I just returned from a magical trip to the capital of Austria, and I have so much to share about Dog Friendly Apartments and Hotels in Vienna, Austria. This city is a true paradise for anyone who loves to travel with their furry best friend. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited.
I found that Vienna is not just a city of history and music, but it is also a city that truly celebrates its four-legged residents. First of all, let me tell you that it is incredibly easy to get around here with a dog. Almost every restaurant and bar welcomed us with open arms.
First of all, you need to know about the preparation before you arrive. I learned that Vienna takes responsible ownership very seriously. There are nearly 59,000 registered dogs across the city. That is approximately one dog for every 34 people.
Therefore, the city has many rules to keep everyone happy. I had to make sure my dog was identified with an ISO standard microchip and had an EU Pet Passport. Additionally, I made sure the rabies vaccination was up-to-date. It must be administered at least 21 days before entry. Though it sounds like a lot of paperwork, it is quite simple.
You must also know about the Dog Handling Licence or Hundeführerschein. This is mandatory for certain listed breeds. These breeds include the Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and Pit Bull Terrier.
However, even if you do not have a listed breed, taking the test is voluntary and can exempt you from the dog tax for a year. The annual dog tax is about 72 euros. Gradually, I realized that these rules are why the city is so peaceful for pets.
Where to Stay: Luxury and 5 Star Hotels
I spent a lot of time looking for the perfect place to sleep. If you want the absolute best, you should look at 5 star hotels in vienna city centre austria. These hotels do not just allow dogs; they treat them like royalty.
I visited the Hotel Sacher Vienna, which is a total icon. The legendary lady of the house, Anna Sacher, loved dogs, and that tradition continues today. They have a program called “Sacher for Dogs”.
For 42 euros per day, your dog gets a comfortable basket, a blanket, towels, and food bowls. They even have a special “do not disturb” sign for the dog. It is luxury at its finest, right?
Similarly, the Rosewood Vienna in the 1st District is stunning. They charge a pet fee of 50 euros per day. Dogs are welcome in the restaurant areas, which is a huge plus. On top of that, the Park Hyatt Vienna offers a “Very Important Dog” (VID) service.
This also costs 50 euros per night. It is classically elegant and offers tailored services for those who want a quiet suite. These are some of the best vienna international hotels you can find.
Later, I checked out the Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere. This is a luxury lifestyle hotel inspired by local art and architecture. It has 303 rooms and 44 suites. The building was developed by the famous architect Renzo Piano.
I loved the Aurora Rooftop Bar on the 16th floor. They charge 25 euros per night and offer a welcome biscuit and a dog bed. It is close to the Belvedere Castle, which is a perfect spot for a morning walk.
Boutique and Design Dog Friendly Hotels
If you want something with more individual charm, there are many vienna dog friendly hotels that are quite unique.
I found The Josefine, which is a boutique hotel built in 1896. It feels like a trip back to the glitz and glamor of the 1920s. There are 49 rooms that mix traditional architecture with modern comfort. Dogs are very welcome here.
The design is full of Art Deco style and surrealist art. The price starts from about 150 euros. Additionally, their breakfast is amazing. You can choose things like Egg Royal or a sweet Russian breakfast.
Also, The Guesthouse Vienna is located in the heart of the city, right behind the Opera and the Albertina. The rooms feel like a private apartment. The design was done by Sir Terence Conran. It is a very elegant place to stay with your animal companion. I found their Brasserie & Bakery to be incredibly good.
I also looked at the Adina Hotel Vienna Belvedere. This was the first Adina property in Austria. It has 134 rooms, including many apartments with kitchens and washer-dryers. It is perfect if you want to be independent. On top of that, it is one of only seven hotels in the city with its own pool. The price is very fair, starting at 109 euros. It is a great vienna hotel pet friendly option for families.
However, if you want something fun, you must stay at the 25hours Hotel at the MuseumsQuartier. It feels like a colorful circus world. There are 183 guest rooms and 34 suites. The highlight is the “Dachboden” rooftop bar with a spectacular view. They even host a Dog Sparkle Christmas Market in December. This is definitely a top pick for where to stay in vienna in december.
