I love to travel. There is nothing quite like the feeling of the wind on your face when you explore a new city. My life changed for the better when I started taking my dog with me on these adventures. I once worried that pet travel would be too expensive or hard. However, my trips to the Czech Republic proved me wrong. This country is a paradise for people who love their four-legged friends. In fact, two out of every five households here have a dog. It is truly a land of pet lovers.
Prague is the heart of the country. I spent a long time there and found it to be one of the most welcoming places in the world. People often call it a “dog-friendly heaven”. It is common to see a dog sitting under a table in a cafe. Waiters often bring a bowl of water before you even ask for it. This warm culture makes every meal feel special.
I want to share my secrets for finding cheap dog friendly hotels in Czech Republic. You do not need a fortune to enjoy a great holiday here. You only need a bit of local knowledge and a sense of wonder. The history, the food, and the parks are all waiting for you. Therefore, grab your leash and let us begin this journey together.
The Legal Stuff Before You Go
First of all, you must handle the paperwork. I always make sure my dog meets the EU rules before we cross any border. Your dog needs a working microchip. This transponder must meet certain standards so the vets can read it easily. Additionally, your pet must have a valid rabies vaccine. You must wait at least 21 days after the first shot before you travel.
I carry a Pet Passport everywhere. This document is like a golden ticket for your dog. It lists all the shots and health checks. If you travel from the United States, you will need a special EU health certificate. The USDA must endorse this paper before you fly. This sounds like a lot of work. On the contrary, it is quite simple once you talk to your vet. A little bit of planning ensures that you do not face any trouble at the airport or train station.
Why You Should Choose Hotels Over Rentals
I used to think that an Airbnb was the cheapest way to stay in Europe. At that time, it was true. However, things have changed. A recent study looked at 23 European capitals. It compared the cost of short-term rentals to hotels with breakfast. The results were quite a shock to me.
In Prague, a hotel with breakfast costs about $63 per night on average. An Airbnb-style flat with breakfast costs around $148.50. That is a difference of $85 every single night. You can save so much money by choosing a traditional hotel. This extra cash can pay for a fancy dinner or a long tour of a castle. Similarly, in Vienna, you can save over $70 a night by staying in a hotel instead of a rental.
I find that hotels also offer more help. Most have a 24-hour reception. They can help you find a local vet or a good park for a morning walk. Some even have a canine concierge to make sure your room is ready for a pet. On top of that, many cheap dog friendly hotels in Czech Republic include a breakfast buffet. This is a great way to start your day without spending more money on food.
Finding a Dog Friendly Hotel Prague
Prague is full of great deals. I found that the a&o Prague Rhea is one of the best choices for a tight budget. It is a massive hotel with over 500 rooms. You can sometimes find a room here for as low as $10 or $13. This hotel sits right next to a lovely park called Malesicky. It is perfect for those quick walks before bed. They charge a small fee of about five euros for a pet.
If you want to stay closer to the action, the Meetme23 Hotel is a fantastic choice. It is near the famous Wenceslas Square. I love the style of this place. It feels modern and fresh. Rooms start at around $19. They allow pets and even have a business centre if you need to work.
Another great option is the Hotel Adler. It is located in the Old Town. You are only a short walk from the river and the historic squares. The price is usually around $32 per night. It has a 9.1 rating from thousands of guests. This proves that you do not have to sacrifice quality to save money.
I also recommend the Hotel Globus. It sits in a green area, which is great for dogs who love nature. It costs about $46 a night. You can sit in the summer garden and enjoy a traditional Czech beer while your dog rests at your feet.
Life in a Czech Republic Dormitory
Sometimes a hostel is the best way to meet people. I stayed at Hostel Eleven in the city of Brno. This is a classic czech republic dormitory style place for backpackers. They have shared facilities, but they also offer private rooms for dogs. I paid an extra 150 Czech koruna for my dog at check-in.
The kitchen was simple, but it worked for quick meals. I met other travelers who also had pets. We shared tips on the best local pubs. Gradually, I realized that hostels in this country are very open to animals. If you are a social person, a dormitory or a private room in a hostel is a smart move. Just remember to bring your own dog bed and blanket to keep your friend comfy.
