Trogir, Croatia is without a doubt our favorite destination in the entire country. No other place feels quite as romantic as this historic gem, beautifully set on a small island just off the coast. The old town of Trogir enjoys an idyllic location, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and connected to the mainland by bridges.
As you stroll through its maze of narrow, cobbled streets, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the charm that fills every corner. Sooner or later, you’ll want to take a break at one of the many inviting terraces and simply soak in the atmosphere. It quickly becomes clear why Trogir’s old town has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting Trogir — from practical travel tips to the most iconic sights you won’t want to miss.
Where is Trogir in Croatia?
Trogir is located in the region of Dalmatia, only 30 kilometers from the famous city of Split. Connected by bridges to both the mainland and the modern part of Trogir, the town is easily accessible and has become one of Croatia’s most popular and charming tourist attractions. In our opinion, it is even a must-visit during your trip to the country, as it offers a unique blend of history, beauty, and atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere in Croatia.
The international airport of Split is located between Trogir and Split, making the area incredibly convenient for travelers arriving by plane. From Trogir, you will regularly see planes flying low over the town as they descend toward the airport, which is just a short distance away. You can easily come to Trogir on a day trip from Split, whether by (rental) car, as part of an organized excursion, or even by ferry across the scenic waters. But Trogir is also a perfect base to settle down for a longer stay and explore the many highlights of the Dalmatian coast from there, as it is centrally located and offers plenty of charm and convenience.
If, like us, you come to Trogir with your own transport or a rental car, it is good to know in advance that you cannot drive into or park inside the historic island itself, as it is car-free to preserve its authentic atmosphere. However, you can park your car at one of the paid parking lots located near the bridge that connects the mainland to the old town.
Would you rather park your car for free or, like us, spend the night in your campervan while staying in Trogir? Then we recommend you to park here on the island of Čiovo, which is connected by a short bridge and offers more space, quieter surroundings, and better options for longer or overnight stays.
Where to Stay in Trogir
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Trogir, it’s a great idea to focus your search in and around the Old Town. This is naturally where you’ll find the widest range of accommodation options, from charming guesthouses to boutique hotels. Of course, if you want to stay right in the heart of the historic maze of narrow streets, you can expect to pay a bit more, but the unique atmosphere and beautiful surroundings are well worth it.
Booking.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u + ‘?v=’ + (+new Date()); p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘//cf.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js’);Some special options to stay overnight in Trogir:
#1 Villa Kudelik, located in the old center, comes with attractive and tastefully decorated rooms and apartments. It also features a beautiful and peaceful garden where you can relax, along with a hot tub that adds an extra touch of comfort to your stay. This charming villa is perfect for travelers who enjoy staying in a quiet yet central location, surrounded by the atmosphere of the historic town.
#2 XII Century Heritage Hotel, situated on the Riva boulevard, offers modern and comfortable rooms with stylish interiors. The hotel also has its own excellent restaurant and cozy bar, allowing guests to enjoy delicious meals and drinks without leaving the property. Its location on the promenade makes it a great option for those who want to be close to the sea and the lively buzz of Trogir’s waterfront.
#3 Hostel Marina Trogir, located by the marina, offers shared dormitory rooms and is the most affordable option in Trogir. It’s ideal for budget travelers, backpackers, or anyone looking for a simple place to sleep without spending too much. The location near the water gives it a relaxing vibe, and it’s within walking distance of the old town, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.
#4 Limestone Heritage Hotel, found on the island of Čiovo close to the bridge that connects to Trogir, is the best-rated hotel in the area. It stands out for its excellent reviews, high-quality service, and beautiful rooms. This hotel is perfect for visitors who want a luxurious yet peaceful place to stay while being just a short walk away from the historic center of Trogir and all its sights.
7 Best Places to See in Trogir
#1 The Maze of the Old City
As far as we’re concerned, the true charm of Trogir lies in its stunning old town. Beautifully positioned on an island between the Dalmatian coast and the larger island of Čiovo, the historic center is an absolute gem. Thanks to its strategic location, Trogir was long coveted by many powers throughout history. Each of them has left its own mark on the city’s appearance—most notably the Venetians—and Trogir’s long and fascinating history is reflected in its striking architecture. It’s no surprise that the entire old town has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Although Trogir is one of Croatia’s major tourist destinations, drawing thousands of visitors every year, it has managed to stay a truly authentic historic town. In fact, it was one of the first places where neon signs and other forms of modern advertising were banned from the streets. This deliberate effort to protect its charm has helped preserve the UNESCO-listed heritage and allows visitors to feel as though they’ve stepped into a time machine that takes them straight back to the Middle Ages.
