With the on-going transformation of this seaside town, the surprising number of things to do in Tivat, is turning the town into a popular destination within Montenegro. While it doesn’t have the charm of popular Kotor Old Town, this town’s mediocre status is a thing of the past.
The sale of the town’s former Arsenal shipyard and naval base to wealthy foreign investors, has bankrolled this surreal transformation.
Today, super-yachts moor in it’s marina, surrounded by elegant restaurants and luxurious hotels. Tivat is the youngest town in Boka Bay. With the sea on one side, and Mount Vrmac on the other, it has a reputation for being one of the sunniest places in the Bay of Kotor.
So when you are planning your Montenegro Itinerary, leave space to explore Tivat, and discover the popular Tivat attractions of this once, modest coastal town. Here are the best things to do in Tivat.
- BEST THINGS TO DO IN TIVAT, MONTENEGRO
- 1. PORTO MONTENEGRO
- 2. BUCA-LUKOVIC MUSEUM & GALLERY
- 3. STROLL ALONG TIVAT PROMENADE
- 4. VISIT A NAVAL MUSEUM
- 5. SHOP TILL YOU DROP IN LUXURY STORES
- 6. GAWK AT SUPERYACHTS
- 7. WINE AND DINE IN AN ARRAY OF RESTAURANTS
- 8. VISIT ST MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL'S MONASTERY
- 9. WANDER AROUND BIG CITY PARK
- 10. SOLILA NATURE RESERVE
- 11. ENJOY WATER SPORTS AND BOAT TOURS
- OTHER THINGS TO SEE IN TIVAT
- ARRIVING INTO TIVAT
- CAR HIRE IN TIVAT
- HOTELS IN TIVAT
- BEFORE YOU GO
BEST THINGS TO DO IN TIVAT, MONTENEGRO
1. PORTO MONTENEGRO
Porto Montenegro was made primarily for super yachts, and is the first marina in the world, to be awarded the TYHA Platinum Award by the British Marine Association.
Located in the heart of Tivat and Boka Kotorska Bay, it definitely ticks all the boxes in terms of looks, style, and being a major tourist attraction that everyone can enjoy.
Developers have turned the former Arsenal shipyard and naval base into a prestigious marina for super yachts, with high-end boutiques and waterfront hotels and restaurants.
The promenade is a lovely place to stroll, and flows seamlessly from the old town. In Porto Montenegro village, you can eat at casual waterside restaurants, shop in designer stores, admire art in galleries, and stay in stunning five-star Regent Porto Montenegro.
2. BUCA-LUKOVIC MUSEUM & GALLERY
Although a large portion of Tivat is modern and glamorous, there are still traces of history to be found in the town.
Located in the old town, is Buca-Lukovic Museum and Gallery. The 15th-century building was once the summer residence of Kotor’s Buca family. Now, this surviving solid stone building houses a well-presented ethnographical museum and gallery.
Modern paintings and sculptures are displayed in the gallery, which also hosts exhibitions.
Hours: 8am-2pm and 6pm-11pm | Cost: FREE (** Temporarily Closed **)
3. STROLL ALONG TIVAT PROMENADE
One of the simplest things to do in Tivat, is to stroll along the long promenade. Stretching from town, through Porto Montenegro, and meeting the highway in Donja Lastva, you can enjoy stunning views, or take a seat in one of the cafes overlooking the Bay.
Those walking to the coastal village of Donja Lastva will notice the array of Mediterranean plants, trees and flowers on display. Look out for the huge, protected Carob tree planted in 1886. Located on a small square, is the beautiful church of St. Roko, which is a worthy sight.
Reward yourself with a drink on the terrace of Hotel Carrubba.
4. VISIT A NAVAL MUSEUM
One of the best places to visit in Tivat, is located at the north end of Porto Montenegro village. Porto Montenegro was developed in the former Arsenal shipyard and naval base, founded in 1889 by the Austro-Hungarian empire.
The Naval Heritage Museum, which showcases Tivat’s rich maritime history, is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century sawmill.
On display, are over 300 artefacts, including rare naval machinery and equipment. On site, are a pair of authentic Yugoslav submarines. You are able to go inside Heroj P-821, launched in 1967, and which had a 23 year career.
