Category: Europe travel

Today, we’ll be exploring Diocletian’s Palace in Split—a place that is both in ruins and alive at the same time. How is that possible, you may ask? The boundaries between Split’s old town and the former Roman emperor Diocletian’s palace are very blurry. One might even say they’re non-existent. After the emperor’s grand retirement home was heavily damaged, former inhabitants of the nearby Solin built new houses within the ruins of the palace, incorporating parts of the old structure into their new buildings.

Many centuries have passed, but even today, in Diocletian’s Palace, you can see ancient ruins blended with living houses, lively cafes, shops, and bars. So, let’s explore it together!

P.S. I’m not a historian, just a regular tourist. I find my facts on the internet, so feel free to suggest corrections if I get something wrong!

Have you heard of Nin, Croatia? What if I told you that this charming little town just ~30  min drive away from Zadar is the place where the Croatian state was born? In fact, Nin is known as the “first political, religious, and cultural center of medieval Croatia.” I have to admit, if this had been a pop quiz question, I would have failed. I only discovered this gem because of Nin’s famous salt fields. But that’s the beauty of travel, right? To explore, discover, and learn something new.

So, let’s hop in the car and explore what to see in Nin, Croatia!

What to see in Nin, Croatia at a glance:

Experience the Unique Charm of Nin’s Salt Fields

Location of viewing platform ; Location of Nin Salt Fields tour & museum

Another pop quiz: How is salt made? There are three main methods of salt production—rock salt mining, brine extraction, and sea water evaporation. In Nin, you can witness the latter.

As I understand it, the process involves large saltwater pools where seawater is collected. The water then moves through a series of pools, gradually evaporating until only salt remains.

But, of course, I’m no expert. If you want to learn more, you can take a guided tour at Nin Saltworks, where they’ll explain everything in detail. Just be sure to plan ahead; when we visited, there was no visible salt in the fields. As it’s a natural salt production that happens too. 

For budget travellers, there’s also a free alternative: you can view Nin’s salt fields from a small observation platform by the roadside. That’s what we did, and I must say, even though the seawater is quite murky and the setup is purely functional, the Nin’s salt fields are quite scenic. Don’t you think so?

Walk Across the Iconic Nin Bridge

Location of Nin Bridge

I spy with my little eye… a beautiful old bridge. Made of stone, with a stunning backdrop of city rooftops and misty mountains, the bridge in Nin is guarded by a statue of Branimir of Croatia, a former ruler. I’m not well-versed in its history, but it’s so picturesque that it belongs on a postcard.

What to See in Nin’s Picture Perfect Old Town?

By now, you know how the story goes in Croatia- we enter the old town through a grand stone gate and are greeted by streets full of souvenir shops, ice cream cafes and historic buildings. 

So what tourist attractions does Nin, Croatia have in store for us?

Meet Gregory of Nin (Again)

Location of Gregory of Nin in Nin, Croatia

If you’ve visited Split, you might recognize a familiar face. In Nin, you’ll find a slightly smaller version of the statue of Gregory of Nin. Yes, the same one whose toe everyone rubs in Split for good luck.

But that’s no surprise—he’s called Gregory of Nin, after all. If you’re wondering who he was, Gregory was a bishop who introduced the Croatian language into Croatian religious services, which had previously been conducted only in Latin.

Discover the Silent Power of Nin’s Miniature Holy Cross Church

Location of Church of Holly Cross Nin, Croatia

In the midst of some ancient ruins stands a tiny church. From just looking at it you can tell it has stood here for a very, very long time. 

This is the Church of the Holy Cross, often referred to as the smallest cathedral in the world—though that’s not an official title.

Inside this must-see of Nin, Croatia, it’s completely empty, with barely enough room to turn around. Yet, despite its size, there’s an undeniable sense of silent power when you step inside.

And here’s a fun fact: the Church of the Holy Cross in Nin, Croatia also functions as a bit of a calendar. It’s positioned so that you can determine the time of the solstice based on the way the sun’s rays enter the church. Quite fascinating, isn’t it?

End Your Nin Day Trip with a Stroll Along Nin’s Charming Promenade

Location of Nin promenade

As charming as Nin’s old town is, it’s rather small, so before long, you’ll find yourself exiting through the stone gate on the other side.

But right before the gate, on the left hand side is a little side path. If you take the turn, a beautiful promenade awaits you. The still water reflects the landscape like a mirror, with mountains in the background that look like they were painted. And if you look carefully – somewhere in between the both you’ll see strips of land that I believe are the Nin’s lagoon beaches.

By the way, Nin is one of the few places in Croatia with sandy beaches, along with some healing mud. So if you are into those kinds of stuff – do check them out. But if, like us, you’re eager to return to Zadar in time for sunset, this scenic route along the water will lead you back to the bridge where you started your hunt for attractions in Nin Old Town.

What to See in Nin, Croatia in 360 video

---

Is Nin worth visiting?

Nin’s proximity to Zadar makes it an ideal choice for a day trip. It’s charming, picturesque, and full of history. However, do keep in mind that dining can be a bit pricey. All in all, if you’re into sightseeing, I highly recommend a visit. So I hope my guide on what to see in Nin, Croatia will help you plan your own day trip to Nin.

