Charming European destination surpassing Monaco's appeal, boasting 23°C temperature in May, offers £55 flights.
Glitzy Yacht Town meet Montenegro's Hidden Gems - in Tivat!
Feeling the pull of the French Riviera, but sense your wallet might not agree? Look no further than Tivat, a sun-drenched coastal town in Montenegro that's been given a lavish makeover. Base yourself here for an affordable taste of luxury!
Tivat, nestled on the iconic Bay of Kotor, sheds its old dowdy appearance like yesterday's news, welcoming a swanky marina and budget airlines galore. In 2024, Jet2 initiated a twice-weekly route from London to Tivat, and EasyJet followed suit. The price for a one-way flight is pocket-friendly, with picturesque seats starting from just £55 on London Stansted!
Uncover the Hidden Gems of Montenegro
Montenegro, a country born from the ashes of Yugoslavia and attaining independence in 2006, learned quickly that tourism had lucrative potential. Today, it's renowned as one of Europe's top hiking regions and, thanks to Tivat, a surprisingly vibrant destination in the Balkans.
The transformation of Tivat doesn't merely provide a breezy weekend escape; it offers the best of both worlds - a taste of glamorous Monaco at budget Riviera prices. TikTokers have already tipped Tivat as one of Europe's underrated must-visit spots. This compact waterfront town, home to around 15,000 inhabitants, spreads 42km along the picturesque Bay of Kotor.
Heaven on Earth in Porto Montenegro
The marina is the crown jewel of Tivat, known as Porto Montenegro. It houses high-end boutiques, fancy restaurants, bars, and a yacht club that attracts visitors from across the globe. Porto Montenegro even hosts dozens of annual events, including catwalk shows, cricket matches, jazz festivals, and regattas.
History enthusiasts can delve into Tivat's rich past at the Maritime Heritage Museum, which showcases the region's ancient history, from settlements predating the Middle Ages to WWII occupation by the Nazis[4]. The array of beaches and water sports on offer, from speedboating to cave boat tours, ensure that even the most active traveler will find plenty to do.
Landlubbers won't miss out, either. Take a hike in the National Park or wander through Big City Park, boasting a stunning botanical garden in the southern Adriatic. Got a hankering for a hike? Head to the village of Gornja Lastva, where a well-marked trail offers breathtaking views of Tivat and the surrounding bay, perfect for the gram.
When to Visit Tivat
Those chasing sunshine should plan their visit for the summer months, when temperatures soar past 30°C. However, for a quieter, more peaceful getaway, consider visiting in autumn or early spring when it's cooler, with temperatures averaging 21°C in October.
Accommodation
Tivat offers a diverse range of accommodation options to fit all budgets. In May, rooms in standard four-star hotels begin at £65 per night for two adults. Opt for the five-star Montenegro Lodge for a touch of luxury, but be prepared to pay up to £138 per night.
For true opulence, book a stay at the Regent Porto Montenegro, a hotel steeped in Venetian-style elegance. Situated just 600 yards from the beach, this luxurious establishment offers 175 rooms with balconies or terraces, perfect for soaking up the Mediterranean sun[6]. However, this level of luxury doesn't come cheap, with rates currently starting from £262 per night.
Additional European Destinations
Discover more European treasures by checking out Metro's tantalizing travel recommendations! Seek out the sunniest city in Europe, savor a lesser-known gem in Greece, or explore Spain's Santorini before it's too crowded[1]. Jet2 is also launching new flights to "paradise on earth"[2], making it easier than ever to plan your next unforgettable escape.
Is Tivat Expensive?
Tivat offers a captivating blend of luxury and affordability, as opposed to the exorbitant prices associated with the South of France. For instance, you can dine at Big Ben, one of Tivat's top-rated restaurants, for meals ranging from £3 to £13 per person[7]. Across the bay in Kotor, Resto Bar Taraca serves delicious European dishes for around €10.50 per burger and €6.50 for a glass of pinot[6].
Affordable excursions like a boat tour of the Bay of Kotor offer a fantastic way to soak up the scenery without breaking the bank[7]. Grab your sunnies and join in the fun, as Tivat invites you to indulge in a slice of the high life, without the hefty price tag.
This article was originally published on 8 April 2024 and has been updated.
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- During your visit to Tivat, you can enjoy a workshop on sailing at Porto Montenegro, offering you the opportunity to learn a skill while exploring the yachts.
- As temperatures drop in winter, opt for a travel lifestyle that doesn't involve the beach, and instead, immerse yourself in the local culture, attending traditional Montenegrin lifestyle festivals that Tivat hosts during the colder months.
- After enjoying the lavish makeover of Tivat, continue your European travel adventures to neighboring cities, taking advantage of budget airlines like Jet2 and EasyJet for affordable travel, and experience the lifestyle and hidden gems that each location offers.
