Split is Croatia's second-largest city, built around the ancient Diocletian's Palace on the Dalmatian coast with a population of around 170,000. The city uniquely blends Roman ruins with a vibrant modern Mediterranean lifestyle. For pet owners, Split's greatest asset is Marjan — a forested peninsula west of the old town with pine-shaded trails, rocky beaches, and panoramic viewpoints. The city has two officially designated dog-friendly beaches at Kašjuni and Duilovo, complete with tented shade areas and showers for dogs. Split's Riva waterfront promenade is constantly filled with locals walking their dogs, and many restaurants and cafés welcome pets at outdoor tables. The warm Adriatic climate means year-round outdoor living, though summer pavements can be hot for paws. Ferry connections to nearby islands like Brač and Hvar are also dog-friendly.
Veterinary Clinics
Veterinarska ambulanta Bošnjak & Mioč
Split city
Specijalistička veterinarska praksa Pilić
Split city
Veterinarska ambulanta Raunig
Rooseveltova, Split
Pet-Friendly Parks
Marjan Forest Park
Leash requiredAn approximately 300-hectare forested peninsula west of Split's old town with Aleppo pine forest, rocky beaches, medieval chapels, and panoramic viewpoints. The network of trails offers walks from 30 minutes to several hours. Dogs must be leashed on marked paths. Shaded trails provide relief from summer heat. Accessible on foot from the city center in 15 minutes.
Park šuma Marjan, 21000 Split
Kašjuni Beach (Dog Beach)
Off-leash OKAn officially designated dog-friendly pebble beach on the western coast of Marjan peninsula. The beach features tented shade areas for dogs, nearby parking, and showers for rinsing off salt water. Dogs can swim freely in the clear Adriatic. A popular gathering point for Split's dog-owning community.
Duilovo Beach (Dog Beach)
Off-leash OKAn officially designated dog beach east of Split, away from the main tourist areas. The pebble shore offers calm, shallow water with a dedicated pet area including tented shade and showers for humans and dogs. A relaxed, less crowded alternative to Kašjuni with a friendly local atmosphere.
Sustipan Park
Leash requiredA small, atmospheric park on the western edge of Split's old town with stone paths, pine trees, and views over the harbor and islands. Dogs are welcome on leash. The park is peaceful compared to the bustling Riva and provides a shaded retreat. Often quiet in the morning, perfect for early walks.
Sustipan, 21000 Split
Local Pet Regulations
Leash Requirements in Public Areas
Dogs must be kept on a leash in all populated areas in Split, including streets, promenades, parks, and beaches (unless at designated dog beaches). Leash requirements are enforced in the old town and along the Riva. Dogs classified as dangerous breeds must be muzzled and leashed at all times in public.
Dog-Friendly Beach Rules
Split has two officially designated dog beaches at Kašjuni and Duilovo where dogs may swim freely. On all other beaches, dogs are not permitted during the summer season. Always check local signage for current restrictions. Dog beaches provide basic facilities including shade and water.
Microchipping and Registration
All dogs in Croatia must be microchipped and registered. Dogs must carry a veterinary health booklet proving vaccinations and microchip status. This documentation is required when traveling by ferry or train. Registration is completed through any licensed veterinary clinic.
Public Transport and Ferries
Dogs are welcome on Jadrolinija and Kapetan Luka ferries connecting Split to the islands. Larger dogs must be leashed, muzzled, and carry their veterinary booklet. Smaller pets travel in carriers. A pet ticket may be required. On city buses, small dogs in carriers are generally accepted.
Summer Heat Precautions
Split's summer temperatures regularly exceed 35°C and stone pavements in the old town absorb significant heat. Walk dogs early in the morning or after sunset. Carry water for your dog and use shaded routes through Marjan when possible. Hot pavement can burn paw pads.
For nationwide regulations, see our Croatia pet care guide.
Best Neighborhoods for Pets
Varoš
A traditional neighborhood of narrow stone streets and Mediterranean houses climbing the hillside at the base of Marjan peninsula. Direct access to Marjan forest trails from the neighborhood. The area has a village-like atmosphere with local cafés and minimal traffic. Excellent for pet sitters wanting proximity to both old town and nature.
Bačvice
A lively waterfront neighborhood east of the old town centered around the famous Bačvice beach. The promenade continues past cafés and sports facilities. Dogs are not allowed on the main beach but the broader neighborhood offers pleasant walking routes. Many cafés welcome dogs at outdoor tables.
Meje
A quiet residential neighborhood on the southern slope of Marjan peninsula with access to forest trails and the Kašjuni dog beach. Tree-lined streets and a relaxed atmosphere make it one of Split's most desirable pet-friendly neighborhoods. Less tourist traffic than the center.