I decided to take my furry best friend on the ultimate luxury vacation. I spent months planning every single detail. Dog Friendly Travel in Monte Carlo, Monaco is not just a dream for the wealthy. It is a real possibility for any dedicated pet owner. Many people ask me a common question before they book their flights. Is monaco worth visiting with a pet? My answer is a loud and clear yes. You just need to know the rules.
First of all, I must explain a detail that confuses many people. What is the difference between monaco and monte carlo? Monaco is the entire principality or the whole country. Monte Carlo is actually just one famous district within that country. It is the home of the famous casino and many luxury hotels. This tiny nation is the second smallest country in the world after the Vatican. It has its own government and laws. Is monte carlo worth visiting? Absolutely. The glamour is real. The streets are clean. The views of the sea are unlike anything else.
Getting Ready for the Trip
Preparation is the most important part of international travel. I had to make sure my dog met all the legal requirements. Monaco follows the same rules as France for pet entry. Your dog must have mandatory identification through a microchip. You also need to keep rabies vaccinations up to date. I suggest you contact your vet well in advance. It can take weeks or even months to get everything ready.
If you travel from within the European Union, you need a European Pet Passport. This document is for dogs, cats, and ferrets. I paid a fee to my vet for this passport, though the price varies depending on the country. If you are coming from a country outside the EU, like the United States or Canada, you might need a rabies antibody titration test. This blood test proves your dog has enough immunity. You should start this process at least two months before you leave.
Travel to Monte Carlo by Train
I chose to travel to monte carlo using the train system. It is very pet-friendly if you follow the rules. I used the SNCF Connect website to book my tickets. You can add a pet ticket right to your booking. Small pets that weigh less than 6 kilograms and fit in a carrier (maximum size 45 cm x 30 cm x 25 cm) can travel for a fixed price of about 10 euros. They must stay on your lap or at your feet.
My dog is a bit larger, so he had to be on a lead and wear a muzzle. This is a strict rule for larger dogs on French trains. Even on international trains like the Eurostar or TGV Lyria, these rules apply. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel for free and do not always need a muzzle. However, you are always responsible for your pet during the journey. I found the train ride to be very smooth.
Dog Friendly Hotels in Monaco
The accommodation in this city is world-class. I searched for the best dog friendly hotels in monaco and found some amazing options. The Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer owns some of the most famous spots. I stayed at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. It is a legendary location. They treat dogs like true VIPs. They actually mark pet guests with a “P” for “Pets” in their system.
The cost for a dog to stay at the Hôtel de Paris or the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo is 60 euros per day. This fee includes amazing perks. My dog received a comfortable basket in either navy blue or black. He also got a matching blanket, bowls, and even toys with the hotel label. The care is truly around the clock.
Additionally, the catering for dogs is unbelievable. They have a service called Delamour. I bought my dog roast chicken ice cream. A veterinary nutritionist named Dr. Eric Charles developed these recipes. The ice cream is low in fat and sugar. It is also lactose-free to help with digestion. The different colors have different benefits. The orange flavor supports metabolic balance. The pink version is anti-inflammatory. The green one has spirulina to help the immune system. My dog loved it. It provides a cold sensation on the tongue that dogs really enjoy because they have trouble cooling down.
Dining Out with Your Dog
You do not have to leave your dog in the room when you go to eat. Many high-end spots welcome furry friends. I visited Le Petit Beefbar. This restaurant has a modern and luxurious vibe. It was first created by Riccardo Giraudi in 2005. They serve high-quality meat like Wagyu beef and veal. I enjoyed the signature Bao Buns while my dog sat happily by my side.
Later, I visited the Limùn Bar inside the Hôtel Hermitage. It is a great spot for a relaxed drink or a snack. The chefs there can even prepare special meals for your dog. They offer poached or grilled meat like minced beef or chicken breast. These meals are served with rice and vegetables. The portion size is usually 120 grams at the Hermitage or 180 grams at the Hôtel de Paris.
However, you must be careful because dogs are not allowed everywhere. For example, the Restaurant Le Grill and Em Sherif do not allow pets. Most casinos also have a strict “no pets” policy. This includes the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo. Always check the specific “pets” policy of the establishment before you go.
Exploring the City and Nature
A must visit monaco short trip with dogs 2020 or any year should include plenty of walks. The city is very compact, but there are some beautiful green spaces. You should visit Le Rocher, which is the old town area. It is perched on a big rock overlooking the sea. I walked through the narrow, colorful streets with my dog on a lead. You can see the Princely Palace and the famous cannons. The view of Fontvieille from there is unbeatable.
I also took my dog to the Automobile Museum at Port Hercule. This museum holds the personal car collection of Prince Albert II. Dogs are allowed inside if they are on a lead. It is a great place to escape the summer heat because the building has air conditioning. The visit takes about thirty minutes.
