I am so excited to share my story about the time I brought my four-legged best friend to one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Basel sits right where Switzerland, France, and Germany meet. It is a place full of art, history, and a big river called the Rhine.
First of all, I was nervous about the rules. I asked myself many times: is switzerland dog friendly? I soon found out that the answer is a big yes. Europe has a culture where dogs are everywhere. You see them in cafes, fancy restaurants, and even shops.
This is a guide for anyone who wants a Pet Friendly Vacation in Basel, Switzerland. I will tell you everything from how to enter the country to the best spots for a swim.
How to Get Started: Can I Take My Dog to Switzerland?
Before I packed my bags, I had to do a lot of homework. The most common question for any traveler is: can i take my dog to switzerland? You absolutely can, but you must follow some strict steps. First of all, your dog needs a 15-digit microchip.
This chip must be put in before or at the same time as the rabies vaccine. Additionally, your dog needs a valid rabies vaccine at least 21 days before you cross the border. If you come from a country where rabies is a high risk, you might also need a titer test. Similarly, you will need a pet passport or a health certificate.
Does basel switzerland have an international airport? Yes, it does. The airport is called EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg. It is very special because it serves three countries. When I arrived, the customs officers checked my paperwork carefully.
They want to see that everything is in order. I have also learned that dogs with cropped ears or docked tails are generally banned. Switzerland has very high welfare standards. Therefore, they do not allow these surgeries for looks.
If you are a tourist, you might be able to bring a docked dog for a short stay if you pay a deposit at customs. However, you should check this well in advance.
Later, I realized how much the Swiss care about animal dignity. The law says no one shall cause an animal pain, suffering, or fear without a good reason. This makes pet care in switzerland some of the best in the world.
I once searched for pet friendly hotels bangladesh when I lived there, but the level of detail in Switzerland is much higher. Every person who handles an animal is responsible for its welfare. Plus, there are rules about how big a cage must be for small pets like mice or rats.
Finding a Place to Sleep: Pet Friendly Hotels in Basel
I spent a long time looking for the right room. There are many pet friendly hotels in basel that go out of their way to help. First of all, I looked at the Hotel Spalentor. It has a very high guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. They even provide food and water bowls for your pup. Additionally, the hotel has a beautiful terrace where you can sit and relax.
Another great choice is the Pullman Basel Europe. It is a very fancy place in the city center. They also welcome dogs and have an excellent review rating of 9.4. On top of that, they have electric car charging stations if you are driving.
However, if you want something with a garden, you should check the Steinenschanze Charming City & Garden Hotel. It is in a very safe area and is within walking distance of the old town.
Gradually, I found that many hotels offer extra perks. The Swissotel Le Plaza left a cute little dog basket and bowls in my room. Finally, there is the GAIA Hotel Basel which is known for being sustainable. It is very close to places where you can walk your dog. I felt very safe staying in these neighborhoods alone.
The Big Question: Is Switzerland Dog Friendly?
I can say with total confidence that this country loves dogs. Is switzerland dog friendly? Yes, and it will take your breath away. I saw dogs in shoulder bags while their owners shopped. I saw them sleeping under chairs in fancy restaurants. Unlike in some other countries, dogs are not “persona non grata” here.
Though some people might be reserved at first, a dog is a great way to start a conversation. I met several people while I walked my dog near the Bruderholz area. Swiss people are often introverted, but they are very kind. On top of that, there are many online groups like International friends in Basel or Basel Dogs on Facebook. These communities are great for asking questions about local life.
However, you must know the rules. You are always subject to the law of the canton you are in. In Basel, you must pick up and dispose of your dog’s droppings.
If you do not, you might get a fine. Additionally, you must register your dog with the canton and pay an annual fee. You also need to have liability insurance for your pet. Therefore, being a dog owner in Basel comes with a lot of duty.
Moving Around: Can I Travel with My Dog to Switzerland’s Trams?
The public transport system in Basel is excellent. I asked myself: can i travel with my dog to switzerland and use the buses? The answer is very simple. Small dogs that are under 30 cm at the shoulder can ride for free if they are in a bag or a basket.
If your dog is bigger, like a Vizsla or a Golden Retriever, you must buy a ticket. This is usually a half-fare ticket for 2nd class.
I found the ticket machines very easy to use. There is even a little icon of a dog that you can click. Additionally, if you stay in a hotel, you will get a Basel Card. This card lets you use the trams and buses for free in certain zones. However, the Basel Card does not cover your dog. You will still need to buy a separate ticket for your furry friend.
Linking to the rest of the country is also easy. The SBB train system allows dogs on all routes. If you travel a lot, you can even buy a yearly subscription for your dog for 350 CHF. This is a great deal if you plan to see many cities. Finally, remember that the buses and trams are very safe and clean. I never felt scared riding them late at night.
