Bilbao is the most dog-friendly European city I have ever visited. My husband and I travel with our dog, Moose, whenever we can. This city in the Basque Country of Spain is a perfect place for a Pet Friendly Vacation in Bilbao, Spain. Local people often stop to give Moose a cuddle because they love animals here. You will feel very welcome in this city.
Preparation For Your Spanish Trip
First of all, you must plan your visit with care. You should get your dog used to different forms of transport from a young age. This keeps stress levels low for the animal and for you. I always take Moose to the vet for a check-up before we leave. You do not want any surprises on your trip.
You must have a valid rabies vaccination for your pet. This is mandatory if you come from outside Spain. If your dog gets the vaccine for the first time, he must wait 21 days before he can enter the country. Additionally, your pet needs a microchip. This chip must comply with ISO Standard 11784 or 11785.
You also need an official health certificate or an EU Pet Passport. Later, if you travel from the United Kingdom, you might need a treatment against tapeworms. You should do this between 24 and 120 hours before you return home. I find that a waterproof coat is also a good thing to pack. It rains in Bilbao sometimes. You will arrive at your hotel clean and dry if your dog wears a coat.
How To Reach The Basque Country
There are many ways to reach the north of Spain. Most people travel by car because distances here are short. It takes only 1 hour to drive between the three main cities. However, some people choose to travel by boat. Brittany Ferries allows you to bring your dog to Spain. You must check if the route has pet friendly cabins or if your dog must stay in the car.
If you prefer to fly, some airlines allow small pets in the cabin. Your pet must weigh less than 8 kilograms including the carrier. Manifest cargo is an option for larger dogs. Therefore, the car or ferry is often better for big dogs. The total cost to relocate a pet can range from €300 to over €3,000.
Where To Stay In The City
We found many pet-friendly hotels bilbao during our stay. We stayed at Bilbao City Rooms on Alameda de Recalde. This place is modern and the staff are friendly. On top of that, the location is brilliant. It is only 2 blocks from the Guggenheim Museum. The best part? There are no extra charges for your dog at this hotel.
Another great choice is Hotel Meliá Bilbao. It has a 9.0 rating from guests. This hotel is right next to the off-leash dog area in Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. Plus, it offers food and water bowls for your pet. You can enjoy an outdoor pool or relax on a terrace with river views.
If you want luxury, you can try Hotel Carlton. It sits right on Plaza Moyúa. For a more budget-friendly stay, Ibis Bilbao Centro is a good option. You can even find rooms starting at $57 nightly at some spots like Sercotel Arenal Bilbao. Hotel Tayko Bilbao is also amazing with a 9.6 rating. It has a beautiful Belle Époque design.
You might need pet friendly hotels near bilbao ferry port if you arrive late. The port is in the Santurtzi area. Hotel Gran Bilbao is a 4-star option in the nearby Atxuri neighborhood. Hotel Petit Palace Arana is another choice in the Old Quarter.
Moving Around Bilbao
Bilbao is an easy city to walk around. We walked almost everywhere during our stay. Though, you might need to use public transport sometimes. You must learn the rules for each type of transport.
Dogs of any size can ride the Bilbao trams. They must be on a lead. However, Dogs Considered Potentially Dangerous or PDD are not allowed. On the Bilbo Bus, only dogs in carriers or bags can travel.
The Bilbao Metro has different rules for different lines. On Lines 1 and 2, dogs must weigh less than 8 kilograms. You must hold them in your arms or keep them in a closed carrier. On Line 3, any size dog can ride if they are on a lead. PDD breeds are prohibited here also.
Similarly, local Renfe trains allow dogs of any size. They must have a muzzle and a lead. Only one dog per passenger is permitted. If you need a car, Aitziber Taxis offer dog-friendly rides. You should book these in advance.
Things We Did With Moose
Museums do not allow dogs inside. We often visited museums in turns. One of us went inside while the other walked Moose or sat for a coffee. Later, we would swap places. However, the Guggenheim Museum is still great for pets. It has a lot of art outside. Moose loved the building and the beauty of the area. We took a photo in front of ‘Puppy‘ by Jeff Koons. This is the largest dog in the country.
