I just returned from a trip that changed my life. I traveled across the ocean with my best friend. My best friend happens to have four legs and a wet nose. We spent a week exploring Amsterdam and other Dutch spots. If you love travel and your pup, you need to hear this. The Netherlands is one of the most dog-welcoming countries in all of Europe.
My journey began with a lot of nerves. Would a big hotel really want my dog there? It turns out the answer is a big yes. In this guide, I will share the best dog friendly hotels Netherlands offers. I will also explain how to use the trains and where to find the best beaches.
Why the Netherlands is a Dream for Pups
The culture in this country is built for pets. It is not just about rules. The people here genuinely love dogs. We walked into a nice restaurant and nobody even blinked. Instead, the server brought a water bowl and gave my dog snuggles. This level of hospitality is common.
The land is very flat. This makes it easy to walk for hours along the scenic canals. Additionally, the city is compact. You can see a lot without getting too tired. Plus, the public transport is a breeze.
Essential Rules Before You Pack Your Bags
You must prepare your paperwork early. This is the most important step. If you travel from an EU country, you need an EU Pet Passport. Your dog also must have a microchip and a valid rabies vaccination. You must get the vaccine at least 21 days before you travel.
However, the rules are different if you come from the United States or the UK. You will need an Animal Health Certificate. An official vet must sign this within ten days of your arrival. I recommend you print paper copies of every page. Some hotels might want to see the physical paper.
What about specific breeds? The Netherlands does not ban any specific breeds. You can bring a Pit Bull or a Rottweiler. Gradually, you will see that they focus on behavior instead of breed names. Therefore, a well-behaved dog is always welcome.
One special note for my friends in the USA. Many people search for dog friendly hotels holland mi or pet friendly hotels holland mi. They are looking for the cute town in Michigan. While those spots are great, the European Holland is a whole different world. If you want to experience real history, you must cross the Atlantic.
The Best Dog Friendly Hotels in Amsterdam
First of all, let us talk about where to sleep. Amsterdam has some of the most luxurious pet friendly hotels netherlands has ever seen.
1. Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam
This was my favorite spot. Why? They charge zero pet fees. This is a huge deal. Most luxury hotels charge €35 to €50 per night just for the dog. At the Kimpton, dogs of any size stay for free.
They do not just tolerate your pet. They celebrate them. They provide a memory foam bed and a welcome treat bag. They even have a “Paws for Thought” package with a special pet menu. Plus, it is right near Centraal Station. This makes it very easy to reach.
2. Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam
If you want history, stay here. This hotel is made of 25 interconnected canal houses from the 17th and 18th centuries. It is so romantic. They allow dogs up to 30kg.
There is a nightly fee of €35. However, your pup gets a plush bed and access to a beautiful garden courtyard. It is located right on the Prinsengracht canal. The walks right outside the door are stunning. Gradually, you will feel like you are living in a fairy tale.
3. Conservatorium Hotel
Do you want to really spoil your pup? This is the place. It is a five-star hotel in the Museum District. They have a custom dog menu with gourmet meals like chicken or beef.
The fee is €50 per night. They accept small to medium dogs up to 25kg. On top of that, they offer a pet spa with paw treatments and grooming. You can even hire a professional dog walker if you want to visit a museum. It is the ultimate luxury for best dog friendly hotels netherlands.
4. The Hoxton, Amsterdam
I loved the vibe here. It is located on the Herengracht canal. They roll out a welcome mat for all “Hox Hounds”. They accept one dog per room up to 40 lb.
The best part? No extra fees. They give you a Mutt Manual. This book lists all the best local spots for your dog to sniff. Your dog can hang out with you in the lobby and the bars. But, the restaurant is for humans only.
5. Hotel The Neighbour’s Magnolia
This is a great choice if you want to be near nature. It is right across the street from Vondelpark. You can be in the park in 60 seconds.
They accept dogs up to 20kg. The fee is €20 per night. Some rooms even have a private terrace. This is perfect for a dog who likes to lounge in the fresh air.
Exploring the Country: Beyond Amsterdam
Do not just stay in the capital. The rest of the country is also amazing for dog friendly accommodation netherlands.
Rotterdam
We visited the Maashotel Rotterdam Centre. They gave my dog, Schnitzel, a very warm welcome. The room was very quiet. It is a short walk to many cool restaurants with outdoor terraces. The current fee is €25 per night. They only allow “small” pets, though they do not give a specific weight limit.
Drachten
In the north, we stayed at the Van der Valk Hotel Drachten. They allow dogs in their standard and deluxe rooms. There is a surcharge of €30.00 per night. You can bring a maximum of two pets per room.
However, they have strict rules. Dogs cannot go into the breakfast room. They must stay under the table in the restaurant and bar. Also, they are not allowed on the beds or armchairs. But, the location is near many great walking routes.
Zeeland
If you love the beach, you must go to Zeeland. It is like this province was made for dogs. There are endless beach walks. We looked at Duinhotel Breezand and Dormio Resort Nieuwvliet-Bad. These spots are perfect for a refreshing dip during your morning walk.
How to Get Around with Your Pup
Moving around the Netherlands is super easy. The public transport is clean and reliable. gradually, you will realize that seeing dogs on a train is totally normal.
NS Trains
The national trains are very dog-friendly. Small pets travel for free if they are in a bag, a basket, or on your lap. They must not take up a seat.
Larger dogs need a dog day ticket. At that time, the price was only €3.30. This ticket is valid all day across the whole country. You can buy it at any ticket machine. Your dog must stay on a lead and off the seats. additionally, you should avoid busy rush hours if you have a big dog.
Trams, Buses, and Metros
In Amsterdam, the GVB runs the transport. Dogs travel for free here. The same goes for the RET in Rotterdam. Just keep them on a short lead.
