Krakow. A city of ancient legends, cobblestone paths, and wagging tails. My husband Warren and I have slow-traveled through 24 countries on three continents with our two pups, Katie and Arya. We spent the last two years exploring Europe and visited 21 countries during that period. Our stop in Poland was a highlight. Pet Friendly Travel in Krakow, Poland is a rewarding experience if you prepare well. The city has a vibrant dog culture that feels both welcoming and lively.
Preparing for the Journey: Import Rules
A trip across the ocean requires careful steps. You must know the poland pet import requirements before you book a flight. If you plan on bringing a dog from usa to poland, the process starts with a microchip. This microchip must comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO standard 11785. You must ensure the chip is implanted before the rabies shot.
The rabies vaccine is the next big hurdle. Your dog must be at least 12 weeks old for this primary vaccination. You must wait at least 21 days after the shot before you can travel. If you are from the USA, you need an international health certificate. This document requires a signature from the USDA. We found a vet in Knoxville who offered a digital USDA signature, which made things easier for us.
Timing is everything. You must have this health check-up and certificate issued no more than 10 days before you enter the country. Accuracy and speed are the keys to success. First of all, check the USDA APHIS website for the most recent forms. Similarly, you should look at the EU Pet Passport if you are already in Europe. This passport is the “golden ticket” for easy travel across borders. It costs about $40 for two dogs in some countries like Bulgaria.
Flying and Transport Options
To fly with a pet can be stressful. We used airline-approved dog backpacks to help Katie and Arya adapt. KLM is often called the most pet-friendly airline. They even have an animal hotel at the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Fees for pets on flights usually range between €75 and €400 depending on the route. Additionally, you must add your pet to your reservation early because space is limited.
Small dogs under 8 kg can often fly in the cabin with you. Larger dogs must travel in the cargo hold. This can be difficult in the summer because of high temperatures. However, you can book an overnight flight to avoid the heat of the day. If you have a higher budget, a private charter is a great choice. Pet owners often use Facebook groups to share costs for private jets.
Later, you might consider travel by sea. The Queen Mary 2 is currently the only option for crossing the ocean by boat. It has 24 kennels on board, but a waitlist exists. The cost ranges from $800 to $1,000 per voyage.
Navigating the Streets: Public Transport
Once you arrive, you will see that dogs in poland are everywhere. Traveling to poland with dog companions means you will use the local transport system. The tram network is the backbone of the city. It is reliable and frequent. On top of that, trams often have dedicated lanes to bypass traffic jams.
The rules for dogs in poland on public transport are clear. Dogs are generally welcome on city buses and trams. You must keep your dog on a lead. A muzzle is also mandatory. You should be ready to show the health certificate or pet passport if an inspector asks. Therefore, always carry your documents.
In Krakow, a 20-minute ticket costs 4.00zł. This is perfect for quick trips from the Old Town to places like Schindler’s Factory. A 60-minute ticket costs 6.00zł and is the safest bet for most journeys. If you stay for a few days, a 24-hour pass for 17.00zł is a bargain. Small pets in carriers often travel for free. Larger dogs might require a reduced-price ticket in some cities, though some reports say they are free in Krakow.
Long-distance trains are also very pet-friendly. On PKP Intercity trains, small pets in carriers travel for free. If your dog is not in a box, you must buy a dog ticket for a flat rate of PLN 15.20. Also, the dog must sit on the floor and not on the seats. If other passengers protest the presence of your animal, the conductor may ask you to move to a different seat.
Finding a Home: Pet-Friendly Accommodations
We usually stay in pet-friendly Airbnbs. Krakow is a top destination for this. It ranks 7th in Europe on Booking.com for the number of pet-friendly hotels, with 59% of properties allowing pets. You can find anything from a budget hostel to a luxury palace.
Ibis Hotel Chain is a reliable option, though they do charge an extra fee for pets. Miodova20 by StayLab is another great choice because they allow dogs of any size for no additional fee. Similarly, the Red Kurka Apartments and Pokoje U Filipa welcome pets for free.