On this very rainy day we will explore another Croatian coastal town – Zadar. It’s known for its beautiful old town and famous for its sunsets. Due to the horrible weather we will do a bit of a speed run through Zadar’s most famous tourist attractions, and then we will try to trick the rain by driving to the nearby Nin, which is truly a gem. Have you heard about it? But of course we will come back to Zadar for the sunset. We have to see if it is truly one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. So grab your raincoat and let’s figure out what to see in Zadar together!

What to see in Zadar at a glance:

What to See in Zadar Old Town?

When you’ve visited enough cities along the Dalmatian coast, you start noticing a pattern. All these cities have an old town that’s separated from the rest of the living quarters by thick walls, with a grand entry gate (or gates) that feels like a portal to another world. Once you step through, you’re transported from the everyday world into a land of beautiful old buildings, winding streets, and delightful surprises around every corner.

Zadar’s Impressive Land Gate

Location: Land gate

There are multiple grand entry gates to Zadar’s Old town.

But the gate you really can’t miss is the Land Gate. It’s adorned with the Venetian Empire’s coat of arms—the iconic winged lion—and some other truly impressive sculpture work. What other symbols can you find in this pic?

People’s Square of Zadar (Narodni Trg)

Location: Narodni Trg

Not even the rain can stop people mingling in Zadar’s streets. And one of the best spots for people-watching is said to be the People’s Square. Now, I’m not a huge people-watcher myself—I prefer admiring beautiful old buildings. Luckily, People’s Square has plenty of those too.

If you look at the right you’ll see a building that is practically an art piece – adorned with multiple reliefs of what I believe are city scenes. The detailing is phenomenal! I think this is the Zadar Town Hall, but don’t quote me on that.

On the other end of Zadars people square you’ll spot a clock tower. That’s the city’s old guard. Let me impress you with some numbers. It was built in the 1500’s. The clock was added later in the 19th century.

As I later found out there is also a Church of St. Lawrence hiding somewhere here, but I couldn’t spot it. Maybe you’ll have better luck playing detective than I do!

On the third side of the square is the Zadar City Loggia. I don’t have a good photo of it (blame the rain), but it’s a building with grand columns and arches. It used to serve as a courthouse, but now it’s an exhibition hall. We peeked inside, and I loved that they’ve kept the giant stone judge’s desk as the centrepiece.

Wandering Through Zadar’s Old Town Streets

When it comes to wandering through Zadars Old town streets – it’s fifty shades of Beige. But it’s not a sad beige, as the textures and details bring it to life. And the little shops selling clothes, souvenirs, and even rubber ducks add a pop of colour with their vibrant window displays.

If you wander without a plan, you might stumble across hidden gems like this charming little courtyard. Look up! I bet the neighbours on opposite sides could open their windows in the morning and enjoy coffee together.

5 Wells Square in Zadar

Location: 5 wells square

For some reason, the image I associated most with Zadar before coming here was the 5 Wells Square.

As you might guess, it’s a large open-air area with five identical wells. They’re no longer functional, though. The buckets are gone, and they’re locked with metal covers now, but they for sure are beautiful. Plus these wells have already served their time, back in the day, providing Zadar with water during turbulent times.

In the background, you can see Captain’s Tower, which was once part of the city’s defence system. And on the right, you’ll find the city walls and an entrance to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park – the oldest one in the town.

Zadar’s Churches

Location: St. Donatus church

There is a lot to unpack in this scene. As there are 2 intriguing churches fighting for your attention in the same place.

The smaller, round one is the Church of St. Donatus, dating back to the 9th century. What I find fascinating is that some of the parts from the old Roman Forum, on which it was built, were used in its construction.

And that beautiful tower belongs to St. Anastasia’s Cathedral. I saw a blog post describing this church as “elegant,” and I couldn’t agree more. Just look at those ornaments above the window arches!

Climbing the bell tower is a top tourist activity in Zadar. It was on my bucket list too. But due to our plan of escaping the rain we thought we would come back to it later. But we never did. So if you do climb it, please let me know how it was!

What to See in Zadar Promenade?

Although I love Split’s palm trees, Zadar’s promenade might just be my favourite from all the promenades I visited during my Croatia road trip.

Sunset on Zadar Promenade

Location: Zadar promenade

You start your walk on a narrow pathway by the old town walls and then come to this open area by the sea where the pavement stretches as far as the eye can see. I bet it’s beautiful any time of day, but it’s perfect for an evening stroll to catch the sunset.

Let’s just take a moment to enjoy the peace and quiet.

The closer we get to the end of the promenade, the busier it becomes. We had this brilliant idea to watch the sunset from here, but guess who else had the same idea? Literally everyone else in Zadar.

By now, the Sea Organ—a mystical musical instrument that plays haunting sounds created by the waves—was swarmed with tourists. No chance of getting a seat to hear its melody. So here is a pro tip: come at a different time of day to really enjoy it.

Luckily, there’s plenty of space at the end of the promenade where we can sit. We watch the sun dip below the horizon, and the ships sail by. When a larger ferry passes, its waves give a boost to the Sea organ and we hear a long lonely howl from up here too. 

And for those wondering—the sunset in Zadar is indeed beautiful.

