June the 23rd, 2025 – Croatia’s largest peninsula, Istria, has branded itself as a pet friendly destination in which four-legged guests are the VIPs.
As Morski writes, all those with furry (or feathered, or even scaled) friends at home know that planning a summer holiday with them isn’t always easy. That’s exactly why gorgeous Istria has decided to brand itself as a pet friendly destination, attracting more and more visitors who rightfully consider their pets to be family. More and more accommodation units across Istria now allow pets, beaches are being specially developed to make them suitable for sunbathing and swimming with dogs. There are even dog bars where our pets are the main guests.
Pepa the dog and her owner Stefan always enjoy their favourite cafe when in Istria. Treats for Pepa are within reach, and when they want to cool off, the sea is right there to provide refreshment.
“I’ve travelled all over the world, Jamaica, the Maldives, Mauritius, the Seychelles… but this is the best place, I’ve been coming here for five years. I’ve also been to Zadar, we just love Croatia and we intend to live here when I retire,” Stefan from Germany told HRT.
“Istria is a very pet friendly destination, the staff here are wonderful and they take great care of the animals. We love coming here because the sunsets are also so beautiful. It’s relaxed, the dogs go into the sea for a swim whenever they want. They can swim wherever they like, there’s even dog treats and dog beer,” said Nikol from Germany.
This cafe, where pets are allowed, is located on one of Pula’s popular city beaches. Word about it quickly spread among pet owners throughout and well beyond the borders of Croatia.
“When I go on holiday, it’s really important to me that my dog is able to come with me. It’s just beautiful here, we can have a drink and enjoy ourselves with our pets. We always have a great time in Croatia, that’s why we keep coming back,” said Melani from Austria.
Traditionally, pet owners tend to choose campsites. The level of the Croatian camping offer has increased significantly in more recent years, with every single detail being carefully thought out.
“Upon arrival, dogs receive a welcome letter of their own in the accommodation units. They also receive a bowl, a toy, a treat and a destination guide! The beaches throughout the destination that our guests can use are also listed, as well as all the other benefits – from the details of the local vet to the dog groomer,” said Hermina Maras Benassi, the marketing manager of the Istra camp.
Istria has truly become a pet friendly destination and other locations across Croatia are looking at it as an example of good practice. Guests travelling with their pets feel very welcome and comfortable here, with increasing numbers of of them returning year-round for this very reason.
