Is one day in Trogir worth it? Absolutely. Croatia’s UNESCO-listed medieval island town is compact, easy to explore in a single day, and has enough to see and do to make it well worth the visit.
I added Trogir to my Croatia solo-travel route after Šibenik, and being in full ‘travel girl’ mode, opted to spend just one night here. I booked a hostel bed in the heart of the Old Town, hopped on the bus, and spent the day wandering cobbled streets, taking in panoramic views, and enjoying a little beach time – the perfect solo day in Croatia.
Whether you’re stopping along the coast, day-tripping from Split, or using Trogir as a quieter base, it’s a hassle-free and worthwhile addition to any itinerary.
In this travel guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make the most of one day in Trogir (whether solo or not) – from how to get there and where to stay, to must-see sights, beach options, and even day-trip ideas if you decide to stay longer. First, let’s explore what makes Trogir stand out and why it’s a must-visit gem on the Dalmatian Coast.
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🏨 Find budget-friendly accommodation → Hostelworld + Booking.com
🎟️ Browse tours and day trips → GetYourGuide
🗺️ Travel insurance → SafetyWing
📱Stay connected with an eSIM → Airalo or Yesim
Why Visit Trogir?
Trogir may be small, but it packs charm, history, and easy accessibility into a compact area – perfect for a day visit or a longer stay. Even if you’re driving along the coast and just passing through, a 2–3 hour stop is well worth it.
Easy to Reach 🚌
Trogir’s central spot on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast makes it super easy to visit. It’s just a short drive or bus ride from Split city, and only 10–15 minutes from Split Airport. Moreover, Trogir is well connected to nearby towns – like Šibenik, where I travelled from – making it perfect for fitting into any itinerary (and a great base for day trips if you want to stay longer).
Perfect for a Short Stop ⏳
You don’t need days to enjoy Trogir. I could’ve stayed longer, but a solo day here gave me plenty of time to wander the cobbled streets, admire the medieval architecture, and stroll over to nearby Otok Čiovo. Compact, charming, and easy to explore, Trogir is ideal for a stress-free stop on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast.
UNESCO Old Town & Unique Layout 🏰
Trogir’s Old Town is a UNESCO-listed gem, perched on a tiny island connected by bridges to both the mainland and Otok Čiovo. Its layout is unique, and even with limited time, you can easily see everything without feeling rushed.
Charming Streets & Waterfront Charm 🌊
Full of narrow, cobbled streets, medieval architecture, lively squares, and a pretty waterfront promenade, Trogir offers plenty to explore in a compact area. Panoramic views can be found throughout the town, and despite its energy, it remains relaxed.
Overall, Trogir is a must-visit – whether for a few hours, a day or longer! Next, let’s look at the easiest ways to get there.
How to Get to Trogir
Split is the closest major city to Trogir, making it quick, easy, and affordable to travel between the two. But if you’re coming from elsewhere in Croatia (as I did), it’s just as simple to reach Trogir.
✈️ For cheap flights to Croatia, search Skyscanner ✈️
🚌 For bus travel in Croatia, head over to BusBud and Flixbus. While Busbud compares all the main bus companies and prices in one place, sometimes not all Flixbus options appear! 🚌
🛬 From Split Airport to Trogir
Trogir is just 5–6 km from Split Airport (~20 min by car). If you’ve booked accommodation in Trogir as a quieter base than Split, the easiest ways to get into town are:
- 🚕 Taxi/transfer: Book in advance via GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups.
- 🚌 Public bus: Local bus connects Split airport to Trogir city, the perfect budget-friendly option.
🚗 From Elsewhere in Croatia
If you’re travelling from other Croatian cities, there are a couple of straightforward options:
- 🚌 By bus: Many regional buses connect Šibenik, Zadar, and Dubrovnik to Trogir. I took Flixbus from Šibenik to Zadar, and it was comfortable and reliable. Check schedules on Busbud or Flixbus.
- 🚗 By car: Driving gives you flexibility to explore nearby Dalmatian towns along the way. Trogir is easily accessible via the A1 motorway and D8 coastal road. Parking is limited in Trogir, so plan ahead. Check for rental cars here.
