Welcome to the Ultimate guide to Tivat. A bright blue sky punctuated by the swaying masts of a fleet of superyachts, crystal water stretching beneath luscious hilltops, and the shining stones of the promenade. In just a few short years, Tivat has become one of the most illustrious spots on the entire Montenegro coastline.
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 phenomenal multimillion-euro development, it is a premium destination for those looking for some luxury. The remains of the old naval base have now become the Porto Montenegro superyacht marina, and the town itself has become populated with classy holiday apartments, glamorous bars and restaurants, and fancy shops.
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.
What To Do In Tivat
Explore Porto Montenegro
Porto Montenegro is a luxury marina and shopping complex that has transformed Tivat’s waterfront. This vibrant and elegant area is home to upscale boutiques, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. You can also admire the impressive yachts that dock here. Take a stroll through the marina, enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants, or enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar. Whatever you do, don’t miss the sunset at this picturesque location.
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, a short distance from Tivat. It’s a small but charming museum that showcases the traditional way of life in the area. You can see old tools, clothing, furniture, and household items. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, and admission 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.
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.
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 makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the stunning Boka Bay and the many picturesque towns and villages along the coast. And for those who want to simply relax and soak up the sun, Tivat has some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, including the popular Plavi Horizonti.
In short, Tivat is a destination that has 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, make sure to include Tivat on your itinerary!
