Budva is the most visited tourist destination in Montenegro and for most travelers who land in Podgorica, it's the final destination. The distance between them is about 90 kilometers of road, about a 1 hour and 15-minute drive, and several transportation options. Which is the fastest, which is the smartest, and what to watch out for—here are the specific answers.
How long is the drive from Podgorica Airport to Budva?
Under normal conditions — without traffic and without stopping — the drive takes between 70 and 80 minutes.
Factors that affect time:
Season: In July and August, especially in the afternoon, entry into Budva can be slower due to traffic.
Time of day: The morning departure is always the fastest. The afternoon entry into Budva—especially on Fridays and Saturdays—can be slower.
Routes from Podgorica to Budva
Route 1 — Podgorica → Cetinje → Budva
This is the main and fastest route. From Podgorica, you go west, heading up towards Cetinje — the old capital of Montenegro — and then you head down towards the coast and Budva.
The road is good, clear, and fully paved. Along the way, you have the option of a short stop in Cetinje if you haven't been there—the old town, museums, and an authentic Montenegrin atmosphere far from the tourist crowds.
Distance: ~70 km Driving time: ~1h 15min
Route 2 — Podgorica → Petrovac → Budva
The longer option makes sense if Petrovac is not just a stopover for you but a destination as well—or if you love coastal roads and are in no hurry.
From Podgorica, head south, down towards Petrovac on the Sea, and then continue on the coastal road towards Budva.
This route is longer and takes more time, but for those who want to combine their arrival with a first glimpse of the Montenegrin Riviera, it's a worthwhile alternative.
Distance: ~115 km Driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
Transportation options — comparison
Rental car — the fastest and most flexible
You pick up the vehicle immediately upon arrival at the airport and head directly to Budva. No waiting, no arrangements, no stops.
Additional value: you have a car for the entire stay. Every trip from Budva—Kotor, Sveti Stefan, Petrovac, Cetinje—is possible without additional transportation costs.
Rental price: from €45 – €60 per day
For Vehicle pickup at Podgorica Airport — available year-round, with immediate pickup upon arrival.
Private transfer — comfortable, but one-way
The transfer from the airport to Budva takes the same amount of time as a car ride—the difference is that you sit in the back and don't have to worry about the road.
Price: €55 to €75 one-way, depending on the agency and vehicle type.
Disadvantage: This is a one-way ticket. Every trip from Budva—to Kotor, Cetinje, Lake Skadar—means a new transfer or taxi. By the end of the week, the total of those costs far exceeds the price of a rental car.
Bus — the cheapest, but not for everyone
The Podgorica—Budva bus line exists and runs several times a day. However, the bus does not depart from the airport—you first need to get to the bus terminal in downtown Podgorica.
Realistic for a passenger with luggage: Taxi to the terminal + waiting + bus + arrival on the outskirts of Budva + taxi to the accommodation. Cheap, but slow and tiring on the first day.
Recommended for: solo travelers who have time and want to save money.
What to do upon arrival in Budva
If you arrive in the morning, you have the whole afternoon.
Old Town — compact, charming, good for a first walk and for getting oriented.
Mogren Beach — right next to the old town, one of the city's most beautiful beaches.
Slovene beach — longer, livelier, with more content.
Miločer Park – the jewel of the Montenegrin coast
If you arrive in the evening — dinner in the old town and rest. Exploring can wait until tomorrow.
Practical tips
Fuel: Fill up in Podgorica before you leave — it's more practical than looking for a station along the way.
GPS: Google Maps and Waze both cover the routes well. For the fastest route, take the direction toward Cetinje.
Parking in Budva: Paid parking is available near the center and the old town. During the season, arriving by 9 AM means a better spot and less congestion.
Are you planning to explore Montenegro during your stay? Check out our guide on Podgorica Airport — everything you need to know upon arrival at PGD.
