I have traveled across many countries with my furry companions, but few places feel as welcoming as Belgium. This small European nation is a dream for people like us who do not want to leave their four-legged friends behind. From the busy streets of the capital to the quiet canals of the north, you will find that a Dog Friendly Hotel Belgium is never too far away. I want to share my personal journey through this beautiful land. I will help you navigate everything from legal paperwork to finding the perfect pet friendly budget hotels.
Belgium is a place of chocolate, beer, and historic charm. More importantly, it is a place that understands that dogs are family. Whether you have a tiny Terrier or a large Labrador, this guide will show you how to enjoy Belgium dog friendly holidays without stress.
The Essential Rules for Your Furry Traveler
First of all, you must handle the legal side of travel. You do not want to arrive at the border and face problems. The standard European Union rules apply here. Your dog must have an ISO-compliant microchip. This chip must be 15 digits long. Additionally, you must ensure the chip is implanted before the rabies vaccine is given.
You also need a European pet passport if you live in the EU. If you are coming from a country like the United States, you need a valid EU animal health certificate, often called an Annex IV. A vet must sign this within 10 days of your arrival in the EU.
Do not forget the rabies vaccine. It must be administered at least 21 days before you cross the border. If you are heading to the United Kingdom after Belgium, your dog needs a tapeworm treatment. A vet must do this between 24 and 120 hours before you enter the UK. Such details are vital for a smooth trip.
Brussels: Luxury and History for Every Pup
I started my journey in Brussels. The city is a mix of grand squares and hidden green corners. You will find that Dog Friendly Hotels in Belgium for Every Budget are very common here.
Luxury Options in the Capital
If you want to treat yourself and your pet, you have amazing choices. The Hotel Brussels on Boulevard De Waterloo is a standout. It costs about $206 per night and sits near the Place du Grand Sablon. Another elegant spot is the Warwick Grand-Place Brussels. It is a 4-star hotel just a five-minute walk from the famous Grand Place. The price is around $132 per night.
I also highly recommend the Hotel Amigo. It is a 5-star luxury stay right around the corner from the Manneken Pis. They offer pet amenities and a very warm welcome. The average price is higher, at about $429 per night, but the experience is exceptional.
Mid-Range and Boutique Finds
For something more personal, look at the Fish Market B&B. This 4-star bed and breakfast has six rooms and a cozy vibe. It costs around $252 per night. Additionally, the L-Avenue Hotel on Avenue Louise is very comfortable. It is new and offers pet amenities for about $180 per night.
I also stayed at the Pentahotel Brussels City Centre. It is a stylish 4-star spot where both dogs and cats are allowed on request. They charge an extra €20 per night for your pet. The large lounge area downstairs is perfect for relaxing with your dog after a long walk.
Finding a Belgium Cheaper Dog Stay
Budget travelers have plenty of options too. Motel One Brussels is a fantastic choice. It is located on Rue Royale and has a great 8.8 rating from over 22,000 reviews. The price is roughly $121 per night.
If you want an even belgium cheaper dog friendly room, try the Bedford Hotel Brussels. It costs only $68 per night. It is very central and features a fitness center and a restaurant. Plus, the Ibis Hotel Brussels Off Grand’Place is another reliable budget pick at $133 per night.
A Special Mention: Guest House Dasos Kynthos
I must tell you about my stay with Cinzia at her guest house. It is in a quiet residential area near the Josephine Charlotte metro station. This place is a gem. First of all, dogs stay for free!. That is a huge bonus for any traveler.
The apartment is cozy and full of art deco furniture. Cinzia even brings fresh croissants and pastries to your door every morning. However, be aware that the stairs are narrow and the apartment is on the second floor. If you are carrying a large dog and bags, it might take two trips.
Antwerp: Fashion, Art, and Walks
Later, I traveled north to Antwerp. This city is the fashion capital of Belgium. It is also incredibly dog-friendly. The public transport system, De Lijn, even lets dogs ride for free.
