I just returned from a trip to the south of France. My furry friend came along for the ride. Montpellier is a dream for pet owners. This city was recently voted the number one most dog-friendly city in France. It has won this title for three years in a row. The city makes it easy for dogs and humans to live together in peace. It features 741 hectares of public green space. You will find sun-drenched squares and shade-dappled streets everywhere. The vibe is very nice with people on bikes and beautiful old buildings.
You must prepare a few things before you go. The paperwork can feel like a crusade. Your dog needs a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip. The rabies shot is the most important part. You must get the chip before the rabies shot. The vaccine must be at least 21 days old before you enter the country. I found that a European Union Pet Passport makes travel between Member States very simple. If you come from the United States, a USDA-accredited vet must fill out your health certificate. Travel to Montpellier, FR with your dog
The weather is another big thing to think about. Temperatures can get very high in the summer. I always made sure my dog had water to avoid a heat stroke. You should also protect your pet against Leishmaniasis. This disease comes from insects found in the south of France. I chose to visit in April and May to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Pet Travel Local Laws and Etiquette in Montpellier
France loves dogs but it loves order even more. You must keep your dog on a lead in all public spaces. This rule confirms that you are in charge. I noticed that certain breeds face stricter rules. Category 2 dogs must wear a muzzle on public transport. Owners of these dogs even have to take a training course. This proves the human and dog understand responsibility.
Social rules with strangers are a bit different here. In some places, people pet every dog they see. Parisian social etiquette suggests you should always ask first. You can say, “Je peux caresser votre chien s’il vous plaît?”. Most owners will say yes if you are polite. Some people find it strange if you worship dogs in an intrusive way. I always greet the owner and say their dog is adorable first.
Cleanliness is a huge deal in the city. Montpellier provides canisacs for free. These are bags to pick up dog waste. I found many pet waste stations in different neighborhoods. You must use them to keep the environment safe and clean for everyone. If you leave a mess on the pavement, it is not a good look.
Where to Stay with Your Dog in Montpellier
I looked for places with the QUALIDOG label. This label means they truly welcome dogs. You can find hotels, campsites, and vacation rentals with this certificate. Some places even allow more than three dogs. I saw that Appart’City Montpellier Millénaire has a two-truffle rating. This is a great spot for an aparthotel stay. Another good option is Appart’City Confort Montpellier Saint-Roch.
If you prefer a house, look at the Apricot and Orange Houses Gîtes. These gîtes are heart-stoppers and accept all dog sizes. I found that many rental properties in the city are open to pets. You might have to pay a pet deposit in some apartment complexes. Sites like LeBonCoin and SeLoger helped me find pet-friendly rentals. I always checked for breed or size restrictions before I booked.
Campsites near the city are very popular too. Camping Oasis Palavasienne is a nice choice with a two-truffle rating. You can also stay at Camping Sunêlia Les Sablons in Portiragnes. They allow a maximum of two dogs. I like that these places offer a stress-free vacation for me and my pet.
Where to Eat with Your Dog in Montpellier
You do not have to leave your dog behind when you go out to eat. Many cafes and restaurants welcome pets. I visited Joy Healthy Food on rue Estelle. It is a unique vegetarian spot that is very pet-friendly. They have a cosy and bohemian decor. I enjoyed a delicious avocado toast while my dog relaxed by my side. The staff welcomed us with a big smile. Travel to Montpellier, FR with your dog
Broc Café is another place I loved. It has a large outdoor seating area which is perfect for people watching. They serve burgers and salads from morning until late at night. I also heard good things about Café Joseph and La Pleine Lune. If you want fluffly pancakes, head to Coldrip. They are a trendy coffee spot that allows dogs inside.
For a nice dinner, I suggest Rosemarie or Bonobo. My friend Billie told me she is always well received there. I also liked the vibe at La Grange and Neko. If you are looking for a bar, Quincaillerie and The Beehive are top choices. You will find that life is pleasant and easy in this student city.
Where to visit in Montpellier
I spent a lot of time wandering through the historic center. This area is called the Ecusson quarter. The narrow alleys and small shops are full of charm. I saw the Arc de Triomphe which looks a lot like the one in Paris. It is a very impressive sight. You should also walk to the St Pierre Cathedral. The architecture of the cathedrals is crazy beautiful.
The Place de la Comédie is the heart of the city. It is a perfect place to enjoy the sun and listen to musicians. I also visited the Jardin des Plantes. This is the botanical garden of the university. It is a peaceful green space for a slow walk. Just check the opening times because they might not open until midday.
