Top Things to Do in Trogir, Croatia

Trogir is a small coastal town in Croatia, just a short drive from Split. It has a lovely old town that sits on a tiny island, linked by bridges to the mainland and Čiovo Island. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its narrow stone streets, old houses, and pretty squares. Everything is close together, so you can see a lot in a short time, making it perfect for a day trip.

We first visited Trogir as part of a guided tour while staying at Hotel Ambassador in Split. We had only a couple of hours to look around, but that was enough to fall in love with the place. The mix of history, charm and calm streets made us want to see more. So, we went back and spent two nights in Trogir to explore it properly.

Where Is Trogir and How to Get There

Trogir sits on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, about 30 kilometres west of Split. It’s very close to Split Airport, only around 10 minutes by car, which makes it one of the easiest places to visit in the region. The town lies between the mainland and Čiovo Island, joined by two small bridges. Its handy location means you can easily visit for the day or use it as a base to explore more of the coast.

The bridge pictured below is the one that connects the mainland to Trogir.

Getting to Trogir is simple. If you’re driving from Split, it takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses run often between Split and Trogir, with the journey taking around 45 minutes. You can also take a boat from Split’s Riva (harbour) to Trogir, which is slower but a more scenic route. Many guided tours also include Trogir as part of a half-day or full-day trip, often combined with stops like Salona, the Blue Lagoon or Klis Fortress.

If you’re driving, parking can be tricky. Space is limited, especially near the old town. It’s best to use one of the paid car parks close to the bridge or marina and walk from there. The old town itself is pedestrian-only, so you’ll be exploring on foot. Once inside, you won’t need any transport - the whole area is compact and easy to get around.

When we stayed in Trogir, we didn't need a car to explore. We left it at the place we were staying at and explored the island on foot.

Top Things to Do in Trogir in One Day

Trogir may be small, but it’s packed with history and charm. You can see most of its main sights in a single day without feeling rushed. Here are some of the top things to do on a day trip to Trogir.

Explore the Old Town

Trogir’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The whole area sits on a small island and feels like stepping back in time. You can wander through narrow lanes lined with old stone houses, quiet courtyards, and small squares filled with local life. 

The town is compact, so you can explore it easily on foot without needing a plan. Just take your time, enjoy the details, and let the streets lead you where they will.

Visit the Cathedral of St. Lawrence (St. Lovre)

The Cathedral of St. Lawrence, also called St. Lovre, stands right in the centre of Trogir’s main square. 

It’s one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in Dalmatia and is hard to miss with its tall bell tower. The church dates back to the 13th century and is known for its fine details and grand stonework. The main entrance, known as the Radovan Portal, is beautifully carved with figures and scenes that tell stories from the Bible.

If you have time, climb the bell tower for the best views of Trogir’s rooftops and harbour. It’s a bit of a climb but worth it for the scenery at the top. The cathedral is open daily, usually from morning till early evening. A small entry fee applies, and tickets include access to the tower and treasury.

Walk the City Walls and Kamerlengo Fortress

The Kamerlengo Fortress sits at the edge of the old town, right by the sea. It was built in the 15th century and once guarded the town from attacks. 

Today, you can walk along parts of the old city walls and climb to the top of the fortress for sweeping views of Trogir, the marina, and the nearby coast. The climb is short but a little steep, so wear comfortable shoes. The entry fee is small, and it’s best to visit in the late afternoon when the light is softer - perfect for photos of the town glowing in the sun.

Stroll Along the Seafront Promenade (Riva)

Trogir’s seafront promenade, known as the Riva, is one of the nicest spots in town. It’s lined with palm trees, cafes, and restaurants, and looks out over the harbour filled with boats and yachts. 

It’s a lovely place for a slow walk, to stop for a drink, or to simply sit and watch life go by. The Riva comes alive in the evening, with a calm buzz and a great view of the sunset.

Visit the Local Market

The local market in Trogir sits just outside the old town, near the main bridge. It’s a lively place where locals shop for fresh fruit, vegetables, and cheese. You’ll also find stalls selling local olive oil, lavender products, honey, local desserts and handmade souvenirs. It’s a good spot to pick up a small gift or simply enjoy the atmosphere of everyday life in Trogir.

Step onto Čiovo Island

From the edge of Trogir’s old town, you can cross the bridge to Čiovo Island. 

It’s an easy walk or quick drive, and within minutes you’ll reach beaches like Okrug Gornji. The beaches here are pebbly but clean, with clear blue water and plenty of small cafes and bars nearby. It’s a nice spot to take a short swim or stop for lunch before heading back to explore more of Trogir.

We explored the island on foot and it was pleasant. We visited a couple of beaches and loved them too.

Optional: Short Boat Trip

If you have a bit more time, you can join a short boat trip to the Blue Lagoon or nearby islands such as Drvenik Veli and Šolta. These tours usually last half a day and are a fun way to see more of the coast. Boats leave right from Trogir’s harbour, and you can often book on the spot. The clear turquoise water and quiet coves make it a lovely break from walking around town.

Where to Eat and Drink in Trogir

Trogir has plenty of local restaurants and konobas serving traditional Dalmatian food. Most places offer grilled fish, seafood risotto, and pasta dishes made with fresh ingredients. Vegetarians will find options like vegetable risotto, salads, and pasta with local olive oil and herbs. You can eat by the waterfront for lovely views of the harbour, or head into the narrow lanes for quieter, family-run spots. Don’t miss trying local specialities like black risotto, octopus salad, or fritule, the small fried dough balls often served as dessert.

At the local market, I tried Breskvice, a Balkan dessert - soft, peach-shaped biscuits filled with jam and rolled in sugar, sweet and crumbly with just the right hint of fruitiness. I loved it.

Tips for a Smooth Day Trip

The best time to visit Trogir is from spring to early autumn, when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August are the busiest months, so if you prefer fewer crowds, plan your trip in May, June, or September.

Wear light, comfortable clothes and good walking shoes, as the old town streets are cobbled. Carry a hat, sunglasses, and a bottle of water, especially in summer.

To avoid the crowds and heat, try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Many tour groups come during midday, so the town is quieter outside those hours.

Trogir is safe and easy to explore, but take care on uneven stone steps and high viewpoints like the bell tower or fortress. Keep small change handy for parking and entry tickets, and bring sunscreen - the sun can be quite strong even by the sea.

Combine Trogir with Nearby Attractions

If you want to see more of the area, there are some great day trip ideas near Trogir. Split is just 30 to 40 minutes away and makes an easy second stop for the day. You can also visit the town of Kaštela, known for its seafront villages, or head inland to Klis Fortress for stunning views and history. Another good option is the ancient Salona ruins, once a major Roman city.

If you plan to spend only half a day in Trogir, start early and explore the old town and fortress first, then move on to one of these nearby spots in the afternoon. With good roads and short distances, it’s easy to fit two places into one day without feeling rushed.


Trogir may be small, but it’s full of character. Every corner has something to notice - a carved doorway, a quiet courtyard, or the smell of the sea drifting through the lanes. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and take it all in rather than rush from sight to sight. Even if you only spend a few hours here, the charm of Trogir stays with you long after you’ve left.