The Ultimate Guide to Tivat, Montenegro

Tivat has always held a special place in my life. My father is originally from Montenegro, and much of his family still lives here. Recently, my sister and her family made the move to this beautiful coastal town as well, making it feel more like home than ever! It's a breathtaking place in Montenegro and has become increasingly modernised since the creation of Porto Montenegro. It's typically been overlooked due to the popularity of Kotor and Budva, neighbouring towns with similar aspects, but Tivat is unlike the rest due to its peaceful atmosphere and insanely gorgeous port. But now, to dive into my recommended 'to-dos' in Tivat!

1. Stroll Through Porto Montenegro

Porto Montenegro is one of Tivat's most iconic attractions and something I have witnessed grow from the beginning. This is an incredibly luxurious marina that has quickly transformed into a bustling sector for both rich tourists and locals. The picturesque walk is lined with upscale restaurants, cafes, and boutiques (such as Dior), creating a vibrant atmosphere ideal for leisurely walks in the evening. It's also fun to pop into these sorts of shops from a student's perspective and to idealise how the other half lives. Having grown up in Tivat when Porto Montenegro did not exist, it's exciting to see the growth of it, although it's a shame to see the recession of local land.

Porto Montenegro

On a brighter note, as you stroll along the marina, it is worth taking a moment to admire some of the world's most extravagant yachts, which can cost upwards of $10 million. We saw one of the most expensive in the world when we arrived last summer, and it's always so fascinating to just sit and watch these ships come in and out! This is a typically busy area in the summer, which is perfect for capturing memorable photographs (and watching the models do the same) or enjoying a cake while soaking in the breathtaking views of the bay.

Dining options in Porto are plentiful, ranging from casual eateries to upscale fine dining. Al Posto Giusto is one of the classic restaurants that I can never miss a visit to! The pizza is delicious here, and it's my favourite place to go!  I'd recommend pre-booking restaurants such as Al Posto Giusto (pizza/pasta) or One (mix of foods!), as these are typically more affordable options but with the best sea-facing views. These get busy quite quickly, even out of season! Another great option is Maya Bay, and this is a new addition to Porto Montenegro. This is an Asian restaurant and a lot, lot pricier. We went for my mother's birthday, and it was certainly a special treat! The food was amazing and you have an incredible view, plus the atmosphere is so lively! I would definitely recommend this for those on a wider budget or looking for the tastiest Asian food.

2. Explore the Beaches of Tivat

Tivat has some of the most beautiful beaches along its stunning coastline, and these are usually less busy than those of Budva. Popular choices like Plavi Horizonti and Waikiki Beach are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and, if you're an active person, water activities like paddleboarding or jet-skiing.

Paddleboarding!

Plavi Horizonti is a bus ride away, and it costs about 2 euros to get there and back, although be warned that there is no air-conditioning in the summer and the bus times can be a bit unreliable! The sandy beach is a nice change from the typically stony coast, and the shallow water is perfect for simply lying in the water to sunbathe and not overheating! The summer I last went (2024), the beach loungers were approximately 25 euros for two and an umbrella, making it relatively affordable for students if you split it for the whole day. Food options are low, with only pizza or burgers available, but it is a nice atmosphere! The water is waist-deep all the way out to the barriers, so it's good for families too!

In contrast, Waikiki Beach is just a short ten-minute walk from Porto Montenegro and is popular for its lively beach bar, where you can sip on cocktails while soaking up the sun on its beach beds. It is more expensive at 30 euros for two sunbeds and an umbrella, but it certainly feels more youthful and engaging! It depends on your preference too, as it could be a bit overwhelming during the busy season. There's a free section on the other side of a barrier where you can place your own towels on the ground if you're only visiting for an hour or so!

