Explore Budva, Montenegro: Perfect 1-Day Itinerary

Budva, Montenegro

1 days

Streets of Old Town Center
Beach and modern coastline architecture
Fortress at twilight
Saint Sava church and church of Santa Maria in Punta
Sveti Stefan beach

About Budva, Montenegro

Discover the enchanting city of Budva, Montenegro, a gem on the Adriatic Sea. Known for its well-preserved medieval walled city, stunning sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Budva offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks like the 15th-century citadel. Relax on Mogren Beach, a picturesque spot nestled between cliffs, or visit the iconic Sveti Stefan, a fortified island village. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the marina, lined with trendy bars and cafes. With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and warm Mediterranean hospitality, Budva promises an unforgettable travel experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Charm of Budva

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Old Town of Budva, a charming area filled with narrow streets, stone houses, and historical landmarks. Explore the Citadel, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. Don't miss the chance to visit the Church of Saint John and the Holy Trinity Church, both significant religious sites in the city.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants in the Old Town. Try some traditional Montenegrin dishes such as 'Njeguški pršut' (smoked ham) and 'Kacamak' (a hearty dish made from cornmeal and potatoes).

Afternoon

After lunch, take a stroll to Mogren Beach, a beautiful sandy beach located just a short walk from the Old Town. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or participating in water sports activities.

Dinner

For dinner, head to one of the seafront restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely walk along the Budva Riviera, a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and bars. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Citadel

1
Citadel

A medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Budva and the Adriatic Sea. It also houses a small museum.

Monuments
Landmarks
Attractions
Church of Saint John

2
Church of Saint John

This is a Roman Catholic church located in the old town of Budva. It's one of the oldest and most significant architectural and historical monuments in this region.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Holy Trinity Church

3
Holy Trinity Church

The Holy Trinity Church is an Orthodox church located in the old town of Budva. It's known for its beautiful frescoes and iconostasis.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Mogren Beach

4
Mogren Beach

A popular sandy beach located near the Old Town, known for its clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.

Beaches
Budva Riviera

5
Budva Riviera

A stunning stretch of the Adriatic coast, Budva Riviera is known for its sandy beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.

Beaches
Attractions

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Njeguški pršut

Njeguški pršut

A traditional Montenegrin smoked ham, similar to Italian prosciutto, often served as a starter. It's named after the Njeguši village in Montenegro, where it's produced.

Njeguški sir

Njeguški sir

A local cheese from Njeguši, it's often served alongside Njeguški pršut. It's a hard cheese with a distinctive flavor.

Crni Rižot

Crni Rižot

A black risotto made with cuttlefish or squid ink, giving it its distinctive color. It's a popular seafood dish in Budva.

Kacamak

Kacamak

A traditional Montenegrin dish made from cornmeal, potatoes, and cheese. It's a hearty and comforting dish, often served with sour milk.

Priganice

Priganice

Small, round doughnuts that are a popular sweet treat in Montenegro. They're often served with honey, jam, or Nutella.

Rakija

Rakija

A strong fruit brandy that's popular throughout the Balkans. In Montenegro, it's often homemade and comes in a variety of flavors, including plum, pear, and grape.

Vranac

Vranac

A red wine made from the Vranac grape, which is native to Montenegro. It's a robust and full-bodied wine, often served with meat dishes.

Pasulj

Pasulj

A hearty bean soup that's a staple in Montenegrin cuisine. It's often made with smoked meat for added flavor.

Burek

Burek

A flaky pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach. It's a popular snack or breakfast food in Budva.

Pljeskavica

Pljeskavica

A traditional Balkan dish, it's a grilled patty made from a mix of meats, often served in a bun with onions and ajvar, a red pepper spread.

Cevapi

Cevapi

Small, grilled sausages that are a popular street food in Budva. They're often served with flatbread and onions.

Montenegrin Beer

Montenegro has a growing craft beer scene, with a variety of local brews available. It's a must-try for beer lovers visiting Budva.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Budva, Montenegro is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring the city's historical sites. The sea temperature is also ideal for swimming. However, July and August are the peak tourist months, so if you prefer a less crowded time, May, June, and September would be more suitable.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

New Year's Day Holiday

May 1

Wed

Labour Day/May Day

May 2

Thu

Labour Day/May Day Holiday

May 21

Tue

Independence Day

May 22

Wed

Independence Day Holiday

July 13

Sat

Statehood Day

July 14

Sun

Statehood Day Holiday

July 15

Mon

Statehood Day Holiday observed

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Budva is a small town and most of the attractions are within walking distance. It's a great way to explore the Old Town, beaches, and local shops.

Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore outside of Budva. Montenegro's roads are generally well-maintained. Remember, you'll need an international driving permit.

Taxis are readily available in Budva. They're a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or after dark. Always ensure the taxi is licensed.

Ridesharing services, such as Yandex, are available in Budva. It's a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

Public buses run regularly in Budva and can take you to nearby towns and attractions. They're an affordable way to get around, but can be crowded during peak tourist season.

Budva is a bike-friendly town with several rental shops. It's a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the town and nearby areas.

Boat tours are a popular way to explore the Adriatic coast. You can also hire private boats for a more personalized experience.

