Split

The 1,700-year-old Roman imperial retreat that became Split's Old Town. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the living labyrinth of streets, squares, and cellars, but forbidden inside the Cathedral of St. Domnius, its bell tower, and paid museums. Early morning walks before cruise crowds are magical.

Split's forested peninsula rising directly from the Old Town, with 178 meters of Aleppo pines, stone chapels, and panoramic viewpoints. Dogs are welcome throughout on leash, and several rocky coves on the southern slopes serve as unofficial dog swimming spots year-round.

Split's palm-lined seafront promenade is the daily paseo of every local, dog or not. Leashed dogs are welcome along the whole strip and on most cafe terraces. Evening sea breezes keep it cool long after the stone city bakes.

Split's most famous sandy beach, home to the local picigin ball game. Dogs are banned between June 1 and September 30 during daytime hours as on all Split municipal bathing beaches, but allowed morning and evening outside season.

An officially designated pet beach east of the center, open to dogs year-round including peak summer. Pebble entry, shallow warm water, and a dog shower make it the practical choice in July and August.

The open-air fruit and vegetable market pressed against the eastern palace wall, buzzing every morning with Dalmatian farmers. Leashed dogs are welcome weaving between stalls, and many vendors keep a water bowl handy.