Getting Around with Your Dog
I love the public transport in this country. It is efficient and very cheap. In Prague, small dogs in a carrier can often travel for free. For larger dogs, you might need to pay a small fee. Within the city limits, it is often free if you have a day ticket for yourself. If you go outside the city, the fee is usually only about 20 or 25 CZK.
You must remember the most important rule. Dogs must wear a muzzle on all public transport. I always carry one in my bag. Even if my dog is very well-behaved, the inspectors can fine you if you do not have it. Some people just hang the muzzle around the dog’s neck, but it is better to be safe and put it on properly.
Trains are my favourite way to see the countryside. The České dráhy trains are wonderful. You pay a flat fee for a dog ticket. It is either 30 CZK or 50 CZK depending on the distance. This is about two euros. It is incredible that you can cross the whole country for such a small price. I use the app called Muj Vlak to buy my tickets. It is very easy to use and you can add a dog ticket right before you pay.
Adventures in Bohemian Switzerland
I recently took a weekend trip to a place called Bohemian Switzerland. It is only a two-hour drive or a short train ride from Prague. This area is famous for its massive sandstone arches and deep canyons. I stayed in a village called Mezní Louka.
I found a wonderful place called Resort U Fořta. They have rooms in haylofts that are perfect for pets. The staff was very kind to my dog. They charge a cleaning fee of 4€ for a pet. This is a great deal for such a beautiful location. I woke up every morning to the sound of birds and the smell of pine trees.
We hiked to the Pravčice Gate. It is the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. The trail is about 15 kilometres long. It is a medium hike, but the views are breathtaking. I saw many other dogs on the trail. There is even a small bistro at the top where you can grab a snack. The owner of the bistro has a very friendly dog too.
Later, we visited the Edmundova Gorge. I sat by the river and watched the water flow past the dark rocks. My dog loved exploring the soft white sand on the paths. I suggest you visit in February or March. During these months, the paths are quiet. You might even have the whole forest to yourself.
Exploring Brno and Beyond
Brno is the second-largest city in the country. It is a hidden gem for dog owners. I found many pubs and restaurants that allow dogs inside. My favourite spot was Stopkova Plzeňská Pivnice. They have a big sign on the door that says they are dog friendly. The portions of food are massive. My dog definitely approved of the pork knuckles there.
We walked up the hill to Spilberk Castle. The parks around the castle are huge and have lots of shade. Many cafes there have bowls of water ready for thirsty pets. It is a great place to spend an afternoon.
If you are looking for cheap dog friendly hotels in Czech Republic, do not forget about the smaller towns. I stayed in a place called Bělá nad Radbuzou. The Penzion Muflon is a very budget-friendly guest house. Rates can start as low as $26 per night. It has a garden and a terrace where you can relax. They even have a restaurant on-site that serves breakfast.
Central Bohemia and Its Castles
I also spent some time in Central Bohemia. This region is filled with castles and chateaus. Most of these places allow dogs on the grounds. For instance, you can visit Křivoklát Castle or Krakovec Castle with your pet. Some places even allow small dogs inside if they are in a travel bag.
I was surprised to find that Château Mcely has a special menu for dogs. This is luxury at its finest for a furry friend. Plus, you can walk through the stunning parks like the one at Veltrusy Chateau. These parks are perfect for long strolls. Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash and follow the local rules.
Prague also has a world-class Zoo. I was shocked to learn that dogs are allowed inside! You have to pay a small admission fee for your pet. There are plenty of water stations and places to tie up your dog if you want to go into a building where they are not allowed. My dog spent seven hours exploring the zoo and loved every minute of it.
Useful Tips for a Stress-Free Trip
I have learned a few things after many trips to this beautiful country. First, always carry poop bags. While many parks have free bags, it is better to have your own. Some sidewalks in Prague can be a bit messy, so do not be part of the problem.
Second, be aware of the rules in shops. Most grocery stores and supermarkets do not allow dogs. However, many local clothing shops and malls are fine with them. Look for the small pictures on the doors. A red circle with a dog means “no,” while a green one or no sign usually means “yes”.
Third, remember that Czech dogs are very well-trained. They are socialized from a young age. I find that they rarely bark or cause trouble in restaurants. I try to make sure my dog is on his best behaviour to match the local standard. This helps keep the country friendly for all of us.