Additionally, I found these other great spots:
- Hotel Motto: A mix of Vienna and Paris flair on the Mariahilfer Straße. It has a rooftop restaurant with a modern twist on old recipes.
- Hotel Topazz Lamee: It has award-winning architecture and a view of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It was inspired by the beauty of Hedy Lamarr.
- Hotel Grand Ferdinand: This hotel is located on the Ringstraße. it celebrates tradition with Lobmeyr chandeliers and silver cutlery.
- Boutique Hotel Altstadt Vienna: This one is in the artists’ district. Each room bears the signature of a famous architect or designer. They charge a 20 euro cleaning fee per day.
Dog Friendly Apartments and Legal Rights
Many people wonder about Dog Friendly Apartments and Hotels in Vienna, Austria – Where to Stay for longer visits. I learned that renting an apartment with a dog is actually supported by law. First of all, general pet bans in rental contracts are ineffective in Austria. Therefore, a landlord cannot just reject you for having a dog or a cat.
However, you must make sure your dog is well-behaved. If a dog barks all day and disturbs the neighbors, you could still face trouble. Additionally, landlords can prohibit certain listed breeds in the contract. I found that it is often best to be upfront about your pet. Some people on Reddit suggested not mentioning it, but I think honesty is better.
I looked at a site called Wunderflats and found many options. For example, a Micro Loft in Neubau costs around 1,530 euros per month. A larger luxury suite near Renngasse can be over 4,300 euros per month. There are many serviced apartments that are bright and modern.
I highly recommend staying in the 7th district, which is called Neubau. It is very hip and has many dog-friendly cafes and bars. I stayed in a large studio apartment there and loved it. The only downside is a lack of grass. Like a true city dog, my pup had to get used to concrete, but there is some grass near the Hauptbucherei library.
On the contrary, districts like Donaustadt and Floridsdorf have much more green space. Gradually, I noticed that the west part of the city, like Hietzing and Döbling, is also very leafy. These areas have easy access to the Vienna Woods.
What Not to Do in Vienna with a Dog
It is very important to know what not to do in vienna to avoid big fines.
- Do not leave the house without a leash or a muzzle. By law, dogs must be on a leash or muzzled in public places.
- Do not forget the muzzle on public transport. This is a strict rule to prevent snapping during emergency braking. Even small dogs on the platform must wear one.
- Do not enter prohibited areas. Dogs are not allowed in children’s playgrounds, sandpits, museums, or theaters. They are also banned from certain ornamental gardens like parts of Schönbrunn.
- Do not forget to clean up. It is the law. There are over 3,900 dispensers for poop bags in the city. If you fail to clean up, you risk a 50 euro fine.
- Do not handle your dog while drunk. If you have a listed breed, there is a legal alcohol limit of 0.5 g/L. Breaking this rule can cost you 1,000 euros.
Therefore, if you follow the rules, life is very easy. Plus, most locals are very friendly. I even had a bartender tell me I could pay the next day when I ran out of cash. You will not see that in New York!
Getting Around the City
The public transport in Vienna is some of the best in the world. There are five Underground lines and over 100 tram and bus routes. I used the U-Bahn all the time.
However, your dog needs a ticket. Dogs travel for half price. Additionally, if you have a Vienna City Card, one dog can ride for free instead of a child. Small dogs in a closed carrier travel for free and do not need a muzzle while inside.
At that time, I realized that walking is often better. The city is very walkable. I loved walking along the Ringstraße, which circles the city center. It passes the Opera House, the University, and many museums. Gradually, I explored the Danube Canal, which has great street art and bars in the summer.
The Best Parks and Dog Zones
Vienna is one of the greenest cities in the world. About half of the city is green space. There are over 200 designated dog zones covering more than 1,000,000 m2.
