Known for fortress, museum, sightseeing, viewpoint
Klis Fortress, known well in Roman time, played a crucial role during the Ottoman wars in Europe. Fortress rises dramatically above the village of Klis, just 13 kilometers from the city Split, Croatia. Its strategic hilltop location, sandwiched between the Kozjak and Mosor mountains, offers sweeping views of Split, the Adriatic Sea, and the rural hinterland.
You understand, it is impossible to see Croatia just in a couple of days. Come with us to explore Croatia in a 1-2 week road trip. We will pass Klis, along with other Croatia' attractions, to discover the soul of the country, its way of life, culture and traditions, food and drinks. Browse our tours passing Klis, or contact us directly for a custom tour in Croatia. By the way, we charge nothing for a custom itinerary. Contact us directly, let's plan all the details of your trip and get it done!
Dubrovnik - Known for fortress, funicular, historical center, marina, medieval old town, museum, promenade, seaport, venetian empire; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Poreč (Porec) - Known for byzantine empire, coastal town, historical center, venetian empire, catholic basilica; basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Pula - Known for medieval old town, venetian empire
Rovinj - Known for historical center, medieval old town, museum, promenade, venetian empire, viewpoint
Šibenik (Sibenik) - Known for architecture, coastal town, fortified town, fortress, historical center, marina, museum, promenade, venetian empire, viewpoint, catholic cathedral; cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Solin - Known for ancient settlement, archaeological site, historical center, catholic church
Šolta (Solta) - Known for beach, coastal town, island, marina, viewpoint, waterfall
Split - Known for coastal town, historical center, medieval old town, museum, promenade, seaport, venetian empire; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Ston - Known for architecture, fortress, medieval old town
Trogir - Known for coastal town, marina, medieval old town, monument, museum, promenade, venetian empire; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Vir - Known for coastal town, fortress, marina, peninsula, scenic road, viewpoint
Vis - Known for island, marina, museum, viewpoint, winery
Zadar - Known for byzantine empire, coastal town, fortified town, fortress, historical center, marina, museum, promenade, seaport, venetian empire; fortified town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Zagreb - Known for castle, funicular, historical center, museum, catholic cathedral
The fortress originally began as a small stronghold built by the Illyrian tribe Dalmatae over two thousand years ago, probably in the 3rd century BC. Its commanding position made it a valuable defensive outpost throughout history, controlling trade and travel routes from the coast to inland Dalmatia.
The ancient Illyrian tribe of the Dalmatae, who held a stronghold on this spot, are the first known inhabitants to have lived on the site of today's Klis Fortress. They were defeated several times, and in the year 9 AD, finally annexed by Romans.
Today's Klis Fortress was known to the Romans by the name of ＂Andetrium＂ or ＂Anderium＂, and in later times ＂Clausura＂, which is the origin of later ＂Clissa＂ and modern ＂Klis＂.
To the Romans, Klis became famous for its celebrated siege by Augustus, at the time of the Illyrian revolt in Dalmatia. The road that lead from Klis to Salona was called ＂Via Gabiniana＂ or ＂Via Gabinia＂, which according to an inscription found at Salona, appears to have been made by Tiberius.
Tiberius, with full name Tiberius Julius Caesar Augustus was Roman emperor from AD 14 until 37. He succeeded his stepfather Augustus, the first Roman emperor. Tiberius was born in Rome in 42 BC, and had proved himself an able diplomat and one of the most successful Roman generals: his conquests of Pannonia, Dalmatia, Raetia, and (temporarily) parts of Germania laid the foundations for the empire's northern frontier.
Salona was an ancient city and the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. It was the last residence of the final western Roman Emperor Julius Nepos and acted as the de facto capital of the Western Roman Empire during the years 476-480.
Throughout the centuries, Klis Fortress has seen numerous rulers and empires. It has changed hands many times, including periods under Roman, Avar, Slavic, Venetian, and Ottoman control. Each left its mark on the fortress's architecture and legacy.
During the early Middle Ages, Klis became the seat of Croatian dukes and later kings. Duke Mislav and Duke Trpimir I ruled from here, fostering the spread of Christianity and establishing important religious sites, such as the first Benedictine monastery in Croatia.
