Tivat, Montenegro: Everything You Need To Know
Tivat is a mix of old and new and it’s part of Montenegro. It has historical buildings and churches placed side by side with modern developments.
Montenegro, a tiny country in the Balkans, is unknown by many. But, in recent years it has become an up-and-coming expat destination. Among the more common destinations for expats in Montenegro is Tivat.
Most importantly, Tivat is a coastal town located in the Kotor Bay, just a 15-minute drive from Kotor.
Both Kotor and Tivat are bisected by a mountain and connected by a highway tunnel. And, the scenery isn’t quite as dramatic, but it gets blasted by sunshine all day.
Tivat has a modern, lively feel. The main town has businesses, restaurants, cafés, shops, housing of all kinds, and a couple of small parks. Over the years, it has gained popularity among tourists.
Overall, Tivat offers natural beauty, cultural attractions, and modern amenities making this destination more and more appealing to possible expats and retirees.
The downsides to Montenegro as a place to live are that it’s far away from North America within the context of Europe…
So far away, in fact, that many North Americans have never heard of this country.
Figuring out if Tivat is the place for you ultimately comes down to your priorities and your life goals.
We suggest to plan a visit and get a taste of what life can be like for you in Tivat.
Expats In Tivat, Montenegro
Tivat has quite a few expats who call it home.
Most expats are from Europe. You’ll run into Germans, Swiss, Dutch, Scandinavians, some North Americans, and some Turkish people.
Once you arrive, join the Expats in Tivat and Kotor Facebook group and keep an eye out for events and social gatherings. These are where you’ll start networking.
But if you ever need help finding a lawyer, a real estate agent, or if you need information on banking, etc., your fellow expats will likely have all the information.
Montenegrins are known for their warmth, sense of humor, and generosity.
Also, they actively promote a relaxed, slow lifestyle and are happy to take their time getting to know expats and teaching the local lingo.
Expats love this area for its safety, its access to nature, the myriad recreation opportunities, and the diverse and interesting community.
Cost Of Living In Tivat, Montenegro
Keep in mind, English isn’t widely spoken in Tivat.
Workers in the tourist industry will have a basic level, but in more remote areas, people generally don’t speak English.
You’ll need to pick up some Montenegrin to get by day-to-day, to deal with governmental admin. Also, to gain citizenship you have to pass a simple proficiency test.
Property, rent, utilities, meals, and more are affordable in Montenegro in general.
You can almost certainly lower your current cost of living by moving to Tivat—a budget of US$1,500 to US$2,000 per month will see a couple living comfortably here.
Check live foreign currency exchange rates.
Apartment Or House Rental Budget (For A Couple)
Things To Do In Tivat, Montenegro
Montenegro is particularly popular amongst adventure seekers. Its rugged geography provides optimum conditions for snow sports during winter and stunning hiking trails in the summer.
On the other hand, Tivat is a little different…
In short, Tivat is where you go when you want a flashy night out on the town… ranging from a gastronomic experience at a chic restaurant, sip craft cocktails while watching the sunset, or break the bank at Louis Vuitton or Balenciaga.
Still, outdoorsy activities are available.
Let’s see what things there are to do in Tivat…
Porto Montenegro
Porto Montenegro is a luxury marina and waterfront development. It has a promenade where you can enjoy a wonderful morning or evening stroll. Along this promenade you’ll find several dining options and boutiques.
Porto Montenegro is known primarily for its world-class marina facilities. It’s well-equipped with modern amenities and services like fueling, maintenance, and crew facilities.
There are also luxury residential apartments, penthouses, and townhouses here designed to cater to the high-end real estate market. You can also enjoy the various cultural and social events that the Porto Montenegro hosts throughout the year.
Last, but not least, Porto Montenegro places an emphasis on environmental sustainability. It has incorporated eco-friendly practices and technologies into its operations and development.
Beach Day
Tivat has several beaches where you can choose from to spend some down relaxing, sunbathing, swimming, and having fun with water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, jet skiing, and more.
Among the beaches you should consider visiting are Plavi Horizonti, Seljanovo Beach, and Kalardovo Beach.
Ancient Tivat Olive Tree
The ancient Tivat Olive Tree is known as “Stara Maslina” in the local language. This tree is estimated to be more than 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest olive trees in the world. It’s considered a living testament to the region’s ancient agricultural heritage.
