Sofia

Vast neo-Byzantine cathedral with golden domes, one of Europe's largest Orthodox churches. The interior admits only assistance dogs, but the wide stone-paved square outside and the Saturday flea market on the back side are leash-friendly.

Sofia's pedestrian spine, 1.2 km from south of Sveta Nedelya square to the Vitosha massif. Cafés, gelato shops, and bookstores, with nearly all terraces dog-friendly. The view of the Vitosha peaks at the south end is the city's signature photograph.

Sofia's oldest public park (1884), 90 hectares south-east of the centre. Wide tree-lined avenues, Ariana Lake, three stadiums, and quiet rose gardens; leashed dogs throughout, off-leash tolerated on the inner woodland tracks.

Bulgaria's first nature park (1934), covering the entire massif rising south of the city. Boyana Waterfall and the Aleko area (top of the gondola) are the most popular routes; leashed dogs welcome, off-leash tolerated on the upper alpine sections.

13th-century UNESCO church famous for its 90 medieval murals. The interior admits only assistance dogs, but the Boyana neighbourhood and the marked waterfall trail above are leash-friendly.

4 km mountain reservoir 15 km from the centre, the closest dog swimming spot to Sofia. The free public sections of the south shore accept dogs year-round; bus 1/3 from the centre.