Another cool spot is the Marché du Lez. This is a creative space in old industrial buildings. It features food trucks, street art, and pop-up bars. You can also find antique stalls there. It is a very innovative and contemporary part of the city.
Top Activities and Sightseeing With Dog
Hiking is one of the best things to do near the city. I took a trip to Pic Saint-Loup. It is about a one-hour drive from Montpellier. The trail is roughly 3.4 kilometers long and is moderately challenging. My dog loved the fresh air. The panoramic views from the top stretch all the way to the coast.
I also explored the banks of the Lez. You can let your dog run along the river here. Just be careful with the waste and the many ducks on the site. I suggest a visit to the Abbey of Valmagne too. It is QUALIDOG certified and very beautiful. You can even take a boat trip with The Star of Thau IV in Marseillan.
For something unusual, I visited the mills of Lafous. You can see old ruins and turquoise water in the river. I also liked the Capitelles of Blauzac. These are old houses with funny shapes. If you want to see an abandoned castle, go to Mas Rougie. You can walk your dog while you explore the grounds. Travel to Montpellier, FR with your dog
Best Dog Parks and Outings
Montpellier has more than twenty dog parks. The largest one is the dog park of the Domaine de Méric. It covers 6000 square meters. This park is part of a larger 10-hectare estate. It features a poppy meadow that blossoms in the spring. The dog area is completely fenced and has shaded seating. You will find poop bags and trash cans on site.
Parc Montcalm is another huge space for dogs. Many athletes and dog masters meet there for long walks. I found it very enrichng for my pet’s lifestyle. Bois de Montmaur is great if you want to feel like you are in nature. It has open fields where dogs can burn off energy.
I also visited the Lironde dog park and the Aiguelongue dog park. The Parc Rimbaud has a nice dog area too. These parks are essential for your pet’s mental well-being. They provide a safe environment for exercise and socialization. I suggest you watch your dog closely to make sure he does not bother others.
Best Dog Friendly Beaches
I spent a lot of time at the Grand Travers beach in La Grande Motte. You must go to access number 60. Dogs are allowed there all year round without a leash. It is a 3-kilometer stretch of soft sand. There is a large car park right across from the access point. I found the place to be very clean.
Another favorite is Vassal Beach in Sète. You can find the dog-friendly area at access points 73 and 74. Dogs are allowed there all year and all day long. In the off-season, they can even walk on the rest of the beach on a leash. I also visited La Clôt beach in Agde. It is also known as Tamarissière beach.
Roquebrun Beach is a beautiful natural spot on the banks of the Orb. Your dog must stay on a leash there all year. If you go to Portiragnes, check out the West Beach. It is located along a natural site between two ponds. Dogs are allowed on a leash after the sailing school. Always check the signs at the entrance to be sure of the local rules.
Transportation Tips
I used the TAM tram and bus system to get around the city. It is relatively straightforward with a pet. Small pets travel for free if they are in a carrier. Larger dogs require a ticket. Since 2023, every resident of the city has access to free public transport. I found the “TaM” app very helpful for tracking schedules in real time. There is even a night bus called Amigo for safe travel in the evening.
I also took the train to visit nearby towns. Trenitalia France allows pets on board. Small animals under 5 kilograms travel for free in a bag or basket. Large dogs between 5 and 50 kilograms need a fixed-price ticket of 30 Euros. They must stay on a lead and wear a muzzle. You should book your dog’s ticket at the same time as yours.
If you fly, the Montpellier Méditerranée Airport has specific rules. Only small animals go in the cabin. Larger pets must travel in a ventilated and heated hold. You must tell the airline about your pet when you buy your ticket. I recommend calling them at least 72 hours before the flight to confirm. Your pet’s cage must be approved and have metal fastenings.
Veterinary Services and Emergencies
I made sure to have a list of emergency contacts before I arrived. Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Languedocia offers specialized and emergency care. It is open 24 hours a day. Another option is Vet’urgences Veterinary Clinic on Rue Claude Balbastre. They have fully bilingual vets who can help on the phone in English.
If you need a routine check-up, I found several English-speaking vets. Dr. Diss at Veterinary Clinic Grand M has decent enough English. You can even book appointments online there. Dr. Tiphaine Rousseau in St Clément de Rivière is also very kind and helpful. I heard that the male vet at the Villeneuve d’Angoulême clinic speaks English too.
The quality of vet care in France is very high. I found the costs to be quite reasonable compared to other countries. A standard consultation costs about 45 to 60 Euros. Emergency surgery is often under 800 Euros. You can also get pet insurance for about 10 to 40 Euros per month. Most policies work on a reimbursement basis. Travel to Montpellier, FR with your dog.
