I remember the first time I decided to take my golden retriever on a trip across the ocean. It was a dream. A wild idea. My friends thought I was crazy, but I knew my dog deserved a vacation too. We live in a world where pets are family. They are not just animals. They are sentient members of the home. Because of this change, the travel world is now part of the “Pawprint Economy”. Did you know the global pet industry is expected to reach a massive US$500 billion by 2030? In 2025 alone, the market for Pet Friendly Hotels Europe hit $4.6 billion. It is a huge business. Therefore, finding the best dog friendly hotels europe is easier than it has ever been.
I have spent years exploring the continent with my furry best friend. I have stayed in fancy suites and quiet farmhouses. I have learned that a good trip requires a plan. A solid plan. Through my travels, I have found that Europe is the heart of pet-inclusive tourism. Dog friendly holidays europe are no longer a rare treat. They are the new standard. This guide will share my personal list of the 14 Best Pet Friendly Hotels Europe based on my real experiences and stays.
The Paperwork: What You Must Know First
First of all, you cannot just hop on a plane with a dog. You need the right documents. This is the most important step. If you live in the European Union, you need an EU Pet Passport. This is a life-long document issued by a vet. It proves your pet has a microchip and a rabies vaccine.
However, if you are coming from the United Kingdom or the United States, things are different. You will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). I learned this the hard way. The AHC is a one-time document. It is valid for only 10 days for entry into the EU. Dog friendly european holidays from uk became more expensive after 2021. A vet check for an AHC can cost about £180. Additionally, you must make sure your dog is microchipped before the rabies shot is given. After the rabies shot, you must wait at least 21 days before you can travel. This rule is strict. Do not ignore it.
Similarly, some countries have extra rules. If you go to Finland, Ireland, Malta, or Norway, your dog needs a tapeworm treatment. A vet must give this treatment 24 to 120 hours before you arrive. I always set an alarm on my phone for this. You do not want to be turned away at the border.
Getting Across the Water
The ride to the continent can be tricky. A major problem exists: Eurostar does not allow dogs on trains to and from London. This is a shame. It would be so simple. On the contrary, you have other great options. I prefer the ferry. It is a civilized way to travel.
Stena Line from Harwich to Hoek van Holland is my top choice. They have pet-friendly cabins. Your dog can stay with you in the room. They even have a “poop deck” for exercise. At that time, I felt so relieved to see my dog sleeping on the cabin floor. Plus, you can watch your pet on a special CCTV channel if they stay in a kennel.
Later, I tried the Newhaven-Dieppe ferry with DFDS. This is often the cheapest way to reach France. You can book a pet-friendly cabin here too. If you have a car, you can use the Eurotunnel. It takes only 35 minutes. Your pet stays in the car with you. For those without a car, a taxi service like Pet Travel Abroad can take you and your dog through the tunnel for a fee.
The 14 Best Pet Friendly Hotels Europe
Now, let us get to the fun part. The hotels. These are the places that truly welcome our pets. They provide the best pet friendly accommodation europe has to offer.
Kimpton de Witt, Amsterdam
This hotel is a gem. It is located right in the city centre of Amsterdam. I love this place because they have no pet fee. None at all. They allow pets of any size, even big dogs. When I checked in, the staff gave my dog treats and a comfy bed. They also provided bowls. There are many parks nearby for morning walks. It is truly one of the best pet friendly hotels europe can boast.
Hôtel l’Inattendu, Paris
Paris is a city that loves dogs. This hotel is no exception. They allow pets of any size for no additional fee. I felt very welcome here. At that time, the staff treated my dog like a tiny king. Transitioning from the busy streets to this quiet hotel was a relief.
Hotel Gravina 51, Seville
Seville is beautiful but can be hot. This hotel is perfect for dog owners. They allow dogs of any size for no fee. However, they do not allow cats, so keep that in mind. The rooms are stylish and comfortable. It is a top choice for dog friendly accommodation europe in Spain.
Sheraton Skyline Hotel London Heathrow
If you are starting or ending your trip near the airport, stay here. They allow pets of any size for no extra fee. It is very convenient. I stayed here before a long flight, and the room was spacious enough for a large crate.
Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona
For those who want dog friendly luxury hotels europe, this is the one. It is expensive, but the service is amazing. They allow dogs of any size for no fee. They do not allow cats. Barcelona has over 340 pet-friendly hotels, but this one stands out for its luxury.
