Things to Do in Budva: A Practical Guide for Drivers Budva Old Town and the Citadela Budva Riviera beaches you can reach by car Sveti Stefan viewpoints and the coastal drive Kotor and the Bay of Kotor (Day 1 loop) Lovćen National Park and the Njegoš Mausoleum Lake Skadar, Ostrog, Stari Bar and Cetinje (Day 2+ options) Practical information — parking, fines, seasonal timing FAQ How much does Budva Old Town Citadel cost in 2026? Can I drive onto Sveti Stefan island? How long does it take to drive from Budva to Kotor? Is the Montenegro National Parks Pass worth buying? What are the parking rules and fines in Budva? Is it better to visit Budva in May or August? { return ( Things to Do in Budva: A Practical Guide for Drivers Budva's Stari Grad (Old Town) is a fortified peninsula jutting into the Adriatic, a labyrinth of narrow stone streets, medieval squares, and historic churches. By the Budva Car Rental team · Published 2026-04-16 Budva Old Town and the Citadela Budva's Stari Grad (Old Town) is a fortified peninsula jutting into the Adriatic, a labyrinth of narrow stone streets, medieval squares, and historic churches. The defensive walls surrounding the town, a formidable example of Venetian engineering, were completed in their final form in 1459. Walking these ramparts offers elevated perspectives of the red-tiled roofs and the turquoise sea beyond. While you can wander the town for free, the main attraction is the Citadela, or Citadel, located at the town's highest point. The Old Town is compact enough to explore in under an hour, but if you pause for churches, museums, and café stops, it easily becomes a half-day visit. Per the Tourist Organization of Budva, the entrance fee to the Citadel is a modest €2. Inside, you'll find a small library with antique books and maps, a maritime museum, and several terraces offering the most commanding views in Budva. The view of Sveti Nikola Island from the upper terrace is iconic, especially in the late afternoon when the light softens over the Adriatic. The Citadel's official summer hours are from 09:00 to 19:00, with shorter hours in the off-season. To avoid the intense midday sun and peak tourist crowds, the best times to visit are early in the morning, right after it opens, or in the late afternoon. This is also the best moment for photographs of the walls and the sea, because the stone passages are cooler and the viewpoints are less crowded. The Old Town has several gates, but for drivers looking to explore further, the Pizana Gate on the western side is key. Exiting here leads you directly onto the coastal path towards the famous Mogren beaches. Exploring the Old Town itself should be done on foot, as it is a fully pedestrianised zone. You will need to park your car outside the walls and walk in. If you are planning to combine the Citadel with lunch, expect the nearest municipal parking to fill quickly in July and August, so arriving before 10:00 is the easiest way to keep your day relaxed. Budva Riviera beaches you can reach by car While Budva has beaches within walking distance of the Old Town, a car unlocks access to the Riviera's superior stretches of sand and pebble. Driving allows you to escape the most crowded central areas and find coves with more space and better facilities. Parking can be a challenge in July and August, so arriving early (before 10:00) is always advisable. Many of the larger beaches have managed, paid parking lots which are worth the cost for convenience and security. That said, conditions vary sharply by month: in peak season, beach clubs and sunbed zones can take over the best shoreline, so a car gives you the freedom to move on if one cove feels too busy. Mogren 1 and 2 are technically walkable from the Old Town via a scenic coastal path, but driving to a nearby parking area can be simpler if you're carrying beach gear. These are small, sandy coves sheltered by cliffs, and they are among the closest easy swims to Budva's centre. Jaz Beach, a few kilometres west of Budva, is a massive expanse of sand and pebble, famous for hosting major music festivals like the Sea Dance Festival. Its sheer size means you can almost always find a spot, and it is one of the better choices if you want space for umbrellas, paddleboards, or children. Bečići Beach is a long, developed stretch east of Budva, lined with hotels and restaurants, making it ideal for families and longer stays because facilities are close at hand.