Why Visit Tivat?
Where Is Tivat?
Tivat sits centrally in the Bay of Kotor, 20 km west of Kotor, 30 km east of Herceg Novi, and 70 km south of Budva. It’s just 4 km from Tivat Airport (TIV) and 110 km from Podgorica Airport (TGD). This prime spot makes it a gateway to Montenegro’s coast, with its marina and historic roots tracing back to Illyrian and Roman times.
Top Things to Do in Tivat
Tivat’s compact core brims with variety. Here’s what to explore.
Luxurious Yachts in Porto Montenegro
Stroll Porto Montenegro Marina
Porto Montenegro, a 250-berth marina launched in 2014, is Tivat’s crown jewel. Walk its 1 km waterfront—free to roam—and spot yachts from 12 to 150 meters. High-end shops (think Gucci, Rolex) mix with cafés where coffee’s €2-3. We’ve guided visitors here who love the buzz—lively yet never overwhelming. Allow 1-2 hours to soak it in.
Explore the Naval Heritage Museum
Tucked in Porto Montenegro, this museum (€7 entry, kids free) houses over 300 naval relics, including the restored P-821 Hero submarine. Launched in 1967, it logged 46,659 nautical miles—step inside to steer wheels and peek through the periscope (still works!). It’s a 45-minute visit, perfect for history buffs or families; our clients rave about its Cold War intrigue.
Tivat pine promenade photo by Montenegro Limo
Relax at Pine Waterfront
The Pine promenade, a palm-lined stretch downtown, offers free seaside vibes. Spanning 500 meters, it’s dotted with terraces—drinks €2.50-4—and the moored Jadran ship, a 1930s training vessel with 400,000 nautical miles under its belt. Sunset here is a must; plan 30-60 minutes to unwind.
Wander the Large Town Park
Established in 1892 by Admiral Von Sterneck, this 2-hectare park near the marina bursts with exotic trees—magnolias, eucalyptus, Chilean firs—planted by sailors. Entry’s free, and a 30-minute stroll reveals shaded paths and a memorial plaque. It’s a calm escape from the marina’s hum.
Visit Buća-Luković Mansion
In Tivat’s center, this Renaissance-style mansion (free entry) blends history with culture. Its five-building complex—gallery, church, and open-air theater—hosts exhibits and concerts. The St. Michael chapel adds Gothic flair. We’ve brought guests here for its 20-30 minute charm—quiet yet rich.
Waikiki Beach Tivat in the early morning
Best Beaches in Tivat
Tivat’s shores cater to all. Here are the standouts.
Waikiki Beach
1 km south of Porto Montenegro, this 200-meter pebbly beach charges €5 entry (includes a drink). Sunbeds are €6-8, and the vibe’s lively—cocktails €7-10. Water’s 23°C+ in summer; it’s a 1-2 hour stop with a party edge.
Kalardovo Beach
5 km north (10-minute drive) from city center, near the airport, this 400-meter pebble beach is free and quieter. No rentals, but the calm bay (22°C+ summer) suits families. Bring water shoes; parking’s €1.50/hour. Plan 1-2 hours.
Belane Beach
Just 2 km north of the town center (5-minute walk), Belane’s 250-meter pebble shore is free and laid-back. No sunbed rentals, but its shallow waters (22°C+ in summer) and proximity to cafés (€2-3 drinks) make it a local favorite. It’s a 1-2 hour dip, steps from Porto Montenegro’s buzz.
Amaia Beach (5c Beach)
Tucked right beside Porto Montenegro, a 5-minute walk from the marina and just before Ponta, this 70-meter pebble beach charges €5 entry (includes a drink). Sunbeds are €6-8, and the calm waters reach 22°C+ in summer—perfect for a quick dip with a chic vibe. Drinks cost €6-10; it’s a 1-hour stop for a stylish escape.
Ponta Beach (out of the season)
Ponta Beach
Near Seljanovo, 1.5 km west (5-minute walk from Pine), this 150-meter concrete and pebble beach is free and simple. No frills—bring your own towel—but the water’s clear (23°C+ summer) and cafés like Ponta Caffe Restoran (€3-5 drinks) are right there. Perfect for a quick 30-60 minute stop.
Royal Blue Beach Club
Right next to Tivat Airport, a 5-minute walk from the terminal, this 200-meter pebbly beach costs €6 entry in summer (free off-season). Sunbeds are €8-10, and you’re treated to planes landing and taking off overhead—aviation buffs love it. Water hits 23°C+ in July; cocktails are €8-12. Spend 1-2 hours soaking in the unique vibe.
Plavi Horizonti Beach
Not exactly in Tivat but (20-minute drive), this 300-meter sandy beach on Luštica Peninsula costs €3 entry in summer (free off-season). Sunbeds are €6, and shallow waters hit 24°C+ in July—ideal for kids. Pine forests frame it; parking’s €2/hour. Spend a few hours here.
Eating in Tivat – Eating in Tivat Reastaurant – photo by Montenegro Limo
Where to Eat in Tivat
Tivat’s dining leans on seafood and Mediterranean flair. Here’s what to savor.
Top Dishes
- Black Risotto: Squid ink and seafood, €12-18—bold and local.