Belane Beach is the third option and the cheapest/most local of all. This is the local beach that I go to with my family, and although prices have gone up, it is the most affordable for food, coffee, or sunbeds. We paid 15 euros at the beginning of this summer, and the food was always below 15 for a meal. The beach is stony, so it's worth having Crocs or flip-flops to ensure comfort when awkwardly wobbling over the stones. It's a 10-minute walk from the centre, and you pass the Old Marina to get to it, adding a few interesting sights to the walk.

3. Visit the Our Lady of the Rocks Island

A quick boat ride from Tivat takes you to the Our Lady of the Rocks Island, a man-made island that features a stunning church. This was particularly fascinating to me due to the rich history of the island and the interest of it being man-made. We were lucky, as we went early morning in a family friend's boat, meaning it was essentially free for me! Tours are generally cheap if you barter a little, and it's worth hunting around or speaking to a local for the best deal! Don't accept the first price, as they will recognise you're a tourist and up it a bit! Barter a little to make sure you don't get ripped off.

The view from the island.

The church is adorned with beautiful decorations and an exquisite altar, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. According to legend, local seamen discovered an icon of the Virgin Mary after a storm and decided to construct the island in her honour. This was probably the most interesting fact we had heard, and I carried on to study more about it when I returned home, although there is not as much history online.

The museum has plenty of different artefacts and interesting paintings, although we did not spend too much time here as my nieces didn't exactly appreciate it! I would have spent longer if we had had time, but certain museums don't pique my interest as much as others.

4. Hike the Trails of Vrmac Mountain

Our route!

For adventure seekers or those looking to keep fit while on holiday, hiking the trails of Vrmac Mountain is a must. Located just a short drive (or walk) from Tivat centre, this mountain offers various hiking paths with plenty of trail markers! We took the steepest but quickest route, and this certainly tested my fitness! I wouldn't recommend our route for anyone who is mildly unfit like me, as I was genuinely exhausted after twenty minutes of steep walking.

Views from the top.

The trails wind through forests and the mountainside, revealing breathtaking views of the coastline and the Bay of Kotor. It's perfectly scenic and makes for a good photoshoot if you enjoy that type of thing! It does get more challenging the higher you go, but the panoramic view of Tivat is unbeatable! I wouldn't recommend going in the summer, although if you go early in the morning, I imagine the heat is more bearable, but be cautious when choosing when to go! We went this October (2025), and the weather was perfect. 18 degrees, not too windy, and beautiful clear skies!

How I was feeling halfway up.

There are well-marked trails for the majority of the route! If you prefer a leisurely stroll, the road is the easiest option and incredibly marked for a good 20-kilometre walk. For more experienced hikers or people who want to challenge themselves, routes are available that will bring you closer to nature’s stunning landscapes. On our walk, we quite literally stumbled upon two snakes! It was a moment of panic before realising how grateful we were to be in the midst of nature and experiencing it entirely! Yes – I was terrified after that, but looking back on it is definitely better!

As a side note, be careful of ticks! We were told afterwards that this area is rife with ticks, so make sure to wear long sleeves and trousers!

5. Explore the Blue Caves

This is one of the most touristy 'attractions' of Tivat. The natural beauty of the Blue Caves is absolutely insane! The vibrant blue waters and the unique rock formations that you can see make for an unforgettable experience. The journey by boat is enjoyable, as there is lots to see, and it gives you a chance to soak up the sun (but be careful you don't burn!).

The gorgeous sea!

Make sure you go in the afternoon, as early mornings often lack a lot of sun, so the cave doesn't appear 'blue'. This was a mistake made by my sister, so be careful you book for later in the day! It's a must-visit for anyone visiting Tivat, regardless of the season!

Final Thoughts

Tivat may be less famous than other coastal towns in Montenegro, but it is my absolute favourite and always will be. I am biased in favour of it, but it stems from having loved this town from a young age! Tivat also offers an ideal mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture, whichever is up your street. It's a place of beauty, and if you're planning a trip to Montenegro, add this town to your itinerary!