Getting Around: Tivat

Public Transport in Detail

The local bus network connects Tivat to nearby areas like Donja Lastva and Gornja Lastva, as well as various beaches. These buses present an economical way for shorter travel.

The Tivat Bus Station (Autobuska Stanica Tivat) is the central hub for intercity buses, connecting Tivat to other Montenegrin towns within the Bay of Kotor and beyond.

System Specifics

Route Maps: Local bus route information can be informal. Inquire at your accommodation or with locals for specific routes.
Ticketing: Purchase local bus tickets directly from the driver (Euros, small denominations needed). Buy intercity tickets at the bus station ticket counter.
Hours & Frequency: Local services generally operate during daylight hours. Intercity buses on main routes run frequently from early morning to late evening.
Accessibility: Public buses generally have steps at their entrances and may not suit travelers with mobility challenges.

Bus Travel Tips

Confirm bus schedules at the station or by asking locals. Online schedules can sometimes be less reliable.

Small Change

Carry small Euro denominations for bus fares, as drivers may lack change for large bills.

Early Arrival

Arrive at the bus station a bit early, especially for intercity routes, to secure your ticket and a seat.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxi Practices

Identify licensed taxis by roof "TAXI" signs, meters, and consistent color.
They operate from designated taxi stands (Tivat Airport, bus station, Porto Montenegro).
You can hail a taxi on the street or call a local company for pick-up.

Fare and Safety

Short rides within Tivat are typically €5-€10. Airport to center is €5-€15.
Taxi payments are almost exclusively in cash (Euros). Few accept card payments.
Always choose licensed taxis. Agree on a price or ensure the meter is used before starting.

Ride-Sharing & Rental Options

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber or Lyft are not widely available. Rely on traditional taxis.

Car Rental

International chains (Hertz, Avis, Sixt) and local companies at airports. Advance booking is recommended.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Available from rental shops. Valid license and helmet are mandatory.

Bicycle Rentals

Available from shops in Tivat and Porto Montenegro, including e-bikes.

Driving & Walking Details

Driving Laws & Roads

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Headlights must remain on 24/7, even during the day.
Speed limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) urban, 80-100 km/h (50-62 mph) outside urban, 130 km/h (81 mph) on motorways.
Drunk driving laws are strict (0.03% Blood Alcohol Content limit).

Parking & Conditions

Finding parking in Tivat center, especially Porto Montenegro, may be difficult and expensive in high season.
Look for designated parking lots and note parking signs. Illegally parked cars may be towed.
Main roads are generally good. Coastal roads can be narrow, winding, and busy, notably in summer.
Drive defensively and adjust speed to conditions. Pay attention to road signs (Montenegrin: Cyrillic/Latin).

Walking & Cycling Areas

Tivat Promenade: A very pedestrian-friendly area stretching along the waterfront.
Porto Montenegro: The entire complex is designed for walking, with wide promenades.
Coastal Paths: Routes connect Tivat to nearby areas like Donja Lastva, offering scenic views.

Old Tivat: The charming, smaller streets are suitable for walking exploration.
Bicycle Infrastructure: Dedicated lanes are limited; cyclists generally share roads.
No-Go Areas: Avoid highways and tunnels for pedestrian and cyclist safety.

Specialized Transport

Tour Buses

For day trips to Kotor, Budva, or national parks. Convenient for seeing multiple attractions without individual transport.

Boat Taxis

Available from Porto Montenegro/Pine promenade. Scenic transfers to nearby islands (Island of Flowers, Our Lady of Mercy Island).

Kotor Cable Car

Opened in 2023, connecting Kotor to Lovćen National Park. Offers scenic views and quick mountain ascent.

Mobility Needs

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is still developing in Montenegro.

Tivat Town Accessibility

Porto Montenegro: Relatively modern and generally accessible, with ramps and smooth surfaces.
Pine Promenade: Also flat and easy to navigate for those with mobility aids.
Older Parts of Town: May present challenges due to uneven pavements, steps, and lack of ramps.
Plan your routes carefully and confirm accessibility with accommodations and attractions beforehand.

Transport Accessibility

Public Transportation: Public buses are generally not easily accessible for wheelchairs.
Taxis: Taxis might be an option, but vehicles are not specifically equipped for wheelchairs.
Private Transfers: Can be arranged with accessible vehicles if booked in advance.
Contact airlines or airports directly for specific assistance for travelers with reduced mobility.

Specialized Mobility Services

Airport Assistance

Airports offer assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Book this service in advance with your airline.

Pre-booking advised.

Accessible Hotels

Some newer hotels, especially in Porto Montenegro, may offer accessible rooms. Confirm amenities when booking.

Verify before booking.

Tour Operators

Some specialized tour operators focus on accessible travel in the region. Research specific options tailored to your needs.

Specialized tours available.

Final Mobility Tips

Planning Ahead

Always call ahead to confirm accessibility for attractions, restaurants, and tours.
Look for user reviews or accessible travel blogs for recent insights.
Consider traveling during the shoulder season for fewer crowds and potentially more attentive service.

On-the-Ground Advice

Carry local emergency numbers and your embassy/consulate contacts.
A basic understanding of Montenegrin/Serbian phrases may be helpful.
Montenegrin people are generally helpful and willing to assist.

Mobility Challenges

Older towns feature cobblestones and narrow sidewalks, making navigation difficult.
Public transportation vehicles are generally not designed for easy wheelchair access.
Many older buildings lack ramps or elevators.
Sidewalks may have uneven surfaces or sudden drops.

Hilly terrain in many coastal areas presents physical challenges.
Limited availability of accessible taxis or specialized vehicles.
Booking accessible accommodation in advance is necessary to avoid issues.
Some public restrooms may not have accessible facilities.

Final Thoughts on Transport

Tivat, while having developing infrastructure, welcomes visitors with various transport modes.

Thoughtful planning makes for smooth navigation throughout your coastal adventure.

Getting Around Tivat