I am a traveler who never leaves home without my best friend. My dog is not just a pet; she is family. We have seen the world together. We have stayed in pet friendly hotels in galle and hiked through the mountains of France. However, nothing compares to the magic of Tuscany. If you are a mature traveler who loves art and food, you probably dream of Italy. You might wonder if your pup can come along. I am here to tell you that it is possible. It is actually wonderful. Florence is one of the most welcoming cities for animals I have ever visited. This is my Guide to Dog Friendly Hotels in Florence and a look at our life in the city of the Renaissance.
The art. The food. The tail wags. It is all there waiting for you.
Before You Fly: The Boring but Vital Stuff
First of all, you must get your paperwork ready. Italy has strict rules for dogs coming from places like the United States. I learned this the hard way during our first trip. You cannot just hop on a plane. Your dog needs a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip. This chip must be put in before the rabies shot. It is a very specific order. After the chip, your dog needs a rabies vaccination. You must wait at least 21 days after the shot before you can enter Italy.
Additionally, you need an EU health certificate. A USDA-accredited vet must fill this out within 10 days of your arrival. It is a tight window. I suggest working with a pro if you feel stressed. Professionals like WorldCare Pet say that custom checks can take 3 to 6 hours once you land. It is a long day for a pup. Plus, do not use sedatives. They are dangerous at high altitudes and airlines will refuse your dog if she looks sleepy.
Where to Rest Your Paws: The Best Stays
To find the right bed is the most important part of the trip. I have tried many spots. Florence has some of the best dog friendly hotels italy has to offer. Here are my top picks based on my own stays.
1. The Hoxton Florence
We stayed at The Hoxton recently and it was a dream. It is located near Piazza della Libertà. The building is a mix of a 16th-century residence and a modern 1980s design. The best part? They do not charge extra fees for dogs. That is rare in luxury travel. They allow one dog per room if the dog is under 40 lb.
When we checked in, we received a Hox Hounds gift bag. It included a dog bed, bowls, treats, and even poo bags. They also gave us a Mutt Manual. This manual lists all the best local spots for a walk. Pups are welcome in the lobby and the bars. However, they cannot go into the main restaurants. On top of that, the neighborhood is very walk-friendly. We found a cute pet boutique called My Pet Firenze just a short walk away.
2. Hotel Brunelleschi
If you want history, you must stay here. This hotel is actually inside an ancient Byzantine tower and a medieval church. It is only 50 meters from the Duomo. The view of the dome from our room was breathtaking. I could see the shoppers on Via de’ Calzaiuoli from my window.
They have 96 rooms and they are very welcoming to “small size animals”. They offer a Dog Kit that you can buy online. This kit includes a steel water bowl, a food bowl, a plastic mat, and a very comfy 90 cm dog bed. They even include a welcome biscuit. Similarly to other fancy spots, dogs are allowed in the rooms and halls but not in the dining areas. I loved the fact that the hotel has its own private museum in the cellar. It makes you feel like you are living in a piece of art.
3. The Lungarno Collection
For those who love fashion and luxury, the Lungarno Collection is the winner. This includes spots like Portrait Firenze and Hotel Lungarno. These hotels are owned by the Ferragamo family. They consider dogs to be “real guests”.
There is a €50 surcharge for the whole stay. This fee covers a welcome kit with a bed, bowls, and high-quality food. They only allow one dog per room and the weight limit is 10 kg (about 22 lbs). Your dog can go into common areas on a lead but cannot enter the Michelin-starred restaurant, Borgo San Jacopo. Additionally, you cannot leave your dog alone in the room. They do offer a pro dog-sitting service if you need to go to a museum.
Exploring Florence Dog Friendly Style
Once you are settled, it is time to see the sights. Florence dog friendly culture is very strong. I see dogs everywhere. In the squares. In the cafes. Even in some shops.
Sunrise at Piazzale Michelangelo
First of all, you must visit Piazzale Michelangelo. It is a 30-minute walk from the center. I highly recommend going at sunrise. You will beat the crowds of tourists. The light hits the red tiles of the Duomo and it is pure magic. There is a replica of the statue of David there for your dog to see for free. Later, walk down the hill and stop at Café Rifrullo on Via di Niccolo. They have an outdoor terrace where locals sit with their pups and drink espresso.
The Mercato Centrale
You have to eat. The Mercato Centrale is a giant food hall. The bottom floor has butchers and grocers. It smells like heaven to a dog. The top floor has over 20 restaurant counters. I was surprised to find that dogs are allowed upstairs too. We sat at a table and enjoyed a huge charcuterie board of prosciutto and cheese. My dog sat under the table and watched the people go by. It is open every day from 10 am to midnight.
The Bridges Loop Walk
Your dog will need a long walk to burn off energy. I love the Arno River Bridges Loop. Start at the Ponte Vecchio, which is the famous bridge with the jewelry shops. Head East along the river. You will eventually find a shady off-leash park near the Ponte S. Niccolo. It has green grass and plenty of room for a game of fetch. The full loop takes about 2 hours. It is a great way to see the architecture while your dog gets some “sniff time.”
Life as a Local: Parks and Squares
Living in the heart of the city is great, but grass can be hard to find. Many streets are narrow and made of stone. My dog was a bit confused at first. She did not want to “go” on the street like the Italian dogs.
Eventually, we found our “go-to” spot. The grass in front of the Santa Maria Novella Train Station is well-maintained. Another favorite is Piazza della Indipendenza. It has open areas and benches. I often chat with locals there. The most common question you will hear is “Femmina o Maschio?” (Female or Male?). It is the classic icebreaker for dog owners in Italy.
Piazza Santo Spirito is another gem. It is on the “other side” of the river. It feels more local and less crowded. There are open-air markets there almost every day. You can grab a drink at a sidewalk cafe and let your dog nap in the shade.
What About the Museums?
This is the only ruff part. Dogs are generally not allowed inside museums or churches. This includes the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo. However, there is a new service called TripForDog. They provide certified dog trainers who can watch your dog while you look at art.
The dog sitter will meet you at the entrance of the Uffizi. They will play games with your dog and make sure she is fed. This is a great way to see the masterpieces without worrying about your pup. Additionally, some hotels like the Lungarno Collection can arrange a private sitter for you.
Getting Around: Trams and Taxis
Florence is a very walkable city. I rarely use public transport. But sometimes your feet get tired.
Small dogs in carriers usually ride for free on buses and trams. Larger dogs can ride too, but they must have a leash and a muzzle. You also have to pay for a regular ticket for a big dog. On the GEST tram, you are limited to one animal per passenger. The staff can ask you to leave if the tram is too crowded.
If you want to go further away, try a winery trip. Many wineries in the Chianti region welcome dogs. We visited Castello di Verrazzano, which is about an hour away. We toured the vineyards and had a long lunch with our dog resting under the table. It was a perfect afternoon.
Essential Tips for Your Trip
- Keep them on a lead. It is the law in public places.
- Carry a muzzle. Even if your dog is friendly, the bus driver might ask for it.
- Watch the heat. Summer in Florence is scorching. The stone streets get very hot for paws.
- Water is everywhere. Look for the historic fountains. They are perfect for a quick drink.
- Clean up. Italians are very good about picking up after their pets. Do not be the one who ruins it.
In Case of a Paws-emergency
No one wants to think about a sick pet on vacation. However, it is good to be ready. There is a Veterinary Clinic South Florence that is open 24 hours a day. It is located on Via Svezia. The staff is professional and many speak English. On top of that, the pricing is considered reasonable for the area.
Another good option is Vet Hospital H24 on Via dei Vanni. Local families have used them for generations. I always keep these numbers in my phone. Better safe than sorry.
FAQ
Is Florence a dog friendly city?
Florence is an extremely florence dog friendly city. The local culture is truly pawtastic when it involves animals. You will see dogs of all sizes in public squares, bars, and even indoor markets. Many restaurants allow your pup to sit right by your side while you eat. Locals often stop to say hello and ask if your dog is male or female. It is a wonderful place for a furry friend.
Can I leave my pet alone in a hotel room?
You generally should not leave your dog alone. Some high-end spots like the Lungarno Collection strictly forbid leaving dogs unattended in bedrooms. At The Hoxton Florence, you must inform the reception if you plan to leave your pup in the room. Most best dog friendly hotels italy offers suggest using a professional dog-sitting service if you must visit a museum alone.
Where to avoid staying in Florence?
The historic heart of the city is beautiful but it can be hard to live in. It is often quite noisy. Parking is scarce and it is very expensive. On top of that, the narrow sidewalks and busy roads might stress a sensitive pet. You may prefer a spot near a park like Piazza della Indipendenza for a more local feel.
What is the most dog-friendly city in Italy?
Florence is a top contender for this title. It is a much smaller city than Rome, so it feels less overwhelming for a dog to explore. The laws here grant dogs access to almost all public spaces. I find that the authentic Tuscan love for animals makes it a haven for travelers.
Is it safe to walk in Florence at night?
I feel very safe during evening walks. The city has a dreamlike quality when it is lit up at night. I often visit pizzerias like Gusta Pizza at 10 pm because it is less busy. Public squares are much quieter then and it is easier to keep your dog safe from crowds.
What happens if you do not tell a hotel you have a dog?
You may run into serious trouble. Most places require you to mention your dog in the special requests box when you book your room. If you skip this, the hotel might charge you extra fees for cleaning or repair at check-out. In some cases, they might even refuse to let you stay because of weight or breed rules.
How to calm a dog in a hotel?
First of all, use a cozy dog bed and familiar treats to make the room feel like home. You can ask your vet about non-sedating options if your pet feels anxious. Additionally, it helps to reduce travel carrier anxiety before the trip starts. A good romp in a green park like Parco Vita will also tire them out for a sweet nap.
Where to stay in Florence for first timers?
Stay in the historic old town center. A hotel near the Duomo is the ultimate dream for most tourists. You will be within a short walk of the Uffizi Gallery and the Ponte Vecchio. It puts you right in the middle of all the Renaissance magic.
Concluding words
Florence is a perfect choice for a trip with your pup. You can enjoy luxury stays at the best dog friendly hotels Italy has, such as The Hoxton or Hotel Brunelleschi. Most of these spots welcome one dog per room under 40 lb and offer great welcome kits.
Remember to follow the paperwork rules carefully and get that rabies shot at least 21 days before you land. To walk through the Mercato Centrale or watch the sunrise at Piazzale Michelangelo with your best friend is a joy. This city offers art, history, and a warm welcome for every wagging tail.
