The Ultimate Guide to Tivat (2024)

Welcome to the Ultimate Tivat Guide.

A bright blue sky accentuated by the swaying masts of a fleet of superyachts, crystal clear water stretching beneath luxuriant hilltops, and the sparkling stones of the promenade. Tivat has quickly become one of the most renowned destinations on Montenegro’s coastline.Whether it’s exploring new horizons or seeking peace, this park promises a memorable adventure that will stay with you in your heart and memory.

If you’re wondering whether this high-end port town is the right choice for your next holiday, then you want to know exactly what sets it apart from the pack.

Where is Tivat?

Tivat is located on the Adriatic Sea coast in southwestern Montenegro. It lies in the Bay of Kotor, just south of the mountain Orjen and north of the city of Budva.

TIVAT: Know before you go

✈️ Airport: Tivat (code: TIV)

⏰ Time Zone: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)

Currency: Euro

 Language: The official language of Montenegro is Montenegrin. Other languages commonly spoken in Podgorica include Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian and Croatian.

Visa: Those with passports from Australia, Canada, the EU, UK and US can travel to Montenegro without a visa and remain there for up to 90 days. Please click here for more details about your own country

Electricity Socket: The most common type of electricity socket used in Montenegro is the standard two-pin European socket, which uses 220-240 volts at a 50Hz frequency.

SIM Card: Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Montenegro? The answer is yes, and read our blog post on what the best way is for tourists.

What Makes Tivat Special?

Tivat was not always the rather posh paradise that it is today and, over the years, it has evolved more than once. Once a sleepy seaside town, this little corner of the Bay of Kotor became a naval base that was critical during the second world war.

Now, thanks to a spectacular multimillion-euro development, it is a premium destination for visitors seeking luxury. The ancient naval base has been transformed into the Porto Montenegro superyacht port, and the town has grown to include classy holiday apartments, beautiful cafés and restaurants, and upscale stores.

Situated between the sea and Mount Vrmac, the landscape is truly remarkable, and the town has an elegant, sumptuous feel to it that is hard to match.

What is the best time to visit Tivat?

The ideal period to take a trip to Tivat is between May and September, with the highest demand occurring during the European school holiday season of July and August. For those not restricted by school holidays, June and September provide excellent travel conditions.

If you are here for a longer time, feel free to read our Ultimate 7 day Itinerary for Montenegro and experience the best that Montenegro has to offer.

What To Do In Tivat

Explore Porto Montenegro and enjoy the shopping

Porto Montenegro is a luxury marina and shopping center that has revitalized Tivat’s shoreline. This busy and stylish neighborhood is home to high-end retailers, restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs. You can also see the spectacular yachts docked here. Take a stroll along the marina, eat at one of the restaurants, or have a drink at the rooftop bar. Whatever you do, don’t miss the sunset from this lovely position.

Tivat is described as a blend of Adriatic charm and modern luxury, offering a variety of shopping experiences. The city center is home to both luxurious and affordable brands, with stores offering items imported mainly from Italy and Turkey. Notable mentions include Max Mara for timeless designs and Stories for unique, homegrown pieces. For those looking for high-end shopping, Porto Montenegro is the place to be, featuring luxury brands like Dior. The city also offers art galleries and local markets like Zelena Pijaca for a more authentic experience. If you’re interested in a detailed guide, you can read more about it here.

Take a boat tour to Our Lady of the Rocks

Our Lady of the Rocks is a tiny man-made island that sits just off the coast of Perast, a picturesque town near Tivat. According to legend, the island was created by fishermen who found an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the sea. They pledged to build a church in her honor, and over the centuries, the island grew as sailors dropped stones around the original rock. Today, the church is a popular destination for visitors who take a boat tour from Tivat or nearby Kotor.

Discover the stunning Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is one of the most popular natural attractions near Tivat. It’s a sea cave that glows blue from the sunlight that filters through the water. You can take a boat tour from Tivat or Kotor to visit the cave, swim inside, and take stunning photos. The tour costs around €20 per person and lasts about an hour.

Hike up to the Gornja Lastva viewpoint

The village of Gornja Lastva is located just above Tivat and offers breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding bay. You can hike up to the viewpoint from the village, and it takes about 30-40 minutes. The trail is well-marked, and the view from the top is well worth the effort.

Visit the museums

Not everything in Tivat is modern and shiny. There is a lot of history to see here, too – if you know where to look.

The Naval Heritage Collection is a museum that showcases the rich naval history of Montenegro. Here you will find an impressive collection of military ships, boats, and submarines. The museum is located in the Porto Montenegro complex and is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm. Admission is €5 for adults and €3 for children.

The Buća-Luković Museum is located in the village of Donja Lastva, near Tivat. It’s a small yet charming museum that shows the locals’ traditional way of life. You can see antique tools, clothing, furniture, and other household stuff. The museum is open everyday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and entrance is €3 per person.

Enjoy the culture

There are many artistic and cultural locations in Tivat. It’s definitely a good idea to check out the Renaissance Summer House Buca in the center of the town, which dates back to the 17th century.

Originally a vacation home for the famous Buca noble family of Kotor, it has an intriguing blend of architectural styles and is home to a stage and gallery space that offer plays, exhibitions, and other events.

Explore the islands

There’s more than one interesting isle to visit in the Bay of Kotor, and you definitely want to be spending some time on a boat while you’re in Tivat. The three islands closest to town are Sveti Marko, The Island of Our Lady of Mercy, and Prevlaka.

