Ghent

The 12th-century Castle of the Counts stands moated in the city centre. Dogs can't enter the interior tour, but the exterior walk around the moat and the adjoining Sint-Veerleplein square are picture-perfect.

The two medieval quays facing each other across the Leie river form the most photogenic stretch in Belgium. Dogs are welcome at nearly every canal-side terrace, locals often picnic with their dogs on the Graslei steps.

A 230-hectare wetland nature reserve on the city's western edge, with boardwalks, bird hides and dedicated off-leash zones. A short tram 1 ride from the centre.

Ghent's central public park, built on a former citadel, houses the SMAK contemporary art museum and the MSK fine arts museum. Leashed dogs are welcome in the grounds but not inside the museums.

A 90-hectare recreation area with a swimming lake, running tracks and a fenced off-leash dog beach on the northern shore, one of the rare city spots where dogs can swim in summer.

A warren of narrow medieval lanes behind Gravensteen, packed with independent restaurants and brown cafés. Many welcome dogs inside in winter, try 't Dreupelkot for a genever tasting.