Packing List for Dogs
I brought a few essential items for my dog’s comfort. A safety jacket is good if your dog swims for a long time. You should also have a cooling mattress or jacket for the summer heat. Refreshing bones can help keep them cool too. I always carry a long lead and plenty of bags for droppings.
For the plane or train, your dog needs an IATA-approved carrier. It should be hard plastic or fiberglass. You must remove any wheels before the flight. The crate needs an empty bowl attached to the door for water. I put a blanket or newspaper on the bottom of the container. Do not leave a leash or muzzle inside the crate during transport.
I also brought a GPS for dogs. This changed my life because I never had to worry about my dog escaping. You can locate your pet in real time with your phone. I also carried a portable water bowl and some familiar toys. It is good to have a small mat for your dog to sit on during public transport journeys.
Best Times to Visit in Montpellier
The climate here is very sunny and Mediterranean. I think April and May are the perfect months to visit. You can enjoy the calm before the high season starts. The magical places are not yet full of tourists. The flowers in parks like Domaine de Méric are in full bloom in the spring.
The low season between October and May is also great. More beaches might be open to dogs during these months. I found that many places allow dogs in the off-season if they stay on a leash. The weather is still pleasant but not too hot for long walks.
Summer can be very intense with extreme heat. I suggest you avoid the high season in July and August if your dog is sensitive to the sun. If you go then, take precautions like using cooling gear. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times for outdoor activities in the summer.
Dog-Friendly Campsites in Montpellier
I saw many great campsites that accept dogs. Flower Camping Altéa in Vic-la-Gardiole is a heart-stopper. It has a two-truffle Qualidog rating. Another good one is Camping Oasis Palavasienne. It also has two truffles and allows all dog sizes. I love that these places often have camping pitches for 2 dogs.
Camping L’Oliveraie in Laurens is another top pick. Campsite Siblu les Sables du Midi in Serignan also accepts two dogs. I found that Campsite La Creole in Marseillan is a nice labeled option. If you go to Valras-Plage, check out Camping Domaine La Yole. They allow one dog of any size.
The tamarissière campsite in Agde runs right along a dog-friendly beach. Dogs are very well received there. I recommend booking your spot early during the busy months. Most campsites will ask for your dog’s health record to be up to date.
Maps and Itineraries (3 days)
I put together a simple three-day plan for a visit. On Day 1, start in the city center. Walk through the Ecusson quarter and see the Arc de Triomphe. Have a coffee at Coldrip or Broc Café. Spend the afternoon at Parc Montcalm for a long walk.
On Day 2, head to the Grand Travers beach access 60. Let your dog run free in the sand and swim. In the afternoon, visit the Parc du Domaine de Méric. Your dog can play with others in the fenced dog park. Grab dinner at Joy Healthy Food.
On Day 3, take a day trip to Pic Saint-Loup. Enjoy the hike and the stunning views of the vineyards. On your way back, stop at the Marché du Lez for some food and street art. You can also visit the Abbey of Valmagne if you have time. Travel to Montpellier, FR with your dog
Budgeting and Cost-Saving Tips
I found several ways to save money during my trip. Use the regional buses at 1 Euro to travel around the departement. You can also find 1 Euro train tickets on all TER services if you buy them early. This is a great deal for exploring the Occitanie region. I also took advantage of the free public transport pass for residents.
Picnics are a great way to save on food costs. I got some cheese and crackers and ate in a leafy promenade. You can find fresh food at low prices in local markets. I found that cooking my own meals was much cheaper than eating out every day. You can also use anti-waste apps to find cheap food at the end of the day.
For accommodation, student residences or university halls are very budget-friendly. A room in a university hall costs between 179 and 248 Euros per month. If you are a student, look into the CAF housing benefit to help pay your rent. I also recommend the Yoot online ticket office for cheap cultural events.
Day Trips from Montpellier with Dog
I took a beautiful trip to Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. It is a stunning village with great hiking trails. I also visited the Salagou Lake. You can do cani-paddle or cani-canoe with your dog there. The red earth is beautiful but it can stain white dogs pink for a few days.
The Pond of Méjean is huge and offers wide walking grounds. I also suggest the Avy in Grabels. It is a beautiful river in the middle of nature. If you like mountain scenery, go to the Lerab Ling Buddhist Temple. Dogs cannot enter the temple, but the hikes around it offer incredible calm and views.
