Taking day trips from Tivat is a brilliant way to explore the Bay of Kotor and other parts of Montenegro. While there’s plenty to see in Tivat itself, it’s also perfectly located for visiting other key attractions and highly-rated sights.
In this article – we unveil the top day trips from Tivat, from picturesque coastal towns like Budva and Kotor to Montenegro’s magnificent national parks.
When we visited the Bay of Kotor in July 2023, we based ourselves in Tivat and did day trips from there. We loved its location – close to the airport so no long transfers and perfectly positioned between the tourist towns of Kotor and Budva. Plus, Tivat isn’t as crowded as the more popular places so you can escape the bustle (try our Tivat self-guided walking tour) when you’re not doing day trips.
10 Best Day Trips From Tivat
Tivat makes an excellent gateway to the rest of Montenegro. Its central location allows you to explore diverse landscapes, historical sites, and natural wonders. You can be sailing around Perast’s islands one day and visiting Kotor’s Roman ruins the next.
Here’s a list of the top day trips from Tivat…
- Kotor
- Perast
- Budva
- Herceg Novi
- Bay of Kotor
- Lovćen National Park
- Cetinje
- Bar
- Lake Skadar
- Dubrovnik
Now let’s look at each of these destinations in more detail…
Kotor
A Medieval Marvel by the Bay
The medieval town of Kotor is an architectural gem tucked along the bay of the same name. You can easily spend a rewarding day in Kotor, exploring its winding cobblestone streets, relaxing at one of its three beaches, or climbing its city walls for panoramic views. You can also hike the Ladder of Kotor, visit its ancient Roman ruins, or the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. Kotor makes a wonderful day trip from Tivat and is the closest of all the destinations on our list.
Travel Time: Kotor is a 15-minute drive from Tivat (10km/6 miles) but the road between them can get congested so it’s worth leaving early to avoid traffic.
Perast
A Baroque Gem by the Bay
Just a short drive from Tivat, Perast offers well-preserved Baroque architecture and the enchanting Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George islands. You can explore the town’s cobblestone streets and do boat trips to both islands, making the most of Perast’s timeless charm.
Travel Time: Perast is around 30 minutes from Tivat by car (23km/14 miles). You’ll drive through Kotor on the way so could even combine both into one extended day out.
Budva
Where History Meets Vibrant Nightlife
Budva, one of Montenegro’s prime tourist destinations, offers beautiful beaches, a historic Old Town, and lively nightlife. Stroll along the seaside promenade, visit ancient citadels, and bask in the sun on sandy beaches.
Travel Time: Budva is approximately 35 minutes (23km/14 miles) from Tivat by car.
Herceg Novi
Where History Meets the Sea
An hour from Tivat is Herceg Novi, a pretty town on the northern end of the Bay of Kotor. It’s a captivating place with its beautiful beaches, historic Old Town, and the picturesque Savina Monastery. You can explore the town’s fortresses, relax in seaside gardens, and wander through vibrant local markets on a day trip here.
Travel Time: Herceg Novi is a 60-minute scenic drive from Tivat (20km/12 miles).
Bay of Kotor Boat Trip
The Best of Everything in One Trip
All of the Tivat day trips so far involve driving to another town but why not travel by boat instead? There are loads of different boat tours of Kotor Bay available which take in several coastal sights. Most itineraries will feature the beautiful Blue Cave, plus a number of other islands like Mamula and Perast’s Our Lady of the Rocks.
Travel Time: Boat trips leave from Tivat marina and last between 90 minutes and a full day depending on which package you choose.
You might also like… these day trips from Kotor that make perfect mini-excursions.
Lovćen National Park
Montenegro’s Nature Retreat
A short drive from Tivat, Lovćen National Park offers panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor. You can hike to the summit of Mount Lovćen, explore the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, and revel in the pristine natural surroundings of this captivating national park.
Travel Time: The national park is approximately 70 minutes from Tivat by car (35km/21 miles).
Cetinje
Montenegro’s Former Capital
Explore Cetinje, Montenegro’s former capital, located amidst the stunning landscapes of Lovćen National Park. Delve into its rich cultural heritage by visiting the Cetinje Monastery, the Biljarda Museum, and wandering through the town’s charming streets to soak up its historical ambiance.
Travel Time: Cetinje is approximately 70 minutes from Tivat by car (55km/34 miles).
Bar
Montenegro’s Coastal Gem
Bar is 90 minutes drive south of Tivat. The historical town boasts ancient buildings and ruins, including the Bar Aqueduct and the Old Olive Tree, which is said to be over 2000 years old. There’s also Bar Cathedral, the Old Town, and scenic views of the Adriatic Sea too.
Travel Time: Bar is a 80-minute drive from Tivat (62km/38 miles).
Lake Skadar
A Haven for Nature Enthusiasts
Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, offers visitors tranquil waters and diverse wildlife. You can take a boat trip to explore the lake’s unique ecosystem and visit charming fishing villages. It’s a picturesque destination with natural beauty that’s guaranteed to impress.
Travel Time: Driving to Lake Skadar from Tivat takes one hour and twenty minutes (66km/41 miles).
Dubrovnik
A Day in the Pearl of the Adriatic
Cross the border into Croatia and spend a day in Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the city walls, visit historic landmarks like Rector’s Palace, or search for those infamous Game of Thrones filming locations. It’s a stunning coastal city that’s an easy drive so well worth the trip.
Travel Time: Dubrovnik is around 2 hours from Tivat by car but you’ll need to allow extra time for the border crossing (68km/42 miles).
Best Day Trips From Tivat – Summary
So, there you have a list of the most worthwhile day trips from Tivat to suit every interest. Whether you’re a fan of history, natural beauty, or simply unwinding by the sea, there’s something for you here. From the traditional allure of Kotor and Perast to the lively cities of Budva and Dubrovnik, these day-long excursions are sure to create lasting memories of Montenegro.
Yes you can visit Podgorica as a day trip from Tivat as it’s only a 90-minute drive or bus ride away. However, its attractions are pretty limited so it wouldn’t be our first (or even eleventh) choice destination. With so many other captivating options nearby, you’re better off visiting one of the above destinations in our opinion.
We based ourselves in Tivat as the accommodation was cheaper there, but Kotor arguably has more traditional charm. It’s also slightly closer to Perast, Lovćen National Park, Cetinje, and Lake Skadar so if you’re planning to visit those places then Kotor is a more convenient option.
Top Tip – Casa Montenegro Residence Hotel is located just outside Tivat on the road to Kotor, so is a great base for visiting both towns.