Trogir’s layout is like a labyrinth, with hardly any straight streets. This was a deliberate design, meant to make it harder for invaders to move through the town. Even today, many visitors find themselves getting lost in the maze of narrow alleys. But don’t worry, getting lost is half the fun. In fact, wandering through the tangled streets of Trogir is one of the most enjoyable things to do during your visit. Sooner or later, you’ll always find your way back to one of its landmarks, like the stunning cathedral or the lively Riva promenade by the water.
#2 The Cathedral of Saint Laurentius
Most of the sights in Trogir can be found along Trogir Square, or Trg Ivana Pavla, including the impressive and historically significant Cathedral of Saint Laurentius. The architecture of the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, or in Croatian Katedrala Sv. Lovre, is symbolic of Trogir itself, reflecting the town’s long and varied history. Like the old town surrounding it, the cathedral was built over several centuries, which is why you can see a fascinating blend of different architectural styles representing various periods of the city’s past.
You can observe most of the Romanesque architectural style throughout the cathedral, as the majority of the structure was built in the 13th century during that artistic period. However, the bell tower was added much later and showcases a different style because by that time, Trogir had come under Venetian rule. The Gothic tower reflects the influence of Venetian architects, with distinctive design elements that clearly highlight the city’s connection to Venice during that era. When you visit, you have the opportunity to climb the bell tower, which offers a stunning panoramic view over the old town and surrounding areas, making it a highlight for many travelers.
#3 The Riva promenade and harbor
A long boulevard stretches along the edge of the old town, known as the Riva boulevard, and it’s a wonderful place to relax on a sunny day. You can take a leisurely stroll along the terraces, watching the boats gently moored in the harbor. This lively waterfront is also the spot where you can hop on one of the many boat excursions that leave from Trogir. As the boats glide by, eager sellers offer and recommend these trips, often in multiples.
While the restaurants along the Riva may not always be the very best in Trogir—and can be quite touristy—they still make for a pleasant stop. Sitting on a terrace here means you can watch people strolling by, see the excursions setting off, and enjoy a beautiful view of the harbor. Just across the boulevard is the port of Trogir, located on the island of Čiovo. This is where the most luxurious yachts and the most elegant sailing boats dock, and from the Riva boulevard, you have the perfect vantage point to admire them all.
#4 Kamerlengo Castle
The Kamerlengo fortress can be found at the very tip of the island and is not to be missed during your visit to Trogir. This impressive fortress dates all the way back to the fifteenth century, a time when the Republic of Venice ruled over this entire region. The polygonal tower, which you will notice immediately, is actually the oldest part of the fortress. Over time, Venetian architects expanded and enhanced the original structure, transforming it into the magnificent castle that stands here today, proudly overlooking the sea and the town.
The Castle of Kamerlengo has long ceased to be used for military purposes, but it has found a new life as a center for cultural events and tourism. Every summer, the fortress comes alive with concerts and performances, offering a unique atmosphere in this historic setting. It is also open to visitors throughout the year, welcoming those who wish to explore its ancient walls. You can climb the tower, which provides an excellent vantage point, and walk along the fortress walls. From there, you will be treated to breathtaking, panoramic views over the sparkling water, the busy harbor, and the enchanting old town of Trogir that stretches out beneath you.
#5 Trogir Clock Tower
Next to the cathedral, the bell tower is another striking building in Trg Ivana Pavla square. This impressive tower was built in the fifteenth century as part of the St. Sebastian’s Church complex. Although the church itself no longer stands today, one of the original rooms from the old church has been preserved and is now housed inside the tower. This connection between the tower and the former church adds a layer of historical depth to the site.
What makes the tower especially remarkable is its light blue dial, which stands out brightly against the stone facade, catching the eye of every visitor passing through the square. Equally special is the beautiful loggia, which is just as old as the tower itself and sits right next to it, adding an elegant and historic touch to the entire area. Together, the tower and loggia create a charming and memorable corner in Trg Ivana Pavla that perfectly captures the spirit and history of Trogir.
#6 The Palaa Ćipiko
Directly opposite the cathedral stands one of Trogir’s most beautiful residences: the Cipiko Palace, named after the influential Cipiko family. This stunning monument is actually a complex made up of several buildings merged together to form a grand city palace. The oldest part of the palace dates back to the early Middle Ages, giving it deep historical roots. Later, in the fifteenth century, the palace underwent significant renovations led by some of the most prominent artists of the era, including Nikola Florentinac, whose work added remarkable artistic detail.
Although the palace is not open for free visits, that shouldn’t stop you from pausing during your stroll through the city to admire it from the outside. The beautiful façade alone is well worth a moment of your time. Its elegant arches and sturdy pillars will surely remind you of Venetian architecture, reflecting the strong influence Venice had on Trogir’s rich history.