For those comfortable with two-wheel transport, motorbikes are available for rent. They offer a quick and flexible way to get around Budva and its surroundings.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone94

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Budva, Montenegro as a first time visitor

1

Budva is a coastal town in Montenegro, located on the Adriatic Sea.

2

The official language is Montenegrin, but English, Russian, and other languages are also widely spoken.

3

The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

4

Montenegro is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

5

Budva has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C), while winter temperatures range from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C).

6

Tipping is customary in Budva. It's common to leave a 10% tip in restaurants and cafes.

7

Budva is known for its nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night.

8

The town is very pedestrian-friendly, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

9

Public transportation is available, including buses and taxis. However, renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding area.

10

Budva has a rich history, with many buildings and sites dating back to the Middle Ages.

11

The local cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Balkan influences, with seafood being a specialty.

12

Budva is a popular destination for beachgoers, with many beautiful beaches along its coastline.

13

The town is also a popular destination for yachting and sailing, with several marinas and boat rental services available.

14

Budva is generally safe for tourists, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

15

The peak tourist season in Budva is during the summer months, from June to August. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall.

16

Budva hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including a summer theatre festival and a music festival.

17

Shopping in Budva offers a mix of local crafts, designer boutiques, and souvenir shops.

18

Healthcare facilities are available in Budva, including a hospital and several pharmacies. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

19

The tap water in Budva is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

20

Electricity in Montenegro is 220 Volts and 50 Hertz, and the plug type is F (two round pins). If your devices use different plug types, you'll need a travel adapter.

Basic Montenegrin to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Zdravo

Zdrah-voh

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Doviđenja

Doh-vee-jen-ya

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Molim

Moh-leem

When asking for something

Thank you

Hvala

Hvah-lah

After receiving something or someone's help

Yes

Da

Dah

Agreeing with someone or something

No

Ne

Neh

Disagreeing with someone or something

Excuse me

Izvinite

Iz-vee-nee-teh

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Ne razumijem

Neh rah-zoo-mee-yem

When you don't understand what's being said

Do you speak English?

Govorite li engleski?

Goh-voh-ree-teh lee eng-les-kee?

When you want to find out if someone speaks English

I'm sorry

Žao mi je

Zhao mee yeh

When you want to apologize

Where is...?

Gdje je...?

Gdye yeh...?

When you're looking for something

Bathroom

Kupatilo

Koo-pah-tee-lo

When you're looking for the bathroom

Help

Pomoć

Poh-mohch

When you need assistance

Food

Hrana

Hrah-nah

When you're looking for food or a restaurant

Water

Voda

Voh-dah

When you're thirsty and asking for water

Beer

Pivo

Pee-voh

When you're ordering a beer

Wine

Vino

Vee-noh

When you're ordering wine

How much?

Koliko?

Koh-lee-koh?

When you want to know the price of something

Too expensive

Previše skupo

Preh-vee-sheh skoo-poh

When something is too expensive

I love Budva

Volim Budvu

Voh-leem Bood-voo

When you want to express your love for Budva

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Light jacket or sweater for the evening

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Personal medication

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Cash and credit cards

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Beach towel

  • Small backpack for day trips

Weather Conditions

Budva, Montenegro is a beautiful coastal town known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months, from June to August, you can expect temperatures to range from 75°F to 95°F (24°C to 35°C). This is the perfect time for beach activities, so don't forget your sunscreen, hats, and light clothing to protect yourself from the sun. The shoulder seasons, spring (April and May) and fall (September and October), are also great times to visit. Temperatures during these months typically range from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). These periods are less crowded and the weather is still pleasant for outdoor activities. Winter months, from November to March, are cooler with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). This is the rainy season, so pack an umbrella or raincoat. Despite the rain, this can be a great time to explore Budva's historical sites without the crowds. Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to Budva!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

12° / 4°

January is the coldest month in Budva, with temperatures ranging from 4 to 12 degrees Celsius. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes.

February

13° / 4°

February is still chilly, with temperatures between 4 and 13 degrees Celsius. It's off-peak season, so expect fewer tourists.

March

16° / 7°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 7 to 16 degrees Celsius. The weather starts to warm up, but it's still relatively quiet in terms of tourism.

April

20° / 10°

April is a pleasant month with temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius. The city starts to get busier with the onset of spring.

May

24° / 14°

May is a great time to visit Budva, with temperatures ranging from 14 to 24 degrees Celsius. The weather is warm, and the city is lively but not too crowded.

June

28° / 18°

June marks the beginning of summer, with temperatures between 18 and 28 degrees Celsius. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect more crowds.

July

31° / 21°

July is the hottest month in Budva, with temperatures ranging from 21 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's the peak of the tourist season, so the city is very busy.

August

31° / 21°

August is equally hot as July, with temperatures between 21 and 31 degrees Celsius. It's still peak tourist season, so expect the city to be bustling.

September

28° / 18°

September is a pleasant month with temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. The tourist crowds start to thin out, making it a good time to visit.

October

24° / 14°

October sees a drop in temperature, ranging from 14 to 24 degrees Celsius. The city is quieter, and the weather is still warm enough for outdoor activities.

November

20° / 10°

November is cooler with temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius. It's off-peak season, so it's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded places.

December

14° / 6°

December is a chilly month with temperatures ranging from 6 to 14 degrees Celsius. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes.

Did you know?

Did you know that Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic Sea, with history dating back over 2,500 years?

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