Where to Sleep in Antwerp
I chose to stay at the B-Aparthotel Moretus. It is a bit outside the center but very convenient. They charge a small fee of 10€ per pet per day. On top of that, there is a large fenced-in dog park right around the corner.
For a more central and luxury feel, the Hilton Antwerp Old Town is perfect. It sits right on the Groenplaats. They allow small pets up to 11kg for a fee of €50 per night. Similarly, the Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt is a charming choice that overlooks a patio. It costs about $175 per night.
If you are looking for a pet friendly budget hotel in Antwerp, the Ibis Budget Antwerpen Centraal Station is a good bet. It is simple but clean and costs around $62 per night.
Exploring the City
You must visit the Meir, which is the main shopping street. Many retail stores here allow dogs inside. Additionally, you should see the Middelheim Museum. It is an open-air sculpture park that is completely free and dog-friendly.
Do not miss Billie’s Beer Kafetetaria in the Old Town. It is named after the owner’s French Bulldog, Billie. Billie often greets guests at the door. They serve amazing Flemish stew and, of course, great beer. Also, look for the statue of Nello and Patrasche near the Cathedral. It is a beautiful tribute to a boy and his dog.
The Belgian Ardennes: A Nature Lover’s Dream
If you want to escape the city, the Ardennes region is a paradise. It features rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling rivers. It is the best place for active belgium dog friendly holidays.
Trails and Nature
I spent days hiking here. The Ninglinspo Trail is magical with its small streams and bridges. Another great spot is the High Fens Nature Reserve. It has wide open spaces that are perfect for peaceful walks, though dogs must stay on a leash.
You can also explore the Parc de Furfooz near Dinant. It features walking trails through forests and ancient ruins. For a longer adventure, try the Lamirant Trail near Bouillon. It is a 9.5 km loop with stunning views of the Semois Valley.
Dog-Friendly Castles
The Ardennes is full of history. Many castles allow dogs on their grounds. The Bouillon Castle is a must-see. Kids love the medieval fortress, and dogs love the fresh air on the vast grounds. You can also visit the ruins of La Roche-en-Ardenne Castle. It offers breathtaking views of the Ourthe River.
Staying in the Heart of Nature
I stayed at the Vallée les Etoiles Holiday Park near Hastière. They have cozy chalets with private terraces. It is so convenient because you can walk right out of your door and onto a nature trail.
Another great option is the Golden Lakes Hotel. It is certified as dog-friendly and sits in a unique green setting. They charge an extra 15€ per pet per night. However, your pet is not allowed in the breakfast room or the spa. They must wait in the room while you eat.
The Belgian Coast: Sand and Sea
I then headed to the coast. The North Sea air is refreshing for both humans and hounds. Belgium has several famous beach towns, but they have strict rules you must follow.
Ostend: The City by the Sea
Ostend is very welcoming to dogs. They even have a Dog Forest where pups can run free without a lead. It is a 3.5-hectare plot specifically for us. Additionally, there are 9 dog parks across the city.
Regarding the beach, dogs can run free from October 1 to March 31. During the warmer months, there are limits. In April, May, June, and September, dogs are only allowed before 10 a.m. and after 6:30 p.m.. In July and August, the window is even smaller: before 10 a.m. and after 8 p.m..
For a place to stay, the Andromeda Hotel and the Mercure Oostende are both dog-friendly. If you want to eat out, try Yuzu or Lloyd Coffee Eatery.
De Haan and Knokke-Heist
I also visited De Haan. It has a very relaxed atmosphere. In the low season, Loki, a Labrador I met, was able to run free on the main beach. There is also a section called De Duinpan Beach where dogs on a leash are allowed all year round.
Knokke-Heist was my personal favorite. The Het Zoute section is large and perfect for playing. From October 16 to March 14, dogs are allowed on the entire beach all day and do not need a leash. It feels like total freedom.
Bruges: A Fairytale Ending
Finally, I reached Bruges. It is often called the “Venice of the North” because of its many canals. It is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. It is also incredibly dog-loving. There are over 1.3 million registered pets in the city.
