Day trip to Trogir and Split from Makarska Riviera

Exploring Croatia’s Coast: A Full-Day Tour to Split and Trogir from Makarska Riviera

If you’re planning to visit the Croatian coast, this day trip to Split and Trogir from Makarska offers an engaging way to see two of the region’s most celebrated UNESCO-listed sites without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself. Whether you’re arriving in Makarska for a few days or just passing through, this tour promises a blend of history, stunning scenery, and relaxed exploration.

What we really appreciate about this excursion is how it combines comfort and convenience—a well-coordinated coach picks you up at your hotel, so no fuss about navigating unfamiliar roads. Plus, the inclusion of professional guides and entrance fees means you get a thorough experience packed into just about 7 hours. That said, it’s important to remember that this is a pretty fast-paced day, so if you prefer to explore at a more leisurely pace, you might find the schedule tight.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a guided overview of Croatia’s coast with the flexibility to explore on your own during free time. It’s especially suited for those who love history, architecture, and scenic coastal views, but don’t want to rent a car or plan transportation themselves.

Key Points

• Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day—Split’s Diocletian’s Palace and Trogir’s Old Town.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Professional guides enhance your understanding of local history and culture.
• Flexible free time allows for shopping, dining, or wandering independently.
• Includes entrance fees for major landmarks, saving you time and money.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness willing to walk and explore historic sites.

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This full-day guided tour starts bright and early, with a pickup from your hotel around 8:15 am. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned coach that makes the roughly 2-hour drive to Split a breeze. This early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds and get the most out of your sightseeing.

Split: A Walk Through Roman and Medieval Splendor

Your first stop is Split’s Old Town, where the guide will lead you through its winding streets and highlight the imposing Diocletian’s Palace—a sprawling complex that dates back to the 4th century. It’s no exaggeration to say that this UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of Split, blending ancient Roman architecture with lively cafes, shops, and local life.

Expect about three hours here, which includes a guided tour of the main sights plus some free time. The entrance ticket for the cathedral and other key landmarks is included, so you won’t be scrambling for cash or tickets. We loved the way the guide weaves stories about Roman emperors, medieval rulers, and modern-day life in the city, making the history come alive.

One reviewer mentioned, “We saw Roman buildings thousands of years old and walked along streets that the Romans walked on,” emphasizing how tangible history feels here. Another appreciated that the guide provided a wealth of information, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Trogir: Island Charm and Medieval Magic

After a pleasant drive along the coast, you’ll arrive in Trogir, a picturesque town on a tiny island connected to the mainland by bridges. Trogir’s Old Town is renowned for its lovely medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and well-preserved historic landmarks.

The tour includes a sightseeing walk around Trogir’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where you’ll see the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Clock Tower, and other centuries-old monuments. The guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles that give Trogir its special character.

There’s a lovely opportunity to enjoy a snack at Mlinice Pantan around 2:30 pm, which features bread, prosciutto, cheese, and a glass of local wine—adding a taste of Croatian hospitality to your day.

By around 4:45 pm, the group departs Trogir for the return journey. The drive back is relaxed, and you’ll arrive back at your hotel by approximately 7:30 pm.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Among the best aspects of this experience are the knowledgeable guides who bring history to life, and the stunning coastal views you enjoy during the drive. The inclusion of entrance fees for key sites simplifies the day, allowing you to focus on exploring rather than worrying about tickets.

The free time at both locations offers flexibility—whether you want to shop, take photos, or grab a quick meal. The tour’s pace balances guided sightseeing with personal exploration, ideal for active travelers and history buffs alike.

Value and Cost Effectiveness

At $95.59 per person, this tour provides good value considering the included entrance fees, a snack, and guided commentary. Compared to solo travel costs—car rentals, guide services, and tickets—this organized trip offers a hassle-free way to maximize your sightseeing.

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour worthwhile: “Had a fabulous day, full of history, culture, and historic sites,” shared one guest. The guide’s professionalism, combined with the comfort of the coach, creates a smooth and enriching experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate guided cultural experiences and want to see the highlights without the stress of planning transport or navigating unfamiliar roads. It’s ideal if you enjoy history, architecture, and scenic coastal drives.
Those with moderate physical fitness will find it perfectly manageable, as it involves walking through historic streets and some standing during sightseeing.

Keep in mind that the schedule is a bit tight, so if you prefer unhurried exploration or want to spend more time shopping or dining, this might feel rushed. However, for a rundown packed into a manageable day, it hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to explore Croatia’s coast and soak in its history, this full-day guided tour to Split and Trogir offers an efficient, well-organized way to do so. The inclusion of UNESCO sites, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation ensures you get a rich experience without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

If your priorities include seeing iconic landmarks, learning about the local culture, and enjoying scenic drives, this tour delivers good value and authentic moments. It’s a great choice whether you’re on a short visit or simply want an easy, guided overview of the region’s highlights.

While it’s not suited for those seeking a slow-paced, deeply immersive experience, it’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of guided insight and personal discovery in a single day. Expect to walk away with a greater appreciation of Croatia’s historical grandeur and coastal beauty.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time, guided sightseeing, and free periods for personal exploration.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Makarska Riviera hotel are included, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace in Split and the historic Old Town of Trogir, including landmarks like the Cathedral of St. Lawrence.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance fees for the cathedral in Split and key sites in Trogir.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a moderate amount of cash for personal purchases or meals, and modest clothing for church visits (covering shoulders and knees).

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, or grabbing a snack at both locations.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness willing to walk and explore historic sites. Children and older travelers should consider their comfort with walking and standing.

Whether you want to tick two UNESCO sites off your list or simply enjoy the scenic Croatian coast, this tour from Makarska offers a practical and enjoyable way to do it.