We also saw ‘Mamá‘. This is a 9-meter tall spider sculpture by Louise Bourgeois. Be careful if your dog likes to eat spiders. He might try to get his teeth into it.
Gradually, we made our way to the Artxanda Funicular. I was so happy to find a dog-friendly compartment. This cable car takes you up to a lookout point. You can see the whole city of Bilbao from the top. Moose made friends with another dog on the ride up. At the top, there is a park with forests and paths.
We also enjoyed the Riverfront Walk. The path along the Nervión River is gorgeous. It is perfect for a morning jog or a walk with your pup. You will see public art and the Zubizuri pedestrian bridge. Plus, the avenues are full of the smell of the sea.
Shopping and Dining With A Pet
Shopping was surprisingly easy. We found that many non-food shops allowed Moose inside. We would pop our heads in and ask “***con perro?***”. Many owners let us in. Small dogs that you can pick up are allowed almost everywhere.
Dining is also a treat. We used a website called DogVivant.com to find places. It is like the Spanish version of Dugs in Pubs. The weather was warm, so we sat outside a lot. However, some places let Moose inside.
Here are our favorites:
- Mr Marvellous (Heros Kalea): We went back here twice. They have tables in the back for more space. They gave Moose water and cuddles. Their white Rioja wine is divine.
- Morrocotuda (Heros Kalea): This café has its own house-dogs. A Dalmatian is the “boss-dog” there. It is a good spot for lunch with meats and sandwiches.
- La Roca (Ercilla Kalea): This place has a separate bar area for dogs. Their pintxos are top quality.
- Culmen (Plaza Nueva): This bar is tiny and has no indoor seating. But the outdoor seating in the plaza is wonderful.
The Old Quarter, or Casco Viejo, is the heart of the food scene. You should visit the “Seven Streets” for snacks called pintxos. Just be careful during holidays or at lunch time. Huge crowds of people gather there. You might find toothpicks on the ground which can hurt your dog. Try to go when it is less busy.
Parks and Off-Leash Areas
Bilbao has many wonderful parks. The city created areas where dogs can run free. There are several such parks in the city. These include Parque Etxebarria and Parque Sarriko.
Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park was our favorite. The north-eastern corner is the designated dog area. Moose ran around off-leash there. You must follow the rules for leashes in other parts of the park.
Parque Ibaider is another great choice. It is a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. It sits along the river in the La Peña neighborhood. This park provides a medium-sized off-leash section. The views of the river and bridges are very interesting from here.
Etxebarria Park is very iconic. It has a giant chimney in the center. This is a monument to an old factory. The views from here are incredible. Similarly, the off-leash area is near the skate park. It is a popular spot for dogs to find play partners.
Finally, we looked at Miribilla Dog Park. It is located near a Metro station. This is helpful if your dog is small enough to ride the train. The dogs in Bilbao are very well socialized and behave well.
Beach Days and Coastal Walks
If you love the sea, Bizkaia has 8 beaches that allow dogs. Most of these have specific rules during the summer months.
One of the most popular is Arrietara Beach in Sopela. It has golden sand. Your dog can run freely and have fun in the water. You must check the current regulations before you visit. Many beaches only allow dogs outside of the bathing season. For example, in San Sebastian, leashed dogs are allowed from 1 October to 31 May.
We also visited the famous Biscay Bridge. It is a World Heritage site. This transporter bridge has joined two banks since 1893. Sadly, the upper walkway is not accessible with dogs. You can cross with your pet on the moving platform if you are in your car. Dogs up to 40 kilograms can travel for free in the passenger compartment if they are on a lead.
From the bridge, you can walk along the dockside to Ereaga Beach. In the off-season, you and your dog can enjoy a dip here. The hours for this are 18:00 to 11:00. This walk passes large Basque mansions. It is a relaxing way to discover Greater Bilbao.
Exploring Further: Mountains and Valleys
The Basque mountains hide many secrets. You can find the Nervión Waterfall here. Some say it is the highest waterfall in the region. You can reach the valley by taking the Renfe train to Orduña.