First of all, you must visit the Prater Dog Zone in the 2nd district. It is the largest in the city at 300,000 m2. It has wide meadows and forest paths. It is not fenced, so you must keep a close eye on your pup. Also, you can take your dog on the Giant Ferris Wheel for a view of the city.
Similarly, the Donauinsel Hundezone is great for dogs that love to swim. It is an artificial island that is over 21 kilometers long. There is a dedicated dog beach where they can roam off-leash and splash in the water. However, watch out for cyclists, as they sometimes enter the no-cycle zones.
I also liked Schwarzenbergpark in the 17th district. It has 85,000 m2 of green space on the edge of the Vienna Woods. It is very quiet and peaceful. Plus, Angelibad-Park on the Old Danube is fully fenced and has its own little beach.
Additionally, if you are in the city center, check out the Heldenplatz Hundezone. it is a small fenced-off area near the Hofburg Palace. If you go on a Sunday morning, you might have it all to yourself. Gradually, I found that Stadtpark and Türkenschanzpark also have beautiful areas for dogs.
Eating and Drinking with Your Dog
One of the best things about vienna dog friendly culture is the food scene. I found that 99% of restaurants allow dogs. Often, a waiter will bring a bowl of water before they even take your order.
I loved Habibi & Hawara. It is a mix of Middle Eastern and Austrian hospitality. They have spacious outdoor seating where your pup can people-watch. On top of that, Taeko Ramen is great if you want noodles. The diners there love to give belly rubs to visiting pups.
For something fancy, go to Das Biedermeier Restaurant. They treat well-behaved dogs like aristocrats. I also really liked WIRR for breakfast. They immediately brought my dog a water bowl and a plate of treats. Similarly, Sneak In is a great brunch spot that is very welcoming.
If you like Mexican food, you must visit Santos Neubau. They have some of the best tacos in Europe. Plus, La Mezcaleria has nachos with birria meat that are to die for. Both places loved my dog.
Also, you cannot miss the Coffeehouses. Café Prückel has Art Nouveau charm and is very pet-friendly. Café Sacher is famous for its cake, and though there is often a line, it is worth the wait. Café Central is another institution, though they sometimes ask dogs to wear a muzzle. Finally, Vollpension feels like visiting a family living room with cakes made by “grandmas and grandpas”.
Vineyards and Hiking
When I wanted to get out of the city, I headed to the 19th district. It is full of small vineyards called Heurigen. You can reach them by public transport and go on a wine hike. The views are stunning.
I recommend starting at the top of Kahlenberg and walking down. My favorite spots were Weingut Wailand and Mayer am Nussberg. They all have outdoor tables near the vines. I treated myself to a G’spritzer and some traditional food. October is a perfect time for this. Though the dog zones are off-leash, you must keep your dog on a leash in the vineyards.
Numerical and Statistical Highlights
To give you a better idea of the city, here are some important numbers:
- 59,000: Number of registered dogs in Vienna.
- 200+: Number of dog zones in the city.
- 1,000,000 m2: Total area of dog exercise spaces.
- 300,000 m2: Size of the Prater dog zone alone.
- 72 Euros: The annual dog tax.
- 50 Euros: The fine for not cleaning up after your dog.
- 3,900+: Number of poo bag dispensers.
- 450: Number of balls held in Vienna each year.
- 15,000 Euros: The average cost of a dog over its lifetime.
- 80 to 162 Euros: The cost of a routine vet examination.
Dog Insurance in Austria
I learned that dog liability insurance is legally required in 6 out of 9 Austrian states, including Vienna. If you do not have it, you could be fined up to 7,000 euros. Therefore, it is highly recommended. It protects you if your dog injures someone or damages property. For example, if your dog startles a cyclist and they fall, the costs could reach 40,000 euros. Without insurance, you pay that out of pocket.
Basic liability insurance costs between 40 and 80 euros per year. You can also get health insurance for your dog. Full coverage can cost 400 to 700 euros per year. Additionally, pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, so get it early. Gradually, I found that comparing providers can save you up to 300 euros a year.
Special Events for Dogs
If you are planning your trip, you might want to time it with some cool events.