Sète is another great day trip. You can visit the beaches or walk along the canals. I also liked the village of Roquebrun. It is a beautiful spot where you can enjoy water sports on the banks of the Orb. I suggest you take a car to reach these places more easily.
Pet Health and Wellness Tips
I always keep an eye on my dog’s physical health during trips. Regular visits to parks like Parc Magnol help with exercise and socialization. I found several dog training centers in the city too. Caniscool Dog Training and Happy Dog Academy offer obedience and agility courses.
The heat is the biggest health risk in the south. I always check the thermometer before a walk. I use cooling harnesses and bones to keep my pet fresh. You should also check for ticks and insects after hiking in the garrigue. I keep a list of nearby clinics like Clinique Vétérinaire Dentan for routine check-ups.
Socializing your dog at a dog park is great but you must watch their signals. I learned to read when a growl or bark is just a normal part of play. It is also smart to get your dog neutered for about 120 to 180 Euros. I found that the animal professions training on Snob Dog Academy is a cool way to learn more about pet care.
Sustainability Tips for Eco-Conscious Pet Travelers
I tried to be responsible and local during my stay. The Marché du Lez is a focus for creative initiatives that are eco-friendly. I bought local produce from small producers in the city markets. This supports the slow food movement and protects the environment.
I used car sharing services like Blablacar to reduce my transport costs and traffic. You can also rent a self-service bicycle for a few Euros per day. In Montpellier, you can even rent a bike for 0.50 Euros per hour. This is a great way to see the city while being eco-conscious.
Recycling is very important in France. I used the color-coded bins: yellow for recyclables and green for glass. I also handed in old medicines at a pharmacy because they are hazardous. I used a recycling guide app to find the nearest points in my neighborhood.
Seasonal Events and Festivals for pet in Montpellier
The Montpellier Dog Day is an annual event you should not miss. Pets and owners participate in games and social activities. It is a fantastic way to meet other pet lovers in the community. I also enjoyed the International Guitar Festival in September. It features over 60 concerts with international musicians. Travel to Montpellier, FR with your dog
Cœur de Ville en Lumière in November is a magical three-day event. The city’s historical buildings are brought to life with light shows and music. In December, the Hivernales Christmas market is full of local artisans and regional products. I loved tasting the treats with my dog by my side.
The Féria de Pentecôte in May or June has an international vibe with costumes and music. In July, the Radio France Festival offers many free concerts. The Living Architectures Festival in June lets you tour historic courtyards for free. I found that the city’s lively social and cultural scene makes it one of the best places to be.
FAQ
Is Montpellier France dog-friendly?
Yes. I found it to be a total paradise for dog owners. The city has 741 hectares of public green space for you and your pet to enjoy . A true paradise.
What is the most dog-friendly city in France?
Montpellier won this title for three years in a row. Lille was also named the top spot for dogs back in 2023. The best for pets.
How dog-friendly is Bordeaux?
Bordeaux has nice dog parks like the Burck dog park in Mérignac. Some other parks in that city are quite basic for pets. Decent enough.
How can I travel to France with my dog?
You can use planes, the Eurotunnel, or ferries. Your pet needs a microchip and a rabies shot at least 21 days before you arrive. Easy travel.
What is Montpellier in France famous for?
It is home to one of the oldest universities and medical schools in the world. It has beautiful historic streets and sun-drenched squares. Rich history.
Where to holiday in France with a dog?
The Hérault region is a pleasant choice for a vacation. You can visit spots like Sète, La Grande Motte, or Sérignan. So many options.
What city loves dogs the most?
Montpellier is currently the number one most dog-friendly city in France. Pure love.
Can I take my dog through the Eurotunnel?
Yes. You and your pet stay together in your car during the entire trip. Stress-free transit.
Is Montpellier worth visiting?
Absolutely. The city has a vibrant culture and a nice Mediterranean climate. A must-see.
Why is Montpelier famous?
It has a very old university and medical school. It also features an impressive Arc de Triomphe modeled after the one in Paris. Historic charm.
How many days in Montpellier is enough?
Some travelers visit for a single day, but a three-day trip allows you to see the best spots. Others stay for a full week to explore the whole region. The choice is yours.
Can dogs go in restaurants in France?
Many cafes and restaurants in Montpellier welcome pets inside or on their patios. I recommend spots like Café Joseph and La Pleine Lune. Very friendly.
Concluding words
Montpellier is a top choice for pet owners who want to see the south of France. This city offers great parks, pet-friendly dining, and clear rules for travel. You must prepare your paperwork and follow local laws for a smooth trip. A sunny vacation with your dog is possible in this beautiful place. Enjoy the sun.