🚌 Getting to Trogir from Split City:
Since most visitors come to Trogir on a day trip from Split, the following options focus on getting there quickly and easily.
Local Bus (Budget Option) 🚌
If you’re travelling on a budget, the local bus is the most affordable way to get from Split to Trogir. Buses run frequently throughout the day.
💸 Cost: ~€2
⏱ Duration: ~1 hour (longer in traffic)
🚏 Departure: Trogir Bus Station
🚏 Arrival: Split bus terminal Sukoiša
💡Good to know: Local bus tickets include transfers within a specific time (such as up to 90-minutes – check your ticket). So, if you need to connect to another bus in Split, you usually won’t need to buy a new ticket.
I took the local bus from Trogir to Split (I’d arrived in Trogir by coach from Šibenik the day before). The journey took longer than scheduled, and the bus did get really busy (luckily I got a seat). If you don’t mind a slower ride and want to save a few euros, the local bus does the job. It was rainy when I travelled, so I wasn’t in a rush and didn’t mind the extra time.
That said, if you’d prefer something quicker and more comfortable, there is a faster budget-friendly option…
By Coach (Fastest & Most Comfortable) 🚍
For a quicker and more comfortable ride, booking a coach is the best choice. Coaches are slightly more expensive than local buses, but they’re faster, less crowded, and ideal if you’re short on time.
💸 Cost: Slightly more expensive than local buses but still very affordable. Varies depending on time of year and when booked. 👉 Book bus travel here.
⏱ Duration: ~30 minutes
🚏Departure: Trogir Bus Station
🚏 Arrival: Split Autobusni Kolodvor (this is the main bus station – right next to Old Town + ferries)
💡 Tip: Coaches can sell out during peak season, so it’s worth booking ahead.
Check schedules and fares on both Busbud and Flixbus.
By Ferry (Scenic Option) ⛴️
Bura Line operates a seasonal ferry between Split and Trogir.
⏱ Duration: ~60 minutes
💸 Cost: €9 for a one-way adult ticket (purchase onboard before departure)
Check the latest schedule on Bura Line’s website before you travel.
Where to Stay in Trogir
If you decide to stay a night or two in Trogir, there are plenty of accommodation options for every budget. Staying in the Old Town puts you right in the middle of everything – I loved staying there! For somewhere a bit quieter, cheaper and closer to the beach, consider staying across the bridge on Čiovo Island.
✨ I always use Hostelworld and Booking.com to search for budget-friendly accommodation ✨
Hostels in Trogir
Trogir has two hostels, making it an easy and affordable base for backpackers or solo travellers.
Boutique City Hostel Trogir – Top-Rated & Best Location 🌟
💸 Best for: Solo travellers who want comfort + unbeatable Old Town location
📍 Location: Right in the heart of Trogir’s Old Town, steps from St. Lawrence Cathedral and a 4-minute walk from the bus station.
✔ I stayed in a 4-bed dorm at Boutique City Hostel Trogir and can confirm it is an excellent choice! The rooms are spacious, the beds are super comfortable, and the location couldn’t be better!!
✘ Cons: No real kitchen (only plates, cutlery, and a kettle in the common area)
Hostel Marina Trogir – Best Budget Pick 💰
💸 Best for: Travellers wanting lower prices + kitchen access
📍 Location: Along the waterfront, directly opposite the Old Town; ~12-minute walk from the bus station. Closer to the beaches on Čiovo Island.
✘ Cons: Slightly further from the bus station, less central than Boutique City Hostel.
Hotels and Apartments in Trogir
If you’re not travelling solo, or simply prefer your own space, Trogir has plenty of hotel and apartment options.
Here are a few top-rated hotels worth checking out:
- Brown Beach House & Spa – A stylish boutique hotel with a gorgeous pool and sea views. Perfect if you want a more luxurious stay.
👉 Check prices & availability here. - Hotel Monika – A comfortable, well-loved hotel tucked right inside the Old Town’s stone streets – ideal for sightseeing and walkability.
