Budva · Getting around
How to get around Budva, Montenegro
August 29, 2026 · last updated · about 3 min read
Local Transport Modes
Budva is a compact destination where the mode of transport depends entirely on your destination:
- Walking: The primary way to explore the Old Town and the immediate promenade. Most historic sites and coastal cafes are pedestrian-only.
- Taxis: The most efficient way to reach outlying areas like Jaz Beach or Mogren Beach. They are readily available at designated stands.
- Local Buses: Useful for traveling between Budva and neighboring coastal towns. They are cost-effective but operate on less frequent schedules than urban transit.
- Boat Taxis: The only option for visiting Sveti Nikola Island.
Tickets and Passes
Budva does not utilize a comprehensive city-wide transit pass. Most local trips are paid in cash per journey. For those staying within the city center, no pass is necessary. For regional travel, individual tickets are purchased from drivers or at the main bus station.
From Podgorica Airport (TGD) to Budva
Since Budva has no airport, visitors arrive via Podgorica. Options include:
- Private Transfer: Fastest and lowest effort. Direct door-to-door service. High cost band.
- Taxi: Similar to private transfers in terms of speed and effort. Mid-to-high cost band.
- Bus: Requires a taxi or shuttle from the airport to the Podgorica main bus station first. Highest effort and longest travel time. Low cost band.
Practical Notes
- Rush Hours: Traffic congestion peaks during the summer months, particularly on the roads leading to popular beaches.
- Accessibility: The Old Town features cobblestone streets and stairs, which can be challenging for strollers and wheelchairs.
- Luggage: Taxis are recommended for airport transfers and hotel check-ins due to the narrow, pedestrian-heavy streets of the center.
Pick your dates — we'll search Budva hotels for you
Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.
Things to see in Budva
See all →
Nature
Sveti Nikola Island
A small island off the coast of Budva, Montenegro, reachable by boat and a great place to relax on the beach.
Parks & gardens
Lovćen National Park
Lovćen National Park in Montenegro is home to Mount Lovćen, part of the Dinaric Alps. Hiking trails along the ridge offer sweeping open views.
Nature
Jaz Beach
A pebble beach a short way west of central Budva, Montenegro. It's divided into two sections and has a campsite, making it a great spot to relax and camp right by the sea.
Temples & religious sites
Podmaine Monastery
A Serbian Orthodox monastery near Budva, founded in the 15th century by the Crnojević family. Its grounds hold two churches side by side: a smaller one built in the 15th century and a larger one from 1747.
More Budva guides
Best value
Where to stay in Budva for the best value
5-star & luxury
Where to stay for a luxury experience in Budva, Montenegro
Pool villas & resorts
Where to find pool villas and resorts in Budva, Montenegro
Family travel
Where to stay in Budva for a family vacation
Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Budva for a romantic getaway or honeymoon
Central & near stations
Where to stay in Budva for central access and transport
Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Budva, Montenegro?
First-time guide
How to plan your first visit to Budva, Montenegro
Getting around guides for other destinations
Guantánamo
How to Get Around Guantánamo and Travel from Antonio Maceo Airport
Cetinje
How to Get Around Cetinje and Travel from Podgorica Airport
North Nicosia
How to get around North Nicosia and travel from Larnaca Airport
Cienfuegos
How to get around Cienfuegos: transport options and airport transfers