The ancient Tivat Olive Tree holds historical significance. It’s seen the rise and fall of empires along with various historical events in the Bay of Kotor. It’s seen as a symbol of longevity and resilience by the locals.
It’s also a reminder of the region’s tradition of olive cultivation. Olive oil cultivation has always been a vital part of the local economy and culture.
The tree itself is small and has a gnarled trunk and branches giving it a unique and picturesque appearance. Fun fact: Despite its old age, it continues to produce olives.
The Old Town
Tivat’s Old Town is known as “Stari Grad” in the local language. Its architecture reflects both Venetian and Mediterranean influence. Spend a day exploring the Old Town and walk on its narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses with red-tiled roofs, and small squares with cafés and shops.
The Old Town is where one of Montenegro’s most notable landmarks is located, the St. Michael and All Angels Church. This is an Orthodox church which dates back to the 19th century. It’s an important religious and cultural site.
Bike Tour
Rent a bike and explore Tivat at your own pace, making as many stops as you like, and getting to know the places you want to specifically.
Safety In Tivat, Montenegro
Tivat is a safe place. Montenegro is known to enjoy low crime rates and is even considered to be one of the safest countries in Europe.
We recommend you exercise common-sense safety precautions. And, just like any place in the world, petty theft may occur from time to time.
So, always keep your belongings on you and in sight, specially when in crowded areas, lock your homes and cars whenever you go out, remove your valuables from sight, avoid flashy jewelry and carrying large amounts of cash to avoid attracting any unwanted attention, and avoid walking on any dark streets or alleyways at night.
Health Care In Tivat, Montenegro
Tivat has two main medical centers…
- Kotor General Hospital, which is a public facility offering emergency treatment for adults and children. It specializes in internal medicine, anesthesia, resuscitation, gynecology and obstetrics, and has a surgical department.
- Tivat Health Centre, also a public facility with emergency medical service, as well as dental services, pediatrics, gynecology, internal medicine, diagnostics, neuropsychiatry, and ambulance service.
Private Health Care In Tivat
Hospitals, clinics, and specialist centers cater to both residents and tourists. Doctors and other health care professionals are more likely to speak English if they work in the private health care system.
Unless you have some knowledge of the local language, we wouldn’t suggest you go to public health care providers. If you have someone local who you trust aske them to go along with you.
Whether visiting or becoming an expat in Tivat, we recommend you invest in international health care insurance.
Many expats who live in Tivat have insurance to ensure that they get the quality health care that they require.
For example, the quality of the health care here will vary. But, Montenegro’s health care is considered to be decent.
People with any serious procedures done, may want to consider getting those done abroad.
Tivat has pharmacies in Tivat, known locally as apoteka, where you can purchase over-the-counter medications and prescription meds.
Pharmacists here may also be able to help with any minor health concern you may have.
Moving To Tivat
Americans and Canadians can come to Montenegro visa-free and stay for 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer stays, you’ll need to apply for a temporary residence permit.
Montenegro offers a unique residency program, whereby you can buy real estate worth any value and be granted temporary residency. This is the best way to get residency in Montenegro. Plus, it can be affordable.
Stay up to date on any changes that may happen to residency and visa requirements for Montenegro by visiting the Embassy of Montenegro in the States or online.
Weather In Tivat, Montenegro
Tivat has a Mediterranean climate. In other words, year-round temperatures average between 36°F and 88°F, with humidity hovering between 50% and 74%.
From June to September, it’s hot and stuffy, with temperatures reaching the high 80s.
Average temperatures in Tivat’s summer range from 77°F to 96°F. July and August, you might experience temperatures in the 90s.
November brings cooler temperatures and more rain.
From December to February, Tivats cools off considerably, with lows regularly reaching the mid30s regularly. But, rarely dropping to freezing.
Temperatures will typically range between 46°F and 59°F.
It’s rare to see snow in Tivat. However you’ll see it at the tops of the mountains and, of course, at the ski resorts.
The town gets a bit of rain— about 55 inches over the year.
March to May is a wonderful time to spend in Tivat. You’ll see nature blossoming all around and temperatures range from about 54°F to 68°F.
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