👉 See current deals here. - Heritage Hotel Vila Sikaa – A budget-friendly hotel right over the bridge from the Old Town, with lovely views across the water. Ideal for anyone wanting comfort without a high price tag.
👉 Book Heritage Hotel Vila Sikaa here - Villa Sv. Petar – A beautifully restored 14th-century building in the heart of the Old Town. Clean and well equipped, with an apartment option that includes a kitchen.
👉 Book Villa Sv. Petar here
Prefer an apartment?
Trogir has a variety of apartments – from simple studios to modern sea-view flats on Čiovo Island. Apartments are often better value than hotels, and ideal if you want:
- more space
- kitchen facilities
- lower prices in high season
- easy beach access
Top Things to Do in Trogir
Wander Through Trogir’s UNESCO Old Town
The main focal point of Trogir is its UNESCO-listed Old Town; if you come to Trogir, you come here. You don’t need a plan to explore – just a willingness to wander any street that catches your eye, which honestly gives you the best kind of tour. The Old Town is compact, so it doesn’t take long to see the main highlights, but that just means you have more time to enjoy what’s here. You’ll find plenty of places to stop for something to eat or drink, or simply sit and take in the atmosphere.
I reached the Old Town within two minutes of leaving the bus station on foot and headed straight to my accommodation, Boutique City Hostel Trogir. After checking in, I didn’t have far to go to start exploring – this hostel had me in a prime spot. So I wandered the narrow streets, coming across historic buildings, charming courtyards, and significant points, including Trg Ivana Pavla II.
Trg Ivana Pavla II
Essentially the heart of Trogir, Trg Ivana Pavla II is the main square (and was literally a minute away from my hostel!). It’s one of those places you’ll inevitably pass through more than once. Around the square, you’ll find several of Trogir’s key landmarks, including the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Cipiko Palace, the City Hall, and the Trogir Tourist Office.
When I checked in, the guy at my hostel insisted I climb the Cathedral’s bell tower for the best views in Trogir – so I made that my next stop.
Climb St. Lawrence Cathedral’s Bell Tower for Epic Views
Trogir’s famous bell tower belongs to the city’s most notable building, St. Lawrence Cathedral, and climbing it is one of the top things to do in Trogir Old Town.
💶 Entrance: €5 – tickets can be purchased from the Tourist Office located just opposite the Cathedral.
The climb is short but steep, with some narrow staircases, and it’s absolutely worth it for the iconic panoramic views. Despite the steep sections, the climb is relatively quick, making it perfect for solo travellers or anyone short on time.
For just €5, and following the hostel staff’s recommendation, I added it to my day – and I’m so glad I did (LOVE a good viewpoint!). I went up in the afternoon while the sun was shining, which made the colours of the Old Town really pop.
Climbing up the tower, there are views at various points along the way. At one point, you step out onto what feels like the cathedral’s roof. It’s really cool to be so close, yet removed from the action below, with people not even realizing anyone is up there!
From there, it’s a short final climb to the top, where the best views await. From the top, you can admire the Old Town’s classic orange roofs, take in the coastline, and gaze across to Otok Čiovo – the views are seriously impressive.
When I reached the top, there were only a couple of others up there, and I even had it to myself for a little while before a few more people came and went. I ended up spending longer at the top than necessary – if I’ve paid for a view, I’m going to stay and really take it in! I was definitely surprised by how quiet the bell tower was, despite all the people in the square below. Maybe I was just lucky that day – or perhaps not everyone realizes they can climb for such stunning views?
💡 Tip: You can also visit the interior of St. Lawrence Cathedral itself. Entrance requires a separate ticket, but it’s a great option if you want to explore its chapels, sculptures, and historic details.
Stroll Along the Waterfront Promenade
After exploring the Bell Tower and Old Town, take a walk down Trogir’s picturesque, palm-tree lined waterfront promenade. With restaurants and cafés, boats, and beautiful views of the Adriatic, you’ll see locals and visitors enjoying the marina. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a gelato or simply watch the world go by while taking in the unique perspective on the town’s historic architecture from the water’s edge. Trogir’s waterfront is also a gem at night, especially if you’re travelling solo and want to be around some buzz!
