Croatia tends to steal the spotlight from its southeastern neighbor, Montenegro, but it’s a country well worth visiting with breathtaking mountain and seaside scenery along with many enchanting medieval Old Towns. Sitting on the borderline between east and west, its rich cultural history can be glimpsed in ornate churches, mosques with elegant minarets, elaborately painted monasteries, the mosaic floors of Roman villas, and fortresses that have stood the test of time.
With its medieval Old Town, sun-soaked beaches, and lively nightlife, Budva is the stand-out attraction along the Montenegrin coastline. Easily the country’s most-visited destination, it attracts hordes of holidaymakers intent on exploring its atmospheric Stari Grad (Old Town), sunning themselves on the bonny beaches of the Budva Riviera and partying until dawn; with scores of buzzy bars and clanging clubs, it’s not nicknamed ‘the Montenegrin Miami’ for nothing.
When to visit Budva
The best time to visit Budva for a beach vacation is in the summer with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s or slightly warmer. It’s also ideal for those who want to enjoy lakes like Skadar and the mountainous regions with pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking. Winters can be cold and wet, especially in the mountains, with snow rare along the coast. The shoulder seasons of May and mid-September through October often bring idyllic weather without the hordes of tourists. Swimming in the sea can usually be enjoyed through early October with the water warmed by the sun all summer.
Budva FAQ
From
Matilda Your Croatia Expert
How many days do you need in Budva?
Three days in Montenegro is just enough to explore the main cities and some beautiful beaches. You might begin by visiting Tivat and Budva followed by a day in and around the Bay of Kotor, including Kotor and its magnificent Old Town. The hike to San Giovanni’s Castle is a must for all who are up to the challenge. From here, the small village of Perast is easy to reach for your afternoon exploits. On your third day, you could choose to relax and spend the day on the beach, hike through Durmitor National Park, or explore Lake Skadar’s shoreline.
What is the best time to visit Budva?
The best time to visit Budva is April-May Budva can be visited year-round, but based on the ideal climate conditions, cost of travel, and avoiding peak holiday periods, April-May is the best time to go. In summer, temperatures can reach as high as 29℃ (85℉) in the middle of the day.
What are the essential sites to see in Budva
The Budva Riviera is famous for its glorious beaches,with miles of fine pebble and sand beaches. Slovenska Plaza and Bečići are the most popular with tourists. Then there’s Mogren Beach, found by following a seaside path from the old town. Jaz Beach is a lively cove and home to one of Montenegro’s most popular music festivals, Sea Dance Festival. Further up the coast there are dozens of little beaches, like local favourite Drobnji Pijesak, to while away the summer days in the sun.
Montenegrin beaches always have sunbeds and umbrellas for just a few euros, and handy bars where the local bartender will mix you delicious cocktails. With everything you need seaside, it’s only too easy to spend every day soaking up the sun on Budva’s beaches.
Is Budva worth visiting?
Even if you just have one day, perhaps visiting on a day trip from Croatia, Montenegro and Budva are well worth making time for although you’re likely to be left wanting more. With its world-famous mountains and fjords, gorgeous beaches, glorious walled cities with cobbled streets, rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, it’s truly not-to-be-missed. It’s one of those countries that offer it all and as it’s small you’ll be able to check off many of the highlights in one trip.
