A Cat Lover’s Guide to Croatia

Finding self-proclaimed “cat people” in the US is a serious challenge, but in Croatia, cats are treated like royalty. Street cats wander freely, especially in coastal cities along the Adriatic Sea such as Dubrovnik, Hvar, and Split. 

The story goes that centuries ago, cats were brought to these cities to catch mice – think like medieval Roombas. The free-roaming cats that are spotted on the streets today are supposedly descendants of these original 13th-century maids, adding even more rich history to the cities.

While “free-roaming street cats” should imply a general uselessness to this guide, there are actually specific areas the cats tend to hang around, as well as reasons why they do so. Therefore, here is a directory for my fellow cat-loving Americans on how to do Croatia right (a.k.a., pet a lot of cats). 

The Travel to Croatia from the States

Firstly, I would like to touch on what it takes to actually get to the country of Croatia. You will have to take a flight into a major Croatian airport, such as Saint Jerome Airport, located around 12 miles outside the city of Split, or Ruđer Bošković Airport, located around 9.5 miles from Dubrovnik. 

After this flight, you will have to take a bus into the city center, but don’t fret; the views will be incredible, and frankly you might wish the ride was longer. 

The fun part comes when you wish to go from one island to another, for example, Split to Hvar. I highly recommend you lean into the island-hopping culture in Croatia – the views from the ferry boat are ones that cannot be replicated in any other way of transport. 

Now let's talk cats. 

Split

Street cats are a known, famous aspect of the city of Split. Locals commonly leave out food and water for them outside of their homes and businesses. The city of Split and many like it on the Dalmatian coast say that they abide by a “pomalo” lifestyle (a Croatian saying meaning “take it easy”). The street cats are a perfect representation of this lifestyle, as they amble through the cobblestone streets, relax by the water, and nap in the strong Croatian sun. 

You truly can find these cats anywhere, but they commonly relax around Diocletian’s Palace or on the Riva promenade. Additionally, locals feed stray cats daily at a courtyard by Marmontova Street. There are cat cafes where guests can connect with rescues dotted near Marjan Park, and there is even a famous feline in the city. Cat Tom is one of the highest-rated tourist attractions in Split, with his favorite spot pinpointed on Google and Apple Maps – simply plug in “Cat Tommy”, and you’re likely to find this local celebrity. 

Hvar

The island of Hvar is one of the more tourist-reliant cities in Croatia, with the island’s population quadrupling at times of peak tourism. Street cats have noticed this, and often hang around restaurants and hotels, relying on tourists for food and attention. 

However, in the neighborhoods of Hvar where locals reside, you are even more likely to spot a furry friend, as the cats are seen as members of the community. They are fed, cared for, and even recognized by locals. If you want the true Croatian cat experience – venture into the back alleys of Hvar, specifically near the Benedictine Monastery.

Dubrovnik

While cats run rampant across all of Croatia, Dubrovnik is a truly special place for cat lovers. Whether you are outside of the city, strolling through the Montovjerna neighborhood, or soaking up ancient architecture inside the city walls, you will see more cats than you have ever imagined. 

In residential areas, locals leave out bowls of food and water for both stray cats and outdoor cats, and in one simple stroll you can see upwards of 20 cats. 

Inside the city walls of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, cats are somehow even more common, often relaxing near restaurant doors or sleeping near the harbor. Some specific places to look for cats in the Old Town include the Gundulić Square at the bottom of the Jesuit stairs, and the Church of the Holy Annunciation.