Today, we’re exploring Trogir. If you enjoy architecture and hunting for beautiful little details hidden in plain sight, you’ll love this Croatian town. Located on a tiny island, Trogir’s old town is very compact. So much so that there are two main places where everyone and everything is concentrated: the Central Square and the Promenade. Plus, you get to wander through some charming little streets.
This makes it a perfect day trip destination from Split. We, however, are stopping in Trogir on our way back from Zadar to Split to break up the long car ride. It works wonderfully for that scenario too. So without further ado, let’s explore what surprises Trogir may hold.
Location: Trogir, Croatia
Cost: Free (if You just explore outside and don’t go in any of the attractions)
Lenght: ~1.5-2h. But You would need more time if You wanted to go in any of the attractions.
How to get there: Public transport or driving. We parked in paid parking near the bridge.
Check out our full Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina itinerary
Central Square of Trogir
Location: Trogir squere
Alright, first we are headed to the Central Square. This place is all about the details. Everywhere you look, there’s something fascinating to see. So, I challenge you to keep an eye out for some gems.
While exploring, try to spot:
- A painted ceiling
- Decorated window arches
- At least one stone head
- Two churches
Trogir Cathedral of St. Lawrence
I bet the cathedral’s bell tower caught your eye from a distance, didn’t it? Adorned with intricate stone lace, it’s a true masterpiece.
The rest of the cream-colored facade is just as impressive, with various reliefs, columns, and drains shaped like heads.
Climbing the bell tower is a popular activity. However we were not dressed appropriately for a church, so we had to pass. But it sure sounds fun!
City hall of Trogir
Next up, the stunning City Hall (or Rector’s Palace, I am really getting lost in all the different names on the internet ). Again, the detailing here is what brings it to life. My favourite part is the window trims. What’s yours?
Apparently, there’s also a beautiful courtyard. I totally missed it, so you’ll have to check it out on your own and let me know how it is!
Church of St. Sebastiana in Trogir
Remember that task to find two churches? The cathedral was obvious, but the second one is sneakier. Look closely. Do you see the tower with the big clock?
I thought it was a clock tower. Turns out it’s a church of St. Sebastian. The figures of Christ and St. Sebastian above the door are giving the secret away.
Town Loggia of Trogir
First, a church that looks like a clock tower, and now a loggia that’s also a court?
Trogir sure knows how to keep you on your toes. In my opinion, the loggia is one of the most beautiful parts of the square. I didn’t want to give any hints, but… look at the painted ceiling. They are simply stunning.
And the columns are beautiful too. Plus, there’s this massive stone judge’s desk with a detailed relief backdrop. Can you picture an important-looking judge sitting there making decisions? I sure can.
Cipicos palace, Trogir
(not in video)
Opposite the cathedral, there’s a door. If you take a peek inside the door you will find a grand, but empty room. This is Cipiko Palace, an estate that once belonged to Trogir’s wealthiest family in the 15th century.
Exploring Trogir Old Town Streets
After the Central Square, the next best thing to do in Trogir (in my opinion) is to wander around the little streets. Who knows what you’ll find around the next corner? Maybe another charming street, a little souvenir shop, or even an angel.
This definitely gives flashbacks of Šibenik. However, Trogir feels a bit more… polished. Šibeniks beauty is in it’s simplicity. But Trogir is also more touristy. I truly enjoyed both, though.
Trogir Promenade (Riva)
Location: Trogir riva
Have you noticed every big city on the Dalmatian coast we have visited has a promenade? They all feature blue water, palm trees, and cafes. This one also has a silhouette of a fortress peaking in the distance. We definitely have to investigate that!
You might think that after a few promenade visits, they’d get boring. Nope, not a chance.
Kamerlengo Castle, Trogir
Location: Kula Kamerlengo
There’s something about the contrast between these dark, monolithic walls and the bright, cheerful Trogir promenade.
On one hand, it feels like this castle belongs to a different time (which it does, as it was built in the 15th century). On the other hand, it perfectly complements the promenade, giving it a unique touch.
If you buy an entrance ticket, you can explore the grounds. From closer inspection, we noticed that the centre of the fortress is hollow, functioning more as a viewing platform.
Kula St. Marka, Trogir
Location: Kula Sv. Marka
While exploring the promenade we also spot another lonely tower in the distance.
It seems to be a small fortress of sorts. But a quick Google reveals that St. Marks tower once was an important part of city fortifications.
It seems to be closed now.
With this little discovery, our Trogir visit comes to an end.
Thoughts?
Trogir matched my expectations of a “beautiful, historic town” as it is often described. It is for sure touristy, full of restaurants and souvenir shops. But I was expecting that, and it doesn’t bother me personally. I liked the architecture. The vibes were good. My only regret is that I didn’t climb the bell tower.
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Check out the full itinerary of our Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina road trip
A lot more fun things to experience organized in a day-to day plan