Greeting to the Sun

Location: Greeting to the Sun

Once the sun sets, everyone, almost like they’re part of an organised group, moves to the next attraction.

On Zadar’s promenade, there’s an installation of solar panels that collect light during the day and turn it into a playful light show after dark.

People gather around it, forming a big circle, waiting for the “Greeting to the Sun” to come to life. At first, everyone seems a bit shy, hesitant to step onto the panels. Only the kids are having the time of their life, running around and doing tricks.

The lights start off a bit shy too, but as the night grows darker, they shine brighter, displaying various colourful patterns. Visitors loosen up as well, eventually stepping onto the installation to snap that perfect selfie.

What a perfect way to end the day in Zadar.

What to See in zadar in 360 video

FAQs About traveling to Zadar

Zadar vs Split. Which one to choose?

Both cities boast charming old towns, stunning beaches, and mouthwatering seafood, so you really can’t go wrong with either.

Now, I’ve heard that Zadar is supposed to be less touristy than Split, but honestly, from what I experienced, the crowds seemed pretty similar. The number of people wandering the attractions and streets felt about the same, and prices didn’t differ much either. That being said, I visited in the beginning of June, so the situation may be different in peak season.

For me, the biggest difference between the two cities lies in the day trips they offer. If you’re dreaming of exploring Plitvice Lakes or Kornati National Park, Zadar is your best bet—it’s closer to both of these natural wonders than Split. Plus, Šibenik is just a short drive away from Zadar, making it an easy and worthwhile trip.

How did we get around during our trip to Zadar?

Although we had a rental car, Zadar’s old town is pedestrian only, so we left the car in one of the paid parking lots and explored by foot. The price of the parking lot was within our budget, but make sure you have cash on hand when traveling to Zadar, as the one we parked at was cash only.

What to see in Zadar if you have time to visit only one place?

There are more places to see in Zadar than we had time to explore in one day. But if I had to pick a one must-see in Zadar it would have to be the promenade with the Greeting to the sun due how to how unique it is.

---

Is Zadar worth visiting?

As I mentioned earlier, we had very little time to explore Zadar due to our side quest to Nin. I’d rather call this visit a “starter” than the main course. But from what I saw, Zadar is yet another beautiful Croatian town with historic buildings and arguably the most walk-friendly promenade I’ve experienced on this trip.

Liked our post on what to see in Zadar?

I’ve heard a lot of discussions about whether it is worth visiting both Krka National Park and Plitvice on your Croatia trip. So, we have to figure that out! Rumour has it that Krka is worth visiting if you explore more than just the main waterfall. So, we’re setting that as our goal for the day. We are starting with the stunning foot trail to Skradinski Buk and then moving on to other exciting things like a boat ride to a monastery hidden away on an island, visiting beautiful old water mills, enjoying another waterfall, and exploring a cave.

Hope you have your hiking shoes on!

What to see in Krka National Park:

What To See At Lozovac Entrance Of Krka National Park

Picture-Perfect Foot Trail to Krka’s Crown Jewel – Skradinski Buk

At 8 AM, the crowds aren’t here yet, but they are coming. So, we start with the most popular part of Krka National Park first—the walking path to the main waterfall.

As we are starting from the Lozovac entrance, we’ll explore the paths first and then see the waterfall itself as the cherry on top of the cake.

I have to say—Krka is stunning. You’re walking on a mix of wooden and gravel paths shaded by lush green trees. On both sides, there’s clear water where you can spot little fish.

The frogs are singing, and the birds are joining the choir too. Time after time, there are tiny waterfalls or wannabe waterfalls (aka rapids) bubbling away. It’s nature’s symphony.

Chasing The Tiny-falls And Waterfalls in Krka National Park

Also, Krka knows how to tease you. 

After a while of enjoying some tiny-falls we come across a spot where you can see the big waterfall in the distance. There are more people queuing up here. And for whatever reason the water seems bluer from up here too.

And after that we come across this beautiful, old building overgrown with ivy, behind which a larger waterfall is bubbling away. This one has multiple streams of water running over mossy green rocks. Does it get more romantic than that?

Possibly. We also saw a waterfall that seems to have dried out, leaving only a cave behind it. But you can still see the pattern water has carved into the sand.

Snatching The Perfect Pic At Skradinski Buk

And then we reach the main attraction – the famous Skradinski buk.

It’s a pretty multi-level waterfall that runs with a huge force. You can no longer swim here, but there is a nice walkway to get closer to the falls to snatch that perfect picture. 

It is beautiful. However, if I have to compare it to waterfalls in Plitvice and Kravice waterfalls in nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina, I have to say that this one is smaller and simpler.

But that is why we are doing more than just visiting the waterfall. And even if we wouldn’t – the walk leading up to Skradinski Buk was perfect.

In the nearby area one can also stumble across a couple of small, historic expositions of traditional cookware, local crafts and watermills. 

But we have walked for a couple of hours already. I believe it has been 5,5 km. So I think this would be a good time to chill a bit to recharge our batteries. Preferably on a boat.

Krka Boat Ride To Visovac Island

In Krka, there’s a monastery so remote from the rest of the world that you have to take a boat ride to get there. Intriguing, right?