At the western end of the promenade, you’ll find Kamerlengo Castle, a historic fortress that stands out along the waterfront.
Kamerlengo Castle
Visiting Kamerlengo Castle and walking along its walls is a popular activity for stunning views of the town, the marina, and the surrounding coastline. Entrance fee is €5.
Castle vs Bell Tower: If you’re trying to decide between the two, here’s a quick guide:
- St. Lawrence Cathedral Bell Tower: Offers closer views of the Old Town’s rooftops, intimate glimpses over courtyards, and a central perspective of Trogir itself. Perfect for experiencing the town’s historic heart.
- Kamerlengo Castle: Gives a broader, more open panorama of the waterfront, marina, and surrounding coastline. Great for capturing Trogir in context with the sea and Otok Čiovo.
If you have time, you could do both – each viewpoint offers a different perspective and unique photo opportunities! I’d recommend visiting one during the day, then the other for sunset. I definitely would have done this, but the thing is, I somehow didn’t even know you could climb the castle walls at the time. So I missed out (regrets, but at least I got the views from the Bell Tower!).
Explore Otok Čiovo on a Trogir Day Trip
One of the easiest (and most underrated!) things to do in Trogir is to walk over to Otok Čiovo. Connected directly to Trogir’s waterfront promenade by a pedestrian-friendly bridge, it’s one of Croatia’s most accessible islands. It’s a pretty cool setup – hopping from one island to another on foot! With it being so ridiculously easy to reach, it would be a shame not to wander over and explore Otok Čiovo at least a little!
If you’re not in the mood to walk, or you’ve decided to base yourself on Čiovo and are wondering how to get into town, public buses run regularly between the island and Trogir. They’re cheap, convenient, and ideal if you’re heading to the beach or carrying luggage.
Stay on Čiovo: A Beachy Base Near Trogir
Čiovo is also a really popular place to stay – especially in summer – because it offers the best of both worlds: quick access to Trogir’s UNESCO Old Town plus more space, beaches, and quieter coastal neighbourhoods. If you’re planning a longer visit or prefer a more relaxed, beachy base, it’s worth considering a stay here.
👉 Browse the best places to stay on Čiovo.
Hit Čiovo’s Beaches
One of the main draws of visiting Otok Čiovo from Trogir is the chance to enjoy some beach time in Croatia. While Trogir Old Town sits right on the waterfront, it’s not really a beach spot, but you don’t have to go far to find one!
Ready for a late-afternoon walk to explore Čiovo a little and escape the busier streets of the Old Town, I headed over to the island’s beaches. I made my way to Okrug Gornji, a village on the western side of Čiovo, home to Copacabana Beach, one of the island’s most popular spots.
I strolled along the beachfront promenade, lined with bars, restaurants, and cafés. These spots are perfect for anyone looking for a snack or a drink. I then couldn’t resist spending some time on the beach, a great spot for swimmers, sunbathers, and water-sports lovers. When I visited later in the afternoon (in September), it wasn’t overly busy — perfect for some solo travel chill time. I can imagine it’s much busier in the summer!
If you’re visiting Trogir for a day, spending a couple of hours exploring Otok Čiovo’s beaches is more than enough to get a feel for the island and enjoy its relaxed, beachy vibe. If you plan to stay longer in Trogir or on Čiovo itself, you’ll have even more time to explore beyond the beaches I visited!
Return to Trogir for a Sunset Stroll
After my chill time on Čiovo’s beaches, I again opted to walk rather than take the bus. Being solo, I made sure to head back before dark, enjoying a quiet, relaxed sunset stroll that almost wrapped up my day in the city. Back by the marina, the atmosphere had livened, and I got to see Trogir transform from day to night. There was definitely a buzz by the waterfront, with the restaurants filling up, and people strolling with ice-cream!
Day Trip Ideas from Trogir
If you really like the sound of Trogir, and are considering basing yourself here for longer than a day, know that taking day trips from here is easy to do. Whether interested in a city trip, visiting a national park, or a Croatia island tour, you can find a day trip to suit your vibe! So, let’s take a look at some excellent day trips from Trogir.