A Quick Guide to My Favourite Budget Stays
I have put together a list of some of the best deals I found. These are perfect for mature travelers who want comfort without a high price.
- A&O Prague Rhea: As low as $10-$13. Great location near a park.
- Meetme23 Hotel: Around $19. Very modern and close to the city centre.
- Hotel Adler: About $32. High quality in the heart of the Old Town.
- Penzion Muflon: Starting at $26. A peaceful guest house in the countryside.
- Hotel Globus: Around $46. Green surroundings and a nice summer garden.
- Pension Sklep: Only $17. A historic stay with a lot of charm.
- Hotel Lunik: About $56. Very central and highly rated.
FAQ
What hotel charges the least for pets? Several accommodations in the Czech Republic allow dogs to stay for free, including Penzion V Ráji in Strakonice, Hotel Aida in Prague, and Schlosshotel Zamek Zdikov,,. For those that do charge, A&O Prague Rhea offers a low rate of five euros per night, while Hotel U Parku in Rumburk and Resort U Fořta have fees of approximately 4€ or 100 CZK,,. Additionally, the Four Seasons Hotel in Prague does not charge for pets weighing less than fifteen pounds.
Is the Czech Republic dog friendly? Yes, the Czech Republic is considered one of the most dog-friendly countries in Europe,. Dogs are welcome almost anywhere, including the majority of restaurants, cafes, and even some shops,. A 2019 survey revealed that two out of every five households in the country include at least one dog.
Which hotel chain is the most dog friendly? The A&O Hotels chain is highlighted as a budget-friendly and pet-welcoming option, with locations like A&O Prague Rhea accepting domestic animals for a small extra charge,. Many hotels within the Czech Leading Hotels group also prominently feature pet-friendly services and amenities,,.
Can I leave my dog at a hotel? Policies regarding leaving pets unattended vary by establishment; for instance, City Club Prague stipulates that animals cannot be left in rooms alone. Conversely, Hostel Eleven in Brno permits guests to leave well-behaved pets in their private rooms.
How much is a dog hotel per day? While specialized “pet hotels” are mentioned as available, standard hotel pet fees range significantly from being free at certain locations to 1225 crowns per night at luxury venues like The Grand Mark,,. Budget accommodations often charge between 4€ and 15€ per night,.
Why do hotels charge extra for dogs? Hotels often apply these fees to cover the costs of additional maintenance, such as the 4€ cleaning fee required at U fořta.
Which city is the most dog friendly? Prague is frequently cited as an exceptionally dog-friendly city, with one report ranking it as high as third in Europe for furry-friendly adventures,. Brno is also noted for being very accommodating, with many bars and restaurants allowing pets on terraces or inside.
Are dogs allowed on trams in Prague? Yes, dogs are allowed on trams in Prague, though larger dogs must be on a short leash and wear a muzzle,. Dogs travel for free within the Prague city limits (zones P, 0, and B) if the owner has a ticket valid for one day or longer,.
How to avoid hotel pet fees? You can avoid fees by booking at hotels where “Dogs Stay Free,” such as Ubytování Ledňáček or Hotel Aida,. Furthermore, service animals are typically tax-exempt, and some luxury hotels waive fees for very small pets under a certain weight limit,.
Can dogs sleep in hotels? Yes, a majority of accommodations in the Czech Republic allow dogs, and many provide specific standards and amenities like bowls and pet-friendly rooms to attract travelers with animal companions,,.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs? Bohemian Switzerland National Park is a top choice for nature lovers, offering extensive trails like the Gabriel Trail,. For urban vacations, Prague and charming historic towns like Olomouc or Telč provide numerous dog-friendly sightseeing opportunities and parks,.
Concluding words
The Czech Republic offers a wealth of affordable, dog-friendly accommodation ranging from budget hostels like A&O Prague Rhea and Hostel Eleven to nature-focused retreats such as Resort U Fořta,,. Travelers benefit from a highly inclusive culture where pets are permitted in most restaurants, cafes, and public transport systems for minimal or no cost,,.
Whether visiting the historic streets of Prague and Brno or the scenic landscapes of Bohemian Switzerland, the country remains one of Europe’s premier destinations for those traveling with pets,,.
