40 Photos showing why you should visit Trogir (Croatia)
One of the essential trips from Split is Trogir. This little town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a location first settled by the Greeks (in 3 BC), the Romans, and then the Venetian empire in the 1400’s.
Why Visit Trogir? Because it is one of the best preserved medieval towns in all of Europe. You’ll find a castle, palaces and churches, all surrounded by fortified walls. Exploring the small alleys (especially at night), you may find your wondering if you somehow got transported back in time.
Accommodation: It’s worth staying a night in Trogir. Recommended: Palace Central Square or Villa Kudelik. Both are in the heart of the old town.
This post will highlight 40 Photos showing why you should visit Trogir.
The starting point of a visit to Trogir is the main square. There you’ll see the highlight attraction in Trogir – the St. Lawrence Cathedral. Construction of it started in the 13th century but it was only finished in the 17th century, meaning the cathedral is built in different styles (the exterior is in Romanesque style, the interior in Gothic). One of the highlights of the Cathedral is the outside portal constructed by Croatian sculptor Radovan (dating from the 13th century) which features exotic animals and fantastical creatures.
It’s worth going up the Cathedral’s bell tower. Note that it’s not the easiest climb, especially if you have a fear of heights and open spaces. But it’s worth it for the views over Trogir.
The Cathedral isn’t the only attraction on the main square. Across from the Cathedral is the church of St. Sebastian and its city clock tower. The church was built starting in 1467 following the plague of 1465/66.
Next to St. Sebastian is the 15th century Loggia which was the courthouse used by the Venetians to hand out justice. The horse (and Bishop riding him) were carved by Ivan Meštrović in 1938.
Some more photos around the main square:
As I mentioned, Trogir is very photogenic and you should wander it’s many little streets. If you come in winter and stay the night (which we did), you might find yourself the only person walking around. It’s a bit eerie…but special.
The Old town has two main gates – one on the inland side and one facing the Riva.
The Riva is a fun place to walk and has many great views and highlights.
Although Trogir has highlights (such as the St. Lawrence Cathedral, the main square, and some churches and palaces), it’s not the highlights that make Trogir special. What makes Trogir special is the town as a whole; the narrow cobblestoned streets , the stone houses with wooden shutters, the columns and balconies you see everywhere. The old town has been beautifully preserved and you really do feel that you’ve stepped back to medieval times. These days there are few places where you can say that. But Trogir is one of those places. And that makes it very special.
A few last photos
Some practical information
– Trogir is right next to Split Airport (airport code: SPU). They should actually call it Trogir airport because it’s just a few minutes away.
– Bus. Trogir is an easy 30 minute bus ride from Split. Buses can be taken from the main bus station in town (next to the ferry piers) and there’s usually 2 buses an hour (see this site for schedules). A slower city bus (bus 37) also makes it to Trogir as well as the airport (Split airport is located 3 km from Trogir).
– Want to rent a car to see Trogir and other highlights in the area? Primosten, Sibenik, Split, Omis, Makarska are all within easy driving distance. I’d also drive up Mt. Biokovo which is an incredible experience. See this post on car rental.
– Time. We explored the town in 3 hours. Even if you spend longer, you can easily do Trogir in half a day. It is quite a small town. This 1.5 hr Walking Tour is recommended.
– Accommodation. Trogir is also a relaxing place to stay for a night or two. Since our first visit, we’ve come back several times and stayed overnight. Recommendations: Palace Central Square or Villa Kudelik.
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