If you’re planning a trip to Europe with your dog, you’re in for an adventure, but not all cities will welcome your four-legged friend with open arms. From the picturesque streets of Helsinki, where nearly every corner boasts a pet-friendly hotel, to the bustling avenues of London, where accommodations for dogs are rare, Europe offers a range of experiences for travelling pet owners. This guide reveals the most welcoming and least accommodating European destinations for pet owners.
Most Pet-Friendly Cities in Europe
Travelling to these cities guarantees a high percentage of pet-friendly hotels and offers many parks and attractions. From urban hikes to pet-friendly cafes, these pet-friendly cities in Europe provide a delightful travel experience for you and your dog.
- Helsinki in Finland, takes the crown with an impressive 84% of properties welcoming pets, making it a haven for dog owners. The city’s numerous parks and coastal trails add to its charm, offering plenty of adventures for you and your furry companion.
- Zurich in Switzerland, follows closely, where 75% of hotels are pet-friendly. With its picturesque landscapes and pet-friendly cafes, Zurich ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for you and your dog.
- In Germany, Berlin and Munich boast a solid 70% pet-friendly rate. Both cities are known for their extensive green spaces and dog-friendly public transport, making it easy to explore with your pet.
- Vienna in Austria and Bratislava in Slovakia each offer 64% of their accommodations as pet-friendly. These neighbouring cities are perfect for a dual-city trip, with beautiful parks and historic sites where pets are welcome.
- Krakow in Poland and Prague in the Czech Republic also stand out with 62% and 60% pet-friendly hotels, respectively. These historic cities blend culture and comfort, ensuring plenty of pet-friendly attractions and accommodations.
| City | Country | % of Pet-Friendly Hotels |
|---|---|---|
|
Helsinki |
Finland |
84 |
|
Zurich |
Switzerland |
75 |
|
Berlin |
Germany |
70 |
|
Munich |
Germany |
70 |
|
Vienna |
Austria |
64 |
|
Bratislava |
Slovakia |
64 |
|
Krakow |
Poland |
62 |
|
Prague |
Czech Republic |
60 |
Least Pet-Friendly European Cities for Travellers with Dogs
Knowing which cities may pose challenges due to limited pet-friendly accommodations is crucial when planning a trip with your dog.
- Dublin in Ireland, tops the list, with only 4% of hotels allowing pets. This low percentage is primarily due to stringent regulations and cultural preferences discouraging pet-friendly policies.
- Lisbon in Portugal, follows closely, with just 6% of hotels welcoming pets. The limited space in urban areas and a lack of comprehensive pet-friendly policies contribute to this low figure.
- In London, UK, only 10% of hotels are pet-friendly. High property prices and an urban lifestyle often prioritising non-pet amenities make finding suitable accommodations for dog owners challenging.
- Istanbul in Turkey, also has only 10% of its hotels open to pets. Cultural norms and concerns about cleanliness in public spaces limit the acceptance of pets in many accommodations.
- Amsterdam in Netherlands, rounds out the list with 11% pet-friendly hotels. Strict city regulations and a strong emphasis on maintaining a clean, safe environment hinder broader pet accommodation options.
| City | Country | % of Pet-Friendly Hotels |
|---|---|---|
|
Dublin |
Ireland |
4 |
|
Lisbon |
Portugal |
6 |
|
London |
UK |
10 |
|
Istanbul |
Turkey |
10 |
|
Amsterdam |
Netherlands |
11 |
Planning a European Getaway with Your Dog
Taking your dog on a European getaway can be an incredible adventure but requires careful planning. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure a smooth trip for you and your furry companion.
- Advance Planning & Health Requirements
Before embarking on your journey,
- It’s essential to research the pet travel policies of your destination country.
- Each European nation has specific entry requirements, and knowing these in advance can save you from last-minute headaches.
- Some countries may require your dog to be microchipped, while others may have specific vaccination requirements.
- Ensure your dog has an ISO-compliant microchip. This type of microchip is widely recognised throughout Europe.
- Additionally, vaccinations against rabies are mandatory and should be administered at least 21 days before travel.
- Some countries may also require tapeworm treatment.
- Always consult your vet to ensure your dog meets all health requirements for the countries you plan to visit.
- Booking Pet-Friendly Flights and Accommodation
Once you’ve sorted out the health requirements, it’s time to book your tickets. Look for airlines that are known for their pet-friendly policies. Airlines such as KLM and Lufthansa offer excellent services for travelling with dogs. Always check the specific rules for pet travel, including crate requirements and fees.
When booking accommodation, search for pet-friendly hotels or rentals. Websites like Booking.com allow you to filter your search to include only pet-friendly options. Call the hotel directly to confirm their pet policies and any additional fees. This way, you’ll avoid surprises upon arrival.
- Pet Travel Documentation
Proper documentation is crucial when travelling with your dog. You will need a pet passport, which includes details about your dog’s microchip and vaccination records. If you’re travelling from the UK to the EU, the PETS (Pet Travel Scheme) certificate is necessary. Obtaining this paperwork can be time-consuming, so start early.
An example of a successful traveller is Sarah, who got her dog’s passport sorted within a week. She visited her vet, who helped her navigate the paperwork quickly. Ensure all documents are readily accessible during your journey.
- Arriving & Adjusting in Europe
Upon arrival, allowing your dog time to adjust to the new environment is essential. Take it easy during the first few days. Walks in the local area can help your dog acclimatise. Familiarise your pet with their new surroundings, and ensure they have a comfortable resting space. It’s wise to locate nearby veterinary clinics in case of emergencies. Researching these in advance can ease any worries about your dog’s health during your trip.
- Crossing Borders in the EU
If your travels involve crossing borders within the EU, be aware that regulations vary from country to country. Some borders may have rigorous checks, while others might be more lenient. Always carry your pet’s passport and any required documentation to present at border control.
Research Methodology:
We used Booking.com and applied the “pet-friendly” filter to gather this data. Apartments were ignored in this analysis. However, you must call the hotel to confirm their policies before making reservations and ask about additional pet charges.