Destino Anamar Mykonos, Greece
Greece has embraced the pet economy in a big way. This boutique hotel in Mykonos is pet-friendly for no fee. Both dogs and cats are welcome. The views of the sea are stunning. My dog loved the breeze on the terrace. Additionally, Santorini has over 300 pet-friendly stays if you want to island hop.
Agriturismo 140, Lake Garda
I must mention the agriturismos in Italy. These are working farms that rent rooms. Margot, a travel expert who has visited every site she lists, highly recommends this one. The owner loves dogs. There is a woodland area where dogs can run off the leash. This is rare and wonderful. It is the perfect pet friendly holidays europe experience for nature lovers.
Sjugare Bed & Breakfast, Sweden
Sweden is a very pet-friendly country. This B&B allows dogs of any size for no fee. They even provide food and water bowls in the room. The Swedish countryside is perfect for long, quiet walks.
Culloden House Hotel, Inverness
If you are visiting the Scottish Highlands, stay here. This historic hotel allows pets for no extra fee. The grounds are massive. It is an ideal spot for dog friendly holidays europe if you want to explore the UK.
Karlik Evi Boutique Hotel, Turkey
Turkey has some incredible cave hotels. This one in Nevsehir allows dogs of any size for no fee. Sorry, no cats here. The unique architecture makes for a very cool experience. My dog enjoyed exploring the stone rooms.
Hotel Spa Villa Nazules, Toledo
This hotel in Spain is great for families with multiple pets. They allow two pets of any size for no fee. Both dogs and cats are welcome. It is a peaceful spot away from the city noise.
Hôtel Gramont, Paris
Another great Paris option. They allow dogs of any size for no fee. They provide food and water bowls for their four-legged guests. On top of that, cats may be allowed if you ask nicely. It is located near great walking spots.
Monastery Estate Venetian Harbor, Greece
This hotel in Chania is beautiful but does charge a fee. It is $53 per pet, per night. Both dogs and cats are welcome. Though there is a fee, the luxury and location make it worth it.
Agriturismo Vinci, Tuscany
Located in the heart of Chianti, this farm stay is rated very highly by dog owners. It has vast olive groves and a lake where dogs can run free. I spent a week here just relaxing in the sun. It is a true oasis for best dog friendly hotels europe.
Exploring Pet-Friendly Cities
A hotel is only one part of the trip. The city must be welcoming too. Some cities in Europe are better for pets than others. Helsinki is amazing. A massive 84% of hotels there allow dogs. That is the highest in Europe. Zurich is also great, with 71% of hotels being pet-friendly.
In Amsterdam, dogs are allowed almost everywhere except museums. They even ride for free on most public transport. I took my dog on a canal boat tour there. He loved it. Paris is similar. You can take your dog into many cafes and boutiques. Some restaurants even provide a chair for your dog.
Berlin is perhaps the most dog-friendly capital. All public transport accepts pets. Large parks like Tiergarten have big off-leash areas. I saw so many dogs there playing fetch. It felt very natural. On the contrary, London can be a bit more strict about shops and restaurants. However, the pubs are very welcoming. Many have beer gardens where you can enjoy a pint with your pup.
Dealing with Rules and Fees
Every hotel has its own rules. You must check them before you book. Some have weight limits. Others charge a daily fee. For example, the Hilton Berlin charges a €50 non-refundable fee. They allow dogs up to 34 kg. Hilton Lake Como also charges €50 but has a lower weight limit of 20 kg.
Always ask about the rules. Does the dog need to be on a leash in the hall? Can they go to the restaurant? Most agriturismos in Italy require a leash on the premises. Gradually, you will learn to navigate these rules. Finally, remember that spring and autumn are the best times to travel. The weather is not too hot for your dog.
Travel Tips for Mature Travelers
Travel with a pet requires more gear. I always pack a “pet bag”. Inside, I keep the EU Pet Passport, a collapsible water bowl, and a favorite blanket. A familiar scent helps a dog feel safe in a new hotel. Additionally, I always bring a muzzle. In some countries, like Italy or France, you must have one for public transport. Your dog might not need to wear it, but you must have it.
Health is the top priority. I always visit my vet a few weeks before a big move. This gives us time to update vaccines. Check the microchip. Make sure it is readable. A tiny mistake here can cause big stress at the airport.