Ferries
You can even take your dog on ferries. The ferries behind Amsterdam Centraal Station are free. They are perfect for visiting Amsterdam Noord. If you go to the islands like Texel, your pet is also allowed on board. On some ferries, like Teso, your pet can even stay in the car during the trip.
The Best Dog Parks for Big Adventures
The parks in this country are world-class. Your dog will have the time of their life.
- Vondelpark (Amsterdam): This is the most famous park. It has 120 acres of paths, ponds, and meadows. There are many off-leash areas where your dog can run free.
- Westerpark (Amsterdam): This park is less crowded than Vondelpark. It has a dog playground with obstacles. It is very close to the Hotel Pulitzer.
- Flevopark (Amsterdam): This is a hidden gem. It has lots of water features. If your dog is a water lover, they can go for a swim here.
- Westerschouwen Forest (Zeeland): This is a massive nature reserve. Dogs can run off-leash in specific zones behind the campsites. It is a mix of forest and dunes.
A Day at the Dutch Seaside
The Dutch coastline is huge. Many people think only of pet friendly hotels holland in Europe. But the beaches are where the magic happens.
Noordwijk
This is one of the most dog-friendly beaches in the world. There is a 4-kilometer stretch where dogs can be off-leash year-round. In other parts, they can run free from September to June. There are many beach pavilions that provide water bowls for pups.
Scheveningen
This is a very popular beach in The Hague. During the summer, dogs are not allowed on the main beach during the day. however, you can go to Noorderstrand beach marker 34. Dogs are welcome there every single day of the year.
Texel Island
This island is a paradise. Most of the beaches here allow dogs to be off-leash. We even found a dog-wash station at some holiday parks. You can choose to have your dog washed with shampoo or just rinsed off after the salty waves.
Dining Out with Your Dog
You do not have to leave your dog at the hotel when you go to eat. Most cafés and bistros welcome dogs inside. If the weather is nice, almost every outdoor terrace is okay with pets.
Look for a green circle with a dog symbol. This means they are definitely allowed. A red circle means no. If you are not sure, just ask: “Mag de hond mee naar binnen?”. The staff is usually very kind. later, we even found a spot that gave us a hand-drawn map of other dog-friendly spots nearby.
Important Etiquette for a Smooth Trip
The Dutch are very clean. You must follow their rules to keep everyone happy.
- Always clean up: Bins for waste are everywhere. If you do not pick up, you can get a fine starting at €140.
- Stay off bike paths: This is very important. Cyclists in Amsterdam are very fast. They will not stop for a wandering pup. Keep your dog on the pedestrian path.
- Leash rules: Unless you are in a marked “off-leash” zone, keep the lead on. Most nature reserves require this to protect the birds.
- Fresh water: Cobblestones can get very hot in the summer. Always carry a collapsible water bowl.
Statistical Data for Your Budget
Gradually, you will see that traveling here is affordable if you plan right. Here is a breakdown of what things cost during my trip:
- Train Ticket (Dog Day Pass): €3.30.
- Hotel Pet Fees: €0 to €50 per night.
- Coffee at a Café: €2.50 to €3.50.
- Main Dish at a Restaurant: €14 to €30.
- Ferry to Texel (Return): Around €5 for a person, and the dog is usually free.
- Fine for not picking up waste: €140.
FAQ
Can I leave a dog in a hotel room?
You generally can not leave your pet alone in a Dutch hotel room. Most places require you to stay with your furry friend to avoid noise or damage. For example, the Van der Valk Hotel Drachten strictly forbids leaving dogs unattended while you are out of the building. The Hoxton requires you to inform the reception desk if you must leave your pup for a short time.
Is the Netherlands a dog-friendly country?
The Netherlands is a dream for pet owners. People here genuinely love animals and treat them as part of the family. You will see dogs on trains, in cafes, and walking along the beautiful canals every day.
Which hotel chain is the most dog friendly?
The Kimpton chain is famous for its open pet policy. Their location in Amsterdam, the Kimpton De Witt, charges zero fees and has no size limits. They provide memory foam beds and treats to make your pup feel like a star.
Can a dog be left alone for 8 hours?
You should not leave your dog alone for such a long time in a new place. Most pet friendly hotels netherlands offers have rules against this. Your dog might feel anxious in a strange room and bark or chew on furniture.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in the Netherlands?
Many casual bistros and cafes welcome dogs inside. You should look for a green circle with a dog symbol on the door. If the weather is nice, almost every outdoor terrace will allow your pet to sit with you.
Are dogs allowed on Metro Amsterdam?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the metro, trams, and buses. Small dogs in carriers travel for free. However, you must keep larger dogs on a short lead.
How to travel with a 70 lb dog?
You can bring a large dog to the Kimpton De Witt because they have no weight limits. Additionally, you can take them on the national trains if you buy a dog day ticket. This ticket costs a small fee and is valid all day.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
Zeeland is one of the best spots for a pet-filled holiday. This province has massive beaches, nature reserves, and many dog friendly accommodation netherlands choices. It feels like the whole area was designed for people with dogs.
What is the golden rule for dogs?
The golden rule in the Netherlands is to always clean up waste. You can face a fine of €140 if you do not pick up after your pup. Additionally, you must keep your dog off the busy bike paths to keep everyone safe.
Concluding words
The Netherlands is a fantastic place for you and your pet to visit. You will find amazing dog friendly hotels netherlands that offer everything from gourmet menus to free stays. Moving around is simple because the trains, trams, and ferries are very welcoming to four-legged guests.
Whether you want to walk the historic canals of Amsterdam or run on the sandy beaches of Zeeland, this country makes travel feel easy. Always remember to bring your paperwork and follow the local rules for a perfect trip. Pack your bags and get ready for a wonderful adventure with your best friend.