Eating Out: Fondue and Furry Friends
I loved that I could take my dog to almost any restaurant. In Switzerland, you can assume your dog is welcome unless there is a sign that says “no”. I walked into many places and tucked my pup under the table. The staff often brought a bowl of water without me even asking. Sometimes they even gave out treats.
There are a few rules of etiquette to follow. Your dog should lie quietly under the table and not sit on the chairs or benches. Also, dogs must always be on a lead. I learned that well-behaved dogs are sometimes more welcome than children in certain bars! Later, I tried the traditional fondue and my dog just watched peacefully.
Similarly, many cafes are very friendly. I stopped for a coffee at a pet-friendly cafe along the Rhine. On the contrary, you cannot take your dog into grocery stores, bakeries, or butchers. This is for hygiene reasons. Additionally, bars can be a bit crowded, so they might not allow dogs when they are too busy.
The “No Dog” Sign Mystery and Where to Walk
When I first arrived, I saw many red signs that said “no dogs”. This can be confusing. Most public city parks in Basel do not allow dogs. This includes playgrounds too. However, there are still many green spaces where dogs can run.
The best place for a long walk is Lange Erlen. It is a huge area in Kleinbasel where dogs can be off the leash. There is a small river called the Wiese where dogs can take a swim in the summer. I saw many people walking their dogs there after work. On top of that, the Allschwiler Wald and Bruderholz are beautiful spots with many fields and forests.
However, you must watch the dates. From April 1st to July 31st, you must keep your dog on a leash in every forest. This is to protect baby wild animals that are born in the spring. The police do check this, and you can get a fine of at least 120 CHF if your dog is off-leash. Therefore, I always stayed on the paths during those months.
Swimming in the Rhine: A Dog’s Paradise
One of the highlights of my trip was the Rhine river. There are two dedicated dog bathing areas. One is near the St. Alban-Rheinweg and the other is by the Tinguely Museum. These spots let dogs move freely without a leash and cool off in the water.
Gradually, I found that a walk along the river is a great way to see the city. We walked on the Oberer Rheinweg, or the upper Rhine trail. The views of the old towers and the cathedral are magnificent. I also saw many beautiful houses with lots of plants. It is a very picturesque place with many benches where you can sit and enjoy the air.
Additionally, you can walk along the river Birs at St. Jakob. There is a nice bay at Birsköpfli that is perfect for dogs who love to swim. There is even a little cafe nearby where you can get a drink. First of all, make sure your dog is good with water before you let them jump in.
Important Laws and Pet Care in Switzerland
I realized that Switzerland has very specific rules about how to treat animals. For example, some animals like rabbits cannot be kept alone.
They must have a partner. While this did not apply to my dog, it showed me how much the country cares about welfare. Additionally, you are not supposed to yell at barking dogs.
If you have a medical emergency, there is great pet care in switzerland. The Tierklinik Basel in Münchenstein is a 24-hour clinic for small animals. They have many specialists and the service is top-notch. Many vets speak very good English. However, their assistants might prefer German, so I kept a dictionary handy. Plus, there is a paid emergency number you can call at night or on weekends.
Therefore, I felt very safe knowing my dog could get help if needed. I also found many shops for supplies. Qualipet and Fressnapf are two big stores with very helpful staff. If you need food delivered, PETPLUS is a popular online service. Later, I even found some nice kennels like Hundeland in Eptingen for when I needed to travel without my pup.
A Quick Checklist for Your Trip
When I planned my Pet Friendly Vacation in Basel, Switzerland, I used a list to stay organized. First of all, I checked the entry rules for my specific country. The requirements depend on where you are coming from. For example, coming from the UK requires an Animal Health Certificate. Additionally, I made sure my pup’s microchip was ISO compliant.
- Microchip (15-digit).
- Rabies vaccine (at least 21 days old).
- Pet Passport or Health Certificate.
- Customs check at the airport.
- Registration with the local town if staying long-term.
- Liability insurance.
Gradually, I became used to the local rhythm. I learned that Basel is a very quiet and sleepy city compared to places like London or Paris. However, this makes it a very peaceful place for a dog. The streets are clean, the air is fresh, and the people are respectful.
Exploring the Surroundings: Day Trips from Basel
I also took some trips outside the city center. Basel is small, so you can get to nature in just a few minutes by tram. I visited Riehen, which is on the edge of the city. It is very dog-friendly and has many places to walk. Additionally, I went to Arlesheim to visit a restaurant called The Ochsen. They love dogs there and the food is excellent.
On top of that, you can visit the Basel Zoo. It was founded in 1871 and is one of the oldest in the country. While dogs are not allowed in all areas, they are welcome in designated spots. Similarly, the Mittlere Brücke is a great monument to visit for some photos. I took many pictures of my pup there.
However, if you want a real adventure, you can try the Foxtrail Basel. It is a fun treasure hunt that takes you all over the city. You even get a discount if you have a member card. Finally, I walked through the St. Alban area, which has beautiful historical buildings and is very close to parks. It is a perfect base for any pet owner.
