The coast of Montenegro is an idyllic haven for those looking to escape the crowds. Tivat is not only a dreamlike destination for sun-seekers, but also the perfect base from which to explore the treasures Montenegro conceals along the Adriatic. Belane and Ponta stand out as the most accessible urban beaches in town – and are also among the most picturesque. The former boasts one of the Adriatic’s finest sunsets, while the latter is home to an iconic red-and-white lighthouse.

Perhaps the most famous beach is Plavi Horizonti. Just a 19-minute drive from the town centre, it is celebrated for its intensely blue waters – its name literally means ‘blue horizons – set against the lush green forest that borders its sands. It’s an ideal spot for families or for planning a peaceful day of pure relaxation, thanks to its natural calm. Tivat is also a convenient starting point for an excursion to another of Montenegro’s most iconic beaches, Jaz Beach. Located just 40 minutes away by car, this lively stretch of coastline, lined with restaurants and beach clubs, is perfect for enjoying a cocktail and fresh seafood by the shore – plus, it offers free parking.

However, Tivat’s greatest treasure is the Bay of Kotor. In this spectacular landscape – often described as the southernmost fjord in Europe – the sea merges seamlessly with the Dinaric Alps. Kotor, the town that gives the bay its name, was founded in the 12th century and flourished through trade thanks to its strategic location. In 1979, Unesco granted it a distinctive designation as a Natural, Cultural and Historical Region – an acknowledgment that helped to restore and preserve Kotor’s mediaeval heritage after a devastating earthquake that same year. As a result, the city remains a fortified enclave seemingly frozen in time, with landmarks such as the Church of Our Lady of Remedy dominating the landscape. It’s accessible only on foot and offers one of the most rewarding vistas over the bay.

Another of the region’s draws is hiking, with routes that deliver extraordinary views at every stage. The most renowned is the Ladder of Kotor, a path carved through history by warriors and merchants crossing the mountains to reach the bay. This trail can be started in the mediaeval heart of Kotor, unfolding over a 4km ascent marked by more than 70 switchbacks that give the route its name. The journey culminates atop Mount Lovćen, where sweeping panoramic views of the Adriatic await.

As for the surrounding municipalities, the town of Dobrota – one of the closest to Kotor – features a rocky beach and scenic trails that wind through the mountain peaks encircling the bay. It is also a peaceful enclave, ideal for discovering the most authentic local lifestyle and cuisine. Another must-see in the bay is Perast, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in Montenegro. Its streets are home to a remarkable Baroque architectural heritage from the Venetian era, with palaces and churches that speak to the extraordinary past of this Adriatic refuge. The most striking landmark is Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks), a Byzantine-style church rising on a small islet just off the coast of Perast. Perhaps most fascinating of all: the island itself is not natural, but was formed over time through the accumulation of rocks and the remains of shipwrecks.

Tivat is also an epicentre of luxury. At the heart of the town lies Porto Montenegro, a state-of-the-art marina in operation since 2012, where superyachts have spurred a sophisticated scene of hotels, restaurants and boutiques. The complex is home to two 5-star hotels: the Regent Porto Montenegro, part of the IHG group and one of Iberia’s partners where you can earn Avios on your stays, and SIRO Boka Place by Kerzner International. The port rounds off its offering with boutiques from leading brands, such as Bvlgari, Rolex and Celine, and local labels such as Fragmenti Montenegro, aswell as with refined experiences including spas such as Pura Vida, niche perfumeries like DURŌ, contemporary art spaces such as Boka Gallery and gourmet ice cream parlours including Goddo. In addition to all this, there is a packed agenda of major events, such as the 7th International Fashion Festival (24–25 July), which showcases international and Montenegrin designers against the backdrop of the bay, and a season of regattas, such as the Arsenal Cup.

Another of Montenegro’s great pleasures is its cuisine, a rich blend of Italian and Balkan influences. Fresh seafood and fish are staples of the local table, alongside lamb and dry-cured ham. In fact, one of the country’s signature dishes is Njeguški pršut (Njeguški ham), which originates from the village of Njeguši, perched in the mountains just above Kotor. The unique combination of mountain and sea air gives this ham its distinctive curing process, resulting in truly exceptional flavours. 

To experience authentic local cuisine, you should visit a konoba – the name given to traditional taverns frequented by locals. In Tivat, standouts include Konoba Bacchus, known for its charming, traditional architecture, and Konoba Bakina Kuhinja, a more contemporary take that preserves its rustic essence. You can also savour fresh seafood and black risotto – one of the region’s signature dishes – at Bonazza, set right on the waters of the bay. And in Porto Montenegro, don’t miss One, which offers sweeping views alongside an international menu paired with some of Montenegro’s finest wines.