Founded by Greeks in 3rd century BC, this UNESCO-listed town on Ciovo island blends Roman, Venetian, and Gothic architecture. Birthplace of sculptor Ivan Meštrović.
Trogir, a small island town on Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, is known for its medieval architecture. The town center features structures from various periods, including the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence and the 15th-century Kamerlengo Fortress. You can climb the cathedral's bell tower or walk along the fortress walls. Trogir's location also makes it convenient for beach visits and sailing trips in the Adriatic.
Exploring Trogir's Old Town
Trogir's historic center is on a small island connected to the mainland and Čiovo Island by bridges. Enter the Old Town through the North Gate, part of the medieval walls that once surrounded the island. The main square, Trg Ivana Pavla II, is at the center of Trogir. Here, you'll see the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, along with the clock tower and loggia.
Cathedral of St. Lawrence
The Cathedral of St. Lawrence is Trogir's tallest structure. Its construction started in 1213 and continued for several centuries, resulting in a combination of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. The western portal, created by Master Radovan in 1240, is an intricate example of Romanesque sculpture. You can climb the 47-meter bell tower for views of Trogir and the surrounding islands.
Kamerlengo Fortress
Kamerlengo Fortress stands at the western tip of Trogir island. The Venetians constructed this 15th-century building to defend the town and use as a naval base. You can walk on the fortress walls and climb the towers to see the harbor. During summer, the fortress courtyard hosts outdoor cinema screenings and concerts.
Walking the Old Town Streets
As you walk through Trogir's narrow streets, you'll see buildings from different periods. You'll pass Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and Renaissance and Baroque buildings. Look for the Čipiko Palaces, two 15th-century mansions across from the cathedral. Their stone carvings and Gothic windows reflect the style preferences of Trogir's wealthy families of that time.
Waterfront Promenade
The Riva, Trogir's waterfront promenade, extends along the southern edge of the island. You'll find cafes and restaurants here with views of the yachts in the harbor. It's a good place to have a coffee or ice cream while watching boats come and go.
Beaches Near Trogir
While Trogir doesn't have beaches within the town, there are several nearby. On Čiovo Island, connected to Trogir by a bridge, Okrug Gornji Beach (also called "Copacabana") is a long pebble beach with clear water. It's about 4 kilometers from Trogir's center and you can reach it by local bus or taxi boat.
Local Cuisine
Trogir's restaurants serve Dalmatian cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, olive oil, and Mediterranean herbs. Try local dishes like pašticada (slow-cooked beef in a sweet and sour sauce) or black risotto colored with cuttlefish ink. For dessert, you can taste rožata, a local pudding similar to flan.
Getting to Trogir
Trogir is 5 kilometers from Split Airport, making it a convenient first or last stop on a Croatian coastal trip. You can take a local bus from the airport or get a taxi. If you're coming from Split, regular buses run between the two towns, taking about 30 minutes.
When to Visit Trogir
The warmest and sunniest weather in Trogir is from May to October. July and August are the busiest months, with more visitors and higher prices. For fewer crowds but still pleasant weather, consider visiting in May, June, or September.