Interesting Things to Do in Budva, Montenegro

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Known for its beaches and nightlife, Budva is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Montenegro. It’s a quaint coastal area packed full of interesting places and beautiful spots and known for its atmosphere, beaches, and activities. Continue reading to explore interesting things to do in Budva, Montenegro.

Interesting Things to Do in Budva

1. Budva Old Town

interesting things to do in Budva

 

One of the oldest places in Europe, Budva’s Old Town (also known as Stari Grad) is around 2,500 years old. It used to be an island connected to the mainland by a sandy strip but, over time, it became a peninsula.

As well as being home to some important historical landmarks that we’ll outline in this guide, this area is home to restaurants and bars, perfect for making the most of the Montenegrin nightlife, as well as the food and drink.

The Old Town is also where you’ll find the Budva City Walls. These are without a doubt amongst the best things to see in Budva and, when you walk them, you’ll be treated to glorious views of Budva and the surrounding sea.

2. Budva Riviera

interesting things to do in Budva

 

The Budva Riviera is a 35-km coastal strip that surrounds the town of Budva. In the summer, travelers descend upon its beaches for fun activities like diving and snorkeling. Beaches in the north like Mogren and Jaz are highly popular and often see crowds from June to August. Alternatively, the remote beaches in the south mostly remain tranquil and untouched.

After your time in the sun, drop by the waterfront pop-up seafood market for fresh fish, prawns, squid, and oysters. You can also spend the evening in Slovenska, Budva Rivera’s main thoroughfare, where shopping and nightlife are concentrated.

3. Sveti Stefan

 

The idyllic island of Sveti Stefan is one of the most iconic locations in Montenegro. Named as the most photographed site in the country, it’s incredibly picturesque thanks to the beautiful orange roofs of the 600-year-old buildings and the stunning blue sea surrounding the island.

Previously a fisherman’s village, Sveti Stefan has been restored and converted into an exclusive luxury resort known as the Aman Sveti Stefan.

Due to the exclusivity of the resort, access to the island is partially restricted. It’s only possible to visit Sveti Stefan if you’re staying at the resort, have a reservation at one of the resort’s restaurants or pay for a guided tour.

4. Moderna Galerija

interesting things to do in Budva

 

Moderna Galerija (Modern Gallery of Budva) showcases the works of celebrated painters from Montenegro and former Yugoslavia. Tucked away in the Old Town, it offers a quiet escape from the crowded beaches. Must-sees include paintings by Petar Lubarda, Milo Milunović, and Milan Konjović, just to name a few. There are many sculptures and drawings by international artists displayed within the gallery’s 2 exhibition halls. Moderna Galerija is free to enter. Exhibitions by local artists are held from time to time.

5. Sveti Nikola Island

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One of the best Budva attractions, just 1 kilometer from Budva’s Old Town and in the Adriatic Sea, Sveti Nikola Island is made up of 89 acres of land and its highest point reaches 397ft above sea level.

On the Island, which is dubbed ‘Hawaii’ by some locals, there are lovely beaches and clear waters for swimming – so don’t forget your bathing suit.

You can get there by boat for a very reasonable price and, if you’re lucky, you might spot a deer when you’re on Sveti Nikola Island, as they live in the uncultivated areas! This island is a Budva must-see, so we highly recommend that you add it to your list of things to do when you’re visiting Montenegro.

6. Aquapark Budva

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Aquapark Budva is the place to be for something a little more thrilling than lying on the beach. Here, unleash your inner daredevil on 7 slides, which have a maximum height of 26 meters and a total length of almost 600 meters. Afterward, you can relax in the large wave pool or hydromassage pool, or get a drink at the pool bar. There’s even a massage room where you can rejuvenate with a wide range of face and body treatments.

Aquapark Budva is accessible by bus near Budva Old Town – it’s a 5-minute drive from the town center.

7. Saint Ivan Church

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One of the interesting things to do in Budva is to visit Saint Ivan Church. This church can be seen in many places in Budva because its bell tower is so tall, but it’s found in the Old Town.

This recognizable landmark is a Catholic church that was built in the 7th century and is still a fully-functioning church. You’re welcome to go into light a candle, attend a service, or simply admire its stunning architecture and interior, such as the glass mosaic on the altar wall.