If you want luxury, look at the H15 Luxury Palace. It is a restored 19th-century building that welcomes pets. Gradually, you will notice that high-end hotels often provide bowls and beds. The Hyatt Place Krakow offers a good balance of comfort and price. Finally, always read the fine print. Some places forbid leaving your dog alone in the room. This rule can limit your freedom to visit museums or churches where dogs cannot go.
A Taste of the City: Dining Out with Dogs
Finding a place to eat was once the hardest part of travel with dogs in Poland. However, the situation has improved a lot. Many cafes and restaurants now have dog-friendly stickers on their doors. First of all, you should check the outdoor terraces. Most outdoor dining areas allow dogs.
The Kazimierz district is a paradise for foodies and pet owners. I recommend the food truck parks like Bezogródek. You can enjoy a zapiekanka, which is a famous open-faced sandwich, at Plac Nowy while your dog relaxes by your side.
Here are some of my favorite dog-friendly spots in Krakow:
- Bistro Charlotte: A popular spot for croissants and jam where employees love wagging tails.
- Hamsa Hummus: This Israeli restobar offers a positive vibe and modern cuisine.
- Alchemia od Kuchni: A relaxed place in Kazimierz with a new lunch menu every day.
- Cheder Cafe: A cozy spot in the Jewish Quarter that serves great coffee and pastries.
- Momo Pho: This restaurant offers Vietnamese food and has outdoor seating near the Old Town.
- Vegab: They serve delicious vegan Turkish-style wraps in a pet-friendly environment.
Additionally, many places like Wesoła Cafe and Żarówka Cafe offer water bowls for your pup. Metaforma is even “dog certified” and provides treats and a dog menu. Plus, you can even take your dog to Kino pod Baranami, a movie theater, if they can stay silent.
Playtime: Krakow’s Parks and Green Spaces
Krakow takes great pride in its green areas. There are over 154 dog-friendly parks in the city. These parks have an average rating of 4.83 stars from the local community.
Błonia Meadow is the best place for a run. It is a 120-acre expanse of open field. It is one of the few places where you can let your dog run off-leash. Many locals meet here for frisbee and picnics. On the contrary, the Planty Park is more for strolling. It is a 2.5-mile-long stretch of greenery that wraps around the Old Town. It sits where the city moat used to be in the 13th century.
Park Jordana is another favorite. It has 52 acres of grass, play areas, and even a small pond. Gradually, you will find that these spaces are the heart of social life for dog owners. Park Krakowski was updated in 2018 and features wide paths for skaters and walkers. For a wilder experience, visit Bednarski Park in Podgórze. It is located in an old stone quarry and has several levels to explore.
If you want a real hike, head to Las Wolski. It is a forest of over 1,000 acres located about 6 miles from the city center. It is home to the Krakow Zoo and many color-coded trails. Finally, do not forget the Vistula River Boulevards. These riverbank paths offer breathtaking views and are very popular for leisurely walks.
Culture and Sightseeing
Exploring the history of Krakow with a dog is a mix of highs and lows. The Main Market Square is one of the largest pedestrian zones in Europe. It is a wonderful place to walk. However, you must know that some major sites have strict rules. Wawel Royal Castle is a big disappointment for dog owners. Dogs are forbidden even on the grounds of the castle complex. You can still see the fire-breathing dragon statue at the foot of the hill.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is another place with restrictions. Animals are not allowed into the mine excavations or the Graduation Tower. The only exception is for guide dogs or assistance dogs. This is where poland service dog laws become very important. Additionally, the mine has a strict luggage policy. You can only bring a small bag that is 35cm x 20cm x 20cm or smaller.
If you love art, the Garden of Arts usually welcomes leashed dogs. You can also visit the Galicja Jewish Museum or the Polish Aviation Museum with your dog on a lead. At that time, you can see old planes and learn about history together.
Essential Supplies and Healthcare
Accidents happen. During our stay in Krakow, Katie had an emergency. We found a highly reviewed vet on Google Maps quickly. The treatment was high quality and the price was very reasonable. Our Airbnb host even offered to help with translation.