Klis played a crucial role during the Ottoman wars in Europe, serving as a formidable line of defense for Dalmatia. The fortress was the scene of fierce battles and legendary last stands, making it a symbol of Croatian resilience.
Klis Fortress is best known for its role in the Ottoman invasion of Europe in the early 16th century. Croatian captain Petar Kruzic led the defense of the fortress against a Turkish invasion and siege that lasted for more than a quarter of a century. During this defense, as Kruzic and his soldiers fought without allies against the Turks, the military faction of Uskoks was formed, which later became famous as an elite Croatian militant sect.
Ultimately, the defenders were defeated and the fortress fell to the Ottomans in 1537. After more than a century under Ottoman rule, in 1669, Klis Fortress was besieged and seized by the Republic of Venice. The Venetians restored and enlarged the fortress. In 1797, the fortress was taken by Austria after the Fall of the Republic of Venice.
Today, visitors are captivated by the fortress's robust stone walls, atmospheric courtyards, and ancient towers. The main entrance is the Venetian Gate, leading through a maze of gateways to interior sections once used for defense and residence.
Inside, you can explore the Prince's residence and the Church of St. Vid. This church, once converted into a mosque during Ottoman rule, remains well preserved and stands as a rare example of Islamic architecture in Dalmatia. Restoration efforts have helped reveal Klis Fortress's full historical and cultural value. The site has been carefully maintained, with exhibits and information panels to help visitors understand its layered past.
A walk along the ramparts delivers breathtaking views over Split and the Adriatic coastline. It's a favorite spot for photographers and sunset watchers, with scenery stretching all the way across central Dalmatia. Klis Fortress regularly hosts cultural events, festivals, and historical reenactments. These unique experiences bring the site's vibrant history to life, engaging visitors of all ages in its rich storytelling.
The fortress is famous among fans of the television series ＂Game of Thrones＂, as it served as a filming location for the city of Meereen. This connection draws many international tourists and pop culture enthusiasts.
Klis offers wide educational opportunities for visitors. Informative displays and guided tours provide insight into ancient weaponry, daily castle life, and the significance of Klis in Croatian identity.
Overall, Klis Fortress blends dramatic scenery, deep history, and cultural events into a memorable destination. Its panoramic views, legendary battles, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-see for anyone visiting the Split region.
Klis related tours
We at Monterrasol Travel welcome you to see Klis during multi-day private car tour. Contact us if you would like to customize your tour to Klis.
We have developed several private tours that visiting beautiful Klis. But, if you have a special conditions or any from these tours fit you, please do not hesitate to contact us, we can organize a tour exactly as you would like. We charge nothing for develop a custom itinerary. And remember, we have no problems to take you from almost any place where you stay, hotel or private accommodation.
UNESCO jewels of Croatia + discover Bosnia-Herzegovina: all seasons 6 days tour from Korcula. Visit Bosnia-Herzegovina main attractions + famous Croatian Dalmatian UNESCO towns Split, Sibenik and Trogir. Pick up and drop off in Orebic.
In Bosnia-Herzegovina we will see Blagaj dervish monastery, UNESCO town Mostar and its old bridge, visit pilgrimage center Medjugorje, walk and watch wonderful Kravica natural park with waterfalls, climb by narrow streets of medieval fortified town Pocitelj.
In Croatia, we will walk historical center of Split (UNESCO World Heritage Site), see coastal town Sibenik with its fortresses, historical center and the cathedral, also UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next day we will walk another one UNESCO town, Trogir, and after another night in Split, on the way back, we will visit famous fortress Klis.
tour destinations: Blagaj, Jajce, Klis, Konjic, Kravica, Loreto, Međugorje, Mostar, Počitelj, Primošten, Sarajevo, Split, Travnik, Trogir, Šibenik
All seasons 9 days tour to discover Bosnia-Herzegovina and visit famous Croatian towns Split, Sibenik and Trogir. Pick up and drop off in Orebic.
In Bosnia-Herzegovina we will see Blagaj dervish monastery, UNESCO town Mostar and its old bridge, visit pilgrimage center Medjugorje, walk and watch wonderful Kravica natural park with waterfalls, climb by narrow streets of medieval fortified town Pocitelj, visit multicultural Sarajevo with its old market, see Ottoman Empire fortress Jajce, meet another medieval fortress Travnik and walk in its old streets.
