Pet-friendly Pula

Black dog standing on a stone wall with a park and Cathedral building in the background in Pula, Croatia.

By PulaOutdoor on Jun 19, 2025

Welcome to my home town, Pula. This truly delightful destination, located in the south of Istria, offers plenty of pet-friendly spots that are sure to satisfy both you and your adventurous pet. From beautiful beaches to historic sites, let’s take a look at the best spots to discover with your four-legged pal.

Cafes and Restaurants

As a proud dog owner, one of the things I love the most about living in Pula is how welcoming the city is for our furry companions. Every morning, we start our day with a stroll to Caffe Bar Circolo, a pet-friendly location where we enjoy a cup of coffee and the staff is always so friendly.

Dog sitting behind a plant pot at an outdoor cafe and an espresso in Pula, Istria.

Museums, Galleries, Exhibitions

For a cultural outing, I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find that many galleries and exhibitions in Pula are welcoming to pets. I took Togo to Zerostrasse, the underground passageways that once served as bomb shelters during World War I. We had a great time exploring the site together, learning about the city’s rich history and discovering the hidden corners of this fascinating underground network.

Dog sitting at the entrance to Zero Strasse tunnel in Pula.

Another memorable spot we visited was the Arena, Pula’s magnificent Roman amphitheater. I’ve taken Togo there a few times, and while this time we didn’t go inside, the surrounding area with a lot of greenery and parks is beautiful for a stroll, and there are often events or exhibitions happening there.

We also stopped by Pula Tourist Info, where the staff is always super friendly and even had a water bowl out for Togo. It’s a great first stop when you’re exploring the city with your dog because they can provide maps, details on pet-friendly spots, and recommendations for your trip.

Black dog sitting in front of a wooden wall with lighted shelves displaying brochures in Pula Tourist Info Center.

Parks, Beaches, Outdoor Activities

Next, we head to Šijana Forest, one of the most beautiful green spaces in Pula. With miles of walking trails and shady spots to rest, it’s the perfect area to let my dog run around and enjoy nature. There’s something special about walking among the tall trees, with the quiet hum of the forest surrounding us. Inside the forest area, there’s a dog park which Togo absolutely adores and I make sure to always stop by for a round of agility training. If we’re in the mood for something closer to the city centre, Mars Field is another great location for a quiet walk. Its large green areas and peaceful atmosphere make it perfect for a relaxed day out with your pet.

Two black dogs walking on a dirt path through a forest with tall trees and dense greenery in Šijana forest in Pula.

When it’s time for some beach fun, we head over to Valovine Beach. This pet-friendly location allows dogs to run free and splash in the sea, and there’s nothing my dog loves more than chasing waves! The beach is clean, well-maintained, and offers plenty of space for pups to socialise. If you’re planning a trip to the beach, there are nearby dog-friendly cafes where you can grab a coffee while enjoying your pet’s company.

Pula also offers some fantastic outdoor activities. Togo and I regularly go kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and it’s always a blast! We usually head to Stoja and Seagull Rocks Beach, where the water is calm and the views are stunning. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline while bonding with my dog in a new way.

Person holding a black dog with a red SUP board in Pula at Seagull Rocks Beach near Valovine, Stoja.

Shops and malls

For a bit of shopping, Togo always comes along, shopping centres like the Pula City Mall and Max City Stoja also allow dogs, so I can browse for clothes or grab a coffee without worrying about leaving my dog at home. We usually spend a couple of hours shopping together, and he enjoys the attention from fellow shoppers. It’s so convenient to have plenty of dog-friendly spots where I can take care of errands while also enjoying some quality time with Togo. We often take a walk through the charming Pula Old Town, where we stop by the Pula Local Market. Not only is it a great place to shop for fresh produce and local goods, but Togo gets plenty of love from friendly locals who always stop to pet him and we show off cool tricks we’ve learned.

Black dog sitting in an outdoor local market in Pula with plants and produce stalls.

Services for dogs

Of course, being a responsible pet owner means making sure my dog stays healthy, so I’m grateful to have some excellent veterinary clinics and pet salons in town. There’s some fantastic pet centres in and around the city centre where I can pick up supplies and even get him groomed if needed. It’s comforting to know that if anything ever goes wrong, I have access to professional care. Whether it’s a check-up or just a spa day for my dog, Pula has plenty of services to keep my furry friend happy and healthy.

Black dog lying on grass with a stick in its mouth in Monte Zaro park in Pula, Croatia.

All in all, Pula is a fantastic location for pet owners seeking a perfect blend of history, relaxation, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re here for a short trip or planning to stay longer, Pula offers plenty of activities for both you and your companion. It’s a city that truly understands the bond between humans and their pets, and it’s one of the reasons why I’m proud to call this Mediterranean gem my home.

Check out our blog posts for more ideas on what to visit in Pula.

If you’d like to create lifetime memories with your pet and explore Pula by kayak or SUP, contact us here.