Retire in Trogir, Croatia
Last updated on Mar 12, 2025
Summary: Retirees share their experiences living in Trogir, Croatia. What are the challenges and rewards of retiring in Trogir?
What is it like to retire in Trogir?
"Life for a retiree in Trogir can be quite serene and fulfilling. Trogir is a small, historic town on the Adriatic coast, known for its beautiful architecture, stunning sea views, and relaxed pace of life. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering plenty of cultural attractions such as the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Kamerlengo Castle, and the Trogir City Museum. There is a small but active expat community in Trogir, with retirees from various European countries choosing to spend their golden years in this picturesque town. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and it's not uncommon for expats to form close-knit relationships with their Croatian neighbors. Recreational activities in Trogir are largely centered around the outdoors. The town is surrounded by beautiful beaches, and the clear, warm waters of the Adriatic Sea are perfect for swimming, sailing, and fishing. The nearby Marjan Forest Park offers hiking and biking trails, and the Cetina River is a popular spot for rafting and canoeing. While Trogir is not known for its nightlife, there are a number of bars and restaurants in the town center where retirees can enjoy a quiet drink or a meal. The larger city of Split is just a short drive away, offering a wider range of dining options, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. Overall, Trogir offers a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle for retirees, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and immerse oneself in the local culture," commented one retiree living in Trogir, Croatia.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Retirees in Trogir, advise others considering retiring abroad to thoroughly research the cost of living in their chosen destination, as it can vary greatly from their home country. They suggest learning the local language, even if it's just the basics, to help integrate into the community and make everyday tasks easier. It's also important to understand the healthcare system in the country you're moving to, and ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage. They recommend visiting the place several times before making a final decision, to get a feel for the lifestyle and culture. It's also beneficial to connect with other expats who can provide valuable insights and advice. Lastly, they emphasize the importance of being open-minded and adaptable, as living in a new country can present unexpected challenges and opportunities," said a retiree who moved to Trogir, Croatia.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Trogir?
"1. Language Barrier: The official language in Trogir is Croatian, which can be challenging to learn for English-speaking retirees. This can make everyday tasks like shopping, banking, and medical appointments more difficult. 2. Healthcare System: While Croatia has a universal healthcare system, it may not be up to the standards that some retirees from Western countries are accustomed to. Additionally, there may be a lack of English-speaking doctors and medical staff. 3. Cost of Living: While the cost of living in Trogir is generally lower than in many Western countries, retirees may find that their pensions or savings do not stretch as far as they would like, particularly if they are used to a higher standard of living. 4. Cultural Differences: Retirees may find it challenging to adjust to the cultural differences in Trogir, including different social norms, traditions, and holidays. 5. Isolation: Depending on where in Trogir one chooses to retire, it can be quite isolated, particularly during the off-season when many businesses close and there are fewer tourists. 6. Bureaucracy: Croatia, like many European countries, has a reputation for bureaucracy, which can make dealing with government agencies and utilities a challenge. 7. Climate: While Trogir has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, it can be quite humid, which may not be comfortable for some retirees. 8. Limited Services: Depending on where in Trogir one chooses to retire, there may be limited services available, such as shopping, dining, and entertainment options. 9. Property Ownership: Foreigners can buy property in Croatia, but the process can be complex and time-consuming, and there may be restrictions on certain types of property. 10. Distance from Family and Friends: Retiring in Trogir may mean being far away from family and friends, which can be difficult for some retirees," commented one retiree living in Trogir, Croatia.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Trogir?
"1. Retiring in Trogir offers a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle, away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. 2. The city's rich history and culture provide endless opportunities for exploration and learning, with its old town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. 3. Trogir's Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters, is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a healthy lifestyle. 4. The cost of living in Trogir is relatively low compared to many Western countries, making it an affordable option for retirees. 5. The local cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Croatian and Mediterranean flavors, is both delicious and healthy, with plenty of fresh seafood and local produce. 6. The city's location on the Adriatic Sea offers beautiful beaches and stunning sea views, perfect for relaxation and leisure. 7. Trogir has a close-knit community where locals are known for their hospitality, making it easy for retirees to make new friends and feel at home. 8. The healthcare system in Croatia is of a high standard, providing peace of mind for retirees. 9. Trogir is well-connected to other parts of Croatia and Europe, making it easy for family and friends to visit. 10. The city offers a slower pace of life, allowing retirees to enjoy their golden years in a serene and beautiful environment," explained a retiree in Trogir.
What are healthcare services like in Trogir?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Trogir. They wrote:
"Trogir, offers a range of healthcare services to both residents and visitors. The city has a local health center, Dom Zdravlja Trogir, which provides primary healthcare services including general practice, pediatrics, gynecology, and dental care. For more specialized treatment, patients may need to travel to larger cities like Split, which is home to a university hospital and several specialist clinics. Pharmacies are readily available throughout Trogir, offering over-the-counter and prescription medications. The healthcare professionals in Trogir are generally well-trained, and many speak English, making it easier for tourists to communicate their health concerns. Private healthcare is also available, and it's common for tourists to have travel insurance that covers private treatment. Emergency services are efficient, and in case of serious emergencies, air evacuation to a larger hospital can be arranged. Overall, while Trogir's healthcare services may not be as extensive as those in larger cities, they are generally of good quality and accessible," remarked one retiree in Trogir.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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