A once-quiet naval town on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast is fast becoming one of Europe’s most popular seaside escapes, and British travellers can get there for less than the price of dinner out.

Exclusive data from travel service Welcome Pickups shows bookings in Tivat have surged by more than 200% since last year, as holidaymakers look for Mediterranean glamour without the Monaco price tag. Google searches for the destination have also jumped, up 33% year-on-year, and 58% in the last three months alone.

Direct flights in August start from as little as £31 from Manchester and £43 from London, making Tivat a budget-friendly alternative to crowded holiday staples like Mallorca, Croatia and the French Riviera.

Once a quiet military port, Tivat has transformed into a stylish yet laid-back coastal hub, anchored by Porto Montenegro, a superyacht marina built on the site of a former naval base.

The waterfront is now lined with high-end boutiques, chic cafés, and modern apartments, offering all the yacht-life glam of Monaco at a fraction of the cost.

Nestled in the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor, the town is surrounded by dramatic mountains and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect base for exploring the heritage city of Kotor, the historic charm of Budva, or the hiking trails of Vrmac. Hidden beaches are never far away, and the town’s small airport makes arrivals effortless.

The atmosphere blends Mediterranean sophistication with easygoing charm, attracting digital nomads, expats, eco-conscious travellers, and yacht enthusiasts alike.

New venues like the Cielo Rooftop bar and boutique wellness hotels are adding to the buzz, but prices have remained surprisingly reasonable, at least for now.

“Tivat is capturing the attention of holidaymakers who want the luxury and scenery of the Mediterranean without the premium price tag,” said Dimitris Floros, CCO at Welcome Pickups.

“Its sleek infrastructure, combined with the charm of Porto Montenegro and seamless connectivity from the UK, makes it a standout alternative to more saturated spots like Dubrovnik or Ibiza.”

With its blend of natural beauty, cosmopolitan flair and unbeatable value, Tivat’s star is clearly on the rise and travellers are taking note before the crowds catch on.