- Grilled Fish: Fresh catch with olive oil, €15-20—simple perfection.
- Burek: Pastry with meat or cheese, €5-7—Balkan comfort.
Best Spots
- Mala Bevanda La Pasteria: A seafront gem in Tivat, this spot shines with its tuna tartare—silky, fresh, and a standout at €15-18. Pastas (€12-16) pair with bay views; we’ve driven guests here who rave about the vibe. Perfect for a refined 1-2 hour meal.
- Divino Seafront Restaurant: Overlooking the marina, Divino blends elegance with seafood—think grilled octopus (€18-22) or fish platters (€25-30). Cocktails €8-12 add a touch; it’s a 1-2 hour stop for upscale dining with a relaxed edge.
- Forza Porto: In Porto Montenegro’s heart, this sleek spot serves Mediterranean classics—black risotto (€14-18) and steaks (€20-25)—with a modern twist. Bayfront seating makes it a client favorite; plan 1-2 hours for the full experience.
- Al Posto Giusto: Near Pine waterfront, this laid-back pizzeria offers sea-view pizzas (€10-14) and pastas (€12-16). It’s casual, affordable, and bustling—ideal for a 1-hour family meal or quick bite after a stroll.
- MayaBay Porto Montenegro: Luxury oozes here—sushi platters (€25-35) and Asian-inspired seafood (€20-30) scream extravagance. Cocktails hit €10-14; we’ve chauffeured guests who love its glitzy vibe. Reserve 1-2 hours for a high-end treat.
- Mala Barka: A local haunt off the tourist trail, this fish restaurant keeps it real—grilled fish (€15-20) and fish stew (€8-10) shine with no frills. It’s where fishermen eat; a 1-hour stop feels authentic.
- The Black Sheep: In Porto Montenegro, this modern eatery offers black risotto (€14-18) and fresh fish (€18-22) with a stylish twist. Drinks €6-10; it’s a 1-2 hour stop with marina views we’ve recommended to clients.
- Big Ben: Near Ponta Beach, this spot serves hearty grilled meats (€12-18) and seafood (€15-20) with a casual vibe. Beers €3-5; it’s a 1-hour meal option after a beach day.
- Murano at Regent: An upscale choice in Porto Montenegro, Murano delivers seafood platters (€25-30) and Mediterranean dishes (€20-28) with elegance. Cocktails €10-12; plan 1-2 hours for a luxurious dine.
- Ponta Caffe Restoran: On the waterfront near Ponta Beach, this relaxed café offers light bites like burek (€5-7) and grilled fish (€12-16). Drinks €3-5; it’s a quick 30-60 minute stop with sea views.
Shopping and Souvenirs in Tivat
Porto Montenegro’s boutiques sell high-end fashion (scarves €30-50), while Pine’s stalls offer lavender sachets (€5-10) and honey (€10/jar). Cash rules—cards often carry fees.
Hotel Regent Porto Montenegro, Tivat – photo by Montenegro Limo
Where to Stay in Tivat
Tivat’s options range from luxe to cozy. Here’s where to settle.
- Porto Montenegro: Regent Porto Montenegro (€200-300/night)—yacht-side luxury, pools included.
- Town Center: Hotel Pine (€80-120)—central, sea views, simple comfort.
- Donja Lastva: Apartments Verona (€60-100)—quiet, 2 km out, family-friendly.
Getting to Tivat
Tivat’s 4 km from Tivat Airport (TIV)—a 10-minute ride with our Tivat Limo Service. From Podgorica Airport (TGD), it’s 110 km (2 hours); buses are €7-10 (2.5 hours), but our premium taxi transfer from Podgorica to Tivat ensures comfort and fixed price. Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) is 55 km (1.5 hours with border)—arrange a private ride for ease.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tivat
- Best Time: Spring/fall (15-25°C)—mild, uncrowded. Summer’s 30°C+ and busy; winter’s 5-15°C, calm.
- Budget: €60-80/day—food, sights, transport. Rooms €60-300/night.
- Packing: Water shoes for pebbles, light layers for evenings.
- Getting Around: Walk downtown; book a driver for excursions.
- Tips: Sunscreen’s €10 locally—stock up; ferries beat traffic in summer.
Tivat and Porto Montenegro
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Tivat vs. Other Bay Towns
Kotor (20 km, 30 minutes) hums with medieval history; Herceg Novi (30 km, 45 minutes) offers gardens and calm; Perast (15 km, 25 minutes) charms with islands. Tivat blends marina luxe with coastal ease—modernity meets tradition.
The Most Popular Private Transfers and Tours from Tivat
FAQ: Tivat Travel Tips
- How far is Tivat from Podgorica?
110 km, 2 hours. A custom transfer from Montenegro Limo beats the bus. - How long from Tivat Airport to town?
10 minutes (4 km). Our Private Driver from Tivat gets you there fast. - What’s the best time to visit Tivat?
Spring/fall—milder, quieter. - How much time do I need in Tivat?
1-2 days for marina and beaches; 3-5 with trips. - Are there sandy beaches in Tivat?
Yes—Plavi Horizonti; most are pebbles. But it’s a 15-20 min drive - What’s near Tivat to visit?
Kotor (20 km), Perast (15 km), Budva (70 km).
