Tivat Airport is one of the easier airports in Southern Europe for families. It is small, flat, and you will be in a car within minutes of landing. Here is what to know about getting your family to the coast.
The airport experience with kids
Everything at Tivat is on one level. There are no long corridors, no shuttle buses between terminals, and no confusing signage. From the aircraft steps to the baggage carousel is a short walk. Trolleys are available. The arrivals hall has a small cafe and restrooms. The whole process from landing to standing outside usually takes 15 to 25 minutes, which is about as good as it gets when traveling with children.
Car seats
Montenegrin law requires children under 5 to use a child seat. However, taxis at the airport do not carry them. If you need a car seat, a private transfer booked in advance is the way to go. Request the seat at the time of booking and specify the age and weight of your child so the correct type is provided. For toddlers, a rear-facing or convertible seat should be requested. For older children (4-7), a booster seat is usually sufficient.
If you prefer to bring your own, compact travel car seats work well. The BubbleBum inflatable booster is popular with traveling families.
Luggage and vehicle size
A typical family of four with a stroller, two large suitcases, and carry-on bags will not fit comfortably in a standard sedan taxi. The stroller alone takes up most of the trunk. When booking a transfer, request a minivan if you have more than two large pieces of luggage. The cost difference is usually 10 to 15 EUR more than a sedan.
The drive to popular destinations
The road from Tivat to Kotor follows the Bay of Kotor and is one of the most scenic drives in the Mediterranean. It is smooth, well-maintained, and relatively flat. Children who are prone to car sickness should be fine on this route. The road to Budva climbs a bit more and has some curves, but nothing dramatic.
Herceg Novi involves a longer drive around the bay. Some drivers take the Kamenari-Lepetane car ferry as a shortcut, which is a nice experience for kids (about 5 minutes on the water).
Practical family tips
Bring water and snacks for the car. While the drives are short, summer heat in Montenegro can be intense, and children get thirsty. If you are arriving in July or August, the midday heat can be over 35 degrees, so air-conditioned transport is not optional, it is necessary. Most taxis and all private transfer vehicles have functioning AC, but it is worth confirming for older taxi vehicles.
If your accommodation is in Kotor Old Town, note that cars cannot enter the old city walls. Your driver will drop you at the nearest accessible point, and you will walk the final stretch. With a stroller and bags, know that Kotor's streets are stone-paved and uneven.