Once a sleepy fishing town on the Bay of Kotor, Tivat has transformed into one of the most dynamic coastal cities in Southeastern Europe. With a modern marina, international airport and a growing community of entrepreneurs and global citizens, Tivat today represents Montenegro’s forward-looking identity — cosmopolitan, connected, and sustainable.
Over the past decade, Tivat has evolved into the Adriatic’s most modern living and working destination, balancing the serenity of the sea with the energy of opportunity.
A city reimagined by the sea
At the heart of Tivat’s transformation lies Porto Montenegro — a world-class marina and residential complex that redefined the city’s skyline. Built on the foundations of an old naval shipyard, the project introduced international architecture, luxury hospitality, and a new cultural pulse to the region.
The marina now hosts over 450 berths for yachts and superyachts, high-end apartments, boutiques, restaurants, and coworking spaces. It’s also home to the Regent Porto Montenegro Hotel, and to events like the Superyacht Winter Games and Made in New York art residency, making Tivat one of the most culturally active towns on the Adriatic.
Yet, beyond its luxury façade, Tivat retains the relaxed rhythm of a coastal community — with small markets, local cafés, and family-owned restaurants just minutes from world-class infrastructure.
Work from the Coast: The rise of the digital Adriatic
Tivat’s growing reputation as a remote-work and entrepreneurship hub is no coincidence. Montenegro’s digital-nomad visa program, favorable tax environment, and modern internet infrastructure have made it increasingly attractive for professionals seeking a permanent base in Europe’s sunniest coastal belt.
In Porto Montenegro’s innovation district, new coworking spaces and startup labs have opened, catering to designers, software engineers, consultants, and global freelancers. The combination of fast connectivity, English-speaking locals, and stunning work views creates a unique ecosystem for creativity and productivity.
“I used to work from Berlin — now I start my day with the sound of the waves,” says a product manager from Sweden who relocated to Tivat. “It’s not just about the weather — it’s about the balance. I work better here.”
Infrastructure that connects you to the world
Few small coastal cities can match Tivat’s connectivity. The Tivat International Airport is just minutes from the city center and links Montenegro to major European destinations such as Vienna, Belgrade, Istanbul, Zurich, and Rome. The Adriatic Highway (E65) connects Tivat with Budva, Podgorica, and the Croatian border, while ferry links offer easy access to the nearby Bay towns of Kotor and Herceg Novi.
Tivat also boasts one of Montenegro’s best urban infrastructure systems — modern utilities, reliable internet, and expanding healthcare and education services, including international schools for expatriate families.
The combination of connectivity and comfort makes it one of the few Montenegrin cities where long-term living is truly convenient.
Lifestyle and community
Life in Tivat unfolds at a Mediterranean pace but with a cosmopolitan edge. Locals and foreigners mix easily at open-air cafés, waterfront restaurants, and cultural events. The Naval Heritage Collection Museum celebrates the town’s maritime past, while festivals like the Tivat Summer Evenings bring music, art, and theatre to its seaside promenades.
The Blue Horizons Beach (Plavi Horizonti) on the Lustica Peninsula offers pristine swimming in turquoise waters, while the Vrmac Ridge above town provides hiking trails with panoramic views of the entire Bay of Kotor.
Even during winter, Tivat remains active — unlike many Adriatic resorts that hibernate. Its mild climate and year-round international community make it one of Montenegro’s few 12-month coastal cities.
The business edge: Investment and opportunity
Tivat is more than lifestyle — it’s strategy. The city has become one of the most attractive investment destinations in the Western Balkans, particularly in real estate, yachting services, tourism, and technology.
Property values have appreciated steadily, driven by Porto Montenegro and other developments like Luštica Bay and Boka Place, which blend residential, commercial, and cultural spaces.
The Montenegrin government supports foreign investment with low corporate tax (9%), simple registration procedures, and investor-residency options. Combined with the upcoming EU accession prospects, these factors make Tivat a secure base for entrepreneurs who want a European presence at a lower cost.
Emerging industries include marine engineering, renewable energy logistics, digital services, and luxury tourism management — sectors expected to expand as Montenegro aligns more closely with EU economic standards.
Education, family and everyday comforts
Tivat’s population has become increasingly diverse, attracting families from across Europe. The city offers bilingual education, a growing network of private schools, and access to nearby international programs in Kotor and Podgorica.
Healthcare services, while developing, are supported by new clinics and private practices that cater to the expat community. Supermarkets, fitness centers, and international cuisine — once rare — are now part of daily life.
And despite its luxury reputation, Tivat remains affordable by European coastal standards. A comfortable one-bedroom apartment can still be rented for €600-800 per month, and dining out remains accessible compared to Western Europe.
Challenges to consider
Tivat’s rapid growth comes with growing pains. Real-estate prices are climbing, and some locals express concern about over-development. Seasonal tourism still defines much of the economy, and long-term renters may feel the impact during summer peaks.
Nonetheless, city planning has focused on sustainability and balance, with new green zones, waterfront access preservation, and public-space revitalization projects.
The only other real challenge: once you move here, you may not want to leave.
Why Tivat is the Adriatic’s smart choice
Tivat bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. It offers the sophistication of the Mediterranean Riviera with the accessibility of the Balkans.
Whether you’re a remote worker, entrepreneur, investor, or family seeking new horizons, Tivat delivers the rare combination of livability, opportunity, and inspiration — in a city small enough to feel personal, yet connected enough to reach the world.
