4-Day Relaxing Family Excursion in Budva: A Local's Guide
Budva, Montenegro
4 days
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.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Visiting the Citadel and Relaxing at Mogren Beach
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Citadel, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. The Citadel also houses a small museum.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out different Montenegrin dishes. The grilled meats are a local favorite.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at Mogren Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Budva. The kids can play in the sand while the adults relax and enjoy the sun.
Dinner
Enjoy a family dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling more local cuisine and enjoying the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.
Evening
Take a leisurely evening walk along the promenade, enjoying the cool sea breeze and the lively atmosphere.
Day 3
Learning at Budva City Museum and Shopping at Local Markets
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Budva City Museum, where you can learn about the city's rich history and culture.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out different Montenegrin dishes. The seafood pasta is a local favorite.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the local markets, where you can buy local produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
Dinner
Enjoy a family dinner at a restaurant offering traditional Montenegrin cuisine. Try the local cheese and olives.
Evening
End the day with a visit to a local theatre for a cultural performance. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 4
Visiting the Church of Saint John and Relaxing at Slovenska Beach
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Church of Saint John, a beautiful old church in the heart of the Old Town.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out different Montenegrin dishes. The grilled fish is a local favorite.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at Slovenska Beach, the largest beach in Budva. It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun.
Dinner
Have your last dinner in Budva at a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the city and the sea. Try some local wine to complement your meal.
Evening
End your trip with a leisurely walk along the marina, enjoying the cool sea breeze and the twinkling lights of the city.
Attractions in Itinerary (7)
1Budva Riviera
A stunning stretch of the Adriatic coast, Budva Riviera is known for its sandy beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
2Old Town
A charming and well-preserved medieval walled city with narrow streets, squares, and Venetian-style buildings.
3Citadel
A medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Budva and the Adriatic Sea. It also houses a small museum.
4Mogren Beach
A popular sandy beach located near the Old Town, known for its clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.
5Budva City Museum
A museum showcasing the history and culture of Budva through archaeological finds, ethnographic exhibits, and art collections.
6Church 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.
7Slovenska Beach
Slovenska Beach is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches in Budva. It is a pebble beach with a total length of around 1640 meters. The beach offers various amenities including sun loungers, parasols, and water sports facilities.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
A local cheese from Njeguši, it's often served alongside Njeguški pršut. It's a hard cheese with a distinctive flavor.
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
A traditional Montenegrin dish made from cornmeal, potatoes, and cheese. It's a hearty and comforting dish, often served with sour milk.
Priganice
Small, round doughnuts that are a popular sweet treat in Montenegro. They're often served with honey, jam, or Nutella.
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
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
A hearty bean soup that's a staple in Montenegrin cuisine. It's often made with smoked meat for added flavor.
Burek
A flaky pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach. It's a popular snack or breakfast food in Budva.
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Walk
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.
Car Rental
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.
Taxi
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
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 Bus
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.
Bicycle Rental
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
Boat tours are a popular way to explore the Adriatic coast. You can also hire private boats for a more personalized experience.
Motorbike Rental
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.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone94
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
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
Underwear (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)
Shorts (2 pairs)
Swimwear
Sleepwear
Lightweight jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals/Flip-flops
Hat/Cap
Sunglasses
Scarf (for cooler evenings)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash/soap
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer
Travel-size first aid kit
Prescription medications (if any)
Contact lenses and solution (if needed)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Visa (if required)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Emergency contacts and addresses
Guidebook or map
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger and adapter
Headphones
Camera
Memory card
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel-size laundry detergent
Ziplock bags for organization
Tote bag for beach or shopping
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!
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Budva, Montenegro
Kotor
A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning architecture and the impressive Kotor Fortress.
Podgorica
The capital of Montenegro, offering a mix of modern and traditional attractions, including the Millennium Bridge and the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ.
Stari Bar
A historical and archaeological site featuring the ruins of an old fortified town.
Lovcen National Park
A national park that offers hiking trails and panoramic views from the Njegos Mausoleum.
Skadar Lake
The largest lake in Southern Europe, known for its diverse fauna and historical monuments.
Durmitor National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning landscapes, including the Tara River Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world.
Dubrovnik
A stunning city known for its distinctive Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century.
Mostar
Famous for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a reconstructed medieval arched bridge.
Sarajevo
The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its rich history and diverse culture.
Belgrade
The capital of Serbia, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse architecture.