#7 The island of Čiovo
The old town is located on a small island between the mainland and a much bigger island: the island of Čiovo. The islands are connected by a bridge, making it easy to visit Čiovo and explore its surroundings without any hassle. Nowadays, you will find part of Trogir itself has spread onto this island, but Čiovo is also home to several other small villages, stretches of beautiful natural landscapes, and especially many stunning beaches that attract visitors looking for relaxation and nature.
We visited the island mainly because of its beaches, which are among the highlights of the area. The further you travel from the bridge that links Čiovo to Trogir, the more pristine and less crowded the beaches become, offering a more peaceful and untouched environment. You really feel like you’ve escaped the tourist crowds once you get away from the main access points. In the low season, you don’t even have to make much of an effort to find these quiet spots.
During a warm October month, we visited a pebble beach not far from Trogir, and were pleasantly surprised to enjoy a sunny, private beach almost entirely to ourselves, surrounded by calm and natural beauty.
Best Things to Do near Trogir
#8 Split
A stone’s throw from Trogir you will find the famous town of Split. Although this city is best known for its vibrant nightlife and many hours of sunshine, it is also a beautiful historic destination to visit, offering a rich blend of ancient history and modern life that fascinates visitors from all over the world.
Split’s long history dates back to the time of the Romans, when a retired Roman emperor built his gigantic palace on this site. Over the centuries, this palace underwent many changes as locals moved in and gradually built houses on and around the original structure, filling almost every free surface with homes, shops, and streets. That changed over the centuries Roman Palace in present-day Split. The palace was inhabited and built over the centuries by locals who filled almost every free surface with houses. Split is therefore in fact the old Roman palace itself. When the palace was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it actually put the city center of Split on the famous World Heritage List, making it one of the most significant historical sites in Croatia.
During your time in Split, visit every corner of this ancient palace and imagine yourself back in the Middle Ages, walking through narrow alleys and marveling at centuries-old architecture. From the cathedral that started out as Diocletian’s mausoleum to the catacombs beneath the old palace where recordings of Game of Thrones took place, you will be surrounded by layers of history that tell fascinating stories from different eras.
Outside the historic city you will also find a sunny promenade by the sea, bustling squares filled with cafes and street performers, and fine city beaches where you can relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. With so much to see and do, Split offers enough to entertain you for a few days, making it a perfect destination for both history lovers and those looking for vibrant city life.
#9 A boat trip along the coast
Croatia is known for its beautiful coastline with idyllic islands, picturesque bays, and photogenic caves just off the mainland. Trogir itself is such a special island, not only because of its location and historical charm but also due to its unique blend of culture, nature, and architecture. And the Čiovo island is also located here just off the coast, offering visitors even more opportunities to explore hidden beaches and enjoy peaceful natural surroundings. But there is much more to see from the water from Trogir, making a boat adventure almost essential for a full experience of the region!
A boat trip along the Dalmatian coast and its many islands is therefore a perfect day trip from Trogir, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both. If you pass the Riva Boulevard when you walk near the old town, you will see several boats that make beautiful tours every day. Each with their own route and highlights such as swimming stops, snorkeling spots, and visits to remote islands. You can inquire at stands which tours are made and what the prices are, and sometimes the friendly staff will even show you pictures or describe the sights you’ll see along the way. There is a lot on offer, from short scenic rides to full-day excursions, so there is undoubtedly something that suits your budget and wishes, whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family.
#10 Historic Sibenik
Just an hour’s drive from Trogir lies Šibenik, another historic gem on the stunning Dalmatian Coast. Šibenik takes pride in being one of the oldest towns founded by native Croats. While many other coastal cities in Croatia boast ancient origins dating back to Roman or even Greek times, the story of Šibenik begins a bit later. But that doesn’t make its charming old town any less picturesque or worth exploring.
Reading tip: Discover the best tips for visiting Šibenik
The historic center of Šibenik is a captivating maze of narrow alleyways, steep staircases, quaint squares, historic churches, small shopping streets, and hidden corners filled with character. The entire old town is almost entirely car-free, and you’ll quickly understand why when you see how narrow most of the streets are.
Getting lost in this photogenic network of streets is truly one of the best ways to experience Šibenik. Almost every corner reveals a new postcard-worthy view. Flower pots hanging from windows, colorful green or blue shutters, and ancient wooden doors all contribute to the city’s unique charm and warm Mediterranean vibe. It’s no surprise that Šibenik served as one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones. The old town stood in for the city of Braavos, where Arya appeared in Season 5.
So, what should you definitely do in Šibenik? In addition to simply wandering through the old town, you absolutely must visit the impressive cathedral, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also want to explore the four historic fortresses that overlook the town, admire the beautiful Renaissance-era town hall, and take in the lively atmosphere of the Square of the Republic of Croatia, one of the city’s most iconic and beloved landmarks.
