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Local Transportation

Local Transportation

Coastal Montenegro, Montenegro

Public Bus System

Budva's public transportation mainly uses local bus lines. These buses connect different parts of the wider Budva municipality, including the Old Town, various hotels, popular beaches, and nearby villages like Bečići and Sveti Stefan. Local companies, notably Mediteran Express, operate these bus lines. They offer a simple and efficient way to cover short to medium distances.

Buses mainly run along the main coastal road, known as Jadranska magistrala. The Budva Bus Station (Autobuska Stanica Budva) serves as a central point for both intercity and some local routes. Numerous bus stops also exist along the promenade and main roads. Routes are generally straightforward, connecting the town center with outer areas like Bečići and Sveti Stefan. Ask locals or hotel staff for specific stop information if you are unsure.

Bus Travel Tips

  • Purchase tickets directly from the driver upon boarding. Carry small Euro notes or coins; drivers appreciate exact change.
  • Buses operate from early morning (~6 AM) until late evening (~11 PM or midnight) during high season. Frequency varies by route.
  • Accessibility Information: Public buses may not be fully accessible for travelers with mobility challenges.
  • Know your destination or a major landmark nearby to help the driver or fellow passengers understand your stop. During peak season, buses become crowded.

Ticketing & Fares

Fares are fixed for specific routes. No multi-day passes are used for local routes.

Operating Hours

Popular routes, like to Sveti Stefan, may see buses every 15-30 minutes during high season. Frequency decreases in low season.

Accessibility Notes

Many buses have steps at entrances. Limited space exists for wheelchairs. Sidewalks in the Old Town can be uneven.

Tips for Navigating Public Transport

Practical Advice
  • Carry small Euro notes or coins for bus fares.
  • Know your destination or a major landmark nearby.
  • During peak season, buses become crowded, especially for popular routes.
Planning Your Ride
  • Allow extra time during busy periods.
  • Frequency varies by route and time of day.
  • Popular routes like to Sveti Stefan may see buses every 15-30 minutes during high season.

Taxis & Ride Services

Licensed Taxis

Typically white, silver, or yellow with a taxi sign on the roof.

Hailing

Find them at designated taxi stands or hail on the street.

Fares

Within Budva, fares range from €3-€10. Confirm meter use or agree on a price.

Payment

Payment is usually in cash (Euros). Some taxis may accept cards.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Details

Taxis offer a convenient, direct way to travel in Budva. It is wise to use taxis with meters.

Recommended Taxi Services

  • Red Taxi (+382 68 019 719)
  • Hello Taxi (+382 67 019 719)
  • Terrae Taxi (+382 67 170 000)
  • Calling directly often proves more reliable than hailing.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Uber and Bolt are not widely used or officially operational in Budva.
  • Use licensed taxis. Avoid unofficial "private taxis" offering rides.
  • Walking is generally safe. Remain aware of traffic and use well-lit areas at night.
  • For airport/station taxi arrangements, pre-booking or official taxi stands are recommended.

Rental Options

  • Car rental: Book in advance, especially for high season.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals: Popular for navigating congested areas. Helmets are mandatory.
  • Bicycle rentals: Available from various shops in Budva.
  • Requirements: At least 21 years old (some companies 23 or 25). Valid driving license, held for at least 2 years.
  • A credit card for the deposit is necessary.
  • Major car rental companies have offices at airports and some locations in Budva. Local companies also operate.

Driving Conditions & Safety

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side. Seatbelts are mandatory for all. Headlights remain on at all times. Blood alcohol limit is 0.03%. Mobile phone use prohibited without hands-free.

Road Conditions

Main roads are generally well-maintained. They can be narrow and winding. Inland roads may be less developed. Roads often feature steep drops without guardrails.

Parking

Parking can be challenging and expensive in Budva's center, especially during summer. Paid parking lots are available. Enforcement is strict.

Walking & Cycling

Explore Budva's charm on foot or by bicycle. Many areas are pedestrian-friendly, offering scenic views.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Budva Old Town: Exclusively pedestrianized, ideal for walking and exploring its narrow alleys and squares.
  • Coastal Promenade: A long, flat promenade stretches from Budva Old Town along Slovenska Plaža beach to Bečići.
  • Mogren Beach path: A scenic path connects Budva Old Town to Mogren beaches, offering beautiful views.
  • This path is perfect for leisurely walks, jogs, or bike rides.

Walking Tours & Cycling Safety

  • Walking tour options: Numerous guided walking tours of Budva Old Town are available from local agencies. Self-guided tours are easy with a map or navigation app.
  • Bicycle infrastructure and safety: Montenegro has limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists typically share roads with vehicles.
  • For safety, be cautious of traffic, especially on main roads. Stick to less busy roads or the promenade. Helmets are recommended.
  • No-go areas for pedestrians and cyclists: No specific "no-go" areas exist. However, caution on busy roads outside pedestrianized zones is advisable.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Limited official hop-on-hop-off services. Many local agencies offer organized bus tours for day trips (Kotor, Ostrog Monastery, Skadar Lake).

Convenient for visiting multiple sites.

Boat Taxis & Excursions

Boat taxis are available from Budva's marina to nearby beaches (Sveti Nikola Island, Ploče Beach, Jaz Beach, Sveti Stefan).

Larger boats offer day trips along the coast, with swimming stops and lunch.

Accessibility Services

Limited dedicated accessible transport exists. Pre-arranging private transfers with accessible vehicles is advisable.

Communicate your needs clearly when booking.

Transportation Options Comparison

Local Transport
  • Local Bus: Affordable, good for short distances. Can be crowded. Cost: €1-€2 local, €3-€8 inter-city.
  • Taxi: Convenient, door-to-door. Can be pricey. Cost: €3-€10 within Budva.
  • Rental Car: Flexibility to explore at your own pace. Parking can be difficult/expensive. Cost: €25-€50+/day.
Exploration Modes
  • Walking: Free, great for Old Town & coastal promenade. Limited by distance.
  • Cycling: Good for short distances on promenades. Limited dedicated lanes. Cost: €10-€20/day.
  • Boat Taxis/Excursions: Access to nearby beaches and scenic coastal views. Prices vary.

Important Considerations

  • Traffic can be fast and unpredictable outside pedestrianized zones.
  • Verify with your accommodation if they register you with local authorities upon arrival.
  • Carry all necessary driving documents, including an IDP if from a non-EU/EEA country.
  • Always have some cash for smaller transactions and bus fares.
  • Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers (112 for general emergencies).
  • Take precautions against petty theft in crowded tourist areas.
  • Be mindful of seasonal weather changes, especially during heavy rainfall periods.
  • Drive defensively and be aware of local driving styles.

Additional Tip

Consider exploring Budva's hidden gems by boat for an unique coastal perspective.

Many local tours depart from the marina throughout the day.