Montenegro's Lively Coastal Town Comes Alive With Festivals, Buzzing Nightlife, And Sun-Kissed Beaches

As one of the Mediterranean's most underrated, breathtaking countries, Montenegro offers a coastal escape that rivals its more famous neighbors. And for those looking to stay right on the seaside, Budva is an Adriatic gem and one of the oldest settlements in the region, dating back over 2,500 years. The enchanting Old Town (Stari Grad) at its heart is a medieval walled city where narrow stone alleys weave between Venetian-style buildings. Overlooking the sparkling Adriatic, Budva is a mix of history and modern energy, where centuries-old churches stand beside lively squares filled with street performers, cafes, and nightclubs.

Budva sits along Montenegro's southwestern coastline, just under a 40-minute drive from Tivat Airport, the nearest major airport. Travelers coming from Croatia's Dalmatian coast can take advantage of a ferry route, instated in 2024, that connects Budva with Dubrovnik, the Croatian home to the awe-inspiring Betina Cave Beach. This ferry makes it easier than ever to explore the stunning Adriatic coastline in one trip.

Within Budva itself, you'll find historic landmarks like the Citadela Fortress, with its perched views of the town and sea, and St. John's Church, known for its 15th-century architecture. Walking along the medieval city walls, visitors can take in beautiful seaside lookouts before heading back into town to explore the many beachside cafes and open-air festivals. As travel blogger Adventurous Kate put it, "Budva is THE premier beach destination of Montenegro — and a hotspot of the Balkans."

While neighboring countries often steal the coastline spotlight, Montenegro's unsung beaches are just as dazzling as Croatia's and without the crowds. Budva, sometimes referred to as Montenegro's Riviera, is famous for its sun-soaked beaches. Just outside the Old Town, Mogren Beach is one of Budva's most cherished. This secluded stretch of sand is framed by cliffs, spliced by a wooden bridge that winds through a stone archway fittingly called "Door in Stone." From here, a short walk along the Mogren Beach Footway leads to Richard's Head Beach, a lively seaside spot bookended by the social hub of Avala Beach Bar.

A little further out, Jaz Beach is a must-visit for those looking for a more relaxed, less crowded escape. This crescent-shaped shore, bisected into one sandy and one pebbly section, is about a 15-minute drive from Budva's Old Town. Historically, Jaz Beach has been a hot spot for major concerts and festivals, including, at one time, the famous Sea Dance Festival. Even today, the beach is a go-to spot for water sports like jet skiing and paddle-boarding, offering both adventure and tranquility.

No trip to Budva is complete without seeing Sveti Stefan, Montenegro's iconic postcard view. Once a humble fishing village, this fairytale-like islet has transformed into an exclusive luxury resort. While the island itself is private, the surrounding beaches offer incredible vantage points, where visitors can swim in the sheltered turquoise waters. For a better perspective, a short drive uphill leads to panoramic viewpoints and restaurants where you can dine with a view of the island and its orange-roofed villas.

As the sun dips below the horizon, Budva transforms into a mecca of sensory delights. Whether you're in the mood for an upscale meal or a quick, budget-friendly bite, the town offers a variety of dining experiences. TikTok travel influencer @emsbudgettravel recommends two higher-end dining spots: Jadran, a family-run restaurant serving fresh Mediterranean seafood on the beachfront, and The Old Fisherman's Pub, offering everything from hearty breakfasts to seafood platters.

After dinner, Budva's reputation as Montenegro's nightlife capital is evident across the town. Beach bars pulse with music, and open-air parties keep the energy high until the early hours. For those looking to dance with their toes in the sand, Torch Beach Club is a favorite. One Tripadvisor reviewer named korenyariv raved about its ambience, saying, "The atmosphere was perfect, with upbeat music in the background and a large, inviting pool." If you're in the mood for a high-energy club experience, Top Hill — perched above the town — offers an enormous open-air dance floor with world-class DJs spinning until dawn.

To truly experience Budva's vibrant spirit, visit in the summer when the town comes alive with visitors, events, and festivals. One of the highlights is the Theatre City Festival, held every July and August. This unique event turns the Old Town into an outdoor stage, with plays, concerts, and art performances filling the squares and piazzas.