I have spent many years exploring the world, but nothing compares to the joy of a journey with my furry best friend by my side. If you are like me, you probably hate the idea of leaving your dog in a kennel while you go on holiday. The good news is that 2025 data shows 78% of pet owners now travel with their dogs. Europe is a vast place with many different cultures and rules. Some cities treat dogs like royalty, while others might make you feel a bit unwelcome. Through my own travels and research, I have found the Best Dog-friendly European Destinations to Visit so you can plan the perfect trip.
Getting Ready: The Boring But Important Stuff
You cannot just hop on a plane or a boat without a plan. My first tip for any traveler is to check the entry rules. If you are looking for the Best dog friendly european destinations to visit from uk, you must know that things changed after Brexit. The old pet passport is no longer valid for people in Great Britain.
You now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for every single trip you take to the European Union or Northern Ireland. This document can be quite expensive. It often costs around £250 for the first pet and £120 for each dog after that. You must get this from an official vet within ten days of your travel date.
Your dog needs a microchip and a rabies vaccine at least 21 days before you leave. If you are heading to Finland, Malta, Norway, or Ireland, your dog also needs a tapeworm treatment before arrival. It is a lot of paperwork. A total headache. However, it is the only way to ensure your buddy can cross the border safely.
How to Get There: Wings and Rails
I personally prefer the Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry when I travel from the United Kingdom. It is one of the most civilised ways to travel. You can book a pet-friendly cabin where your dog stays with you the whole night. It even has a small area on the deck for them to do their business. I call it the “poop deck”.
If you prefer to fly, some airlines are much better than others. Air France and KLM are two of the Most dog-friendly countries‘ favorite carriers. They allow small dogs under 8 kg in the cabin if they are in a soft bag. Larger dogs must go in the hold in a crate that meets IATA standards.
Please be careful if you have a dog with a flat face like a Pug or Bulldog. Most airlines, including Transavia and Iberia, prohibit snub-nosed dogs because they can have trouble breathing during the flight.
Trains are another great choice. Most European trains allow dogs, but the rules vary. In Germany, small dogs in carriers ride for free. Larger dogs usually need a half-price child ticket and must wear a muzzle. In the United Kingdom, you can take up to two dogs for free on all trains. Just do not let them sit on the seats!.
The Champions: Most Dog-friendly Cities in Europe
I have seen many cities, but a few stand out as the absolute best. These are the places where you will not just be “allowed” but truly welcomed.
1. Zurich, Switzerland: The Gold Standard
In my experience, Zurich is the number one city for dog owners. It has a perfect mix of nature and city life. You can take your dog on every form of public transport, including boats and trams. A day pass for your dog only costs about 3.40 CHF.
One of my favorite memories is visiting Strandbad Mythenquai. It is a public swimming area on Lake Zurich where dogs can swim right next to humans. The water is crystal clear. The Alps are in the background. It is pure magic. This city is easily one of the Most dog-friendly cities in the world.
2. Vienna, Austria: The Park King
Vienna is an imperial dream for dogs. It has over 1,000 parks and more than 180 off-leash zones. These zones are fenced, well-lit at night, and often cleared of snow in winter. You can even take your dog into traditional coffee houses like Café Sperl.
The locals are very respectful of dogs. They treat them as part of the family. However, there are rules. Dogs over 40 cm must wear a muzzle on public transport. If your dog is under 10 kg and in a bag, they can ride for free without one.
3. Paris, France: The Cafe Culture
People often think of Paris for romance, but it is also a top spot for pups. There are over 1,000 pet-friendly establishments in the city. You can walk into almost any cafe or small restaurant and the waiter will bring a bowl of water before you even ask.
I love the Jardins du Luxembourg and Parc des Buttes Chaumont for afternoon walks. Be aware that some parks in Paris are strictly no-dogs, which can be annoying. If you stay in a bougie hotel like the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, they will treat your dog like a VIP. This is as close as you get to Dog friendly all Inclusive resorts Europe style treatment for your pet.