In Croatia, we will walk historical center of Split (UNESCO World Heritage Site), see coastal town Sibenik, its fortress, historical center and the cathedral, also UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next day we will walk another one UNESCO town, Trogir, and after another night in Split, on the way back, we will visit famous fortress Klis.
We invite you to take with us an all seasons tour covers the most important UNESCO towns of Dalmatian coast and Bosnia. Visit with us 2 countries, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, to see Venetian towns with amazing architecture, medieval fortresses and stunning scenic roads.
On the way from Zagreb down to coast we will visit Dubovac fortress. We will stay in town Rijeka, where we will see a local museum and 2 fortresses. Coming down along the coastal line, we will see town Senj, where need to see historical center and the symbol of the town, Nehaj fortress from 1558. Next, we will move to Zadar to walk over historical center and see why Zadar was important Venetian town.
In Sibenik, another Venetian town, we will see famous cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage site) and see its historical center and two fortresses. Close to Sibenik is also located coastal St. Nicholas fortress we going to visit and walk around.
In another one Venetian town, Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage site), we will walk in historical center and harbor. Split, next Dalmatian town we going to visit, is well-known for its historical center with beautiful architecture.
On the way from Split to Mostar we will see fortress Klis, known by Game of Thrones. In Mostar (UNESCO World Heritage site) we will explore the historic center and walk over famous Mostar bridge.
After Mostar we will see historical town Blagaj with dervish monastery (tekija) built around 1520, historic town Pocitelj, served as open-air museum, with narrow streets and old Ottoman fort with great view and after that we will have refreshing walk in Kravica, a green area with cascade of waterfalls.
On the way to Trebinje, we will see archaeological site Radimlja with carved gravestones (UNESCO World Heritage Site), hilly fortress Stolac with great view, and at the end of this day will come to town Trebinje.
At the last day of the tour we will come to admire famous Tvrdos Orthodox monastery, where also we can taste awarded white, rose and red wines from own wine cellar. In Trebinje, we will see its small historical center, walk over Ottoman bridge, and before arrive to Dubrovnik we will have a dinner in local restaurant that serve Herzegovina food and drinks.
Welcome to the all seasons 12 days exploring tour via Venetian towns of Dalmatian Riviera and fascinating landscapes of medieval land of Bosnia-Herzegovina. Scenic roads will take you through 2 countries, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, on the trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.
On the way from Zagreb down to coast we will visit Dubovac fortress, and the very first Dalmatian town we'll meet is Senj, where need to see historical center and the symbol of the town, Nehaj fortress from 1558. Next, we will move to Zadar to walk over historical center and see why Zadar was important Venetian town.
We will explore Sibenik, a Venetian town known for famous cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage site) and see its historical center. In another one Venetian town, Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage site), we will walk narrow streets of in historical center, beautiful squares and harbor. Next Dalmatian town we going to visit is famous Split, known for its gorgeous Diocletian's Palace and historical center with beautiful architecture.
In Bosnia-Herzegovina, fist place we going to see is medieval town Jajce, famous for its waterfall, Ottoman fortress, and beautiful park with cute small wooden watermills. After Jajce we need to see Travnik fortress and visit controversial place called Bosnian Pyramids.
Next two nights we will stay in Sarajevo, where we will walk the historical center with its Western and Eastern parts, visit witness of Sarajevo siege, the Tunnel of Hope.
Before we move to Mostar, we will see old Ottoman bridge in town Konjic. In Mostar we will explore the historic center and walk over famous Mostar bridge.
After Mostar, we will see historical town Blagaj with dervish monastery (tekija) built around 1520, historic town Pocitelj, served as open-air museum, with narrow streets and old Ottoman fort with great view, and see small Zavala monastery partially located in cave. The day will finish with visit a family running winery in Trebinje to taste real Herzegovina wines.
Before we will arrive to Dubrovnik, we will admire famous Tvrdos Orthodox monastery with it own wine cellar and have there a wine tasting.
We welcome you to the all seasons 15 days tour passing via Venetian towns of Dalmatian Riviera and fascinating landscapes of medieval land of Bosnia-Herzegovina. You will open to yourself 2 countries, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, passing by scenic roads from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.
