Things To Do
in Tivat
Tivat is a sun-soaked coastal town in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, known for its elegant marinas and access to pristine beaches. It serves as a relaxed gateway to the Lustica Peninsula and the wider Kotor region, blending yachts, cafes, and scenic waterfronts. The town is dominated by the modern Porto Montenegro complex, while nearby Lustica Bay offers luxury resort vibes and coves ideal for day trips.
With a Mediterranean climate, Tivat delivers mild winters and warm summers, making it a year-round gateway to sea, mountains, and cultural adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Tivat and feel the Mediterranean breeze as you check into a marina-side boutique hotel. Wander along the yacht-dotted promenade and admire the sleek vessels bobbing in the turquoise water. Stop at a café terrace for a strong Montenegrin coffee and a slice of priganice for your first taste of local flavors.
Join a guided tour of Porto Montenegro’s luxury waterfront district, where restored Austro-Hungarian buildings house designer boutiques and art galleries. Visit the Naval Heritage Collection to learn about Adriatic maritime history and see historic vessels and naval artifacts. Pause for a light seafood lunch overlooking the sparkling marina.
Savor an alfresco dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, sampling freshly grilled black risotto paired with a crisp local white wine. Stroll along the illuminated docks as the yachts reflect in the gentle waves. End the evening with a cocktail at a rooftop bar, enjoying panoramic views of the bay under a starlit sky.
Board a private boat for a scenic cruise around the Bay of Kotor, winding past towering limestone cliffs and verdant hills. Feel the morning sun warm your skin as you glide through emerald-green waters, keeping an eye out for hidden coves. Make a brief stop at the quaint village of Muo to stretch your legs and explore a centuries-old church.
Anchor beneath the medieval walls of Kotor Old Town and wander its winding cobblestone lanes. Discover hidden squares, visit the Maritime Museum, and climb a section of the ancient city walls for panoramic bay views. Refuel with a gourmet picnic on deck, featuring local cheeses, prosciutto, olives and fresh figs.
Return to Tivat as dusk paints the bay in gold and rose hues. Head to a local konoba for a hearty dinner of slow-cooked lamb under the peka, served with roasted potatoes and seasonal greens. Unwind with a glass of rakija around a crackling fire, swapping stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $70-150 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short distance) | $6-12 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastline and marina vibes
- Easy access to Lustica Bay and nearby bays
- High-quality seafood and Mediterranean flavors
- Safety and walkability in the town center
- Seasonal crowds during summer
- Prices can be higher around the marina
- Some rural areas require a car or boat to reach
- "Dobar dan" - Hello / Good day
- "Molim vas" - Please
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gdje je WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Izvinite" - Excuse me
- "Ja bih ovo, molim" - I would like this, please
Places to Visit in Tivat
Visit one of these nice places.
A glamorous waterfront with yachts, polished architecture, and golden hour light perfect for reflections and fashion-leaning shots.
Cove beaches and white-washed ower, with clear water and dramatic cliffs for landscape and travel photography.
Iconic blue-green waters and a stone church; best photographed from a boat or from Perast’s promenade.
Striking blue water lighting inside a sea cave; magical in mid-morning light with a small boat excursion.
Panoramic overlooks above Tivat and the Bay of Kotor, ideal for sunrise shots over the Adriatic.
Food in Tivat
Tivat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cured ham from Njeguši paired with smoked Montenegrin cheese; common as an appetizer or part of a tasting board.
Must-Try!
Assorted fresh fish, calamari, and shellfish grilled with lemon and herbs at seaside eateries.
Tomato- and wine-based steamed shellfish dish, often served with crusty bread.
Cornmeal porridge often served with salted dairy or cheese; a hearty traditional dish found in some taverns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, olives, cheeses, and regional specialties; great for a quick bite or to stock up picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake with eye contact is standard; addressing people respectfully, especially older individuals, is customary. Dress modestly when visiting churches and traditional spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Tivat
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are sometimes included; if not, a tip of 5-10% in restaurants is common. For taxis and hotel staff, a small rounding up or a euro or two is appreciated.
European credit and debit cards are widely accepted; Euros are the de facto currency in most places. ATMs are plentiful in Tivat and surrounding towns. Carry some cash for markets and smaller taverns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days and bright sun; peak tourist season with crowded beaches and busy restaurants. Plan early for reservations and bring sun protection; sea temperatures are ideal for swimming and boating.
Mild days with cooler evenings; fewer crowds and excellent for hiking and coastal drives. Local harvests and wine events become more common.
Cool and wetter, with occasional sunny spells; some seasonal closures in smaller beaches and fringe areas. Museums and galleries remain options, and hot chocolate and coffee bars provide warmth.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking, cycling, and photography along coastal roads before the heat of summer.
Tivat at Night
Hiking in Tivat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mountainous paths with sweeping views of the Bay of Kotor and surrounding peaks; a classic Montenegro hiking experience.
Rugged routes and forested sections offering dramatic sea-to-sky panoramas and challenging ascents.
Coastal forest trails with vistas over Tivat and the bay; moderate hikes suitable for a half-day trek.
Airports
How to reach Tivat by plane.
Closest airport to Tivat; short drive to town and Porto Montenegro; seasonal and domestic flights connect to major European hubs.
Distance longer than Tivat; good option for some international connections and cheaper fares; drive or transfer to Tivat via scenic routes.
Nearby international gateway in Croatia; useful for wider European connections; expect a road transfer or bus service to Montenegro.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Montenegrin residents with a strong sense of regional hospitality, blending coastal and mountain traditions.
Seasonal visitors drawn to the coast, Porto Montenegro, and Lustica Bay; some international residents relocate for lifestyle and work in hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong coastal winds and well-equipped marinas make sailing a popular pastime and spectator activity.
Clear waters around Lustica and the Bay of Kotor are ideal for underwater exploration and paddling.
Coastal and hillside routes appeal to road cyclists and mountain bikers alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tivat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options like grilled vegetables, cheese boards, and pasta; communicate dietary needs in Montenegrin or English, and ask for olive oil-based dishes to avoid heavy sauces.