- Animal Blessing: This happens at Stephansplatz on October 3rd. Pets receive blessings in memory of St. Francis of Assisi.
- Hundeadvent: A three-day Christmas market for dogs at Neugebäude Palace in mid-December.
- Haustiermesse Wien: The largest pet fair in Austria, usually in February or March. One hall is just for dogs with dog parkour and a ball pool.
- Hundekino: The Admiral Cinema has dog movie nights on the first Thursday of every month. Dogs go free and even get ‘pup-corn’.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to go in Vienna with a dog?
You should visit the Prater Dog Zone, which is the city’s largest off-leash area, or the Donauinsel (Danube Island) for swimming and long walks. The vineyards in the 19th district are also popular for scenic hikes.
Which area of Vienna is best to stay in?
Neubau (7th District) is highly recommended for its hip atmosphere and numerous dog-friendly cafes. For more green space and access to the Vienna Woods, consider western districts like Hietzing or Döbling.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Vienna?
Yes, virtually every restaurant and bar in Vienna allows dogs, and many staff members will even bring your dog a bowl of water before taking your order.
Are dogs allowed in the metro in Vienna?
Yes, dogs are allowed on all forms of public transport, including the U-Bahn (underground), provided they are kept on a lead and wear a muzzle.
Is Vienna safe for dogs?
Vienna is considered a very safe city for both people and pets, boasting a high quality of life and a culture that generally embraces four-legged residents.
Where not to stay in Vienna?
Some suggest avoiding the Innere Stadt (1st District) if you want easy access to large green spaces, and note that parts of the 7th district lack grass for dogs who prefer natural surfaces.
What is the most beautiful part of Vienna?
The Innere Stadt is famous for its stunning imperial architecture, while the vineyards on the hillsides offer beautiful panoramic views of the city.
What is the main city Centre of Vienna?
The main center is the 1st District, also known as the Innere Stadt.
Can I bring my dog to Vienna?
Yes, you can bring your dog if you meet requirements such as an ISO standard microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and appropriate travel documents like an EU Pet Passport.
Where can I go with my dog?
You can go to cafes, over 200 designated dog zones, the Wiener Riesenrad (Ferris wheel), and even specific movie screenings at Admiral Kino.
Can a dog sit at the table in a restaurant?
Dogs are generally expected to lay under the table, though some casual establishments may allow them to sit on a bench next to their owner.
How much is dog tax in Vienna?
The annual dog tax (Hundesteuer) in Vienna is approximately €72.
Do and don’ts in Vienna?
Do use a leash and muzzle on public transport and always clean up after your dog to avoid a €50 fine. Don’t take dogs to children’s playgrounds, supermarkets, or museums.
How dog-friendly is Austria?
Austria is extremely dog-friendly; pets are integrated into daily life and are welcomed in most shops, hotels, and public spaces.
What is the most pet friendly city in the world?
Vienna is frequently cited as a top contender because of its extensive network of green spaces, dedicated dog zones, and inclusive pet policies in luxury hotels.
Final Thoughts on Your Visit
Vienna is truly a city of contrasts. You have imperial history mixed with modern design. It is one of the most livable cities in the world for a reason. Gradually, I realized that the rules are what make life here so easy for pet owners.
First of all, check the pet fees and rules for your hotel before you book. Additionally, make sure you have a fitting muzzle and that your dog is trained to wear it. This will make your public transport rides stress-free. Also, pack a travel blanket with a familiar smell to calm your pup in a new place.
If you are visiting in December, the Christmas markets are a must. Many allow dogs, but they can get very crowded. I suggest going early in the day. Similarly, in the summer, focus on the Danube Island and restaurants with large gardens and shade.
Finally, I can say that Vienna feels like home when you have your dog with you. Whether you are sipping coffee in a cozy café or running through the Prater meadows, you will create memories that last forever. It is a paradise for both humans and their furry companions. Therefore, do not hesitate to book your trip to this wonderful city. You and your dog will have a pawsome time!.