For supplies, you can visit local pet shops like Pets Family or chains like Kakadu. Most shopping malls, such as Bonarka City Center, allow dogs if they are on a leash and wear a muzzle. Ikea Krakow is also pet-friendly. Therefore, you do not have to leave your pup behind when you go shopping for home decor.
Day Trips: Zakopane and Beyond
Many people wonder, is slovakia dog friendly? If you visit the mountains, the answer is often yes. The Tatra National Park in Poland has very strict rules. Dogs are banned from most trails, except for the Chocholowska Valley. On the contrary, the Slovak side of the Tatra Mountains has fewer restrictions.
Zakopane is a popular day trip from Krakow. It is a beautiful town, but the national park rules can be frustrating. Similarly, the Malbork Castle in the north of Poland offers free kennels for visitors during the summer. This service is available from April 1st to September 30th. You must show your pet’s vaccination records to use them.
Etiquette and Local Tips
Krakow has a growing dog community, but you must be a good guest. Always carry three items: a roll of poo bags, a collapsible water bowl, and a bottle of water. Failure to clean up can result in a fine between 100 and 500 PLN. First of all, look for the yellow validation boxes if you take a bus or tram. You must validate your paper ticket immediately after you board.
Some locals on Reddit have noted an increase in dogs in the city. “The demographic crisis definitely doesn’t apply to four-legged friends,” wrote user liloo24. However, some residents are frustrated by owners who do not use leashes or clean up after their pets. Therefore, you should always keep your dog under control.
Every September, the city hosts the March of the Dachshunds. It is a colorful parade where owners dress up their dogs and walk down Florianska Street to the clock tower. It is a joyous sight that shows the deep love for dogs in this city.
FAQ
Is Krakow pet friendly?
Yes. Krakow is very welcoming to animals. 59% of the hotels in the city allow pets. Additionally, the city has 154 dog-friendly parks for you to visit.
What to do in Krakow with a dog?
You can take a long walk on the Vistula River Boulevards. Also, you can eat a zapiekanka at Plac Nowy in the Kazimierz district. On top of that, some movie theaters like Kino pod Baranami allow quiet dogs.
Can I travel to Poland with my dog?
You can bring your pet if you follow the rules. You need a microchip, a rabies vaccine, and a valid health certificate. Gradually, you will find that traveling to poland with dog companions is a smooth process with preparation.
Is Poland good for dogs?
Poland is a great destination for pets. Dogs in poland are a part of everyday life there.
Are dogs allowed on trains in Poland?
Yes. Small dogs in carriers travel free on PKP Intercity trains. However, larger dogs require a ticket for PLN 15.20 and must wear a muzzle.
What not to do in Krakow at night?
You should avoid making noise or disturbing public order. First of all, check the night bus schedule if you stay out late.
What to see in Poland with a dog?
You should see the restored Old Town in Warsaw. Similarly, you can look for bronze dwarf statues in Wroclaw.
Is 4 days in Krakow too much?
No. There are many things to do and see. Tourists often use a four-day itinerary to plan their trip.
Can you fly dogs in the cabin in Poland?
Yes. Some airlines like LOT allow pets under 8kg in the cabin.
Are dogs allowed in Malbork Castle?
Dogs can only go into the outer courtyard. Gradually, the castle added free kennels for visitors during the summer months.
Can I stay with my dog on a ferry?
Yes. You can travel to Poland via ferry from the UK or Netherlands. You often stay in your car during the check.
What to avoid with dogs?
You must avoid the Wawel Royal Castle grounds because dogs are banned there. Also, do not try to take your dog into the excavations of the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
What is the most popular dog in Poland?
Dachshunds are very famous and have a special parade in Krakow. French bulldogs and Yorkies are also very common in the city.
Concluding words
I found that Krakow is a top choice for a pet-friendly holiday. The city offers many green spaces and welcoming hotels. You must have the correct documents and follow transport rules like using a muzzle. Finally, take time to enjoy the cafes and river walks with your best friend.
