A vacation in Budva is an excellent choice! After all, this city not only attracts tourists with its golden beaches and active nightlife, but also holds many cultural and historical treasures. If you are planning a holiday on the Adriatic, be sure to include Budva in your itinerary — and discover its rich past and the lively atmosphere of the present.
In this article, we рассказываем, what to see in Budva — from ancient fortresses to modern attractions.
1. Budva Old Town (Stari Grad)
The heart of Budva is its Old Town, surrounded by fortress walls. The streets here are narrow and cobbled, and the houses are in Venetian and Mediterranean styles. As you stroll through them, you will see:
- The Church of the Holy Trinity with bright frescoes
- The Church of St. John, built back in the 7th century
- The Budva Archaeological Museum
- Local shops, cafés, and atmospheric galleries
This is a great place for a walk, photos, and immersing yourself in the atmosphere of a Montenegrin coastal town.
2. The Citadel (Citadela)
In the southern part of the Old Town rises the Citadel, from which there is a panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea and the island of St. Nicholas. Once a defensive fortress, today it is a museum complex and cultural venue. Concerts, exhibitions, weddings, and photo shoots are held here.
Tip: be sure to climb the Citadel walls — this is one of the best views in Budva.
3. St. Nicholas Island (Hawaii of Budva)
Locals call it «Školj» or simply «Sveti Nikola», but tourists know it better as «Hawaii of Budva». It is the largest island off the coast of Montenegro, and you can get there by boat in just 10 minutes. Here you will find:
- Secluded beaches and crystal-clear water
- Rocky landscapes
- A seafood restaurant
A great place for a day trip or a beach holiday away from the hustle and bustle.
4. Mogren Beach
If you are looking for a beautiful and accessible beach in Budva, head to Mogren. It consists of two bays, Mogren I and Mogren II, connected by a tunnel in the rock. Golden sand, cliffs, pines, and clear sea — the perfect mix for relaxation and photo shoots.
The path to Mogren runs along the coast from the Old Town — along a scenic trail where the famous dancer sculpture (Ballerina) also stands. The walk takes no more than 15 minutes.
Infrastructure and sunbed prices: The beach is equipped with everything you need: there are cafés, showers, and changing rooms. Entry is free. Renting a set of two sunbeds and an umbrella here is more expensive than on Slovenska Beach, and costs 15-25 euros depending on how close you are to the water. There is very little space for laying out towels. Who it suits: Ideal for romantic couples, lovers of beautiful scenery, and families willing to take a short walk. Because of its popularity and small size, the beach fills up quickly, so it is best to come early in the morning. Keep in mind that after 4:00 p.m. the sun disappears behind the rocks. Water activities: Mogren I offers the standard set of activities (jet skis, kayaks), while Mogren II is quieter, and only pedal boats can be rented there.
If you have a car, we recommend driving to Jaz Beach. It is one of the longest (more than 1.2 km) and most spacious beaches in Montenegro, located 3 km from Budva. It once gained worldwide fame thanks to concerts held here by stars such as The Rolling Stones and Madonna, as well as the Sea Dance music festival.
5. Dancer Sculpture (Ballerina)
This bronze statue on the rocks by the sea has long become the unofficial symbol of Budva. There are various legends about it — from tragic love to tales of strength of spirit. Many tourists take photos here against the sunset, while some leave coins “for good luck”.
6. Promenade and nightlife
Budva’s waterfront is the center of attraction in the evenings. Here:
- dozens of cafés and restaurants with sea views
- street musicians and artists
- souvenir and sweets stalls
- nightclubs and bars open until morning
This is the place where the resort spirit of the city comes alive. Budva is considered the night capital of Montenegro, especially in the summer season.
7. Podmaine Monastery
A little above the city, surrounded by greenery, is the Podmaine Monastery — the spiritual and historical center of the region. Its history begins in the 15th century, and its current appearance has been preserved since the late 19th century. It is a peaceful place with beautiful views of Budva and the sea.
Where to go from Budva for a day trip
If you have time, go to:
- Sveti Stefan — the legendary island-hotel, 15 minutes away by car
- Petrovac — a resort with a calmer atmosphere
- The Crnojević River Canyon or Lake Skadar — natural gems within 1–2 hours’ drive
Useful tips for tourists
- The best time for walks around Budva is morning and sunset, when it is less hot and less crowded.
- Dress comfortably, especially if you plan to climb the Citadel or walk to Mogren.
- In high season (July–August), book accommodation and tours in advance.
Budva is more than just a beach resort. It is a city where history, culture, nature, and modern comfort come together. Whether you are a traveler, an explorer, or simply a tourist looking for sunshine — in Budva there is something special for everyone.