I am so excited to share my recent journey to one of the most beautiful places in Europe. My furry best friend and I just finished a trip that I will never forget. We spent a week exploring Dog Friendly Holidays in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, and it was amazing. This tiny country sits right between Germany, France, and Belgium. It is the perfect spot for a quick getaway with your pup.
I realized very quickly that this city loves dogs. You will find green parks everywhere you look. The history is deep and the food is great. Plus, you do not have to worry about the small size of the country. It has more than enough scenery and history to keep you busy. Luxembourg is very pet friendly. I am a mature traveler who loves a good tour, and this city did not disappoint.
First things first: The rules for entry
You must prepare before you leave home. Clear identification is the most important part. Your pet must have a microchip implanted under the skin. This chip has a unique number that helps people find you if your dog gets lost. A tattoo only works if the vet did it before July 3, 2011. Additionally, you need an EU Pet Passport. Your vet issues this document with all the key details like breed, date of birth, and microchip number.
A valid rabies vaccination is also a requirement for every trip. Vets can give the initial shot when a pup is 12 weeks old. You must wait at least 21 days after the shot before you cross any borders. This waiting period ensures the protection is effective. However, if you keep up with regular boosters, you do not have to wait those 21 days. Puppies or kittens under 15 weeks old generally can not travel because they are too young for the full vaccine process. Similarly, you can only bring a maximum of five pets for a personal trip.
If you come from outside the EU, the rules change slightly. You will need a microchip, a rabies vaccine, and a health certificate. For those coming from the United States, a primary rabies shot is only valid for one year. You must get a booster within 12 months to stay covered. Luxair, the local airline, allows pets in the cabin for a €70 fee one-way. On top of that, they can travel in the hold if they are larger.
Getting around the city for free
One of the best things about this city is the free public transport. Since 2020, you do not need a ticket for buses, trams, or second-class train rides within the country. This rule applies to everyone. Guess what? Dogs travel for free too. It is such a relief for the wallet. First-class train seats still cost money for humans, but they are free for animals.
There are a few simple rules to follow on the bus or train. Small pets should stay in a basket, cage, or on your lap. Larger dogs must stay on a leash and sit on the floor. Your dog can not take up a passenger seat. I recommend finding the “square” spaces with four seats facing each other so your dog has more room to lie down. A muzzle is not always mandatory for every dog. However, you must put one on if the staff asks or if your dog might bother other people. Guide dogs for people with vision issues do not need muzzles and always travel free.
Avoid the rush hour if you can. It makes the journey much more comfortable for your pet when the train is not packed. Also, do not feed your dog right before the trip. This prevents any messy accidents during the ride. If you plan to head to France, you must buy a special pet ticket for seven euros. In Belgium, the pet fee is three euros per journey, though small pets in containers go free. Germany charges half-price for large dogs.
Finding a dog friendly hotel or guest house
You might find that accommodation is a bit pricey here. But do not worry. A high percentage of hotels allow pets. I searched for a dog friendly hotel and found many great choices. Le Chatelet is a solid option in the city. They allow two dogs of any size for an extra 10 euros per pet, per night. Your dog can not go in the restaurant, but they are welcome in the bar area.
Another fancy spot is the Melia Luxembourg. They charge €30 per pet, per night, and allow two pets. If you want something more central, the Novotel Luxembourg Centre charges €25 per night for pets. For a very high-end experience, look at Hotel Le Place d’Armes. They charge €30 per night but provide food and water bowls in your room. Hôtel Zurich is a rare gem because they allow dogs of any size for no additional fee.
You can also find a dog friendly guest house or vacation rental if you want more space. Airbnb rentals often start around $99 and many allow big dogs. A spacious two-bedroom apartment with a balcony might have a fee that varies by the size of your dog. If you book through a site like BringFido, they have a Pet Friendly Guarantee. This means a “canine concierge” checks that you get a pet-friendly room so there are no surprises. Plus, the fee will not be higher than what they quoted you.
Exploring the great outdoors
Sightseeing on foot is my top tip for this city. It is a very green place. In fact, about 25% of Luxembourg City is green space. It is the eighth greenest city in Europe. We spent a lot of time on the Circular Walk Luxembourg. The starting point is the Gëlle Fra monument at Place de la Constitution. This route is about 6.43 kilometers long. It took us about two hours and five minutes to finish. The difficulty is medium because there are some rock stairs and ascents.
You will walk through the old brewery districts of Grund and Clausen. We went down into the Petruss Valley and followed the stream. The view from the Adolphe Bridge is incredible. I had a great time watching the rock formations. The Three Acorns Park is another must-see spot. It is near the Fort Thüngen and offers a panoramic view over the old town. My dog had so much energy and loved the run.
Do not miss the Chemin de la Corniche. People call it “the most beautiful balcony in Europe”. The views are breath-taking. We also visited the Casemates du Bock. These are old tunnels and fortifications built into the rocks. They are the longest of their kind in the whole world. Later, we walked by the Grand-Ducal Palace. It is the official home of the Grand Duke. You can take a guided tour in the summer, but dogs are probably not allowed inside.
Dining out with your pup
I was happy to find many places to eat. Most restaurants let you bring your dog inside if you ask at the door. If you prefer the fresh air, there are many outdoor dining terraces. Place d’Armes is a great spot for this. Charles Sandwiches is perfect for something light. We ate inside their center location with no issues at all. On top of that, they have a Happy Hour from 4 pm to 6 pm on weekdays for cheaper sandwiches.
DA Vicenzo is a wonderful Italian restaurant. It is right across from Hesperange Park, so you can walk your dog before or after your meal. They even have live music on the weekends. If you want burgers or salads, try Café Villa. They are very welcoming and even offer water, blankets, toys, and a dog menu. My dog loved the organic biscuits and “dog beer” there.
