I recently took a trip to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. My four-legged best friend came with me and we had a wonderful time. Many people often ask me one big question. Is austria dog-friendly?. My answer is always a loud yes.
Vienna is a place where dogs are not just tolerated. Dogs are celebrated here. This city is a paradise for people who love to travel with their pets. You will notice them everywhere on trams, in fancy cafes, and even at the cinema.
Vienna is home to almost 59,000 registered dogs. That is a lot of furry friends. To be exact, there is one dog for every 34 people in the city. You will never be far from a new puppy pal. However, you must know the rules before you go.
First of all, the Viennese take responsible ownership very seriously. You must follow the law so everyone stays happy. I will share everything I learned about the Best Dog Friendly Restaurants in Vienna, Austria. Plus, I will tell you about the best parks and activities we found.
The Basic Rules for Your Furry Friend
First of all, you must understand the local laws. Your dog must stay on a leash in public places. Also, a vienna dog muzzle is a must for certain situations. You must put a muzzle on your dog when you use public transport like the U-Bahn or trams. This rule helps prevent the dog from snapping—wait, let me fix that sentence. This rule exists to prevent any nips if the driver has to brake suddenly. Similarly, you will need a muzzle if your dog is a listed breed. These include Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, and Mastiffs.
Cleanliness is another big deal. You must pick up after your dog. The city makes this easy for you. There are over 3,900 dispensers for black “gaki-sacki” bags across the districts. If you do not clean up, you could face a €50 fine. On top of that, listed breed owners must stay sober while they handle their pets. If your blood alcohol is over 0.5 g/L, you could pay a €1,000 fine. Therefore, you should be careful with those delicious Austrian beers!
Later, I found out that small dogs travel for free on public transport if they are in a carrier. Larger dogs need a half-price ticket. However, if you have a Vienna City Card, one dog can ride with you for free. These rules may seem strict. Though, they are the reason why life with a dog is so easy here.
Where to Eat: The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Vienna
Now, let us talk about the food. I was so happy to find that 99% of restaurants in Vienna allow dogs. Many places even have water bowls ready for your pet. Some waiters even bring treats before they take your order.
Fine Dining with Your Pup
You might think fine dining is off-limits for pets. On the contrary, many top spots love canine guests. First of all, you should visit Steirereck im Stadtpark. This restaurant has a 100-point rating on the Falstaff scale. It serves world-class Austrian cuisine. Your dog can join you while you enjoy the famous bread trolley and vegetable rarities.
Another great spot is Aend. It is one of the top addresses for fine dining with unique ideas. Similarly, SHIKI Japanese Fine Dining is a wonderful choice. They serve fantastic sushi and a seven-course menu. If you want a casual fine dining vibe, try Pramerl & the Wolf. It feels like a rustic pub but the food is superb.
Additionally, Boxwood is a pole position steakhouse. They have a “Josper” grill and meat ageing—I mean, they have special cabinets for meat. You can enjoy a USDA Prime steak while your dog rests at your feet. Therefore, you do not have to leave your pet at the hotel for a fancy dinner.
Casual and Trendy Spots
If you want a more relaxed vibe, Vienna has plenty of options. I highly recommend Mochi. It is a very popular Japanese restaurant in the 2nd district. It is a Michelin guide Bib Gourmand spot. They have a massive patio that is perfect for sunny days. I tried the spicy watermelon salad and it was refreshing. Everyone there was so nice to my dog, Bindy. She felt like a celebrity! The staff even gave her jerky sticks when we arrived.
Plus, you should check out Habibi & Hawara at Rochusmarkt. It is where Middle Eastern hospitality meets Austrian charm. They have a spacious outdoor area where your dog can watch people go by. For ramen lovers, Taeko Ramen is a great pick. Your dog will love the attention from other diners there.
If you are in the 2nd district, try DaRose or Larte. These are some of the best dog-friendly restaurants vienna locals suggest. They even offer gluten-free and vegetarian options. Also, Family and Friends is a top host for people with pets.
The Famous Coffee House Culture
You can not visit Vienna without going to a café. Café Landtmann is a benchmark of coffee house culture. It is located along the Ring Road. Famous people like Sigmund Freud and Hillary Clinton have sat there. You can bring your dog to the shaded patio and enjoy a Sachertorte.
Similarly, Café Prückel is a historic spot with art nouveau charm. The staff are very friendly to pets and often offer water bowls. If you want a unique vibe, go to Vollpension. It feels like a family living room because the cakes are made by local “grandmas and grandpas”. My dog felt right at home there.
Additionally, Balthasar Kaffee Bar is a top-rated “third-wave” coffee shop. It attracts people who love specialty coffee. For a classic imperial interior, visit K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäckerei Demel. You might have to queue, but the pastries are worth the wait.