On top of that, I went for a hike at La Tête de Chien. The name means “The Dog’s Head” because the cliff looks like a dog from the sea. This spot is in La Turbie, which is just a few kilometers from Monaco. There are two main trails. One is a short 2-kilometer walk. The other is a longer 6-kilometer hike along the ridge. The view from the top is the best on the French Riviera. You can see all of Monaco, Menton, and even the Italian border.
Beaches and Public Rules
If you are looking for a dog beach monaco, you might be disappointed. The main public beach is Larvotto Beach. It has a beautiful promenade and a marine reserve. Unfortunately, dogs are strictly forbidden on Larvotto Beach. You can walk with your dog on the Larvotto Promenade, but they cannot go on the sand.
Monaco has very strict rules about cleanliness. You must always keep your dog on a lead in public. You must also pick up after your pet. The city provides waste bag dispensers in several parks. There are specific “canine zones” where dogs can relieve themselves. Some of these are in Monaco City near the Oceanographic Museum and in the Fontvieille district.
Additionally, be aware of the laws regarding “dangerous dogs”. Category 1 dogs, like Pitbulls or Mastiffs without pedigrees, are actually banned from Monaco. Category 2 guard dogs, like pedigreed Rottweilers, must be registered with the police. Owners of these dogs must be at least 16 years old and carry a special license. These dogs must also wear a muzzle and stay on a lead in all public places.
Luxury Services for Furry VIPs
The lifestyle for dogs in Monaco is truly over the top. I visited a boutique called My Beauty Dog. It was established in 2020 by a professional groomer named Jubeen. They were voted the best dog grooming salon in 2021. They sell luxury products and unique toys. It is more than just a pet shop; it is a high-end experience.
If you are lucky, you might catch an event like Metro Paw at the Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo. I saw dogs enjoying a luxury outing with puppuccinos and designer collars. They even had a ball pit for puppies to play in. Professional therapists offered canine massages to help the dogs relax. It is a wonderful way for the local pet-loving community to connect.
Practical Advice and Health
It is good to know that high-quality medical care is nearby. Monaco has several excellent veterinary clinics. The Clinique Vétérinaire Monaco-Fontvieille and Clinique Vétérinaire Sainte-Dévote are two popular options. If your pet gets sick after hours or on a holiday, you can call a French emergency number at +33 (0)4 93 83 46 64.
If you need a break, you can find trusted pet sitters. Platforms like Rover, Holidog, and Animaute operate in the area. They offer verified local sitters for dog walking or overnight care. This is helpful if you want to visit a museum or a casino where dogs are not allowed.
Finally, I want to mention the “It’s a Dog’s Life Monaco” book. Princess Charlene helped launch this photographic book. It features portraits of dogs across the Principality. You can buy it for 150 euros at the Drugstore on Avenue de Monte-Carlo. All the money goes to the L’Abri / SPA de Monaco shelter. This shelter is actually located in Eze Village, France.
FAQ
Is Monaco dog-friendly?
Yes. Monaco is a city-state that puts a high value on the well-being of pets. The environment is very secure and professional for pet owners. You will find many places where dogs are accepted and can enjoy a great time. Luxury at its best.
Can I bring my dog to Monaco?
You can certainly bring your dog along for the adventure. The entry rules are exactly the same as the ones in France. You must have a microchip and keep all vaccinations up to date. Pure class.
Which shopping mall can bring pets?
The Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo is a fantastic spot for pets. They recently hosted a special luxury event called Metro Paw. Puppies got to socialise and play in a specially installed ball pit.
Can I bring my dog on vacation to France?
France is a very welcoming place for a pet-friendly holiday. You must follow the standard European rules for pet travel. Ensure you have a valid European Pet Passport for the journey.
Which city is the most dog-friendly?
Monaco and other spots on the French Riviera are excellent choices for pet lovers. These cities treat pets like true VIPs with gourmet meals and spa services. A true dream.
How can I travel with my dog?
Train travel through the SNCF system is a very popular way to move around. Small pets can travel in a closed bag or carrier on your lap. Larger dogs must stay on a lead and wear a muzzle during the entire trip.
Concluding words
Dog Friendly Travel in Monte Carlo, Monaco is an experience of a lifetime. This tiny country offers world-class pampering like roast chicken ice cream and designer hotel baskets. You can walk through the colorful streets of the old town or hike the famous Tête de Chien for the best views. Is monaco worth visiting? It is definitely a yes for any traveler with a pet. Plus, the luxury services at the Hôtel de Paris and Metropole Shopping make every dog feel like royalty. Therefore, you should plan your trip soon to enjoy this pet paradise.
