Rent-a-Car in Tivat: A Tourist's Guide
Why Rent a Car in Tivat
Tivat, home to Montenegro's primary international airport and the luxurious Porto Montenegro marina, serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the country's diverse attractions. While Tivat itself is relatively compact, renting a car provides tourists with the freedom to discover the stunning Bay of Kotor, pristine beaches, and mountainous landscapes at their own pace. With limited public transportation options in Montenegro, especially to more remote areas, a rental car transforms your vacation experience from limited to limitless.
Rental Options and Locations
Tivat offers numerous car rental choices, ranging from international companies like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar to local agencies that often provide more competitive rates. The most convenient rental locations are at Tivat Airport, where you can pick up your vehicle immediately upon arrival, and in Porto Montenegro and the town center. During peak season (June-September), demand significantly increases, so booking several weeks in advance is strongly recommended to secure both availability and better prices.
Requirements and Booking Process
To rent a car in Tivat, you'll typically need a valid driver's license (held for at least one year), passport, and a credit card for the security deposit. Most agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with additional fees potentially applied for drivers under 25. The booking process is straightforward—either reserve online before your trip or at rental counters upon arrival. Always carefully inspect the vehicle for existing damage and understand the insurance coverage provided before signing any agreements. Read more about rules if you want to rent-a-car in Montenegro.
Exploring from Tivat
With your rental car, Tivat becomes the perfect base for exploring Montenegro's highlights. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor is just a 15-minute drive away, while the picturesque town of Perast can be reached in about 20 minutes. The stunning Luštica Peninsula with its secluded beaches lies directly across the bay. Longer excursions to Budva (30 minutes), Lake Skadar National Park (1 hour), or Durmitor National Park (2.5 hours) become easily accessible, allowing you to experience Montenegro's remarkable diversity within short driving distances.
Driving Conditions and Tips
Montenegro follows right-hand driving rules with road signs conforming to European standards. The roads around Tivat and along the Bay of Kotor are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, especially the spectacular but challenging road to Kotor with its 25 hairpin turns. Summer traffic congestion around popular tourist spots can be significant, particularly at the Kotor tunnel and along coastal towns. Parking in historic centers is limited, so look for designated parking lots at the town perimeters or use hotel facilities when available.
Fuel and Practical Information
Gas stations are readily available in and around Tivat, accepting both cash and credit cards. Fuel prices in Montenegro are comparable to those in other European countries. When planning journeys to more remote areas or national parks, filling your tank beforehand is advisable as service stations become less frequent. Speed limits are strictly enforced (50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and 100 km/h on highways), and traffic police presence increases during tourist season, so adhere carefully to local driving regulations to avoid fines.