To most Americans I know, Budva Montenegro isn’t high on the bucket list—or even on the radar. Tucked into the Balkans, just across the Adriatic from Italy’s boot heel, it remains a bit of a mystery. We ended up here somewhat spontaneously, prompted by friends living in Kosovo who suggested a road trip. Like many who grew up in the ’90s, I primarily associated the Balkans with war-torn headlines, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. But as we packed our bags and set off into the unknown, we quickly realized Montenegro is an undiscovered paradise—one that deserves far more attention. Here I’ll outline what to do if you have a weekend to explore Budva.
When to go
Budva shines in the late spring and early fall when the weather is warm but not overly hot, and the summer crowds have thinned. If you visit in July or August, expect bustling streets and vibrant nightlife, while May, June, and September offer a more relaxed experience with ideal temperatures for beach lounging and exploring.
To get there
Budva is accessible via Podgorica Airport (Montenegro’s capital), about a 1.5-hour drive away, or Tivat Airport, which is just 30 minutes from the city. If you’re coming from Dubrovnik, Croatia, it’s a scenic 2-3 hour coastal drive with breathtaking Adriatic views. Renting a car is the best way to explore Montenegro’s rugged coastline and hidden gems.
Airbnb with a View
We arrived at Tivat airport and drove less than 30min to check into our Airbnb. It was incredibly hot and humid outside, and we stopped into the nice air conditioned 3 bedroom, 2 bath modern apartment. Just outside the back sliding doors was a large patio with sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea and all of Budva. It was stunning, and incredibly affordable. Everywhere in The Balkins is cheap by American standards.
Day 1 Itinerary: Beach Time & Exploring Old Town
Relax at Mogren Beach
Mogren Beach came highly recommended by our Airbnb host. Nestled between dramatic cliffs, it’s known for its jumping rocks and clear blue waters. You can rent an umbrella and relax all morning.
Stroll Through History
Budva’s Old Town (Stari Grad) is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, fortified stone walls, and centuries-old buildings that transport you back in time. Originally built around the 4th century, it exudes an old-world charm reminiscent of Dubrovnik—just without the overwhelming crowds. Here, you’ll find charming boutiques, inviting cafes, and hidden courtyards, each with its own story to tell.
Dinner at Bahche Turkish Restaurant
For dinner, we chose Bahche Turkish Restaurant, a serene garden oasis framed by ivy-covered stone walls. The ambiance was warm and welcoming, and the menu was packed with fresh, flavorful dishes. The standout? A sizzling chicken pot dish that arrived at our table in a fiery display—pure dinner entertainment! The service was top-notch, and the extensive wine selection didn’t hurt either. Several bottles deep, we meandered back through the quieting streets, soaking in the magic of Budva by night.
Nightcap at Casper
To end the evening, we stopped at Casper, an outdoor lounge with a trendy, relaxed vibe. The cocktail and craft beer selection was impressive, and it was the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of travel and exploration. The air had cooled, and the gentle sounds of the sea provided a soothing backdrop.
Day 2 Itinerary: Adventure on the Adriatic
Boat Tour & Snorkeling
We started the morning with breakfast at our Airbnb before heading to the harbor for a three-hour boat tour. I couldn’t help but hum the Gilligan’s Island theme as we met our captain. Initially, I was a little disheartened to see our vessel was a small fishing boat rather than a sleek speedboat, but it turned out to be perfect for the calm Adriatic waters. The boat was shaded, steady, and ideal for soaking in the views.
Our captain took us along Budva’s rugged coastline, where the swirling rock formations seemed sculpted by the gods. The highlight? Snorkeling through an underground sea cave. Floating in the crystal-clear turquoise water, we felt like we had discovered a secret world. With each stop, we sampled local Balkan wines—because nothing says vacation like sipping wine on a boat in the middle of the sea.
Post-Boat Ride Bites at Perla
After returning to shore, we refueled at Perla Restaurant, a harbor-side spot with fresh seafood and fantastic local wine. Sitting by the water with a light breeze, we lingered longer than expected, reveling in that post-adventure bliss.
Cliffside Walk to Mogren Beach
Before dinner, we set off on a scenic cliffside walk connecting Old Town Beach to Mogren Beach. This coastal path offers jaw-dropping views, with waves crashing below and the golden sun beginning to dip toward the horizon. Along the way, we passed the iconic Ballerina Statue, a graceful silhouette framed against the sea.
Dinner with a View at Hotel Astoria
After a quick siesta and shower, we headed back to Old Town for dinner at Hotel Astoria’s rooftop restaurant. The setting was unbeatable, perched atop the fortress with panoramic views of Budva’s twinkling coastline. While the food was good (and I will never say no to burrata), it was pricier than other spots in town—you’re definitely paying for the ambiance. But for sunset dining, it’s worth it.
Citadel Fortress: The Best View in Budva
Post-dinner, we climbed to Budva’s Citadel Fortress, the city’s highest point, for breathtaking 360-degree views of the peninsula. For just a few euros, you can wander through medieval walls, explore hidden passageways, and take in the stunning scenery from multiple lookout points. It’s the perfect spot for that quintessential Budva photo.
After touring the fortress we went inside the cave bar on the ground floor to have a cocktail and smoke some hookah.
Budva was an unexpected delight—an intoxicating mix of history, adventure, and coastal beauty. While two days gave us a taste, it left us craving more. I would recommend at least four days to fully enjoy the beaches, explore beyond the Old Town, and soak in even more of Montenegro’s magic. If you’re looking for a stunning yet underrated European getaway, put Budva on your radar now—before the secret gets out!
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