Entrance to museum: 2 Euros | Entry to museum & submarine: 5 Euros
5. SHOP TILL YOU DROP IN LUXURY STORES
If you enjoy high-end shopping, you will be in for a treat. Porto Montenegro’s main shopping district, is centered around Strada Navale in the south village.
Leading brands such as Dior, Cartier, Boss, Rolex, Valentino and Dolce & Gabbana can be found by the waterfront.
Joining them in 2024, will be a new addition, “The Galleries”, and will include MCF Cinema and Voli Premium market and food hall. This new development will cement Porto Montenegro’s position as a world-class shopping destination.
Most stores and boutiques are open 9am-9pm Monday to Saturday.
Parking: South Village has 3 carparks near to the western entrance of Strada Navale. Charges are 2 euros an hour, payable at a pay station.
When Boko Place opens in 2024, there will be additional underground parking.
6. GAWK AT SUPERYACHTS
Primarily made for super yachts and rich billionaires, the rest of us can simply gaze at the master craft of vessels in the marina.
Porto Montenegro marina can handle boats from 12m to super yachts of 250m in length, on both short and long-term bases, so there is always a variety of yachts to gaze at.
A large red and white painted crane, a nod to the areas shipyard past, marks Jetty One, which is reserved for the largest yachts. For boat lovers, strolling around the jetties is one of the most popular Tivat things to do when visiting.
7. WINE AND DINE IN AN ARRAY OF RESTAURANTS
Lining Strada Navale and the marina promenade are an array of eateries to suit every taste and budget. Restaurants have enticing menus, making full use of fresh, local, seasonal ingredients.
You can enjoy seafood, Montenegrin beef and international dishes while enjoying sea views.
Popular choices are One, Gallardo, China Ruijin and Chef’s Table among others.
8. VISIT ST MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL’S MONASTERY
Connected to the mainland by a strip of land, is a small islet known as Miholjska Prevlaka or Ostrvo Cvijeca (Flower Island).
Here you can see a Tivat must see attraction, the historical Monastery of St. Michael the Archangel.
A stone wall surrounds the temple, and inside the décor is modest with a few icons on the walls. In a special wooden chest, are the relics of the island’s martyrs. Wander the grounds for wonderful views across the bay.
To get here, follow the rough road behind Tivat Airport to the end. Be careful as the road is laden with potholes.
9. WANDER AROUND BIG CITY PARK
This 4 hectare park was built on land owned by two Tivat noble families, and is also known as Navy Park. A perfect place to wander, this green oasis contains the biggest botanical garden in the South Adriatic.
The park was the brain child of Admiral fon Sternek. In 1892 his idea to cultivate Tivat Arsenal resulted in the captains of the Austro-Hungarian navy bringing plant specimens back from their travels.
You will now find plants in the garden such as Chile fir, cedars, palms pines and magnolias. Watch this space, as this protected space may well get its own dose of revitalization. For now though, it provides a peaceful respite from Tivat sightseeing along the promenade.
10. SOLILA NATURE RESERVE
This nature reserve was once just an expanse of salt pans. From the elevated lookouts, you can enjoy great views of both the reserve and Tivat Bay.
A walking path ventures through the reserve, which bird-lovers will especially enjoy, so don’t forget your binoculars.
The reserve is at the entrance of Lustica Peninsular, about 10 minutes drive from Tivat.
11. ENJOY WATER SPORTS AND BOAT TOURS
If you enjoy hiking, mountain biking and canyon adventures, mountain Vrmac is ready to be explored. Protected from the swells of the Adriatic Sea, Tivat Bay is a perfect place to enjoy a range of water sports, including sailing and rowing.
You can go snorkelling in the Blue Cave, one of the most popular nearby attractions, reached on a boat tour.
Montenegro+ rent stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and mountain bikes, or you can explore Montenegro’s hidden caves, spectacular bays and tranquil rivers with their team of guides, on a tour.
Within easy reach of Tivat, are the unspoiled islands of Sveti Marko, Gospa od Milosti (Our lady of Mercy) and Ostrvo Cvijeca (Island of Flowers).
