Tivat
About Tivat
Tivat has undergone a remarkable transformation from a quiet naval town to Montenegro's most glamorous destination, thanks to the development of Porto Montenegro — a luxury yacht marina that has been called the "Monaco of the Adriatic." Yet beyond the superyachts and designer boutiques, Tivat retains a relaxed Mediterranean charm.
Located on the Vrmac Peninsula in the inner Bay of Kotor, Tivat enjoys stunning views of the surrounding mountains and bay. It is home to Montenegro's main coastal airport, making it the gateway for many visitors. The town itself is small but offers excellent dining, beautiful botanical gardens, and easy access to the rest of the bay.
Useful links:
Quick Tips
- Currency: Euro (EUR). Cards accepted everywhere in Porto Montenegro and most restaurants. Cash useful at local markets.
- Transport: Tivat is very walkable. The airport is just 4 km from town. Buses and water taxis connect to Kotor, Herceg Novi, and other bay towns. Rent a car to explore the Luštica Peninsula.
- Tipping: 10% at restaurants. At Porto Montenegro's upscale venues, service may already be included — check the bill.
- Free beach: Belane Beach (Plavi Horizonti) on the Luštica Peninsula is one of the best sandy beaches in the bay. A short drive or water taxi from Tivat.
- Vrmac ridge: Hike the Vrmac ridge between Tivat and Kotor for spectacular 360° bay views. The trail is well-marked and takes 2–3 hours one way.
Interesting Places to Visit
Porto Montenegro
A world-class luxury marina built on a former naval base, with berths for 450 yachts including superyachts up to 250m. Stroll along the waterfront lined with boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. The Naval Heritage Collection museum is housed in a former submarine pen.
Big Town Park (Veliki Gradski Park)
A beautiful botanical garden dating to the 19th century, planted by the Austro-Hungarian navy with exotic species from around the world. Shaded paths, Mediterranean pines, and rare plants make it a peaceful oasis in the town center.
Island of Flowers (Miholjska Prevlaka)
A small peninsula (despite the name) connected to the mainland by a short bridge. Home to a 14th-century monastery and lush Mediterranean gardens. A tranquil spot for a walk among olive trees and cypress groves.
Plavi Horizonti (Blue Horizons Beach)
One of the few sandy beaches in the Bay of Kotor, located on the Luštica Peninsula. Shallow, warm water makes it ideal for families. Surrounded by pine and olive trees. About 10 minutes by car from Tivat.
Vrmac Mountain Ridge
The mountain ridge separating Tivat from Kotor offers one of the best hikes in the bay. An Austro-Hungarian fortress sits at the summit. The trail passes through Mediterranean forest with spectacular views of both sides of the bay.
Luštica Peninsula
A still-unspoiled peninsula dotted with abandoned villages, olive groves, and secluded beaches. Visit the old Austrian submarine tunnel at Rose, or explore the ruins of medieval churches scattered through the landscape.
Gornja Lastva
A charming medieval stone village perched above Tivat with panoramic bay views. Once nearly abandoned, it's now slowly being restored. A beautiful 30-minute uphill walk from town rewards you with authentic Montenegrin heritage.
When to Visit
Tivat shares the bay's Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Warming up (13–23°C). Porto Montenegro is quieter and more relaxed. Great for hiking Vrmac, exploring Luštica, and enjoying the botanical gardens in full bloom.
- Botanical gardens at their best
- Comfortable hiking weather
- Fewer crowds at Porto Montenegro
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Hot and buzzing (24–33°C). Superyacht season brings glamour and nightlife. Beaches are busy but the marina scene is spectacular. Porto Montenegro hosts events and parties.
- Superyacht watching at the marina
- Best beach weather
- Porto Montenegro summer events
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Warm through September (16–26°C), then cooling. Yachts thin out but the weather stays beautiful. Great for water sports and exploring without the peak crowds.
- Warm sea into October
- Olive harvest on Luštica
- More relaxed marina atmosphere
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Mild and quiet (5–12°C). Porto Montenegro stays open year-round with restaurants and cafés. A peaceful base for exploring the bay without summer crowds. Occasional rain.
- Quiet luxury marina walks
- Affordable accommodation
- Day trips to Kotor without crowds
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Tivat offers everything from Porto Montenegro's upscale dining to traditional konobas. Here are the best value picks:
One$$ – $$$
Sophisticated restaurant at Porto Montenegro with creative Mediterranean cuisine. Their seafood tasting menu and Adriatic fish dishes are outstanding. Beautiful marina views from the terrace. Mains €14–25.
Prova$ – $$
Popular waterfront restaurant near Porto Montenegro serving excellent pizza, pasta, and local seafood at reasonable prices. Great views and a family-friendly atmosphere. Mains €8–15.
Konoba Bacchus$ – $$
A traditional konoba in the town center specializing in grilled meats, fresh fish, and Montenegrin wines. The mixed grill and octopus salad are highlights. Warm, rustic atmosphere with stone walls.
Big Ben Pub$
A local favorite for casual dining — great burgers, wraps, and Montenegrin beer. Relaxed pub atmosphere popular with expats and locals alike. Good value meals for €6–10.
Pine$$
Modern Mediterranean restaurant at the Regent Porto Montenegro hotel. Breakfast and lunch with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their avocado toast and açaí bowls bring a cosmopolitan touch. Mains €12–20.
Al Posto Giusto$ – $$
Authentic Italian restaurant with wood-fired pizza and homemade pasta. Run by an Italian family, the quality is consistently excellent. Their truffle pizza and tiramisu are standouts. Mains €8–14.
Konoba Skolji$ – $$
Charming waterfront konoba specializing in shellfish and fresh-caught fish. The mussels buzara and grilled calamari are excellent. A local gem away from the Porto Montenegro glitz. Mains €7–13.