Statistical Facts about Swiss Tourism
I was surprised to learn some numbers about how much work goes into making Switzerland a top destination. The Switzerland Tourism group has an annual budget of 95 million CHF. They have 242 staff members and 28 offices around the world. Additionally, they reached 5.9 billion consumers through their marketing in 2013.
The demand for pet-friendly services is on the rise. In Germany, for example, 13.3% of all households own a dog. This is why more hotels and restaurants are identifying themselves as “pet-friendly”. Therefore, you will see more and more offers for you and your animal companion. Plus, overnights in cities have increased by 2.2 million over a 12-year period.
On the contrary, overnights in the mountains decreased by the same amount in that time. This has pushed the industry to invent new themes, like “pure nature” and “outdoor” products. I felt like I was part of this new trend when I hiked in the Alps with my dog. Finally, I learned that Basel is the sunniest part of the country north of the Alps.
The Social Side: Meeting Other Dog Owners
I was worried about feeling lonely in a new city. However, walking a dog is one of the best ways to meet locals. In the Bruderholz area, almost every other walker was friendly and stopped to let our dogs interact. It was very easy to start a conversation.
Additionally, I found that joining a “Verein” or a club is a top tip for meeting people in Switzerland. There is a club for every hobby you can think of. I also looked into dog walking groups that meet every Wednesday at the ISB Reinach campus. These groups are very supportive and great for asking questions.
However, keep in mind that conversations might stay on the surface level for a while. Swiss people take their time to build deep relationships. But do not let that discourage you. I felt very safe and welcome the whole time. On top of that, Basel has a very international population, so you will meet people from all over the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SWISS pet friendly?
Yes, SWISS allows dogs to fly in the cabin or as checked baggage depending on their size. You must make sure your pet travels in a crate that meets international standards.
Is Basel Zoo worth it?
It is a very popular spot because it has a long history and focuses on high levels of animal husbandry. Many people in the city love it and provide donations to keep it running.
Are dogs allowed in SWISS restaurants?
You can assume your dog is welcome in most restaurants unless a sign says no. Most eateries will even bring your pet a bowl of water while you eat traditional fondue.
Does SWISS allow dogs in cabins?
Yes, dogs can fly in the cabin if they meet the specific airline policies and travel in an appropriate carrier.
Are dogs allowed on hikes in Switzerland?
Dogs are absolutely welcome on hiking trails throughout the country. However, you must keep an eye out for leash signs and always leash your pup if cows are nearby.
What is the most pet friendly country in the world?
Switzerland is often called one of the most pet-friendly countries because of its strict laws that protect the dignity and welfare of animals.
Are dogs allowed in supermarkets in Switzerland?
No, dogs are not allowed in supermarkets, bakeries, or butchers. This rule exists to keep food areas clean and safe for everyone.
What are the rules for traveling with pets?
First of all, your pet must have a microchip and a valid rabies vaccination. You also need a pet passport or health certificate, and you might need a titer test if you come from a high-risk country.
Concluding Words
I am so happy that I decided to bring my pup to Basel. It was a wonderful experience that I will never forget. Pet Friendly Vacation in Basel, Switzerland is more than just a dream; it is a reality. First of all, the city is small enough that you can see everything without a car. Additionally, the quality of life for a dog is much better here than in many other big cities.
However, you must be a responsible owner. Follow the leash laws, pick up after your pet, and always have a ticket for the tram. Therefore, you will help keep the city beautiful and friendly for everyone. Plus, you should always check the “no dog” signs to avoid any trouble.
I hope this guide helps you plan your own trip. Whether you are staying in a fancy hotel like the Pullman or exploring the wild areas of Lange Erlen, you and your dog will have a blast. Finally, remember to enjoy every moment and take lots of photos. Switzerland is truly a paradise for those who love to travel with their furry friends.
Gradually, you will find your own favorite spots in this vibrant city. I loved the Tinguely Fountain and the narrow lanes of the Old Town. On top of that, the fresh air from the Rhine will make you feel alive. Therefore, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure! Basel is waiting for you and your four-legged pal.
Additionally, if you ever get lost, the local people are very helpful. I heard stories about people getting their lost wallets and passports back through the transit system. This shows the high level of trust and safety in the city. Similarly, the BVB Customer Service Centre at Barfüsserplatz is a great place to go for help with tickets or lost items.
Later, I realized that I had everything I needed for a perfect trip. I had a safe place to sleep, great food, and plenty of room for my dog to run. On the contrary, I know some people worry about the costs. Yes, Switzerland can be expensive, but the quality is worth it. Finally, I want to say thank you for reading my story. Au revoir, Basel! I will be back soon.
Important Note: Always verify the latest requirements on the official government website before you travel. Rules can change, and you want to be 100% prepared. Plus, if you have a specific breed, check the local canton laws as some breeds require special permits. Happy travels!