4. Rome, Italy: The Italian Love Affair
Italy is one of the 10 most dog-loving countries I have ever visited. In Rome, people will stop you every few minutes to pet your dog. They love to say “È famiglia!” because the dog is truly family there.
I found that even the smartest restaurants in Italy do not mind if a large dog sits under the table. I once saw two huge German Shepherds in a fancy Sardinia restaurant, and nobody blinked an eye. You can even find “Gelato per cani” (dog ice cream) at many shops!. Italy gets a 10 out of 10 for pet culture.
Hidden Gems: Dog-friendly Countries to Visit
If you want to avoid the big crowds, I suggest looking at some of the lesser-known spots.
Slovenia: A Natural Paradise
Slovenia is one of the most beautiful Dog-friendly countries to visit. It is affordable and full of mountains. Lake Bled is a must-see. You can take your dog on the boats to the island or walk the 6 km path around the lake.
I was shocked to find that Ljubljana Zoo actually allows you to bring your own dog inside!. They just need to be on a leash. It is a very rare experience. Most museums are off-limits, but a new scheme in Slovenia marks some as “Dog-Friendly Museums” where your pet can wait in a safe place.
Transylvania, Romania: A Medieval Adventure
For a unique trip, head to Transylvania. It is perfect for walking through historic towns like Sibiu and Brasov. You can visit Bran Castle (Dracula’s home) with your dog, as long as they stay in the outdoor areas. The landscape is wide and open. Your dog will love the fresh air. It is one of the Best Dog-friendly European Destinations to Visit if you like history and hiking.
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania: The Baltic Welcome
The Baltic countries are a big surprise. In Tallinn, Estonia, dogs are welcome almost everywhere. I even took a dog to the Fotografiska photography museum!. Latvia is just as good. I walked the coast from Riga and found only one beach with a “no dogs” sign. These countries are very clean and the people are very kind to animals.
The Warning List: Least Dog-friendly Countries in Europe
I must be honest with you. Not every place is easy. You should know about the Least dog-friendly countries in Europe before you book.
Bosnia & Herzegovina is a tough one. While some people love dogs, many others are quite hostile. I have heard stories of people kicking at dogs or acting very aggressive in the street. It can be scary. Public transport is also a mess. Nobody seems to know if dogs are allowed on the buses.
Czechia can also be tricky. Even though Prague is beautiful, I found some xenophobia at vet offices. Some vets actually refused to treat dogs because the owners did not speak Czech. That is a huge risk if your dog has an emergency. Also, dogs must wear muzzles on all public transport in Prague.
Spain and Portugal are a mixed bag. In many Spanish cities, dogs are banned from the inside of restaurants. You might find yourself eating outside in the rain. Some places like Gran Canaria have very strict rules. They have “dog-free zones” where you cannot even walk your pup on the sidewalk. Always check the local rules before you go.
Winter Travel: The Secret Season
Most people travel in the summer, but I think winter is the best time for a dog trip. Cooler temperatures mean your dog will not overheat. Popular spots are also 35% less crowded.
Helsinki, Finland is the winter champion. An amazing 82% of hotels there are pet-friendly. Finns believe that there is no bad weather, only bad clothing. They have heated outdoor dog cafes and even “dog ice swimming” holes!.
Copenhagen, Denmark is another winter winner. It is the home of “hygge” or coziness. Dogs are allowed on all public transport, including the harbor buses. There is no muzzle requirement in Copenhagen, which makes it very stress-free. You can even rent a cargo bike and cycle your dog around the harbor.
Hiking the Alps: A Peak Experience
If you and your dog are fit, you must try hiking in the Swiss or Italian Alps. It is the ultimate adventure. You can hike for miles on well-marked trails through alpine villages.
There are things to watch out for. Cows can be aggressive if they have calves, so keep your dog away from them. You should also be aware of Leishmaniasis, a disease spread by sandflies in Southern Europe. Use a Scalibor collar or Advantix to protect your pup.
Top Tips for a Smooth Trip
I have learned a few lessons the hard way. Here is my advice for you:
- Book Midweek: Hotel rates are 25% to 40% cheaper on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
- Use Public Transport: Taxis can be a nightmare. In Frankfurt, Uber drivers might ask you to put your dog in a closed trunk, which is insane!. Stick to trains and buses where possible.