Actually, there are a couple of boat ride options to choose from in Krka, but heads up, they’re not included in the ticket price, so you’ll need to pay extra to enjoy them. Today we are trying out a two-hour round trip, which takes you to the Visovac island and back.

The boat ride in Krka National Park itself is very calming.

Around you there is just blue water and some hills that are overgrown with trees. No hustle and bustle to be seen. Some may call it a bit monotonous. I will call it chill. 

Does one have to take the boat ride to enjoy Krka? No. But if you have the means and want to sit down for a bit, to enjoy some views without putting in a lot of effort, it’s a nice way to rest for a bit.  

A Place For Peace And Prayer

After a ~40-minute ride, you’ll spot the Visovac island.

It’s not exactly as it appears in marketing materials for Krka, as you can’t see most of the church behind the trees, but you can spot a tower peeking out. When the boat stops, you get a quick rundown of what you can explore for the next 30 minutes.

On the small island you can wander around the gardens where you can see fruit and vegetables growing.

There is also a museum displaying religious artefacts and a very beautiful old church. The aura on the little island is as chill as on the water. Such a thing as rush doesn’t exist here. I can see why it’s a perfect place for worship.

When the little tour comes to an end the boat takes you back to the starting point.

After recharging our batteries it is time to jump in a car and drive to Roški Slap entrance which is ~30-40 min away to explore some other cool places.

What To See at Roški Slap Entrance of Krka

Exploring The Old Watermills Of Krka

There is something romantic about a rustic stone house with an old carriage enjoying its retirement in front of it.

Some of the buildings in the Krka mill complex have been given a modern twist—there’s a restaurant and a souvenir shop, but the real gems are the parts that function as an open-air museum. So let’s take a peek inside.

Have you seen a watermill before? Now, I’ve seen exactly one. And that one had a giant wheel, turning since the dawn of time and probably set to spin until the end of eternity.

So, I was expecting the wood beams and the un-plastered walls, but I wasn’t prepared for a whole lineup of these copy-paste millstones, just sitting silently next to each other. It’s giving a bit of a shut-down factory vibe.

And then there’s this room with big buckets in the ground. Look down, and you’ll see water swirling around in them. They’re kinda cool. But what on earth are they for?

Off the Beaten Path 

(Not in the video)

We also tried to walk the nature trail from the watermills for a bit. However, what we found was mostly a path through the trees with some cliffs in the distance and what looked like a cabbage field and some gardens on the side.

As this was too similar to the nature trails we can enjoy at home after around 2 km we decided to skip this one, to make some time for other attractions in Krka. Let me know if we missed out on something big here.

Stunning Cascades Of Roški Slap

The big question of the day: where’s Roški Slap waterfall? According to the map, it should be somewhere between the bridge we crossed to get to the car park and the watermills.

I could swear I heard it bubbling away, teasing us. But despite our best efforts, there was no path in sight leading to it. Defeated, we decided to call it quits and followed the sign to Oziđana Pećina Cave instead.

But to get to the cave, we need to climb these very, very high stairs. And I am not going to lie—those stairs look scary.

Somewhere midway up, I am already out of breath. Miks is strongly in the lead, while I am somewhere many steps behind, regretting my life choices. Until, a beautiful view of Roški Slap unfolds.

Look to the left, and you’ll see a series of little cascades following each other in a beautiful, wave-like pattern. The greenery on the rocks blends seamlessly into the trees on the shore, which then blend into the cliff behind it. Gorgeous!

So it turns out Roški slap is not a folktale no one can find – it just needs to be enjoyed from above. Now we know.

Did You Know There Is a Cave In Krka Nature Park? Oziđana Pećina

We did it! We conquered the endless stairs. Pat yourself on the back.

One may expect a little grotto in the rock. But it looks like it’s actually a long tunnel that takes you quite deep under the cliff. Hope you’re not claustrophobic! And luckily for us – there is electric lighting.

But what’s that? There is someone in there.

Just kidding – it is a statue.

A very creepy statue of a cave person.

I wouldn’t want to come across this guy during the dark, but it is a nice way to draw your attention to the fact that this cave (despite it’s difficult to reach placement) was inhabited and there are various archeological remains found here.

Are You Ready To Climb Some More Stairs For The Views From The Top?

(Not included in the video)

At this point one could call it a day and climb down the stairs. Or one could gather the remaining strengths to conquer a couple more steps to the top of the hill. Guess which one we are doing?

On the top you get an epic view of cliffs, tree tops and the rest of the world below.

And if you are looking for a quiet spot to enjoy nature – this is it. As not many travellers seem to climb higher than the cave.

The Bridge Between The Fig Trees (Other Spot To Enjoy Rošk slap From )

Ever since leaving our car near the Krka watermills, we have been playing a chase with the rain. And now it has caught us, so it is time to return to the car. But where is the fun in walking back the same way we came?

From the top you might have spotted that there is a bridge crossing the river. I bet one can catch some good views from there too, so that’s where we are heading. 

On both sides of the bridge there are lush fig trees. It’s not the season yet, so at this point the fruit are little fig babies that still need some time to grow.

But now – as beautiful as Krka is, let’s run to the car as we are soaking wet. 

What to see in Krka National Park in 360 video

FAQ’s of visiting Krka National park

These are the questions I had before visiting Krka National Park and the answers I found.