These are easily reached on a water taxi boat, leaving from Tivat Promenade. You can also reach St. Mark’s Island and Our Lady of Mercy Island from Herceg Novi, if you are visiting the town.
If you prefer a day trip, why not join a day trip to cruise around the Bay of Kotor. You will also visit the Blue Cave and the church at the island Our Lady of the Rock.
OTHER THINGS TO SEE IN TIVAT
12. TIVAT BEACHES
The waterfront at Tivat is mainly concrete, and although the Town Beach has a pebbly section, we suggest going further along the coast for better beaches.
- Plaza Ponta, Seljanovo
- Belane Beach
- Verige Beach
- Waikiki Beach Resort, Donja Lastva
The best beaches in the area are located on Lustica Peninsula, on the southern headland of Kotor Bay.
While the area is being snapped up by developers, there are still some beautiful beaches to be found.
- Almara Beach Club in Traste Bay, has day beds to hire, large parking area and restaurant. For those wanting to make a night of it, there is a DJ and live music to enjoy.
- Plavi Horizonti (Blue Horizon) is a gorgeous sandy bay with shallow water and sandy bottom. Loungers and umbrellas can be hired, and food is available from the onsite restaurant.
TIVAT NIGHTLIFE
Due in part to yacht crews docking in Porto Montenegro during the winter, the town has a buzzing nightlife scene. Bars, restaurants and activity providers operate year-round.
Popular places in town include Clubhouse, a lively bar which hosts themed nights, and shows international rugby and football matches.
ARRIVING INTO TIVAT
Flights to Tivat arrive into either Tivat Airport on the coast, or Podgorica Airport, the country’s capital city.
Flights to Tivat from UK and other European countries, arrive into Tivat Airport from May to October.
If you are staying in Budva, Kotor or Perast, you can pick up your rental vehicle from Tivat airport, and be unpacking your bags in less than an hour.
Podgorica Airport is a more practical option if you will be based in Ulcinj, Bar, or further north.
Another option is to arrive into Dubrovnik Airport, close to the Croatia/Montenegro border, which is around a 2 hour drive from Tivat. Allow extra time at border control if travelling during the busy summer season.
CAR HIRE IN TIVAT
With driving in Montenegro so easy, rent a vehicle in Tivat Airport on arrival, and start your Montenegro Road Trip straight away.
Renting a car gives you freedom and flexibility, to explore all the popular things to do in Montenegro. Drive to the second-highest peak of Mt. Lovcen to visit Njegos Mausoleum. Go on a boat tour along peaceful Lake Skadar, or find a serene spot on a beach such as Ada Bojana.
If you are hiring a car in Montenegro, we recommend Discovercars, who offer vehicles from reputable suppliers, at competitive prices.
Discovercars enable you to collect your vehicle on arrival at Tivat Airport.
HOTELS IN TIVAT
Tivat is a perfect base for your Montenegro trip, as it’s location is central and nearby towns in Montenegro such as Kotor, Perast and Budva are easily reached. Some popular hotels in Tivat include:
Regent Porto Montenegro: This five-star hotel offers luxury rooms that feature either a balcony or a terrace. Fantastic location and views across the waterfront and marina.
Porto Montenegro Residences: Luxurious studios and apartments in the heart of Tivat. Outdoor swimming pool, gym and free parking.
Boka di Mare: A modern, bright and clean apartment with lovely views of the bay, and a few steps from Belane Beach.
Lustica Bay Central: Each apartment at Lustica Bay Central has a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, and is located 14 km from the centre of Tivat.
BEFORE YOU GO
Check out our other articles on Montenegro, to help with your trip planning.
Why Visit Montenegro? – We set out all the reasons we can think of to entice you.
Things To Know Before Travelling In Montenegro – Save yourself time and stress with your planning with these tips.
So, is Tivat worth visiting? Most visitors skip Tivat if they are short on time. But as it is so close to the airport, it doesn’t take long to stop for a stroll around the promenade at the very least. Porto Montenegro is possibly one of the best tourist investments on the Montenegrin coast in the last 25 years.
If you have any questions about the best things to do in Tivat, please let us know in the comment section below.
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