Coastal town in Montenegro's Bay of Kotor, known for its narrow streets, historic squares, and churches. Home to an international airport and popular waterfront hotels.
Tivat, a coastal town in Montenegro, has transformed from a modest naval base into a yachting destination. You can explore the redeveloped Porto Montenegro marina, visit historic summer houses like Buca, or take a short trip to the nearby Bay of Kotor. Tivat's Mediterranean climate and scenic location make it a good base for discovering Montenegro's coast.
Porto Montenegro Marina
Porto Montenegro, once a naval shipyard, is now a high-end marina and waterfront complex. The marina can accommodate superyachts up to 250 meters long with over 450 berths. As you walk along the promenade, you'll find upscale shops, restaurants, and cafes. The Naval Heritage Museum, located within Porto Montenegro, houses more than 300 artifacts related to the area's maritime past, including a Yugoslav submarine.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
While Tivat doesn't have long sandy beaches, it offers several pleasant spots for swimming and sunbathing. Plavi Horizonti beach, located in a small cove outside town, has shallow waters suitable for families with young children. The beach has fine pebbles and clear water. For a quieter experience, you can take a short boat ride to the nearby islands of Sveti Marko or Our Lady of Mercy.
Historical Sites and Architecture
Tivat's history is visible in its buildings and cultural landmarks. The Renaissance Summer House Buca, built over five centuries ago, now houses a museum and gallery. During summer, you can often see art exhibitions in its garden. In the Kalimanj area of Tivat, you'll find the Church of St. Anton, a small but significant religious site dating back to 1373. To experience traditional Montenegrin life, visit the village of Gornja Lastva, located on Vrmac hill above Tivat.
Nature and Activities
The area around Tivat provides many options for recreation. You can hike trails on Mount Vrmac for wide views of the Bay of Kotor and Tivat. Solila Nature Reserve, formerly a salt pan and now a bird sanctuary, is a good spot for birdwatching. You can also explore the bay by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, renting equipment from several locations along the coast.
Local Cuisine and Restaurants
Tivat's food scene is influenced by its coastal location and Montenegrin traditions. Fresh seafood is common, with grilled fish and black risotto (made with squid ink) as popular choices. For traditional Montenegrin food, try ćevapi (grilled meat rolls) or njeguški pršut (smoked ham from nearby Njeguši village). Al Posto Giusto, on the waterfront, serves wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. For a more upscale meal, you can visit One Restaurant in Porto Montenegro.
Day Trips from Tivat
Tivat's central location makes it convenient for exploring other parts of Montenegro. The old town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a 15-minute drive away. There, you can see well-preserved medieval architecture and climb the city walls. Budva, a coastal town known for its beaches and nightlife, is about 30 minutes by car. You can easily reach Lovćen National Park, which has hiking trails and panoramic views from the Njegoš Mausoleum on Mount Lovćen.