City Trips – Trogir Day Trips to Split, Šibenik, Zadar & Mostar
Split:
As mentioned earlier in this post, Split is the closest major city to Trogir, and is one of Croatia’s most popular destinations. Just a short bus or ferry ride takes you from Trogir to a bigger, livelier city offering a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern city life. Spend the day exploring the historic Diocletian’s Palace, climbing Marjan Hill for breathtaking Adriatic views, or strolling along the bustling Riva promenade. For some relaxation, Split also has several beaches perfect for a swim.
Šibenik:
Another lovely option is Šibenik, located slightly further along the coast in the opposite direction from Split. Known for its UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James, charming old town streets, and historic fortresses, Šibenik makes for a culturally rich day trip. I visited Šibenik while travelling along the coast from Zadar, spending one day and one night there before continuing on to Trogir. For a deeper guide on exploring the city, you can check out my Šibenik post here.
Zadar:
If you’re up for a longer day trip, Zadar is about 2.5 hours away from Trogir by bus. I loved my time in the city, and while I spent several nights there and recommend staying longer if you can, it’s possible to see the main sights in a day. Explore the Old Town, enjoy the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, and soak up the waterfront and relaxed city vibes that Zadar offers. For a more detailed guide, check out my Zadar travel guide here.
Mostar (Bosnia & Herzegovina):
If you’re feeling adventurous, a day trip to Mostar is a great option. Famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and charming old town, Mostar makes for a full-day excursion to another country! The Mostar & Kravica Waterfall Group Tour from Trogir makes visiting Bosnia easy and well worth doing. I took a similar trip from Dubrovnik — for a glimpse of what to expect on a trip to Mostar (it will be very similar to the trip I took, just a different start location!), check out my post here.
Explore Plitvice & Krka: National Park Day Trips from Trogir
Plitvice Lakes:
To admire some of Croatia’s most stunning natural beauty – chasing waterfalls and crystal clear lakes – you can take a day trip from Trogir to Plitvice Lakes. It really is a must visit! The most convenient way to go from Trogir (unless renting a car) is on a guided day trip. Keep in mind it’s a longer day trip, but the early start will be worth it.
This Plitvice Lakes Guided Group Tour from Trogir is a well-rated option to check out.
If you’re also planning to visit Zadar for some nights, consider waiting and visiting from there instead, as it’s much closer. For more details, check out my Plitvice Lakes travel guide.
Krka National Park:
Another of Croatia’s top national parks, Krka also showcases stunning waterfalls and lakes. If Plitvice Lakes seems a bit far, consider Krka – it’s much closer to Trogir.
This Krka Waterfalls Day Tour with Boat Ride departs from Trogir, and is a great hassle-free way to reach and experience the park.
Boat Trips from Trogir
Being right on the coast, Trogir is perfect for exploring nearby islands. Whether you want a short island hop, a packed full-day adventure, or a unique underwater experience, Trogir has a boat trip to suit every kind of traveller. Below are some popular options that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, visiting new islands, and soaking up the sun on the Adriatic.
One top-rated option on GetYourGuide is the Three Islands Half-Day Speedboat Tour, which is great if you want a fun and easy adventure without committing to a full day on the water.
If you’d prefer to pack more into your day, the Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Hvar & 5 Island Tour from Trogir is an excellent full-day trip that covers several stunning spots in one go – perfect if you’re keen to see as much as possible.
For something more unique, just a 30 minute boat ride from Trogir takes you to Croatia’s Via Crucis Underwater Museum. Here, you can jump in the water and snorkel among underwater sculptures. You can check out that tour here.
Final Thoughts
What I loved about spending a day in Trogir is that it doesn’t take long to see the main spots – in the best way. I could enjoy the town without feeling overwhelmed, and the short walk across to Otok Čiovo added a nice little beach escape. Trogir ended up being the perfect small coastal town to enjoy Croatia’s charm in a chill way, which was ideal before heading to busier Split the next day.
