Exploring Budva, Montenegro: A Perfect Two-Day Itinerary Focused on the Old Town
Back in June Ben and I took an easyJet flight to Tivat in Montenegro to discover what this stunning, and fairly undiscovered country has to offer. We spent four days in Montenegro and our hotel was based in Budva - we fell in love with the Old Town so I thought I'd put together a 48 hour guide to Budva Old Town to add to your travel list; it's a must visit!
Nestled along Montenegro's stunning Adriatic coastline, Budva is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant nightlife, Budva’s heart is its charming Old Town (Stari Grad). If you’re planning a visit, two days in Budva is the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this ancient town.
Here’s a guide on how to make the most of your 48 hours, focusing on the Old Town and its surrounding areas...
Day 1: Dive into History and Culture
Morning: start with a leisurely walk through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Budva’s Old Town. Dating back over 2,500 years, this walled city is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. One of our favourite things to do was wander through the charming streets of Budva Old Town - it's a great first activity to familiarise yourself.
For a little more history your way to the Citadel, located at the southern tip of the Old Town. The Citadel offers stunning panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the Budva Riviera (a great photo op!).
Mid morning coffee: Stop off at Caffe Fiorino for an iced coffee and some of the best cheesecake you'll ever eat (we recommend the cherry!).
Afternoon: Beach Time!
After lunch, take a short walk to Mogren Beach, just outside the Old Town. This small, pebbly beach is divided into two sections by a small cave, and it's a great place to relax and take a swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Evening: Dinner
As the sun sets, the Old Town takes on a magical ambiance. For dinner, make a reservation at Pasta Bar for a quick bite to eat after your first day exploring. Here you can build your own pasta dish and sauce from an extensive selection, oh and make sure you try the Pesto Bruschetta - delicious!
After dinner, pick up an ice-cream from Moritz and walk along the harbour to soak in the golden glow across the Dinaric Alps.
Day 2: A Mix of Relaxation and Adventure
Morning: Explore the City Walls
Start your second day by walking along the Old Town walls. The views over the terracotta rooftops and the azure sea are worth the small €3 fee to access the walls. It’s a great way to see the Old Town from a different perspective and capture some unique photos.
Afterwards, make your way to Slovenska Beach, the longest beach in Budva, stretching for over a mile. Rent a sun bed and umbrella, and spend the morning relaxing by the sea. The beach is lined with cafes and restaurants, so you can grab a snack or a coffee whenever you like.
Afternoon: Boat Trip to Sveti Stefan
In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Sveti Stefan, a small islet and luxury resort just a few miles from Budva. Although the islet is a private resort, you can still admire its beauty from the beach or take a guided tour. The boat ride itself is a treat, offering stunning views of the coastline and the mountains.
Evening: Sunset Views and Farewell Dinner
Return to Budva in time to catch the sunset from the Dancing Girl Statue viewpoint, a short walk from Mogren Beach (an incredible picture opportunity!). The statue, often compared to Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid, has become a symbol of Budva, and the view from here is particularly spectacular as the sun sets over the Adriatic.
For your final dinner in Budva, head to Piano Nobile, located just inside the city walls. Enjoy a crisp glass of local wine and a delicious Mediterranean dish (we enjoyed a salad and a bowl of pasta - the restaurant is also popular for it's burgers!).
Final thoughts: Budva’s Old Town is a place where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. With its ancient walls, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, it’s easy to see why Budva has become one of Montenegro’s top destinations.
Two days might not be enough to see everything this charming town has to offer, but it’s certainly enough to fall in love with it!
Have you been to Montenegro before? Did you have a chance to visit Budva Old Town? x