Sankt Pölten

The grand town-hall square, heart of the baroque old town, lines up ornate facades, a Trinity column and cafe terraces. Leashed dogs are welcome for a stroll through the pedestrian centre; entering the cafes and shops is at each owner's discretion.

Sankt Pölten's cathedral, Romanesque in origin and richly transformed in the baroque era, holds a sumptuous interior. As in most places of worship, dogs are not allowed inside, but the adjoining square and the old-town lanes can be walked on lead.

The modern government district lines up contemporary architecture, plazas and the Klangturm sound tower, a city landmark. The wide outdoor spaces and walkways can be strolled on lead; the interiors of the tower, the regional theatre and the museums generally admit only assistance dogs.

Along the Traisen river, a chain of green spaces including the Sonnenpark offers lawns, shaded paths and waterside walks. Leashed dogs are welcome for long strolls; pick up after them and check the signage where off-leash zones may be allowed.

North of town, these bathing lakes formed from old gravel pits offer grassy shores and calm water in summer. Some sections allow dogs and a dog-swim area may be signposted; check the local signage and keep your dog away from the family swimming zones.

A short way west, the Wachau unfolds its terraced vineyards along the Danube, a World Heritage landscape. Leashed dogs are welcome on the vineyard trails and in the villages; respect the fenced vines and avoid the harvest season, when activity is intense.