Trogir is one of the loveliest places to visit in Croatia.
Spend a day here and you’ll be rewarded with elegant churches and palaces, swaying palms, a sparkly waterfront promenade and narrow cobblestone streets to get lost in – all the elements of a wonderful destination.
Read on to find out why this charming UNESCO world heritage town deserves a spot on your Dalmatian itinerary!
HOW TO SPEND A DAY IN PRETTY TROGIR
Trogir may not be the first town that comes to mind when planning a trip to Croatia, but it’s one of the most well-rounded not too touristy places to visit. It ticks all the boxes (culture, beaches, old town, restaurants and sea views) and is in my opinion on of the best day trips from Split.
The sights of Trogir can easily be covered in a day – but combined with the nearby beaches and relaxed vibe and you have yourself one of the dreamiest Croatian escapes!
WANDER THE OLD TOWN
Trogir’s perfectly formed UNESCO heritage town immediately transports you back to another time and the best thing is – you can explore everything easily on foot! Spend some time roaming around the charming maze of twisting cobble lanes, squares, 15th century Venetian architecture and the variety of cafes, restaurants, shops and churches to get a true feel for the place.
As with all of Croatia’s heritage towns, the narrow streets are a labyrinth of shiney marble and losing your direction is just part of the experience! Just think of Trogir as a mini, cuter version of Split!
STROLL DOWN THE RIVA
Naturally after a wander through the old town, you will head over to the very attractive waterfront lined with terraces, restaurants and a wonderful row of palm trees – stretching the whole length of the island! It’s one of my favourite spots in all of Croatia, locally known as ‘Riva’ – a lovely place to enjoy lunch overlooking the bluest of waters and Mediterranean scenery.
ADMIRE THE PANORAMA VIEW FROM KAMERLENGO CASTLE
Kamerlengo castle is the cherry at the end of the pretty Riva – it’s not hard to spot! The castle is now an empty 15th century ruin, which holds musical events throughout the year. However, the observatory level gives you the best 360 view over the Riva and is well worth the climb, at any time of day.
NOTE: There is an small entrance fee and a set of very steep and narrow ladders to navigate!
PEOPLE WATCH ON THE PIAZZA
The piazza is always a bustling hub of activity where you’ll find the prettiest buildings and a very busy dining scene! In the afternoons this area is completely tranquil and a great alternative spot to relax and admire the ancient surrounds, especially the landmark Romanesque Church of St Lawrence – it’s a stunner!
TIP! Corte Bar is a fan favourite in the square.
MARVEL AT 4TH CENTURY BUILDINGS
Trogir is a UNESCO town and naturally has culture in abundance! One of the most prominent heritage sights is Trogir’s 15th century cathedral, this stunning piece of architecture took 4 centuries to build and therefor must be admired.
Just across from the cathedral lies Cipiko Palace, a mansion with pretty gardens once owned by a nobel family and the thousand year old Monastary of St Nicholas – you will likely walk past them all at some point – Trogir is tiny!
LUNCH AT ONE OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS
There’s plenty of attractive eating and drinking places, but for lunch the waterfront is by far the most popular area, where you’ll find lots of sea view terraces. If you’re lucky enough to be in Trogir for the full day you could happily experience more than one venue. Here’s my best picks:
Delicious upscale Mediterranean restaurant and terrace in prime position along the waterfront. A great option for a fancy breakfast or lunch – plus there’s sofas and egg chairs to lounge!
Vanjaka is an small restaurant tucked down a romantic passage within the old town serving authentic seafood and wine.
READ NEXT: 5 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM SPLIT
BEYOND TROGIR OLD TOWN
RELAX IN LUXURY, BROWN BEACH HOUSE
Relax in luxury at the Brown Beach House just a few minutes walk from the centre of Trogir. A luxury boutique hotel and spa, housed in a former tabacco factory with stylish design, a scenic waterfront view and sun terrace – to enjoy a cocktail or two!
STOP FOR A COCKTAIL AT LAGANINI BEACH BAR
Away from the tightly packed streets and bustling waterfront there’s a whole other scene on the south side of neighbouring Ciovo island – notably Laganini. A relaxed beach bar and wonderful surprise that sits on an idyllic clear water pebble beach cove with luxury loungers and cocktails – perfect for some relaxing beach time.
TIP! The quickest way to reach Laganini is via water taxi or regular taxi (a bit pricey for one) from the Riva front, nearest the connecting bridge to Ciovo island.
TROGIR ESSENTIALS | TROGIR OLD TOWN
WHERE IS TROGIR?
Trogir is located on the Dalmatian coastline of Croatia, just 30 minutes west of the more famous city of Split and only 20 minutes from Split’s airport. Small walkable bridges connect Trogir with the mainland and island of Ciovo.
HOW TO GET TO TROGIR?
GET TO TROGIR BY BUS
Trogir is easily accessible by bus or taxi from Split Airport and bus or boat from Split’s Riva. If travelling by bus I recommend booking at least one day before from the main Riva bus terminal. Costs from £6.00 return and the journey time is 30-40 minutes.
GOOD TO KNOW
Split has two bus stations, the one you want is opposite the catamarans where you can book in advance inside the terminal. Its best to purchase a return and pick the coach and not the regular bus, which is extremely slow, uncomfortable and arrives into Split at the unattractive bus station at the back of town, where you really don’t need to be!
GET TO TROGIR BY BOAT
Another way to travel and see all the highlights mentioned in this post is via an small organised boat trip from Split Riva. You will meet fellow traveller’s and arrive in style!
RECOMMENDED: TROGIR OLD TOWN, LAGANINI & BLUE LAGOON
WHEN TO VISIT TROGIR?
The best overall time to visit the coastline of Croatia is the shoulder season. Mid-May to early June and September are great months. The weather is warm and there’s fewer crowds at this time, but still very buzzy – this town is a gem, but not entirely hidden!
READ MORE ABOUT CROATIA
Trogir is a must see along the Croatian coastline and great all-round day trip from Split. It has a quiet charm with plenty of attractions straight out of the fairytales and the best thing is you can explore it all on foot!
Booking a trip soon? Here is my go to list of resources for planning everything from flights to accommodation, tours and more:
- Booking.com for the best accommodation rates
- Viator for independent day trips
- Get Your Guide for incredible day trips
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