Can I visit the entrance I have purchased the ticket for (e.g. Lozovac) and then go out and come back in at another entrance?

Yes, you can. Just keep the entrance ticket as they will validate it.

If I start at Lozovac / Skradin entrance, how do I get to Roski slap?

I believe you either have to exit the park and drive (30-40 min by a car) or you could take the long (4h) boat ride.

Where can I buy tickets for a boat ride in Krka National Park?

As mentioned before – boat rides in Krka are extra cost. You can not buy the tickets online. They are sold in the ticket booth inside the park. You can, however, check the prices online.

Can I swim in Skradinski Buk?

No, that is no longer allowed. If you see pictures of people swimming, those have been taken before the restrictions.If you are looking for a swimming experience you could check out Kravice waterfall in nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina.

What route of Krka National Park we chose?

Here are the routes we walked, but this is definitely not all Krka. But it is definitely not all Krka has to offer. 

1) Lazovac > Skradinski buk > Boat dock > Visovac island (by boat) > Boat dock > Lazovac

2) Roški slap entrance > Watermills > Part off Nature trail to Utvrda Kaamicka (only did 2 km each way and called it quits) > Oziđana Pećina cave > Across the bridge > Roski slap entrance

Why we chose to go on our own instead of taking a tour?

Tours have limited time at the park and we wanted to spend as much time as possible in the perk to see as much as we could.

Is there parking space available near the entrance?

We chose Lozovec entrance, because it has a big parking lot. On Roški slap entrance you need to park on the side of the road, but there is space for multiple cars.

---

Is Krka National Park worth visiting?

The verdict is that Krka is absolutely gorgeous and it is worth putting it on your bucket list. And if you do have the chance and the energy I do recommend visiting both of the entrances as there are some quite unique views on Rošk slap side as well. Ah, and apparently there are some other alternatives of places you could choose to explore in Krka. There was just simply not enough hours a day for us to explore it all.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of travelling in Croatia? Let’s say it in three: 1, 2, 3… Swimming in the crystal-clear waters! And what better way to wrap up an active vacation like ours than by taking a relaxing snorkeling cruise from Split? One where you can chill on the board enjoying the views and then jump into an adventure (aka the water) from the deck to cool off and explore some underwater life? Sign me up!

There are many snorkeling cruises from Split to choose from. We picked “Blue Lagoon Boat Tour with Underwater Museum and Lunch Included” aka the one that looks like the pirate ship. And I believe we made a good choice. So to ease up the decision for you as well, this is going to be a bit of a review of a snorkeling cruise from Split to Blue Lagoon and Underwater Museum. We’ll talk about the good and the bad.

Today, we’re figuring out what to see in Trogir. If you enjoy architecture and hunting for beautiful little details hidden in plain sight, you’ll love this Croatian town. Located on a tiny island, Trogir’s old town is very compact. So much so that there are two main places where everyone and everything is concentrated: the Central Square and the Promenade. Plus, you get to wander through some charming little streets.

This makes it a perfect day trip destination from Split. We, however, are stopping in Trogir on our way back from Zadar to Split to break up the long car ride. It works wonderfully for that scenario too. So without further ado, let’s start our Trogir itinerary.

Trogir attractions at a glance:

What to See in Trogir Central Square

Alright, we’ll start our what to see in Trogir guide by heading to Trogir Central Square. This place is all about the details. Everywhere you look, there’s something fascinating to see. So, I challenge you to keep an eye out for some gems.

While exploring, try to spot:

• A painted ceiling
• Decorated window arches
• At least one stone head
• Two churches

Trogir Cathedral of St. Lawrence

I bet the cathedral’s bell tower caught your eye from a distance, didn’t it? Adorned with intricate stone lace, it’s a true masterpiece.

The rest of the cream-colored facade of this Trogir attraction is just as impressive, with various reliefs, columns, and drains shaped like heads.

Climbing the bell tower is a popular activity. However we were not dressed appropriately for a church, so we had to pass. But it sure sounds fun!

City Hall of Trogir

Next up, the stunning City Hall (or Rector’s Palace, I am really getting lost in all the different names on the internet ). Again, the detailing here is what brings it to life. My favourite part is the window trims. What’s yours?

Apparently, there’s also a beautiful courtyard. I totally missed it, so you’ll have to check it out on your own and let me know how it is!

Church of St. Sebastiana in Trogir

Remember that task to find two churches? The cathedral was obvious, but the second one is sneakier. Look closely. Do you see the tower with the big clock?

I thought it was a clock tower. Turns out it’s a church of St. Sebastian. The figures of Christ and St. Sebastian above the door are giving the secret away.

Town Loggia of Trogir

First, a church that looks like a clock tower, and now a loggia that’s also a court?

Trogir sure knows how to keep you on your toes. In my opinion, the loggia is one of the most beautiful parts of the square. I didn’t want to give any hints, but… look at the painted ceiling. They are simply stunning. 

And the columns are beautiful too.  Plus, there’s this massive stone judge’s desk with a detailed relief backdrop. Can you picture an important-looking judge sitting there making decisions? I sure can.

Cipicos palace, Trogir

(not in video)

Opposite the cathedral, there’s a door. If you take a peek inside the door you will find a grand, but empty room. This is Cipiko Palace, an estate that once belonged to Trogir’s wealthiest family in the 15th century.