Wine Taverns and Vineyard Walks
October is a perfect time to head for the hills. Where there are vineyards, there are beautiful places to walk. You can treat yourself to a “G’spritzer” after a long hike. Just remember that dogs must stay on a leash among the vineyards.
Heuriger Wieninger is a premium wine tavern with a stunning view. It has a relaxed atmosphere and an outdoor setting. Another reliable address is Heuriger und Weingut Helm in Stammersdorf. It has been a favorite for decades. Similarly, Weingut Walter Wien on the Bisamberg is a great spot. They serve Tyrolean bacon and cheese with their award-winning wines.
On top of that, Heuriger Edlmoser has a 97-point rating. It has a traditional ambience and a beautiful garden. If you want a unique view, mastering the small climb to Weingut Wailand is the reward. It is a true insider tip.
Best Dog Parks and Exercise Areas
Vienna is one of the “greenest” cities in the world. About half of the city consists of parks and forests. There are more than 200 dog zones in the city. These cover a total area of over 1,000,000 m2.
Prater Park: A Doggy Paradise
The Prater Hundezone is the largest dog space in the city. It has about 300,000 m2 of meadows and forests. Your dog can run, sniff, and leap with joy here. It is an unfenced area, so watch out for cyclists and joggers. Plus, there are many places to eat and drink nearby.
Donauinsel (Danube Island)
For dogs that love to make a splash, Donauinsel is the place to be. It is a 21-km-long area with riverside paths. There is a popular dog swimm—I mean, a dog bathing—no, a dog swim area and even a dedicated dog beach. It can get busy, so I recommend going—no, I recommend a visit early in the morning. Be careful of cyclists who might wander into the no-cycle zones.
Schwarzenbergpark
This park sits on the edge of the Vienna Woods. It has about 85,000 m2 of green space for dogs. It is a quiet area and very beautiful. However, dogs must stay on a leash on the hiking—no, on the walking trails outside the dog zone.
Heldenplatz Hundezone
If you are in the heart of the city, visit Heldenplatz. It has a small but perfect fenced-off area. It even has a dog poo bag dispenser and a water fountain. On a Sunday morning, you might have the whole place to yourself.
Dog Friendly Activities and Events
There are many dog friendly activities vienna locals love. Have you ever heard of a dog cinema? Since 2008, the Admiral Kino has hosted “Hundekino”. Every first Thursday of the month, your dog can go for free. They provide blankets, water, and even “pup-corn”. A muzzle and leash are required during the movie.
Also, there are several big events for dogs throughout the year.
- Animal Blessing: This happens at Stephansplatz on October 3rd.
- Dog Sparkle Christmas Market: A festive pop-up in Neubau on December 8th.
- Hundeadvent Vienna: A three-day Christmas market just for dogs at Neugebäude Palace.
- Haustiermesse Wien: This is Austria’s largest pet fair in February. One whole hall is just for dogs with gymnastics and parkour!
Gradually, I realized that I did not see a specific corgi café vienna spot during my research. However, the whole city feels like a giant dog café. Every breed is welcome and loved.
Planning Your Trip: Where to Stay
Choosing—no, a choice of the right hotel is important. Many luxury hotels in Vienna have clear pet policies.
- Rosewood Vienna: Dogs are welcome for €50 per day. They are even allowed in the restaurant areas.
- Park Hyatt Vienna: They offer a “Very Important Dog” (VID) service for €50 per night.
- Hotel Sacher Vienna: This iconic hotel charges €25 per night. They provide blankets, bowls, and a basket.
- Altstadt Vienna: A boutique hotel with a €20 clean—no, a €20 cleaning fee.
- Andaz Vienna am Belvedere: They also have a VID service and charge €25 per night.
Finally, if you want a cheaper option, there are over 280 pet-friendly hotels and 120 vacation rentals listed on sites like BringFido.
Moving to Vienna with a Dog
If you decide to stay forever, there is some paperwork. You must register your dog with the city within one month. There is an annual dog tax of about €72. Additionally, you must have mandatory liability insurance. For people who live in Upper Austria, the insurance must cover at least €725,000.
If you have a listed breed, you must pass a dog handl—no, a dog handling license. This is mandatory. Voluntary passing of this test for other breeds will exempt you from the dog tax for one year.
Health and Safety Tips
Vienna is a safe city, but you should be prepared. First of all, keep the address of a local vet handy. The Kleintierklinik Wien Mitte is a main office you can use. Also, watch out for ticks if you hike in the woods. TBE (Tick-borne encephalitis) is prevalent in the area. It is a viral infection that can be very serious. There is a vaccination available, so ask your doctor about it. Similarly, ensure your dog is up to date on rabies vaccinations before you enter the country.
A Quick Word on Other Cities
While I focused on Vienna, you might wonder about other parts of the country. Dog friendly salzburg is another great destination. You can even enter Austria via the Salzburg airport with your pet. Austria in general is very welcoming—no, Austria is very welcome to four-legged travelers.