On the way from Zagreb down to coast we will visit Dubovac fortress, and the very first Dalmatian town we'll meet is Senj, where need to see historical center and the symbol of the town, Nehaj fortress from 1558. Next, we will move to Zadar to walk over historical center and see why Zadar was important Venetian town.
In Sibenik, also Venetian town, we will see famous cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage site) and see its historical center. Close to Sibenik is also located coastal St. Nicholas fortress we going to walk around. On the way to Trogir, we will see amazing small coastal town Rogoznica located on former island.
In another one Venetian town, Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage site), we will walk in historical center, harbor, and small church on the cliff with astonishing panoramic view. Next Dalmatian town we going to visit is famous Split, known for its gorgeous Diocletian's Palace and historical center with beautiful architecture.
Before we move to Mostar, the first Bosnian town, we will see the Klis fortress, known from Game of Thrones, In Mostar we will explore the historic center and walk over famous Mostar bridge.
We will explore a few places not so far from Mostar. We will see historical town Blagaj with dervish monastery (tekija) built around 1520, historic town Pocitelj, served as open-air museum, with narrow streets and old Ottoman fort with great view and after that we will have refreshing walk in Kravica, a green area with cascade of waterfalls.
After Mostar and on the way to Trebinje, we will see archaeological site Radimlja with carved gravestones (UNESCO World Heritage Site), explore in Vjetrenica cave, and see small Zavala monastery partially located in cave.
In Trebinje, we will taste real Herzegovina wine from family running winery in Trebinje, and before arrive to Dubrovnik we will admire famous Tvrdos Orthodox monastery with it own wine cellar.
We invite you to explore 3 Balkans countries, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Montenegro, by all seasons 15 days Balkans road trip, and discover main attractions in each country, passing by beautiful coastal line and scenic roads, see castles and fortresses, admire Venetian and medieval towns, visit monasteries and UNESCO sites. This Balkans road trip waiting you!
Generally, in Croatia the tour will visit Rijeka, to see castle, fortress, museums and historical center of this coastal town, and several castles and fortresses near Rijeka. Next important place is Zadar, known for historical center. In Sibenik need to see the cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage site) and fortifications from Venetian time. Next important area is Split, together with nearby town Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage site) and famous Klis fortress. We will also visit Omis, small coastal town with interesting architecture, and amazing Dubrovnik, with vast historical center.
In Bosnia-Herzegovina, we will visit Mostar and few places in it's area: dervish monastery Blagaj, natural reserve Kravica with waterfalls, medieval town Pocitelj, pilgrimage center Medjugorje, Ottoman fortress Stolac, have a tour in Vjetrenica cave, visit Zavala and Tvrdos monasteries, and admire calm town Trebinje.
In Montenegro, we will see small cure coastal town Perast and its two islets, historical center of Budva, and of course UNESCO World Heritage site Kotor.
We invite you to visit with us the most important UNESCO towns of Dalmatian coast and Bosnia. with our an all seasons 16 days tour we going to see 2 countries, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, to walks Venetian towns and medieval fortresses, take stunning scenic roads and admire architecture, nature and landscapes.
On the way from Zagreb down to coast we will visit Dubovac fortress. We will stay in town Rijeka, where we will see a local museum and 2 fortresses. On the way to Pula, we will see small town Labin with cute historic center and amazing view from hilltop. In Pula, the largest town of Croatian Istria, known for its multitude of ancient Roman buildings, we need to see the most famous one, the Pula Arena, one of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters. In Pula, we will see the historic center with fortress and few churches.
Before we will arrive to the the neighbor of Pula, the town Rovinj, we will see very good preserved castle Morosini and walk in Medieval Theme Park located nearby. In Rovinj, officially bilingual town with Italian and Croatian languages, we will walk over historic center to see the Basilica of St. Euphemia.
On the way to Dalmatia region, we will see town Senj, where need to see the symbol of the town, Nehaj fortress from 1558. Next, we will move to Zadar to walk over historical center and see why Zadar was important Venetian town.