If you are flying, the rules are even tighter. Most European airlines have an 8kg weight limit for the cabin. This includes the bag. If your dog is bigger, they must travel in the hold. I know this sounds scary, but many people do it successfully. However, do not fly with a snub-nosed dog in the hold. Breeds like Pugs or Bulldogs have trouble breathing. They should only fly in the cabin.
The Growing Market for Pet Travel
It is interesting to see how much this market has grown. In 2024, the market value for pet-friendly hotels was $3.7 billion. By 2026, it is projected to reach $5.16 billion. This is a 12.3% growth rate. Why is this happening? People are delaying parenthood and spending more on their pets. We want our dogs to have premium services.
Hotels are now offering “Canine Club” programs. They have gourmet menus and professional dog walkers. In Rome and Florence, luxury spots are leading this trend. I have seen dog spas and even dog-friendly yoga classes on the beach in Italy. It is a wonderful time to be a pet owner.
Why Agriturismos are Special
If you want a true escape, look at the agriturismos in Italy. I have stayed in many. They are better than hotels because they have space. Staying in the Italian countryside is peaceful. Your dog can run around away from the city noise. Margot has selected these for quality and charm.
In Tuscany, you can find places near Florence that are ideal for long walks. Some have swimming pools and restaurants with amazing views. One agriturismo near Lucca is even within walking distance of a gelateria. You can get a delicious Italian ice cream with your dog. That is a perfect afternoon.
FAQ
Does the Europe hotel allow dogs?
Yes. I have found that most places are very welcoming. In fact, a massive 84% of hotels in Helsinki and 71% in Zurich allow dogs. You will find that dog friendly accommodation europe is very common in major cities.
Which European country is most dog friendly?
Finland is a top choice because of its high hotel acceptance. Switzerland is also incredible. The Swiss take pet ownership so seriously that owners used to take mandatory tests. Germany is another leader. It has a strict no-kill policy for shelters and treated dogs as true family members.
Which hotel chain is the most pet friendly?
I often stay with Hilton, Marriott, or Kimpton. Hilton has a “Dedicated Pet Experience” in many spots. Marriott offers brands like Aloft, which has the “Arf” (Animals R Fun) program for dogs under 40 lbs.
Where to go in Europe with a dog?
You should head to Berlin for the parks or Amsterdam for the canal tours. The Northern Lakes in Italy are perfect for swimming. If you want space, the agriturismos in Tuscany are a dream.
Which country is the most pet-friendly?
Switzerland and Germany are the gold standards. They integrate pets into daily life better than almost anywhere else.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
Italy is a top pick. It has over 3,270 pet-friendly hotels in Rome alone. Plus, the agriturismos offer huge open spaces for dog friendly holidays europe.
Can you leave a dog in a hotel room?
Rules vary. However, some places like the Dervish Cave House specifically say pets cannot be left unattended. Always ask the front desk first.
How to avoid hotel pet fees?
I recommend staying at hotels like Kimpton de Witt in Amsterdam or Hotel Gravina 51 in Seville. They allow dogs for no additional fee.
Which UK hotels allow dogs?
The Sheraton Skyline Hotel London Heathrow and the Culloden House Hotel in Inverness are great options. They both welcome pets.
What is the most dog friendly city in Europe?
Helsinki holds the crown for the highest percentage of pet-friendly hotels.
Is Italy or Spain more dog friendly?
Italy seems to lead. Rome has thousands of pet-friendly stays. Spain is growing fast too. Barcelona has over 340 pet-friendly hotels.
Can I travel in Europe with my dog?
Yes. You just need the EU Pet Passport or an Animal Health Certificate.
What is the easiest country to travel with a dog?
Germany and the Netherlands are very easy. Public transport is open to pets and people are very relaxed.
Is Germany a dog-friendly country?
Absolutely. Berlin is one of the most dog-friendly spots on the planet. Dogs are treated with dignity and allowed in most places.
Which city is the most dog friendly?
Helsinki is the winner for hotels. San Francisco is also called the most dog-friendly city in the world.
Concluding words
I believe that every dog deserves a grand tour. My list of the 14 Best Pet Friendly Hotels Europe shows that you do not have to leave your best friend behind. You can find best pet friendly hotels europe from the busy streets of Paris to the quiet farms of Italy. These spots offer the best dog friendly hotels europe has ever seen.
The Pawprint Economy is growing fast. In 2026, it is projected to reach $5.16 billion. This means more luxury and better service for our pets. Gather your paperwork. Pack the treats. Book a room. Your next big adventure is just a paw-step away!