Exploring Trogir Old Town Streets

After the Central Square, the next best thing to do in Trogir (in my opinion)  is to wander around the little streets of Trogir Old Town. Who knows what you’ll find around the next corner? Maybe another charming street, a little souvenir shop, or even an angel.

This definitely gives flashbacks of Šibenik. However, Trogir feels a bit more… polished. Šibeniks beauty is in it’s simplicity. But Trogir is also more touristy. I truly enjoyed both, though.

What to See on Trogir Promenade (Riva)

Have you noticed every big city on the Dalmatian coast we have visited has a promenade? They all feature blue water, palm trees, and cafes. This one also has a silhouette of a fortress peaking in the distance. We definitely have to investigate that!

You might think that after a few promenade visits, they’d get boring. Nope, not a chance.

Kamerlengo Castle, Trogir

There’s something about the contrast between these dark, monolithic walls and the bright, cheerful Trogir promenade.

On one hand, it feels like this castle belongs to a different time (which it does, as it was built in the 15th century). On the other hand, it perfectly complements the promenade, giving it a unique touch.

If you buy an entrance ticket, you can explore the grounds. From closer inspection, we noticed that the centre of the fortress is hollow, functioning more as a viewing platform.

Kula St. Marka, Trogir

While exploring the promenade we also spot another lonely tower in the distance.

It seems to be a small fortress of sorts. But a quick Google reveals that St. Marks tower once was an important part of city fortifications.

It seems to be closed now.

With this little discovery, our Trogir visit comes to an end.

What to See in Trogir in 360 Video

---

Is Trogir worth visiting on a day trip?

Trogir matched my expectations of a “beautiful, historic town” as it is often described. It is for sure touristy, full of restaurants and souvenir shops. But I was expecting that, and it doesn’t bother me personally. I liked the architecture. The vibes were good. My only regret is that I didn’t climb the bell tower.

So hopefully my guide on what to see in Trogir will help you plan your own Trogir itinerary.

Today, we’re going to explore the beautiful old town of Šibenik. It’s a perfect maze of gorgeous stone houses and small streets where you can truly get lost. And sometimes getting lost is part of the fun. Today we’re diving in with almost no plan. We’ve got a couple of places pinned on our map—like the UNESCO listed cathedral and a secret courtyard garden—but mostly, we’re going to see where the day takes us!

Oh, and there’s a catch – we only have 3 hours to explore. But you can check out our full Croatia itinerary to see what else we’re up to after we discover what to see in Šibenik.

Tito’s nuclear bunker is like a time machine hidden deep under a mountain. It’s time to fulfill your spy movie fantasies, as this place in Bosnia and Herzegovina transports you back in time to the Cold War era, offering a glimpse into what the chilling reality of people hiding in this mega-shelter would have been.

The secret mission starts now!

!!!Tour usually happens only 3x a day 9:00; 12:00; 15:00

They say the best way to truly understand a country is through all your senses. While the Sarajevo food and culture tour focuses on tantalizing your taste buds with the most delicious food Bosnia’s capital has to offer, it also engages your other senses. You’ll hear fascinating stories about Bosnia and Herzegovina food traditions and snippets of its history from a local guide. You’ll see vibrant market stalls, smell the rich aroma of freshly brewed Bosnian coffee, and feel the warmth of freshly baked bread in your hands.

Sounds perfect? Then come along with me as we explore what are the must try foods in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

What to expect in Sarajevo food tour

Why We Choose to Learn about Bosnia and Herzegovina Food Through a Guided Food Tour in Sarajevo?

There is more to food than just the taste. 

A lot of regional foods come with traditions that are both hundreds of years old and at the same time – still practised in everyday lives. Sometimes the recipes are handed from generation to generation in a handwritten recipe book but other times they are adopted to fit the needs of the modern lifestyle.

And what better way to learn about these traditions than from a local? Our guide, Ahmet, did a fantastic job not only teaching us how to properly enjoy some must-try foods in Bosnia and Herzegovina but also sharing intriguing historical and cultural tidbits about the country.

Plus – this Sarajevo food tour takes you to beloved local spots often overlooked by tourist guides, making it an authentic and unforgettable experience.

The Lively Baščaršija Market in Sarajevo: A Paradise for Foodies and Explorers

Sarajevo bustles with life and colour, and the heart of this vibrant city is its bustling market. It’s the perfect place to sample many Bosnia and Herzegovina foods and soak in the local atmosphere.

As you wander through the market, you pass by numerous small shops selling traditional coffee makers, jewellery, souvenirs, and mouth-watering Turkish sweets.

Although, at first a lot of the items seem the same, if you look carefully you will understand each shop is unique with its own character and charm. The two hand made bracelets in the blacksmith shop are cousins but not twins. And each vendor’s personality shows in the displays – one vendor arranges everything neatly, while another embraces a creative chaos.

While we are window shopping our guide tells us about Bosnia and Herzegovina’s traditional crafts—some forgotten after the industrial revolution and others still practiced today. Did you know there’s a handmade bottle brush shop in Sarajevo still operating? 

Unfortunately, the owner is out at the moment, so we miss the chance to peek inside.

But don’t worry – it is time for a snack, anyways.

1st must try food in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Sarajevo Has Their Own Variety of Baklava?

We stop by a little shop with a variety of baklava displayed in the window—square, rose-shaped, and tube-shaped, all soaking in sweet, sticky syrup. According to Ahmet, everyone in Sarajevo knows how to make baklava, and everyone believes their mom’s baklava is the best. However, nowadays buying baklava from specialty shops instead of making it at home is accepted too. 

If you have visited Turkey you may be familiar with this layered, nutty desert. There are a lot of Turkish influences in Bosnia and Herzegovina food scene. However, Bosnians do offer their unique spin on it by presenting Džandar baklava. It’s the one that looks like a pastry tube filled with delightful cream. The biggest difference between Sarajevo and the Turkish baklava is the nuts used. The one we are about to try has variation with almond, walnut and hazel as the base nut.

As per guide’s recommendation – let’s sample the almond one. It is sticky from the syrup, but not overly sticky. It is sweet. But not as sweet as other baklavas. In my opinion it strikes the perfect balance.

Now, for our next treat we need to leave the market for a bit.

But trust me – it will be worth it. 

2nd must try food in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Freshly Baked Somun Bread

There is a place you may not even notice when passing by.

It’s a little bakery. That has a simple A4 menu next to the door and when you look at the menu it features just one item – a bread.

But what a bread that is!

Our guide calls a Ramadan bread, as it is typically the first thing locals eat to break the fasting in the end of the day during Ramadan. Apparently, it’s so delicious that during Ramadan, people in Sarajevo queue up in long lines just to buy it.

Let’s try it! 

When you take the flat bread in your hands you realise it is still warm. Freshly baked.From outside it has a bit of lovely chard from baking in the oven and the inside is soft and fluffy.

I’m not ashamed to admit I devoured two of these in a row, without any toppings, and even came back for more before we left Sarajevo. It’s that good!

But we have now walked for a while, so it is time for a little pick me up.

3rd must try food in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Bosnian Coffee the Bosnian Way

When should you drink coffee? According to Bosnians – any time.

In Bosnia, coffee is more than a morning shot of caffeine; it’s a social ritual, a way to slow down and connect with friends and family. As you stroll through Sarajevo , you’ll spot countless café tables adorned with ornate coffee sets, little plates of Turkish delights, and sugar cubes—even late into the evening.

Our guide takes us to a special place where most of the visitors seem to be locals enjoying the coffee and conversations. It’s definitely a more authentic experience than any coffee shop I could have googled myself. And that is why it is great to have a tour like this.

The Art of Drinking Bosnian Coffee

So, how do you properly enjoy Bosnian coffee? First off, don’t call it Turkish coffee. Yes, they’re similar, but in Sarajevo, it’s proudly Bosnian. And whatever you do, don’t down it like an espresso shot! This isn’t about a caffeine spike; it’s about the experience.

Bosnian coffee is typically served together with a sugar cube, a Turkish delight, and a glass of water. It seems to be a bit of a gamble on what flavour of the sweet you will get. I think this one must be a rose. 

Here’s the insider tip from our guide: take the sugar cube, pop it in your mouth, let it dissolve a bit, and then take a sip of the strong, bitter coffee. That’s how you get the exquisite balance of flavours.

The coffee itself is robust and somewhat gritty, brewed directly from the grounds in the džezva (the pot with the long handle). It has a strong, earthy flavor that may not be everyone’s cup of tea (or coffee), but it’s an experience you can’t miss when in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Now that we are rejuvenated by some caffeine it is time to eat some more.

It is lunch time now, so let’s try a popular main course meal in Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

4th Must try food in Bosnia and Herzogevina: Iconic Chevapi

For lunch, we head to a place where Ahmet’s grandparents love to eat chevapi, so you know it’s going to be good. Chevapi is an assemble-your-own type of meal. You get grilled beef-lamb sausages, flatbread, raw onions, and kajmak.

What’s that? It is a bit difficult to explain. The texture of kajmak is similar to a whipped butter. But it is not butter. It is the cream that forms on top of the milk when milk is slowly simmered. The taste is mild, quite buttery. If you want to sample some more – head to the food market where they sell it both sweetened and unsweetened. 

But for now, chevapi is the star of the show and kajmak is a supporting actor. So tear off a piece of bread, spread some kajmak on, wrap a chevapi sausage in it, and enjoy!

Do you still have room in your stomach? Because we have more. 

It’s time for one more iconic Bosnia and Herzegovina dish. Can you guess what it is?

Is There a Burek With Cheese?

If you really want to see a Bosnian’s eyes flare up, just ask for “burek with cheese.” But be ready for a duel! In Bosnia and Herzegovina, there’s no such thing. Burek is strictly a meat-filled pastry. Any similar pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or potatoes that you thought is also named burek ? Those are called “pastries” or  “pitas.”

So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure and sample both the legendary burek and its cheese-filled relative. The best way to savour these delights? With a generous side of yogurt, of course.

First up, the burek. As you take your first bite, the flaky, golden pastry shatters delightfully, giving way to a rich, savoury filling of ground meat. Now, onto the not-burek. Inside, you find a filling reminiscent of cottage cheese—rich, fatty, and crumbly. Both of these Bosnia and Herzegovina foods are salty, flaky and fatty. Although it is a pastry it could easily be eaten as a meal. 

What To Know About Picking This Food Tour in Sarajevo?

Is the food included in the price?

Yes, for this particular tour all the food items I mentioned were included in the price and in the end we also got some recommendations on where to eat on our own if we were to spend more time in Sarajevo.

What landmarks of Sarajevo does the tour include?

The tour is mostly focused on the market, but we also saw exteriors of some historic buildings like mosque and bell tower. However, I would recommend planning time to explore the landmarks separately or look into complimenting this tour with another walking tour as this one is more focused on food and crafts.  

---

Is food tour in Sarajevo worth it?

I feel like this Sarajevo food tour was a feast of Bosnia and Herzegovina cuisine with some history and culture in the desert. From the sweet, nutty baklava and freshly baked somun bread to the rich, strong Bosnian coffee and the iconic meat-filled burek, each bite offers a taste of tradition. I recommend it!

You might have noticed – I did not share any specific places where we ate. I did not want to reveal their secrets, so that you have some incentive to join the tour yourself. It was truly a lot of fun. As well there were a couple of other snacks we sampled along the way that are not listed here. 

When I tell people about any trip, the common answer I get is: “Amazing. But how much did it cost?” So, I have prepared a detailed cost breakdown for our Croatia – Bosnia trip. But do keep in mind that this is a snapshot frozen in time and prices do change as the time goes on as well as they fluctuate through seasons and are affected by the level of comfort you wish to have when travelling. So you can use this as a rough idea of the expenses involved, but do expect your final price to be a bit different in the end. Anyways, I hope you find this helpful.

---

Breakdown of Our Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina Road Trip Costs

Cost of Activities and Sightseeing

Activity	Cost per 1 person (EUR)
Rafting	60
Krka nature park entrance	40
Boat ride in Krka nature park	15
Plitvice lakes entrance ticket	40
Food & Crafts tour in Sarajevo	40
Snorkeling cruise	55
Klis fortress	10
Sarajevo cable car	15
Sarajevo Town hall	5
Tito’s Bunker	10.5

Total: ~290.50 EUR per person

Accommodation Costs

During our 11-night trip, we stayed in a mix of hotels and Airbnb rentals. We went for the cheaper end, but made sure the places had free on site parking and the hotels had breakfasts included in the price as well. 

Accomodation	Cost for 2 people (EUR)
Hotel in Split (2 nights)	207
Hotel in Mostar	59
Hotel in Konjic	61
Hotel in Lozavec near Krka park	93
Airbnb Zadar (3 nights)	183.81
Airbnb Split (2 nights)	124.1
Airbnb Sarajevo	35
City tax in Split	8
Tourist tax in Lozovec	3.4

Total: ~774.3 EUR per 2 grown ups

Transportation Costs

Our main method of transportation was a rental car which we had for 8 days, but we also walked a lot to avoid spending money on public transport when possible. 

Public transport in Split	Cost per person (EUR)
Public buss from Split to city center	3.1
Airport shuttle	8.4

Car	Cost (EUR)
Rental car with basic insurance	145
Car wash	2.5
~74 l of gasoline*	~120

Total: ~290.50 EUR

*We had a gasoline car that uses 5,7 liters per 100 km and our total distance was 1288km therefore we needed ~73,4 liters of gasoline. Average price at the time was around 1,64 (a bit cheaper in Bosnia and a bit more expensive in Croatia

Toll Roads and Parking Costs

I believe in most cases there are free road alternatives to these, but they take more time. So we prioritizes less time spent on the road over cost saving.

Toal roads	Cost (EUR)
When driving from Split to Bosnia border	10,5
When driving from Bosnia border to Mostar	2,4
When driving from Mostar to Bosnia border	2,4
When driving from Bosnia border to Klis	10,5
When driving from Zadar to Plitvice lakes	6,2
When driving from Plitvice lakes to Zadar	6,2
When driving from Zadar to Šibenik	3,5

Total: ~41.7 EUR

Paid parking	Cost (EUR) per hour	Hours spent	Total (EUR)
Sarajevo	1,5	7	10.5
Plitvice	1,5	7	10.5
Nid	2	2	4
Trogir	3	2	6
Blagaj	2	1	2
Šibenik	2	2	4
Zadar	0,8	4	3.2

Total: ~40.2 EUR

In Mostar & near Krka we left car in the hotels free parking when we were exploring.

Also the costs of parking may very per season.

Other

Commission for money withdrawal from ATM abroad*

12.99

I believe this also depends on the bank you use.

The costs that are not shown above but one does have when travelling to Croatia and Bosnia:

• Flight costs (as they depend from your country of departure)
• Insurance
• Roaming abroad
• Cost for food and drinks. For example in Croatia in lower budget places fried squid with fries was somewhere from 17-20 euros per portion, grilled fish was 20 euros and more, burek was ~2.50 etc. In Bosnia the prices were much more affordable ~5 euros per chevapi and ~ 9 euros for other meat dishes. 

Tips on how to make your Croatia – Bosnia trip more budget friendly

As you can see – our trip to Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina wasn’t cheap. Therefore here are some tips on how you could try to bring the overall cost down.