Trogir is a UNESCO-listed island town connected by bridges to the mainland and the island of Čiovo, 25 minutes from Split. The old town is one of the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic complexes in central Europe, centred on a cathedral with a remarkable carved portal by Master Radovan (1240). The town is compact — walkable in 30 minutes — but dense with churches, palaces, and a waterfront that fills with yachts in summer. It's a popular day trip from Split, but staying here rather than there gives you the old town in the quieter evening hours and a more intimate base for exploring the Dalmatian coast.
Why Stay in Trogir
- Cathedral of St Lawrence: The Radovan Portal (1240) is a masterwork of medieval sculpture, Biblical scenes, animals, and the seasons carved in extraordinary detail. The bell tower offers rooftop views. The interior has a Renaissance chapel by Firentinac.
- Old town: A complete medieval island town with Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and a Venetian fortress. The scale is human. narrow streets opening onto small squares. It's more cohesive than Split's larger, more fragmented old town.
- Waterfront: The Riva promenade faces the mainland and fills with restaurants, cafes, and moored boats. Evening strolls here, with the old town illuminated behind, are one of the Dalmatian coast's pleasures.
- Split proximity: Diocletian's Palace and Split's cultural life are 25 minutes away by car or bus. Trogir offers a quieter overnight base with easy access to the city.