You can also visit Vitoria-Gasteiz. It is a very green city. If your dog could choose a city, he would choose this one. It has a Green Belt with parks, forests, and wetlands. There are hundreds of routes to enjoy together.
Additionally, the Rioja Alavesa region is famous for wine. You can stroll among vineyards in Elciego. Some wineries have shops and terraces where dogs are welcome. However, dogs cannot enter the areas where wine is handled. You should carry enough water because there are few stops for drinks.
Important Rules and Advice
You must follow the rules to keep Bilbao dog-friendly. Always keep your pet near and under control. Clean-up bags for messes are your best ally. I also recommend carrying hygienic wet wipes.
If you have a potentially dangerous dog or PDD, the rules are strict. These dogs are not allowed on the tram or the metro Line 3. They must always be on a lead in green areas. You must also follow the national laws for these breeds.
Spanish law says animals are not allowed in areas where food is handled. This means they cannot go into kitchens or factories. However, restaurant owners can decide their own policy for seating areas. They usually put a sign at the entrance to show if dogs are allowed.
You should also check the rules for specific events. For example, dogs are not allowed at the Bilbao BBK Live music festival. The volume of live music is unbearable for most dogs. Crowds of people also make it stressful. On the contrary, the Ordizia Market is an open-air market where you can go with your pet. It is held every Wednesday from 9:00 to 13:00.
Parking and Safety
If you drive, car parking in Bilbao is impressive. Prices are relatively cheap. We parked in the Plaza Euskadi underground lot for 3.5 days and only paid €40. This lot is large, clean, and safe.
Remember that you are responsible for any damage or disturbance caused by your dog. This is true even if he escapes. When you cross urban spaces, you must use a lead no longer than 2 meters.
Finally, think about your dog’s comfort at all times. Do not force him to participate in activities that are stressful. If the visit is long, look for a dog day-care center. You can leave your pet there for a few hours. This is a great way to ensure you all enjoy your holiday.
Bilbao is a gorgeous city. I would recommend this Pet Friendly Vacation in Bilbao, Spain to anyone. Whether you have a dog or not, it is a wonderful place to visit. The locals are kind, the food is great, and the city is ready for you and your four-legged friend.
FAQ
Is Bilbao pet-friendly?
Yes, Bilbao is the most dog-friendly European city the author has visited. It has many provisions for pets and a welcoming attitude from locals.
What is the most pet-friendly city in Spain?
While many cities love dogs, Bilbao and Vitoria-Gasteiz are highly recommended for their parks and accessibility.
Can dogs go on the ferry to Bilbao?
Yes, companies like Brittany Ferries allow pets, though rules depend on the specific route and cabin availability.
Are dogs allowed on the Bilbao Metro?
Yes, but rules vary. On Lines 1 and 2, dogs must be under 8 kilograms and carried. On Line 3, dogs of any size can ride on a lead, except PDD breeds.
Can dogs go in restaurants in Spain?
Dogs are prohibited from food-handling areas by law. However, owners can allow them in bar or dining areas at their own discretion.
Can I bring my dog to Spain for vacation?
Yes, you can bring a dog if you have a microchip, rabies vaccine, and the correct health certificate or passport.
What is the most pet-friendly city in Europe?
The author considers Bilbao to be the most dog-friendly city in Europe.
What are the new rules for dog owners in Spain?
Recent laws cap the number of pets at five per owner, though local authorities can sometimes grant exceptions.
Can I stay with my dog on a ferry?
This depends on the route. Some have pet-friendly cabins, while others require the dog to stay in your vehicle.
Concluding words
A vacation in Bilbao offers a wonderful blend of urban art, green parks, and coastal beauty for you and your pet. With many pet-friendly hotels bilbao and an easy-to-use transport system, you can explore everything from the Guggenheim to Artxanda mountain. Proper preparation with vaccines and a lead will ensure a safe trip. This city truly loves its “txikitxus” and welcomes every responsible pet owner with open arms.
