Trogir Travel Guide: Explore Croatia’s Stone-Built Island of History

As your local guide, let me take you to one of the most enchanting towns on the Croatian coast — Trogir. Nestled between the mainland and the island of Čiovo, connected by stone bridges, Trogir is a place where Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture live in harmony.
 

Often called a “museum town”, Trogir is not just a relic of the past. It’s a lively Mediterranean destination, filled with vibrant restaurants, sailing excursions, and romantic sunsets over the Adriatic.

📍 Where Is Trogir?

📌 Location: Central Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

🌍 Coordinates: 43.5150° N, 16.2518° E

🚗 Distance from Split: ~28 km (30 minutes by car)

Trogir is easily accessible from Split Airport (just 10 minutes away!) and makes a great day trip or overnight stop during your Croatian itinerary.

🏛️ Why Visit Trogir?

Trogir is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Here are a few reasons why travelers fall in love with this ancient island town:

2,300 years of continuous urban tradition

Narrow stone alleys and courtyards

Palaces, towers, and churches from the 13th to 17th centuries

Relaxed island atmosphere with seaside cafés and a lively Riva promenade

Easy access to beaches, boat tours, and nearby islands

🏰 Top Things to See and Do in Trogir

Let me walk you through the highlights of Trogir’s historic old town and nearby attractions:

1. Cathedral of St. Lawrence (St. Lovro)

🏛️ Trogir’s most iconic landmark

🕍 Built between the 13th–15th centuries

Don’t miss the Radovan Portal, an intricate Romanesque masterpiece

Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city and sea

2. Trogir Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

A living museum of Gothic and Renaissance architecture

Walk the stone alleys lined with 15th-century buildings

Enjoy hidden courtyards and local art galleries

Discover romantic spots perfect for photography

3. Kamerlengo Fortress

🏯 15th-century Venetian fortress at the edge of the old town

Climb the ramparts for stunning views of the harbor and Adriatic sunset

A popular spot for summer concerts and cultural events

4. St. Dominic Monastery

🕊️ Founded in the 13th century

Peaceful cloister with ancient art and architecture

Excellent place to learn about Trogir’s religious history

5. The Riva Promenade

Perfect for a sunset stroll or evening drink

Lined with palm trees, yachts, and seaside restaurants

Great people-watching spot!

6. Trogir Town Museum

Located in the Garagnin-Fanfogna Palace

Exhibits on the town’s cultural and historical development

Ideal for understanding Trogir’s Venetian past

7. Market Square

A bustling area outside the old town walls

Browse for fresh produce, Croatian cheese, olive oil, lavender, and souvenirs

🏖️ Beaches Near Trogir

While the old town steals the spotlight, Trogir also offers access to beautiful Dalmatian beaches just minutes away.

🔹 Medena Beach

Family-friendly, with sunbeds, water sports, and beach bars

Located ~4 km from Trogir

🔹 Okrug Gornji (on Čiovo Island)

One of the most popular nearby beaches

Vibrant, with cafés, jet skiing, and crystal-clear waters

🔹 Pantan Beach

A quiet pebble beach close to Split Airport

Surrounded by a nature reserve and great for birdwatching

🍽️ Where to Eat in Trogir

Trogir's food scene combines Dalmatian tradition with modern flavors. Expect plenty of seafood, grilled meats, and Mediterranean vegetables.

Recommended Restaurants:

Konoba Trs – Authentic Dalmatian cuisine in a romantic courtyard

Don Dino – Upscale Mediterranean with great seafood pasta

Restaurant Vanjaka – Right by the Cathedral, with excellent local wines

🛍️ Shopping in Trogir

Wander the narrow streets and find:

Handmade jewelry and coral

Olive oil, lavender, and fig products

Artisanal lace and embroidery

Local artwork and hand-painted ceramics

🛏️ Where to Stay in Trogir

There are charming accommodations to suit every traveler.

🏨 Boutique Hotels:

Hotel Monika – 4-star stay in a renovated palace

Hotel Vila Sikaa – Overlooks Trogir harbor, great views

🏡 Guesthouses & Apartments:

Guesthouse Tiramola – Cozy and well-located

Apartments in Čiovo – Beachfront and affordable

🚗 Getting to Trogir

✈️ By Air:

Split Airport (SPU): Just 5 km away

Taxis, airport shuttle buses, or car rentals available

🚗 By Car:

Connected to the A1 motorway and coastal roads

Paid parking lots outside old town walls

🚌 By Bus:

Frequent regional buses from Split, Šibenik, and Zagreb

🚤 By Boat:

Summer ferries and water taxis from Split and nearby islands

🛥️ Day Trips from Trogir

Trogir is a great base for exploring the Dalmatian coast:

Split (30 minutes away): Diocletian’s Palace, Marjan Hill

Krka National Park: Waterfalls and lush landscapes (~1 hr)

Šolta, Hvar, or Brač islands: Easy to reach by boat

Blue Lagoon (Drvenik Veli): Popular boat tour destination with clear turquoise waters

📷 Photography Tips

Golden hour (before sunset) brings out the warm colors of stone architecture

Capture reflections on the harbor for postcard-worthy shots

Climb the Cathedral’s bell tower for aerial views of rooftops and sea

Use the Kamerlengo Fortress as a dramatic backdrop

🧠 Fun Facts About Trogir

Founded by Greek colonists from the island of Vis in the 3rd century BCE

Once known as “Tragurion”, meaning “Goat Island”

Trogir was ruled by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Austrians, and more

Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones

🌿 Sustainability in Trogir

Trogir is taking steps toward responsible tourism:

Promoting walkable travel and car-free old town

Supporting local artisans and traditional cuisine

Encouraging eco-boat tours and plastic-free experiences

As a visitor, you can help by:

Avoiding single-use plastics

Respecting heritage sites

Supporting family-run businesses

🏁 Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Trogir

Trogir is the kind of place that takes you back in time — but still offers everything a modern traveler needs.

Whether you’re here to explore UNESCO-listed history, sip wine by the marina, or hop on a boat to the Blue Lagoon, Trogir delivers charm, culture, and coastal beauty in every stone-paved corner.

It’s not just a stopover — it’s a highlight of any Croatian adventure.