Sveti Marko is the largest, and it is home to a mostly abandoned tourist settlement of around 500 Tahiti-style houses. The Island of Our Lady of Mercy is the smallest – only around 160 meters long, but houses a spacious church and monastery.

Prevlaka is also known as the Island of Flowers, and it is rich in history. At its center is the Church of the Holy Trinity, which sits among the ruins of the Monastery of Saint Archangel Michael, which was built on the remains of a Benedictine temple. In many ways, it’s the perfect symbol of a town that has known many different lives.

Places to Stay in Tivat

Best for Families – Hotel Palma

• Address: Setaliste Kapetana Ivana Vizina 8 Br. 8, Tivat Municipality 85320 Montenegro.
• Phone Number: +382 32 672 288

Hotel Palma is the place to stay if you are looking for a wonderful, relaxing time during your trip to Tivat with your family. This family-favorite hotel resides in the heart of Tivat tourism, right on the water and within walking distance of great restaurants. 

The top sights of Tivat will be right outside your door. The Cultural Center Tivat is only .3 miles from the hotel, and the famous Tivat Solila landmark is only .2 miles away. While in the hotel, you’ll enjoy free wifi, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. Every room also has a refrigerator to keep any snacks you purchase fresh. 

All rooms are non-smoking. This hotel is affordable and spacious suites are available for families. A full breakfast buffet comes with your stay. Hotel Palma also has a private beach for guests to enjoy. 

Best for Couples – Regent Porto Montenegro

• Address: Obala bb Montenegro Village, Tivat, Tivat Municipality 85320 Montenegro.
• Phone number: +382 32 660 660

You want to find the best luxury hotel for a romantic Tivat getaway. The top-rated hotel for couples in Tivat is the Regent Porto Montenegro. 

The Regent Porto Montenegro carefully blends the glittering shoreline with a bit of elegant grandeur and grace. The architecture remains faithful to the location’s cultural essence with the building and gardens.

The location places you within walking distance of high-quality restaurants or comfort food favorites for whatever you are craving. You’ll also get easy access to popular spots like the Porto Montenegro boardwalk. 

Every room features a private balcony, luxury bathrobes, room service, and a flat-screen TV to help you and your special someone unwind at the end of each day. Rooms can come with either an ocean or mountain view. 

The staff is world-renowned for their hospitality and exceptional service. 

Read Also: The Chedi Luštica Bay Review

Off the Beaten path – something a little quirky 

If you want something off the beaten path, check out Hotel Vardar in Kotor. 

Hotel Vardar marries classical elegance with breathtaking mountain views. This boutique hotel offers spacious rooms with an old-world feel inside its walls. You will feel like you’ve stepped inside a piece of history as you pass the Kotor historical monuments near the hotel. 

Where can you eat?

If you are looking for an exceptional dining experience in Tivat, look no further than Ponta Veranda. This family-owned and operated restaurant offers spectacular food at reasonable prices. The bread is hot off the grill, and the octopus, fish, and meats are all fresh and cooked over hot coals. The Sea bream and Pljeskavica are also hits that are worth trying. Despite being reasonably priced, the quality of the food is outstanding, and the friendly and hospitable staff add to the overall experience. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Ponta Veranda is a must-visit for any food lover.

If you’re a meat lover, Steak & BBQ House Tanjga in Tivat is a must-visit in Tivat – they also have a branch in Kotor. They offer a great selection of steaks which are cooked to perfection and seasoned to perfection. However, it’s important to note that vegetarians may want to avoid this restaurant as the menu is primarily focused on meat dishes. While they do offer seafood, pasta, and salads, the restaurant is truly a meat lover’s delight. If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal centered around meat, Steak & BBQ House Tanjga is the perfect destination.

Volat in Tivat is a superb restaurant ideally located in the city center. The restaurant has a great terrace seating area that overlooks the marina, providing a lovely view while dining. The environment is calm, and the staff is kind and helpful. The menu offers a superb selection of Mediterranean and European cuisines. The presentation of the dish is excellent, and the flavors are amazing. Volat is an excellent alternative for a memorable dining experience in Tivat, including breakfast, thanks to its low costs for the quality of the food and service.

If you are interested in more dining options – read our new article highlighting the best dining places Tivat has to offer.

Read Also; Top Places for Breakfast in Tivat

Can you recommend any day trips from Tivat?

Kotor: A beautiful walled city on the bay, with stunning views and plenty of historical sites to explore.

Perast: A picturesque village a few minutes from Kotor, with Venetian-style architecture and a rich maritime history

Budva: A popular resort town on the coast, with a mix of modern amenities and old-world charm.

Cetinje: Montenegro’s historical capital, with many museums and galleries, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lovcen National Park: A beautiful nature reserve with numerous trails and stunning views of the bay and mountains.

Is Tivat Worth Visiting?

In conclusion, Tivat is a charming town that offers visitors a wealth of experiences, from its beautiful beaches and stunning Tivat Bay to its fascinating Old Town and cultural landmarks like St. Marko. Getting to Tivat is easy, thanks to its convenient airport, which is well-connected to major European cities.

Tivat is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. A day trip to the nearby Skadar Lake is a must for nature lovers, while Durmitor National Park in southwest Montenegro offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.

The town’s location on the Montenegrin coast gives it an ideal starting point for visiting the breathtaking Boka Bay and the many picturesque towns and villages that along the coast. Tivat also features some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, including the famed Plavi Horizonti, where you can simply relax and soak up the sun.

In short, Tivat offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or simply relaxing by the sea. So, if you’re planning a trip to Montenegro, remember to add Tivat on your itinerary!