Beet is a great vegetarian option that is very pet friendly. Max + Moritz has a nice patio where your dog can join you for sandwiches or steaks. For a casual vibe, Glow – Meal by Meal has outdoor tables and delicious food. Brasserie Heringer Millen is a bit of a drive but well worth it. It is in the countryside and sits in the Michelin guide. The views of the valley are stunning.
Local laws and responsibility
You have to follow the local rules to keep everyone happy. Dogs must be on a leash in all built-up areas. This includes public parking lots, sports grounds, and events. Once you are out in the open country, your dog can be off-leash if they stay under your control. There are 9 specific dog parks in the city where they can run free.
Cleaning up is a big deal here. There are 400 distribution points for free dog poo bags. You can find these bags at the Hôtel Ville or municipal pools. You are legally required to clean up after your pet. There are 3,500 public bins to toss the waste. Do not let your dog go on the pavement or near cycle paths. It is a health hazard and a smelly nuisance.
The dog tax is another thing to know about. In Luxembourg City, the annual tax is 40 euros. Most other areas charge about 50 euros. This money helps pay for animal shelters and control. Identification is mandatory. Dogs must be microchipped and registered at the local office within one month of arriving. You also need General Liability Insurance. This protects you if your pet causes an accident.
Special rules for certain breeds
Luxembourg has strict laws for breeds they consider “potentially dangerous”. This includes Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Mastiffs, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Pit Bulls. If you have one of these dogs, you need special permission to bring them in. The owner must be at least 18 years old and have no criminal record.
You must complete a 12-hour mandatory course. Your dog must also finish 24 hours of behavior training at an approved center. These dogs must always wear a muzzle and stay on a leash in public. I saw people being very careful with this. It is better to be safe than sorry. If a driver or conductor feels uncomfortable, they can ask you to leave the bus or train. This usually only happens if the dog is rowdy or if someone has a severe allergy.
Planning around the luxembourg holiday list
You should check the luxembourg holiday list before you book your trip. Some shops close on these days. Luxembourg National Day on June 23 is a huge celebration. The night before has fireworks and parties in the streets. It is a fun time but can be very crowded for a dog. Public holiday in Luxembourg times often see reduced hours for stores.
In May, they have the Octave & Mäertchen market at Place de la Constitution. It lasts for 15 days. The Schueberfouer is the biggest funfair and happens in late August. It has been a tradition since the year 1340. If you visit in December, the Christmas markets are magical. They have over a hundred wooden stalls selling treats and crafts. I loved the traditional Gromperekichelcher or potato pancakes.
Health and safety for your pet
I always keep the emergency number 112 in my phone. They can guide you to a vet if something goes wrong. The College veterinaire website lists vets who are on duty. There is also a Veterinary Clinic in Bereldange that is open 24/7 for emergencies. For daily needs, Fressnapf is a great store for food and accessories.
If you need a break, you can find a pet sitter. Sites like PetBacker or Pawshake have many local animal lovers who can help. They offer boarding, walking, and even grooming services. I found the prices quite fair. It is a good way to let your dog have some fun while you visit a museum that does not allow pets.
A few extra tips for your journey
The weather can be a bit rainy and grey in the winter. Summer days are long with about 16 hours of light in June. On the contrary, December nights are very dark and long. Bring water for your pet during your walks. I always carry a bottle just in case. There are also drinking fountains around the city.
Shopping centers like Auchan Kirchberg and City Concorde are great but check their hours. Most shops close at 6 pm on weekdays and 7 pm on Saturdays. They are usually closed on Sundays. However, some restaurants stay open. I found that most places are very welcoming if you are polite. Just keep your dog on the floor and not on the chairs.
FAQ
Is Luxembourg City dog friendly?
Yes, Luxembourg City is a very pet-friendly destination. It offers numerous dog-friendly activities, including nine dog parks within the city, a variety of restaurants with outdoor seating that welcome pups, and approximately 43 pet-friendly hotels.
How do I bring my dog to Luxembourg?
To enter Luxembourg from within the EU, your dog needs an ISO-compliant microchip, a valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel), and an EU pet passport. Travelers from outside the EU generally require a microchip, rabies vaccination, and an official health certificate.
Does Luxair accept dogs?
Yes, the national airline Luxair carries pets both in the cabin (for a fee) and in the hold. You should check specific documentation requirements before booking your flight.
Are dogs allowed on public transport in Luxembourg?
Yes, dogs are allowed on buses in Luxembourg City and trains throughout the country. While transport is free for pets, large dogs should be leashed and remain on the floor, and small pets should be in a carrier or on your lap on buses. Muzzles are only mandatory if requested by staff or if the dog poses a potential danger.
How can I travel with my dog?
You can travel with your dog via private vehicle, train, or plane. When using trains or planes, it is essential to check the specific transport regulations and fees of the carrier well in advance.
What is the most common crime in Luxembourg?
While Luxembourg is considered a safe city, visitors are advised to look out for pickpockets, as is common in many European cities.
How do I register my dog in Luxembourg?
Dog registration is mandatory. You must have your dog microchipped by a veterinarian and then register it at your local commune within one month of arrival. You will need to provide a veterinary certificate and a General Liability Insurance Certificate.
Concluding words
Luxembourg City is an ideal destination for travelers with pets, offering a blend of historical sightseeing and vast green spaces like the Pétrusse Valley. The city facilitates easy travel with free public transportation for dogs and a high density of pet-friendly accommodations and restaurants. By adhering to mandatory microchipping, rabies vaccination, and local registration laws, visitors can enjoy a seamless and welcoming holiday experience with their furry companions.
