous for its cats!)

So while nearby Kotor is the place everyone thinks of if you want to see these fluffy locals, Budva is also home to a population of cats, which you’ll often find sunbathing on steps or hanging out near cafes!

Most of these cats live in or around Budva old town, where it is pedestrianised, and while they’re technically strays, they are very well looked after by locals and tourists alike.

While it might sound like a quirky addition to a guide on the best things to do in Budva, spending a little time with the town’s cutest residents is genuinely one of the things I enjoyed most about my trip to Budva!

(FYI: I found the cats love the shade outside the Church of the Holy Trinity in the late afternoon, so if you haven’t seen one, try there!)

Katie’s Top Tip: Avoid feeding the cats human snacks. Instead, pop into a local supermarket and pick up a small sachet of cat food or biscuits if you want to help. (But they are well fed and looked after, so don’t feel you have to). Also don’t approach the cats, just sit still and they’ll come to you!

Budva Travel FAQs

Is Budva worth visiting?

Yes, but it depends on what you’re after!

Budva is definitely not Montenegro’s hidden secret anymore. Instead, it’s buzzy, beachy, has a young energy and is full of nightlife options (especially in summer).

But if (like me!) you’re not into any of that, that doesn’t mean Budva is not worth visiting, thanks to its charming old town, easy day trips to national parks and some of the prettiest beaches on the Adriatic.

So if you’re a solo traveller wondering is Budva worth visiting, here’s the honest answer: Budva is a great choice if you like variety. You can swim, hike, people-watch, sightsee and dance all in the same day! Just know it’s not a sleepy, peaceful coastal town – especially in peak season.

Katie’s Top Tip: Visit Budva midweek in shoulder season (May, early June or late September), to enjoy the buzz of Budva without the summer chaos. And if you don’t want to stay overnight in this nightlife town, that’s okay too. You can still experience the best of this beautiful old town on a day trip from Kotor!

What’s the best time of year to visit Budva?

The best time to visit Budva really depends on the vibe you’re looking for.

If you want long beach days, warm evenings and nightlife in full swing, aim for summer (June to August). But know that summer in Budva gets crowded and very hot, so it’s not ideal if you don’t love noise, queues or inflated prices.

Spring and autumn (April to May, September to early October), is quieter and more affordable, with great conditions for sightseeing and fewer tourists looking solely for nightlife culture.

Winter can also be beautifully quiet, but it can also be pretty chilly and wet. Budva is also harder to get to in winter, as you’ll have to fly into Podgorica airport instead of nearby Tivat airport.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re hoping to tick off all the best things to do in Budva, aim for late May or late September. It’s still warm, most attractions and venues are still open, and you’ll avoid the worst of the summer crowds (and heat!)

How many days in Budva is enough?

For a relaxed trip that balances sightseeing, beach time and maybe even a day trip, I’d recommend 3 to 4 days in Budva.

That gives you time to explore the old town, relax on Mogren or Greco Beach, take a boat trip (or even paraglide!), and do at least one inland day trip to places like Lovcen or Durmitor.

If you’re staying longer in Montenegro (for example a week), I would recommend you base yourself in nearby Kotor instead, as there is more to do and more options for day trips to make the most of your time in Montenegro.

And of course, if you don’t want to stay overnight in this popular nightlife town at all, you don’t have to!

One day in Budva, on a day trip from Kotor, is plenty of time to see all of the top sights.

You just won’t have time for extras like paragliding, nightlife, paddleboarding or a beach day.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re short on time, keep things simple and focus your sightseeing within the walls of Budva old town and also walk to Mogren beach – this is where Budva really shines, in my opinion!

Where to stay in Budva

Budva’s compact layout means most neighbourhoods are walkable, but where you stay will really shape your experience.

If you want charm and atmosphere, stay inside or just outside Budva old town. It’s the most beautiful and walkable part of Budva, with cobbled streets, cute cafés, and easy beach access.

Accommodation I recommend in Budva old town is Hotel Astoria or Fontana Hotel & Gastronomy.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re arriving by bus, double-check how far your accommodation is from the main station. It’s walkable in theory, but with luggage in the summer heat, it’s not fun! So pre-book a transfer if you can.

Final Thoughts

Budva might not be the most underrated destination in Montenegro anymore, but that doesn’t make it less worthy of a spot on your Montenegro itinerary!

So whether you’re relaxing in the sun on Mogren Beach, getting lost down the quiet old town alleyways, or exploring Montenegro’s most beautiful national parks on an unforgettable day trip, Budva really does offer something for every kind of traveller.

And yes, it’s touristy in parts and the nightlife can feel overwhelming sometimes, especially if that’s not your vibe.

But Budva is also vibrant, full of history to learn about, and packed with genuinely fun, beautiful and interesting things to do – especially if you’re a solo traveller and want a bit of everything from your trip!

From exploring the ancient citadel to making friends with the local cats, I hope this blog post has helped you feel more confident about the very best things to do in Budva for first-time visitors!

Have you been to Budva before, or are you planning your first solo trip there? I’d love to hear what’s on your list (or what you’re still unsure about!)

Read More About Travel To Montenegro:

• The 17 Best Things to Do in Budva for First-Time Visitors
• 10 Magical Things To Do in Perast, Montenegro in One Day
• Is Kotor Safe for Solo Female Travellers? My Honest Take
• Is Montenegro Safe for Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
• How to Plan the Perfect Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Grab Your Solo Female Travel in Europe Starter Kit:

Pin Me For Later!

Share This Guide to the Best Things To Do in Budva: