13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Trogir

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Carri Wilbanks
Updated Nov 26, 2021
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Beautiful Trogir has a prime spot on the Dalmatian Coast, just 30 kilometers from Split, and is one of the region's top vacation destinations. The town has a heady history that dates back to 380 BC, and it has been continuously inhabited by a succession of Greeks, Romans, Hungarians, and Venetians ever since. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, charming Trogir is well set up to accommodate visitors with its numerous things to do, as well as a diverse hotel and dining scene.

Restoration projects undertaken in recent years have helped revitalize the numerous historic attractions, in particular Trogir's splendid Romanesque and Renaissance architecture, most of which is found within the 15th-century city walls. And just a few steps down from this delightful tangle of medieval streets is a pleasant waterfront promenade.

From here, it's also easy to explore the islands of the Dalmatian Archipelago, and see the famous Blue Cave, on a speedboat day trip from Trogir. Learn more about this and other adventures with our list of top things to do in Trogir.

1. Cathedral of St. Lawrence

Trogir's Cathedral (Katedrala Sv. Lovre) – also known as the Cathedral of St. Lawrence – is widely considered one of the finest architectural achievements in Croatia. Construction of this splendid three-aisled structure, built on the site of an ancient church destroyed by the Saracens, commenced in 1193 and continued for many years until finally completed around 1500.

One of the most notable features is the amazing Romanesque door, carved in 1240 by Master Radovan, and flanked on either side by two stone lions. Other interesting highlights include a 47-meter-tall, 14th-century bell tower, well worth climbing (usually before noon, for a small fee).

Also not to be missed is the Renaissance Chapel of St. Ivan featuring many fine paintings of St. Jerome and St. John the Baptist, as well as decorations created between 1461 and 1497 by Firentinac and Duknovic.

Address: Trg Ivana Pavla II, Trogir

2. Relax on the Waterfront Promenade

Trogir makes the most of its waterfront with a delightful waterfront promenade area. Here, you'll find wide walkways with palm trees and wonderful views out over the water. The area has a relaxed and pleasant vibe with people strolling, along with friends and family catching up on the latest gossip. Unlike other waterfront promenades in Split and Zadar, no large cruise ships dock here, so the crowds are smaller.

Restaurants serving food on sunny patios under large umbrellas line the walkway and make excellent perches to set yourself up with a fine meal to sustain you as you engage in a serious bout of people watching. Boating enthusiasts will be amazed at the spectacular yachts tied up along the waterfront bobbing gently in their berths.

In the evening, the waterfront promenade is lit up, and street performers put on entertaining shows that rarely fail to impress.

3. Enjoy the Beaches around Trogir

The Dalmatian Coast is famous for its calm and blue water, which is perfect for swimming and its pebble beaches. While there are no beaches in Trogir's city center there are a number of beautiful options within a short walk or drive. Medena Beach is in Seget Donji, which is a village located some four kilometers from Trogir. It is a pretty pebble beach that can get crowded in the summer, but is still fun.

Also check out Ciovo Island, which is across the bridge from the old town, and also hosts quite a few beaches. The largest is Okrug Gornji, which also gets really crowded in summer and for good reason. With about seven different beach areas and a floating adventure park offshore, Okrug Gornji has something for everyone across all age groups.

For fewer crowds pay a visit to Slatina, on the island's other side. Here, you will find a lovely pebble and sand beach known as Kava.

4. Cipiko Palace

Cipiko Palace, in the Town Square across from the main entrance of Trogir Cathedral, was the home of the Cipiko family, one of the region's most prominent families during the 15th-century. The creation of famed architects Firentinac and Alesi, this splendid old palace – really two palaces joined together as the family's wealth increased – boasts a number of unique and noteworthy features, including a carved Venetian Gothic window designed by Alesi himself.

As you approach the main entrance look for a carved wooden statue of a cockerel taken from the prow of a Turkish ship following a decisive battle in the mid 1400s in which Turkey was defeated (one of the Cipiko family members, a captain from Trogir, was involved in the battle).

5. Kamerlengo Castle and St. Mark's Tower

The impressive Kamerlengo Castle dates back to the early part of the 15th-century and is another top thing to see in Trogir. It was built by the Venetians and served for a time as the governor's palace. With commanding views over the sea and high walls connecting its three towers, this splendid old castle has found new life as a venue for outdoor performances held during the summer months in the courtyard.

Renaissance St. Mark's Tower (Kula svetog Marka), built after the castle in a circular shape, was once used to support artillery on its broad roof and was built to defend the channel between the island and the mainland. Along with its broad grounds and waterfront setting, it's a delightful place to explore as you ponder its former role safeguarding the old city.

Address: 21220, Trogir

6. The Clock Tower and City Loggia

One of Trogir's most famous landmarks, the Clock Tower was once part of the church of St. Sebastian. Located on John Paul II Square (Trg Ivana Pavla II) next to the Loggia, it is famous for its large blue face and domed roof taken from the chapel of St. Sebastian in the middle of the 15th-century. The tower also boasts a statue known as Justice, which was carved by Nikola Firentinac in 1471.

The Loggia, previously at the level of the square but now reached by a few steps, was once linked with the Church of St. Mary and is notable for its fine reliefs and columns. This area is a delightful place to rest your legs and grab a bite to eat on one of the patios in the square.

7. Day Trip to the Blue Cave and Hvar

One of the top day trips from Trogir is to see Hvar Island and the Blue Cave. If you don't have a lot of time to explore the Dalmatian Archipelago, an organized tour like the five island speedboat tour is a great way to experience these stunning destinations.

This tour isn't for the faint of heart, as it lasts 11 hours from start to finish, but you get your money's worth. And from Trogir, you'll visit Biševo Island and the coastal town of Komiža, explore the epic Blue Cave and Stiniva Bay, swim in the clear waters off Vis and Pakleni Islands, and check out Hvar Island's ancient architecture.

8. The City Gates: Land Gate

The Land Gate (Kopnena Vrata) was the main entrance to Trogir during the 15th-century and was a vital part of the Venetian defenses along with the city walls, which were built at the same time. Rebuilt in the 17th-century in late-Renaissance style, the structure's tall doorway once housed a drawbridge.

Notable features include, the Lion of St. Mark (the symbol of Venice) above the door's arch, and a statue of the city's patron saint, St. John of Trogir (Sv Ivan Trogirski), also referred to as Giovanni Orsini in Italian.

Another historic structure worth a visit is the North Gate. Though much smaller, it served as an important access point, and today it's surrounded by many great cafés, shops, and restaurants.

9. The Church of St. Peter

Once part of a Benedictine monastery, the lovely Church of St. Peter is best known for the half sculpture of its patron saint looking down from the doorway with Bible and scrolls in hand. Believed to have been built in the 14th-century, the church's interior belies its rather plain exterior and contains numerous fine paintings, including works by such important artists as Molinari and Lazzarini.

Other highlights include a number of 17th-century sculptures by Jakov Jucen, who is also believed to be responsible for the building's fine paneled ceiling, as well as statues of Saints Peter and Paul carved from wood.

10. The Benedictine Monastery of St. Nicholas

Another monastic church of interest is that of the Benedictine Monastery of St. Nicholas. Built in 1066 with a bell tower added in the 16th-century, the building's most impressive feature is its splendid interior, completely rebuilt in Baroque style in the 1700s. In addition to fine inscriptions carved in honor of the city's leading figures, the building boasts a number of precious artworks, including the Kairos, an exquisite relief depicting figures and scenes from Greek mythology. Of the church's many paintings, the most notable are pieces by Antonio Zanchi, Paolo Veneziano, and Nicollo Grassi, along with a 13th-century Madonna and Child.

11. Trogir City Museum

Trogir City Museum (Muzej Grada Trogira) | TimeTravelRome / photo modified

The Trogir Civic Museum (Muzej Grada Trogira), housed in the Baroque Garagnin-Fanfogna Palace, is across from the Land Gate in the northwest corner of Trogir. Highlights of this worthwhile museum are displays of a variety of Greek and Roman artifacts, old manuscripts and documents, drawings and paintings, as well as old uniforms and antique clothing. Also of interest is a fine collection of 18th-century furniture on the first floor.

While a quick visit is enough to explore the museum's highlights, its location near the Land Gate and the cathedral make it a convenient stop during a walking tour of this area of Trogir.

Address: Ulica Gradska vrata 4, 21220, Trogir

12. St. Dominic Monastery

Founded in 1265, St. Dominic Monastery has been much added to over the years, with its church and nave constructed later in the 14th-century. Highlights of this lovely monastery's exquisite interior include a number of important old tombs, including those of Ivan and Simun Sobota, well known in the city as humanists in the 15th-century.

Also of interest is the triumphal arch and an altar made of wood by Palma the Younger dating from around 1600, along with numerous important works of art and religious relics.

13. Visit the Town of Marina

Just 20 kilometers west of Trogir is the delightful coastal town of Marina, a picturesque community dominated by a massive tower that has been converted into the Hotel Kastil. This small seaside resort on the Dalmatian Coast boasts a beautiful sand and pebble beach, along with notable architecture in its two churches: the Gothic St. Luke and the Gothic and Renaissance St. John. Both were built in the 15th-century and still maintained by the same family. Marina makes for a fun day trip, especially if the aptly named Marina Bay is included, a much-favored spot for yachting types from around the world.

Where to Stay in Trogir for Sightseeing

Trogir's old town has some great hotel choices that are convenient to sightseeing attractions and are good value for money, especially in the luxury bracket. Although the town doesn't have any true five-star properties, it has a few excellent four-star properties.

Luxury Hotels:

The posh Brown Beach House offers waterfront luxury, stylish décor, designer suites, and a pool with sea views. There is also a soothing spa, chic lounge, and library.
With old town views and a comfy luxe vibe, Hotel Pasike is another excellent choice. The family-run hotel features rooms with antique furnishings and traditional decor and rates include breakfast. XII Century Heritage Hotel is also a good luxury choice.

Mid-Range & Budget Hotels:

There are no true budget hotels in Trogir, although many of the mid-range properties are very good value and would fall into a budget bracket in other cities.
Steps from the old town, Aparthotel Bellevue is a favorite that is spotlessly clean and offers fantastic service.
Hotel Monika is another excellent mid-range property with a design focus and clean and comfortable rooms.
Look for the Hotel Tragos inside an 18th-century Baroque palace in the heart of the old town. It features rooms with original stone walls and hardwood floors, and the restaurant has a lovely terrace.
Finally, Palace Derossi is even more affordable and full of character. It often fills quickly in summer and is known for friendly service, an excellent included breakfast, and charming rooms. It's located right next to the North Gate in old town.