Trogir, Croatia- The Charming Small Town Near Split

18.10.2022.

The cobblestone streets of Trogir shine with the alluring invite of mediterrean style. More than that, its powerful charm belongs to the protection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This small town is only 30 minutes away from Split and every corner is filled with captivating beauty.

Trogir actually lies on the small island between the continent and another island- Čiovo. It takes just a hop over the small bridge from the bus station and you’re in Trogir.

The historical meaning of Trogir

Once a colony of the Greek emperors in the 3rd century BC, Tragurion became a major port. Even the Greek word tragos influenced the name. Tragos signifies the male goat and oros hill or mountain.

The city came under Croatian rule and Byzantine empire in the 9th century. The Republic of Venice started commercial activity in Trogir in the year 1000. Though it developed culturally and economically, in 1105 Hungary comes on the throne. Venetian autonomy continued even after the destroyment by Saracens. Saracens refers to Muslims during the Middle Age.

Šubić family ruled the city of Trogir in the 13th and 14th century.

Trau was the Venetian name of Trogir during their rule through four centuries beginning in 1420. Habsburg Empire followed the fall of Venice in 1797.

Historical and touristic sights of Trogir

Lovely churches, palaces and imposant gates intertwine in the medieval atmosphere of Trogir. Bringing only marvel on the surface Trogir shines in the unique shine.

Historical monuments

Being only pedestrian it’s easy to get lost in the cobblestone magic of Trogir. Simply enjoying its historical shine means finding wonder through vibrant and quiet corners.

This small town shines with dozen of churches and city walls from 15th century.

Cathedral of St. Lawrence

Cathedral of St. Lawrence (Katedrala Sv.Lovre) is a masterpiece of architecture. This Cathedral from 13th century absorbs three architectural styles ie. gothic, romanesque and baroque. Radovanov Portal is beautifully ornated portal by sculptor from Trogir that lived here in the 13th century. It was made in 1240 as it’s written at the top of the portal. This Romanesque door is truly marvellous.

The bell tower looks fascinating even if not climbing to the top. The narrow staircase leads to the stunning views.

Greens doors at the cathedral’s backyard is the typical image of Trogir.

Čipiko Palace

Čipiko Palace stands across the Cathedral, a proper gem in its exquisite allure. It belonged once to Čipiko family during the 15th century. The stunning Gothic window sparkles from hidden corners. It’s the artwork of Nicola Firentinac and Andrija Aleši.

City Lodia and Clock Tower

Clock Tower and its adjacent city lodia are the famous landmarks of Trogir. Tower holds the specific blue face and domed roof. The inspiration came from the chappel of St. Sebastian. Nikola Firentinac also signed the lovely statue at the tower or Justice in 1471.

Lodia once served as the place of important meetings and court trials. Its columns are the exquisite place to admire the nearby architecture. Caffe Corto at the main square is the perfect place to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Sometimes we can see the weddings, sometimes the traditional cappela singings.

The City Gates

Two gates that frame the charm of Trogir are the typical mediterrean influence. The North Gate are pretty small but magical invite of the town. Lion of St Mark defines its structure as the symbol of Venice. St. John of Trogir as the city’s patron deserves its position here also. Cozy caffe bars, shops and restaurants surround its apperance.

The sea gate holds the enticing touch to the cobblestone alleys of Trogir.

Kamerlengo Castle

Kamerlengo Castle stands at the end of the lovely promenade. While watching boats you can admire the elegant atmosphere of nearby restaurants. Kamerlengo Fortress brings the medieval charm of the 15th century.

With St. Mark Tower it holds the impressive shine of Trogir. Once the governor’s palace built by Venetians, today it awakens the old soul of Trogir. The summer concerts bring the cheerful spirit, specially during the KulaKula Festival. The breathtaking views scatter while climbing the stairs.

Beautiful bars and restaurants

Rafioli

One of the first things you’ll notice in Trogir is the local speciality- rafioli. It’s the biscuit with almond feeling. The pastry shop Djovanni suprises not only with rafioli, but with the ice-cream choice. I had the best caramel ice-cream right here. This delightful biscuit hides the lovely story. It got the name by the lady Rafioli, who baked the cakes while being imprisoned in Kamerlengo castle. Baking by itself wasn’t the only reason but she tried to impress her sweetheart.

What to recomend

Casa dei fiori amazes with the lovely floral decor and cobblestone atmosphere.

The fresh fish with creativity comes at Konoba Trs.

Franka is the place with cozy atmosphere inside the garden. Rice with beetroot is their speciality.

The best restaurant with traditional food is Alka.

Beaches of Trogir

Trogir itself hides the lovely beaches further from the centre. One of them is Medena beach near the hotel with the same name. The closest beaches to Trogir are at island Čiovo, which is only a bridge away from Trogir.

Island Čiovo

Island after island- doesn’t it sound so inviting? Čiovo is a small island and nearby bridge connects it to Trogir. From the Čiovo bridge splendid views splash unto Trogir.

It’s a relaxing place without many bars and restaurants. One instagrammable place will catch your attention- it’s Brown Beach House Hotel. Lying next to the small beach you’ll be amazed with the views of Trogir. What makes this hotel particular is its stunning pool.

Čiovo itself is full of beaches and the most beautiful ones are further away. Like Slatine Beach and it totally can enchant you with the crystal clear water. But you don’t have to walk all the way, there’s a ferry from Split during the season. Bura Line is the ferry that can take you to this paradise.

The main beach Okrug Gornji or Copacabana Beach is often too crowded during the summer. This attractive beach hosts several beach bars and vivid atmoshere. Its romantic harbour gives the delight.

The beach Lapadusa is the gorgeous beach full of turqouise charm.

Kava Beach is also worth mentioning as it’s totally wild and tranquil.

The picturesque ambience hides the village Arbanija with the Dominican monastery.

The best way to explore Čiovo is to base itself here having a car.

If you’re spending one day in Trogir, don’t miss Čiovo and its stunning views towards Trogir. If you can catch some of these splendid beaches, that’s three plus double win.

1 day itinerary in Trogir

Having one day in Trogir is a perfect way to enjoy the uniqueness of this small town. Its medieval vibes and cobblestone magic guarantee a splendid day. Just strolling around will give you the opportunity to absorb the hidden corners.

Visit the Cathedral, get lost in the lovely streets, enjoy ice-cream or rafioli at Djovani. Above all, enjoy and observe the atmosphere at the promenade. Definitely visit Čiovo too.

Final words- One day in Trogir

If you’re visiting Split, don’t miss Trogir. It’s such an enchanting small town and even having one afternoon is enough. The vivid atmosphere is ever so present during summer.

PIN IT FOR LATER: