Fortress of Klis

For lovers of history and archeology, there is a wealth of medieval and Roman history to be found in the immediate surrounds of Split. On the first stop, you’ll visit the ancient ruins in Salona, which was the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia 2000 years ago, as well as being one of the five biggest towns in the Roman Empire. From here you’ll travel to the village of Klis, which is home to an imposing medieval fortress, perched high on a hilltop. This fortress became castle to many Croatian kings and served as a defense against the Ottoman invasion during the early 16th century.More latterly, it has featured in the blockbuster television series “Game of Thrones”. Next, you'll head to Trogir, a city which has had 2300 years of cultural and architectural influence by Greeks, Romans, Venetians and Austrians. In 1997, Trogir was recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site. There is also an option for lunch at a local Dalmatian restaurant en-route.

Gaze in awe at the Cathedral of St. Lovro. Construction on the church began in 1193 and was completed around 1500. Because its construction lasted so many centuries, it’s style is an architectural scrapbook of that half-century. Visit the imposing Kamerlengo Fortress, a castle which seems to have lept straight out of a storybook. Admire the many finely crafted coats of arms that deck out Trogir’s City Hall. Built as the Duke’s palace by the Venetians, this building includes a stunning carved lion of St. Mark, the symbol of Venice. Make your way through the stunning collection of St. Nicholas’s Convent. See the dazzling 3rd-century relief of Kairos, the Greek god of opportunity carved out of orange marble. As you walk through the historic streets of Trogir, stop and notice the spectacular exterior of the Grand Cipiko Palace, which boasts an intricately carved Gothic triforium. Journey to Solin and explore the ancient ruins of Salona.  Once a critical Roman outpost, Solin is now a suburb of Split, however many relics from its ancient past remain. See the amphitheater where 15,000 spectators once cheered on gladiatorial battles. Explore the Fortress Klis. This massive fortress situated on top of a rocky mass offers gorgeous views of Split. It’s also one of the few castles of its kind that offers so much access to guests. Walk the walls, climb the towers, and be transported to the past. The fortress was recently used to portray the city of Meeren on HBO’s Game of Thrones.

Take a walk through the marvelous Klis fortress, full of history, a filming site for Game of Thrones, and learn more about why so many different nations wanted to conquer it. Watch a video in the Interpretation Center, explore all the hidden parts of the Fortress, and take some amazing selfies. With the same ticket head over to Stella Croatica to immerse into the tradition of the area. Get the chance to witness the natural, cultural and gastronomic heritage of Dalmatia. Witness the hand-preparation of traditional delicacies before learning how essential oils are extracted out of typical Mediterranean herbs and then used in natural cosmetics. Stroll through the fragrant gardens and visit the Olive Museum, where one can compare the traditional and modern ways of producing olive oil. Sample the traditional products in the Concept store and take the opportunity to have an authentic meal paired with local wine in the Tavern.

Departure from Zadar in the morning towards Klis. Built in the 2nd century BCE Klis Fortress is situated at the peak of a rocky ridge. Due to its strategic position at the hill, Klis fortress was controlling the entrance to the valley that leads to Split. You will climb Klis fortress and take in the beautiful panoramic view of Split and nearby islands. Your guide will explain Klis' turbulent past and defending techniques people used to resist frequent enemies attacks. Inside the fortress, you will see displays of swords and costumes. After sightseeing at Klis Fortress, you will proceed to the nearby Split. Visiting Split is unimaginable without visiting its living heart - Diocletian's palace. It was built as a royal residence for Roman emperor Diocletian in the 4th century and nowadays is protected as UNESCO World Heritage site. As you stroll through the most preserved monuments of the Roman architecture in the world, your guide will introduce you to the development of Split, you will learn more about the way people lived in this area and discover Game of Thrones filming locations. You will then have some free time to have lunch in one of the local restaurants and to explore the city on your own. From Split, you will depart towards Trogir. It is considered to be the best preserved Romanesque-Gothic city in Europe. Since 1997 entire city is inscribed at UNESCO World Heritage List. There you will have free time to stroll through narrow Dalmatian streets, explore traditional architecture, valuable historical sites and relax in one of the most beautiful cities in Dalmatia.