Budva Old Town
A charming medieval walled city on the Adriatic coast, Budva Old Town offers a maze of cobblestone streets, historic sites, and vibrant seaside life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Budva Old Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming medieval walled city on the Adriatic coast, Budva Old Town offers a maze of cobblestone streets, historic sites, and vibrant seaside life.
"A lovely place to wander and soak up the atmosphere with plenty of character and great spots to eat."
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but uneven. Pack comfy shoes for exploring!
🍝 Grab-and-Go Pasta Delight
Try the fresh, made-to-order pasta from Lia Mia Pasta to enjoy on the beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Budva Citadel
Within the Old Town walls
Historic fortress offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town.
+1
Narrow Cobblestone Streets
Throughout the Old Town
Wander through charming, winding alleys, discovering hidden squares, artisan shops, and authentic local eateries.
Seaside Cafes and Restaurants
Along the waterfront and within the Old Town
Savor fresh seafood, local specialties, or a simple coffee with stunning sea views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Budva's Charm
Embrace the Wanderlust
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but uneven. Pack comfy shoes for exploring!
🍝 Grab-and-Go Pasta Delight
Try the fresh, made-to-order pasta from Lia Mia Pasta to enjoy on the beach.
📸 Capture the Citadel Views
The fortress walls offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Evenings often feature live music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets are beautiful but uneven. Pack comfy shoes for exploring!
🍝 Grab-and-Go Pasta Delight
Try the fresh, made-to-order pasta from Lia Mia Pasta to enjoy on the beach.
📸 Capture the Citadel Views
The fortress walls offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Evenings often feature live music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
🍦 Don't Miss Local Ice Cream
Try unique flavors like maracuja and walnut at local ice cream shops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Budva Old Town is consistently praised for its charming, historic atmosphere with narrow cobblestone streets and Venetian architecture. Visitors enjoy exploring the shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as the beautiful sea views from the Citadel. While it can be quite touristy, the overall experience is described as very enjoyable and picturesque.
"It is a cute and cozy place with narrow cobblestone streets and plenty of character. There are lots of little authentic shops to explore, from handmade crafts to local souvenirs. You will also find plenty of great spots to eat or grab a drink, whether you are in the mood for seafood, pizza, or just a coffee with a view. A lovely place to wander and soak up the atmosphere!"
Highway Video
"Beautiful old medieval walled town on the sea. Really nice to walk around and lots to do. Quite touristic, but still very enjoyable. Lots of cafes, restaurants, shops, churches."
Tim Husain
"Budva Old Town is a charming maze of narrow streets, historic churches, and picturesque squares. With roots dating back over 2,500 years, this coastal gem blends Venetian architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local life. You can enjoy seaside cafés, or discover hidden art galleries The Old Town offers a perfect mix of history and Mediterranean charm"
Nicu Dumitru
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Budva Old Town is easily accessible. If arriving by car, there are parking lots outside the walls. Buses from other Montenegrin cities frequently stop in Budva, with a short walk to the Old Town. Taxis are also readily available.
Absolutely! The Old Town is a pedestrian-only zone, perfect for exploring on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobblestoned.
Yes, Budva Old Town is a popular day trip destination. You can easily spend a few hours exploring its charming streets and historical sites.
Buses are the most common and affordable way to travel between Budva and Kotor. The journey takes about 30-45 minutes. Taxis are also an option but will be more expensive.
Yes, several boat tours operate from Budva, including excursions to nearby islands and hidden caves. The Noah Boat Excursion is a popular choice for an Adriatic Sea adventure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry into Budva Old Town itself is free. However, some specific attractions within the Old Town, like the Citadel, may have an entrance fee.
Budva Old Town is always open, as it's a living part of the city. Shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to access the Budva Citadel, which grants you access to the museum and the ramparts.
Yes, guided tours are available and can offer deeper insights into the history and culture of Budva Old Town. You can often find local guides near the main entrances.
To avoid the peak crowds, aim for the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) or visit early in the morning during the summer months. Evenings can also be less crowded than midday.
📸 📸 Photography
The Citadel offers stunning panoramic views. The narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and the seaside promenade are also highly photogenic. Don't forget the views from the fortress walls at sunset. +1
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially over historical sites and populated areas. Always check local regulations before flying.
The 'golden hour' during sunrise and sunset provides beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded alleys offer good opportunities.
Key landmarks include the Budva Citadel, the Church of St. John, and the various picturesque squares and alleyways. The beaches adjacent to the Old Town also offer great photo ops.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the narrow streets and expansive views. A versatile zoom lens is useful for details. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Seafood is a highlight, with fresh catches from the Adriatic. Also, try local pasta dishes, traditional Montenegrin cuisine, and delicious pastries.
Lia Mia Pasta is highly recommended for fresh, made-to-order pasta dishes that you can even take to the beach.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options by exploring smaller eateries away from the main squares or opting for grab-and-go options like pizza or pasta.
There are numerous charming cafes. North Coffee Shop is mentioned for coffee, and many places offer great views for a relaxing break.
While local cuisine is prevalent, you can also find some international options, including pizza and various European-inspired dishes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for kid-friendly eateries offering simpler options like pizza or pasta. The beaches near the Old Town are great for a family outing. Consider a boat trip for a fun adventure, but ensure it's suitable for younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for local buses for transportation between towns instead of taxis. Enjoy the free atmosphere of wandering the streets and soaking in the views. Look for souvenir shops that offer more reasonably priced items away from the main tourist hubs.
📸 Photographers
+1 The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Don't forget to capture the vibrant atmosphere of the squares and the lively evenings with potential live music.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Budva's History
Walking through the Old Town feels like stepping back in time. You'll encounter ancient churches like the Church of St. John, remnants of city walls, and charming squares that have witnessed centuries of life. The blend of Venetian and Mediterranean styles creates a unique atmosphere, a testament to its rich and complex past.
Despite its historical significance, Budva Old Town is also a vibrant, living community. It buzzes with activity, from local residents going about their day to the influx of tourists eager to explore its heritage. This dynamic interplay between the ancient and the modern is a key part of its enduring appeal.
+1Culinary Delights of Budva Old Town
Beyond seafood, you can find excellent pasta dishes, with Lia Mia Pasta being a popular spot for freshly made pasta to enjoy on the go or at a picnic. For those with a sweet tooth, places like Fluffy Pancakes Budva offer indulgent treats, and Astoria is known for its delightful apple pie and chocolate volcano desserts.
+1To complement your meal, explore local beverages. You can enjoy a glass of Montenegrin wine or try 'rakija,' a traditional fruit brandy. Many cafes also offer excellent coffee, perfect for a mid-afternoon break while people-watching in the charming squares.
Exploring Beyond the Walls
For those seeking adventure, boat tours are a popular option. These excursions can take you to nearby islands like Sveti Nikola or to discover hidden sea caves along the coast, offering a different perspective of the Montenegrin coastline.
Budva also serves as a great base for day trips to other notable Montenegrin attractions. Consider visiting the historic town of Kotor, exploring national parks like Lovćen or Durmitor, or venturing to the scenic Bay of Kotor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit