I stepped off the train at Santa Lucia station and breathed in the salty air of the lagoon. My furry friend stood by my side. We were finally here. Venice. The city of bridges and water. Many people told me that bringing a dog to such a crowded place was a bad idea. They were wrong. Venice is actually a paradise for our four-legged companions. Pet Friendly Dining in Venice, Italy is not just a dream. It is a daily reality.
I want to share my journey with you. This is a guide for anyone who loves to travel with their pet. We will talk about dog friendly restaurants in Venice. We will explore the parks. We will even discuss how to ride the boats. Is Italy dog friendly? Yes. It is one of the most welcoming places I have ever visited. You do not need to leave your best friend at home.
Getting Around the Floating City
First of all, you must understand the transport. There are no cars here. You will walk a lot. However, you will also use the vaporetti. These are the large water buses. Dogs travel for free on these boats. Small dogs should be held in your arms or kept in a carrier. Larger dogs must wear a leash.
You must also carry a muzzle with you. Even if you do not put it on the dog, the staff might ask to see it. I noticed that locals often ignore this rule for small dogs. I still suggest you keep one in your bag just in case. On top of that, try to avoid Line 1 during the busy afternoon hours. The boats get very crowded. Your dog might get stepped on if they are small.
Water taxis are another choice. Most of them allow dogs. You might have to keep your dog on the floor. This is to protect the nice leather seats. Plus, you are responsible for helping your dog in and out of the boat.
If you want a classic experience, you can take a gondola. Most gondoliers are happy to have a dog on board. There is no extra fee for the pet. You just pay the standard hire price. For a cheaper thrill, try a traghetto. This is a short gondola ride across the Grand Canal. It only costs €2 for tourists. My dog loved the breeze on his face.
Pet Friendly Dining in Venice, Italy – Best Restaurants for Dog Owners
Now, let us talk about the food. You might wonder, are dogs allowed in restaurants in italy? The answer is a big yes. I never once faced a rejection. Most places even offered a bowl of water for my pup.
The Icons: Caffè Florian and Harry’s Bar
First on my list was Caffè Florian. It is located right in St. Mark’s Square. This is the oldest cafe in Europe. It is a venice pet friendly landmark. You can sit inside or outside. The staff treated my dog like royalty. They brought him a bowl of water poured from a glass bottle. It was maximum freshness for a very good boy. You can sip a cappuccino and listen to the live musicians. It is expensive, but the experience is worth it.
Harry’s Bar is another famous spot. It is the birthplace of the Bellini and Carpaccio. The entrance is quiet and located at Calle Vallaresso 1323. However, you must be careful about the dress code. They prefer smart casual. They might refuse you if you wear shorts or gym clothes. Expect premium pricing here. A Bellini can cost in the mid-to-high €20s. Though it is pricey, the history is rich.
Gourmet Delights and Local Favorites
Venice has many other dog friendly restaurants in venice. I visited several during my stay.
- Antica Osteria Da Cera: This is one of the best places for seafood. It offers a mix of modern and traditional recipes. The wine list is excellent.
- Vini da Gigio: This is a family-run trattoria in Cannaregio. They serve high-quality meat and fish. They have more than 1000 wine labels. It felt very warm and welcoming.
- Zanze XVI: This restaurant has a modern design. They use products from the lagoon and follow the seasons. You must try the risotto with gobies, squid, and oysters.
- Ai Mercanti: A small, refined restaurant near the center. They take traditional dishes and make them innovative. The service was very friendly to us.
- Trattoria Marisa: This spot is in Cannaregio. It is popular with locals. They have a fixed fish menu in the evenings for €45 per person. This includes four courses and wine. Note that it is closed on certain nights like Sunday and Monday.
- Alla Rivetta: This is a historic spot that has been around for three generations. It serves typical Venetian food. The atmosphere is very convivial.
Additionally, you can visit Osteria ai Do Campanili. They use ingredients from the immediate surroundings. Al Cjasal is another great choice. It is an elegant 20th-century farmhouse. The range of cicchetti (small snacks) there is very interesting.
Life in the Sestieri: Where to Stay and Walk
Finding venice dog friendly hotels is easier than you think. There are over 520 pet-friendly properties in the city. This includes about 263 hotels and 207 vacation rentals. I stayed in an Airbnb in Cannaregio. This area is great because it is less touristy. It has a lively, young feel.
The Grass Struggle
One major challenge in Venice is the lack of grass. Most of the city is made of stone. Your dog might have to learn to do their business on the paving stones. Always carry plastic bags (sacchetti) to clean up. It is the law. On top of that, your dog will naturally smell where other local dogs have been. They learn quickly.
If your dog really needs grass, you must find the parks. Here are the best spots:
- Parco Savorgnan: This is a lifesaver in Cannaregio. It is close to the train station. It is a quiet, shaded area.
- Giardini della Biennale: These are large and calm gardens. They are perfect for resting. Small pets are often allowed in the green areas even during the Art festival.
- Sant’Elena Park: This is in a local area. It is very green and great for long walks.
- Giardini Reali: These gardens were recently reopened near St. Mark’s Square. They are an oasis of green where dogs are allowed on a leash.
- Giardino Papadopoli: This is a small park near Piazzale Roma. It is very convenient for a quick walk when you first arrive.
Gradually, you will learn the layout of these green spaces. Therefore, I suggest staying in areas like Sant’Elena or Giudecca. These spots are quieter and offer more room for daily walks.
Shopping and Daily Errands
Venice pet friendly vibes extend to the shops too. I was surprised to see dogs inside many stores. In theory, dogs are not allowed in food stores. However, locals often bring them into bakeries anyway. In Prix Supermarkets, there is a very cool feature. They have special shopping carts reserved just for dogs. Your pup can sit in the cart while you shop for pasta. This made my errands so much easier.
Also, you will find many pet shops in the city. You can buy food, toys, and even dog clothing. Venetians love to dress up their dogs during the cold months. Do not be shy about packing a nice coat for your pet.
Safety and Health Tips
Venice can be tough on a dog if you are not careful. First, do not let your dog drink canal water. It is not clean. There is even a risk of mystery illnesses. Always use the public fountains in the campi (squares). They provide clean drinking water.
Check the ground during the summer. The Istrian stone (pietra d’Istria) can get very hot. Use your hand to feel the temperature. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for their paws.
Finally, be careful near the edges of the canals. Many areas have no barriers. I kept my dog on a leash at all times near the water. He did not need a life jacket, but the leash kept him safe from falling in.
Beyond the Main Islands
If you have extra time, take the vaporetto to the other islands. Burano is a must-see. It has bright, colorful houses. It also has plenty of grass. It is a perfect spot for photos with your pup.
For beach lovers, head to the Lido. Most beaches there say “no dogs.” However, you can find Pachuka Beach. This is also known as the “Bau Bau” (woof woof) beach. It is specifically set up for dogs. They have sunbeds and umbrellas. In September, a day there with two beds and an umbrella cost €25. The water is calm and perfect for a swim.
When You Want to Visit a Museum
Most museums in Venice do not allow pets. This includes the Doge’s Palace. But there is a solution. MUVE and Bauadvisor offer a dog-sitting service. You can book a sitter to watch your dog while you look at art. The rate is about €10 per hour. You should book at least 24 hours in advance. This allows you to see the sights without worry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Venice?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome at both indoor and outdoor tables in many Venetian restaurants. Establishments such as Caffè Florian specifically welcome pups at their tables, and it is common for locals to dine out with their dogs.
Is Venice, Italy pet friendly?
Venice is considered a very dog-friendly city where pets are a part of everyday life. It is common to see dogs on public water transport, in squares, at parks, and inside many shops and restaurants.
What to do in Venice with a dog?
You can take your dog for walks in local parks like Sant’Elena or Giardini della Biennale, ride the vaporetto (water bus), or take a gondola trip. Other activities include visiting the Rialto Market or enjoying dog-friendly beaches at the Lido, such as Pachuka Beach.
Are dogs allowed inside restaurants in Italy?
Yes, like the rest of Italy, dogs are allowed inside restaurants in Venice. It is often advised to check with the staff beforehand, especially in more formal or “fancy” establishments.
Are dogs allowed on a gondola in Venice?
Yes, dogs are welcome on gondolas, and they typically travel free of charge. However, it is always best to ensure the gondolier is comfortable with your pet before boarding.
Can a dog sit at the table in a restaurant?
While dogs are allowed at tables, they typically relax on the floor at their owner’s feet. Some cafes, like Caffè Florian, provide amenities such as a fresh bowl of water for the dog while the owner dines.
How much is a 30 minute gondola ride in Venice?
A gondola ride typically starts at approximately 80 euros for a 25 to 30-minute duration.
Is the Waterfront Venice dog friendly?
Yes, the waterfront areas such as Zattere and Riva dei Sette Martiri are ideal for walking dogs, offering wide promenades and lagoon views.
Where to go in Italy with a dog?
Beyond Venice, Northern Italy is very pet-friendly. Nearby destinations like Lido di Jesolo, Verona, Lake Garda, and the Dolomite mountains offer many trails and spaces for canine explorers.
Concluding words
Venice is a remarkably welcoming destination for dog owners, offering a wide array of pet-friendly dining options ranging from the historic Caffè Florian to local bacari and seafood restaurants. Pups are frequently permitted both inside and outside establishments, and the city’s pedestrian-only streets and extensive water transport make navigating with a pet relatively simple.
By choosing accommodations in quieter, greener districts like Sant’Elena or staying in nearby Lido di Jesolo, visitors can enjoy a seamless blend of gourmet Italian culture and outdoor leisure with their four-legged companions.