- Pack the Essentials: Bring a dog first-aid kit, an extra leash, and an LED collar light for dark winter mornings.
- Find a Vet Early: If you are returning to the UK, you must visit a local vet 1 to 5 days before travel for a tapeworm treatment. Your holiday rep or an app like MyPet.com can help you find one.
- Watch the Heat: If your dog is a Golden Retriever or a Husky, avoid Rome or Lisbon in July. The heat is too much for them. Go in April or October instead.
A First-Person Story from the Road
I remember being in Munich with my dog. We were at the Englischer Garten, which is one of the biggest parks in the world. My dog swam in the Eisbach River while surfers caught waves nearby. We then walked to a beer garden.
The waiter did not even look at me first. He walked straight to my dog with a big pretzel and said, “Für den Hund!” (For the dog!). That is the kind of hospitality you find in the Most dog-friendly countries. It makes every mile of travel worth it.
Your Europe Dog Tour Itinerary
If you have four weeks, here is how I would spend them:
- Week 1 (South): Start in Rome for the food, then head to Barcelona for the beaches.
- Week 2 (West): Fly to Lisbon for the Atlantic views, then take the train to Paris for the cafes.
- Week 3 (Central): Go to Munich for the beer gardens, then finish in Zurich for the lake swimming.
- Week 4 (North): Take the train to Amsterdam for the canals, then Copenhagen for the bikes, and end in Berlin for the parks.
This trip covers the best of the best. You will see history, nature, and the most welcoming cultures on the continent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the most dog friendly place in Europe?
Zurich, Switzerland is the top city for pet owners. It has perfect public transport where dogs are allowed on every train, boat, and tram. You can even take your dog to public swimming areas like Strandbad Mythenquai.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
Dalmatia in Croatia is a classic choice for a holiday. It is the home of the Dalmatian dog and offers over 1,000 dog-friendly accommodations. Transylvania in Romania is also a perfect spot if you like medieval towns and wide mountain landscapes.
What is the easiest country to take a dog to?
Italy is often the easiest place to visit with a pet. People there are super relaxed and treat dogs like royalty. You will find that most restaurants and even some supermarkets allow dogs inside.
What country respects dogs the most?
Switzerland and Austria show incredible respect for dogs. In these countries, dogs have a status that is almost equal to humans. You can take them to fancy coffee houses in Vienna or on mountain cable cars in the Alps.
Where can I go abroad with my dog?
You have many great choices like Paris, Berlin, and Tallinn. Even beautiful islands like Santorini in Greece have nearly 300 pet-friendly hotels for you to choose from.
Can I take my 50 lb dog on a plane?
A 50 lb dog is too large to stay in the cabin with you. Most airlines only allow dogs under 8 kg in the cabin. Your larger dog must travel in the cargo hold in a crate that meets IATA standards.
Which country is kindest to animals?
Finland is one of the Most dog-friendly countries because they view dogs as true family members. An amazing 82% of hotels in Helsinki are pet-friendly. They even have heated outdoor cafes so your dog stays warm in winter.
Is Croatia a dog friendly country?
Yes, Croatia is very welcoming, especially in the Dalmatia region. Some bus systems can be a bit tricky because the driver decides if the dog can board. However, you will find many beaches and parks that allow dogs.
Which is the no. 1 friendly dog?
The Golden Retriever is often mentioned as a top choice for a friendly travel companion. These dogs are social and handle the stress of travel very well.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with a dog takes more work. It requires more luggage. It is more expensive. However, it changes how you see the world. You slow down. You sit in more parks. You talk to more locals because a dog is the perfect icebreaker. You do not just see the tourist sites; you see real life.
Europe is waiting for you and your best friend. From the snowy streets of Helsinki to the sunny beaches of Dalmatia, there is a perfect spot for every pup. Just get that paperwork ready, pack the treats, and enjoy the ride.
The world is a giant park, and your dog is ready for a walk. 🐾✈️