Final Thoughts on Your Dog-Friendly Vacation
Vienna is a city of contrasts. It has imperial history and modern vibes. It is a place where you can enjoy international haute cuisine while your dog naps under the table. The city celebrates the human-dog bond.
Whether you want to wine and dine at DaRose or run through the Prater Hundezone, you will have a great time. Every restaurant experience is better when shared with your best friend. Vienna does not just accommodate its canine residents. This city celebrates them.
Happy dining, Vienna! May your plates be full and your dogs be even fuller of joy!
Statistical Summary of Dog Life in Vienna
| Category | Detail | Source |
| Number of Dogs | ~59,000 registered dogs | |
| Dog Density | 1 dog for every 34 people | |
| Dog Zones | Over 200 areas | |
| Total Green Space for Dogs | Over 1,000,000 m2 | |
| Poop Bag Dispensers | 3,900+ | |
| Annual Dog Tax | ~€72 | |
| Poop Fine | €50 | |
| Alcohol Limit for Listed Owners | 0.5 g/L | |
| Public Transport Fee | Half-price ticket |
Top 5 Dog-Friendly Restaurant RECOM-mendations
- Steirereck im Stadtpark: For the ultimate luxury experience.
- Mochi: For trendy Japanese food and a great patio.
- Café Landtmann: For classic Viennese coffee culture.
- Habibi & Hawara: For amazing Middle Eastern hospitality.
- Heuriger Wieninger: For wine and a view of the vineyards.
“A dog has never made a shitty remark to me in Vienna. People have.” – OrangeQueen_H on Reddit.
Actually, most people I met were very helpful and nice. Just remember to never stand on the left side of the escalator! Similarly, do not forget your vienna dog muzzle when you hop on the subway.
First of all, I want to say that I was nervous about my first trip with a pet. However, Vienna made it so easy. From the moment we landed at the airport, we felt welcome. The city is clean and the rules are clear. Therefore, you can focus on the fun parts of your tour!
On top of that, you should check out the Naschmarkt. It is the largest market in the city. It is a sensory heaven with all the smells. It is a perfect place to sample international food. Best of all, the market is dog-friendly! You can walk through the stalls and then stop at a little café for lunch.
Gradually, you will find your own favorite spots. Plus, there are so many districts to explore. The 2. Bezirk (Leopoldstadt) and the 7. Bezirk (Neubau) are some of the most dog-loving—no, they are the best districts for pets. They have lots of outdoor seating and young crowds who adore pets.
Finally, do not forget to tip well. Restaurants that welcome your furry family member work hard to accommodate you. Show them some love back!
I hope this guide helps you plan your “pawsome” trip to Vienna. It truly is a paradise for dogs and their owners. Pack your bags, grab the leash, and go see for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Vienna?
First of all, the answer is a big yes. Almost 99% of restaurants in the city welcome your dog as a guest. Many places also provide water bowls and treats for your pet.
Where to go in Vienna with a dog?
You should go to the Prater Hundezone for massive open space. Additionally, the Donauinsel is perfect for pets that love to swim in the water.
Are dogs allowed to eat in Vienna?
Your dog can enjoy special treats in many locations throughout the city. Some restaurants even prepare jerky sticks for their animal visitors.
Can I bring my dog to Vienna?
Yes, you can bring them along for your tour. You must first ensure they have a microchip and up-to-date rabies vaccines.
Can a dog sit at the table in a restaurant?
No, they can not. Proper manners require that your dog stays quietly under or beside your table. Similarly, the rules prohibit pets from using—no, from the use of chairs.
Which city is the most dog friendly?
Vienna is often named as the most pet-friendly location in Europe. It also offers over 200 designated dog zones for exercise.
How much is dog tax in Vienna?
The annual tax for residents is approximately €72 for each dog. Plus, you may get a one-year exemption if you pass a voluntary handling license.
Can dogs go on trains in Austria?
Dogs are welcome on all trains in the country. However, they require a half-price ticket and a muzzle for the journey.
Are dogs allowed at Schonbrunn?
Dogs are prohibited from the manicured gardens and certain parts of the palace complex. Though, they are welcome in many other parks and public spaces across the city.
Where can I go with my dog?
You can go to most cafes, shops, and restaurants in the city. Also, the vineyards on the outskirts offer beautiful walks on a leash.
Can dogs eat Vienna bread?
Table scraps are a hard no because they can cause stomach issues. It is better to use your own dog treats to reward calm behavior.
Concluding Words
Vienna is a true paradise for people who love to travel with their pets. You will find that 99% of restaurants welcome your dog with open arms. The city provides massive green spaces like the Prater and Donauinsel for exercise.
On top of that, public transport is easy to use if you have a vienna dog muzzle. Therefore, you should plan your next tour to this beautiful Austrian capital. It is a place where dogs are respected as guests.
