Located in the heart of the Bay of Kotor, Tivat boasts a small airport and the impressive Port Montenegro, a world-class marina for luxury yachts. Interestingly, Tivat is the youngest town in the Bay of Kotor, adding a modern touch to its charm. If you’re enjoying a beach holiday in the Budva area, a day trip to Tivat is well worth considering. The drive from Budva to Tivat takes only about 30 minutes, making it a convenient and enjoyable excursion.
The history of Tivat
According to Wikipedia, Tivat has been known by different names throughout history. There are various theories about the origin of its name, but the most common belief is that it comes from the Celtic word teuto, meaning “town.”
In recent years, Tivat has undergone remarkable development. Thanks to its typically Mediterranean climate, it has transformed into a vibrant and modern tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.


The first 5-star hotel, Regent Montenegro
In the heart of Port Montenegro, the Regent Hotel is Montenegro’s first 5-star hotel, inspired by Venetian Renaissance design. We stayed there for seven nights during our Montenegro road trip and were thoroughly impressed. The breakfast was a highlight, with an international buffet and dishes like scrambled eggs with Croatian truffles. The spa offered modern facilities and stunning Mediterranean views, and in winter, we often had it all to ourselves. The hotel is perfect for a weekend retreat or a romantic honeymoon, blending elegance and luxury seamlessly.


Many beaches
The Tivat Riviera is home to many beautifully arranged beaches, offering something for even the pickiest swimmers. With an average of 240 sunny days a year, it’s no wonder Tivat draws so many visitors during the summer months. Whether you’re looking for a lively beach or a quiet spot to relax, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste.
Port Montenegro
Porto Montenegro’s state-of-the-art marina is built on the foundations of a former Yugoslav naval facility. It is now home to luxury yachts and offers top-tier services and amenities for vessels of all sizes.
The development has transformed the area into a lively coastal community, featuring the elegant Regent Hotel, fine dining restaurants, luxury shopping, and a variety of leisure activities. Nearby, the harbour quarter boasts high-standard residences, with many restaurants and bars conveniently located next to each other. Some even have a dress code for evening visits, adding a touch of exclusivity.
Strolling along the beautifully paved promenades, we enjoyed stunning harbour views at sunset and treated ourselves to a relaxing coffee break at a charming café.


Restaurants and bars
Tivat offers plenty of places to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine as well as international dishes. We dined at several fish restaurants that served fresh seafood and perfectly prepared fish dishes, paired with excellent wine. There are also cosy taverns and charming pizzerias to choose from, most of which are surprisingly affordable. The variety ensures there’s something to suit every taste.
Travel Tips
Where to stay
The Regent hotel is located in the UNESCO-listed Boka Bay, right next to the luxurious Porto Montenegro. In addition to this iconic hotel, there are several smaller hotels in the town centre. Most of them offer reasonable prices, making them great options for visitors.
How to get there
Tivat Airport (TIV) is the nearest airport to the town, just a few kilometres from Porto Montenegro. Buses run regularly from Kotor to Tivat, as well as from Dubrovnik to Tivat. Be sure to check the timetable for up-to-date departure times.