In Sibenik, another Venetian town, we will see famous cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage site) and see its historical center and two fortresses. Close to Sibenik is also located coastal fortress St. Nicholas (UNESCO World Heritage site) we going to visit and walk around.
In another one Venetian town, Trogir (UNESCO World Heritage site), we will walk in historical center and harbor. Split, next Dalmatian town we going to visit, is well-known for its historical center with beautiful architecture.
On the way from Split to Mostar we will see fortress Klis, known by Game of Thrones. In Mostar (UNESCO World Heritage site) we will explore the historic center and walk over famous Mostar bridge.
After Mostar we will see historical town Blagaj with dervish monastery (tekija) built around 1520, historic town Pocitelj, served as open-air museum, with narrow streets and old Ottoman fort with great view.
On the way to Trebinje, we will see archaeological site Radimlja with carved gravestones (UNESCO World Heritage Site), hilly fortress Stolac with great view, and Vjetrenica cave (UNESCO World Heritage site).
In Trebinje, we will admire famous Tvrdos Orthodox monastery with it own wine cellar where we will taste local wines, see Ottoman bridge, hilly church with panoramic view of Trebinje, and renovated historical center of Trebinje. We will have a late lunch in local restaurant that serve local traditional food and drinks.
We welcome you to explore Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro with our all seasons 18 days tour from Zagreb. The tour will pass Adriatic coast line, Dalmatian Riviera, and in each country we will visit UNESCO sites, castles and fortresses, monasteries and old towns. Welcome to the scenic Balkans road trip!
In Croatia, the tour will focus on castles, fortresses, Venetian towns, cathedrals and monasteries along the Adriatic coast and Dalmatian Riviera, with most important UNESCO sites.
In Bosnia-Herzegovina, we will see medieval towns, Ottoman fortresses, park with waterfalls, natural cave, and few monasteries, one of them famous with its cellars and provide wine tasting.
In Montenegro, we will visit famous Venetian town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with fortress, modern vibrant town with beautiful historical center full of small streets and town walls you can walk, and small coastal town, charming former fisher village, famous for its two islets with small monasteries.
Explore 2 famous Balkans countries Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Extended Balkans round trip via UNESCO sites of Adriatic coast of Croatia and venetian towns of Dalmatian Riviera. Meet medieval towns, fortresses and monasteries of Bosnia-Herzegovina.
June 26, 2025 Tunnel of Hope, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Tunnel of Hope educates on 1990s Balkan conflicts, particularly on the siege of Sarajevo, often overlooked in mainstream history. Built secretly using shovels by Bosnian forces, the Tunnel facilitated the transport of food, fuel, weapons, and humanitarian aid. Visitors leave moved by the stark reality of war and inspired by human tenacity, making it a must-visit for history buffs and empathetic travelers alike.
June 13, 2025 Klis, Croatia. Klis Fortress, known well in Roman time, played a crucial role during the Ottoman wars in Europe. Fortress rises dramatically above the village of Klis, just 13 kilometers from the city Split, Croatia. Its strategic hilltop location, sandwiched between the Kozjak and Mosor mountains, offers sweeping views of Split, the Adriatic Sea, and the rural hinterland.
June 2, 2025 Korçë (Korce), Albania. Korce (Korçë): Albania's vultural crossroads. Nestled in southeastern Albania near the Greek and North Macedonian borders, Korce is a high-altitude town surrounded by the Morava Mountains. Its crisp climate, cobblestone streets, and mix of Ottoman and European architecture make it a refreshing escape. Known as the ＂City of Serenades＂, it blends tradition with vibrant urban energy.
May 21, 2025 Vir, Croatia. Vir peninsula, linked to Croatia's mainland by a bridge, is a North Dalmatian coastal gem blending modern comforts with rustic charm. Once a quiet fishing area, it's now a family-friendly destination famed for sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant summer energy. Its accessibility and mix of relaxation and activities make it a hit with both locals and international visitors.
May 9, 2025 Filosofou, Greece. The Filosofou Monasteries, located near the town of Dimitsana in the Peloponnese region of Greece, is a significant historical and cultural site that attracts tourists for its unique blend of natural beauty, architectural heritage, and spiritual significance. The monasteries are nestled within the stunning Lousios Gorge, providing a picturesque backdrop of natural beauty.
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