Dog-Friendly Activities in Bruges
You cannot visit Bruges without taking a canal boat tour. I was so happy to find that Boottochten Brugge is dog-friendly. Dogs even ride for free!. I recommend sitting at the front of the boat so your dog is comfortable and you get the best view.
Another unique spot is the Bruges Beer Experience. It is a museum dedicated to the history of Belgian beer. Most museums do not allow pets, but this one is entirely dog-friendly from the museum to the bar. You can even take a Waffles ‘n Beer Workshop where your dog can sit by your side while you learn to make treats.
For a quiet walk, head to the Minnewater Lake, also known as the Lake of Love. It features beautiful paths and a romantic legend about a girl named Minna and her lover Stromberg. You should also walk along the Ramparts to see the old windmills. The Sint-Janshuismill is the oldest one, dating back to 1770.
Where to Stay in Bruges
I found some of the best Dog Friendly Hotels in Belgium for Every Budget right here.
- The Doghouse B&B: This is a luxury stay designed specifically for dog travelers. The owners have two dogs of their own. They provide a “doggy room tray” and a woolen blanket. You can even buy Belgian dog beer and treats for your pup. They charge a fee of €10 per dog per night.
- Hotel Patritius: This is a lovely hotel that welcomes dogs up to 20 kg. There is a surcharge of €18 per night. It is just a few minutes from Astridpark, which is perfect for morning walks.
- Hotel de Orangerie: This is an exceptional 4-star hotel in the historical center. It has a rating of 9.6 and allows pets to stay in luxury. The price is around £117 per night.
- NH Brugge Hotel: This hotel welcomes both dogs and cats. It has a garden for strolls and costs about £81 per night on the low end.
- The Bank 1869: This B&B is set in a historic building near the Market Square. They welcome dogs for no additional fee, which is rare for such a central location.
Dining in Bruges
You must try the ribs at Mozart, More Than Just Ribs. They have an “all you can eat” formula. The restaurant looks like a library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. It is very atmospheric and dog-friendly.
Another great spot is Bierbrasserie Cambrinus. They have over 400 types of beer. You can try traditional Flemish dishes while your dog rests at your feet. For a view of the water, stop by Brewery Bourgogne des Flanders. Their canal-side terrace is the perfect place to watch boats go by while enjoying a beer flight.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
I have learned a few things that will make your journey easier.
- Public Transport: Small pets in a basket or cage usually travel for free on trains. Larger dogs need a Pet Supplement ticket, which costs €3 per trip. Always carry a muzzle. Conductors can ask you to use one at any time.
- Dining Etiquette: Most restaurants with outdoor terraces are happy to have dogs. Many even provide water bowls. However, always ask before you go inside.
- Packing Essentials: Bring a foldable water bowl and a favorite toy. This helps your dog feel at home in new places. Also, always carry plenty of poop bags. Cities like Ostend have heavy fines if you do not clean up.
- Registration: If you are staying long-term, you must register your dog with the local municipality within 8 days.
Why Belgium is the Perfect Choice
Belgium really is a hidden gem for pet owners. The country is small, so you do not have to drive for hours to find something new. You can visit a grand museum in Brussels one day and hike a forest trail in the Ardennes the next.
The people are generally very kind to animals. I noticed this most in the smaller cafes where the staff would bring a bowl of water before they even took my order. Such small gestures make a huge difference when you are far from home.
Gradually, you will find your own favorite spots. Maybe it will be a quiet bench in Antwerp or a bustling square in Bruges. Belgium offers a list of pets allowed in many of its most famous landmarks, making it a truly inclusive destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to go in Belgium with a dog?
Belgium offers diverse destinations, ranging from the Ardennes region—known for its forests, hiking trails, and dog-friendly castles—to the medieval canals of Bruges. Antwerp is ideal for those who enjoy “fashion-forward” urban strolls and dog-friendly boutiques, while Brussels provides grand squares and expansive parks. Coastal areas like De Haan, Ostend, and Knokke-Heist are also popular for their dedicated dog beaches.
What hotel charges the least for pets?
Several Belgian properties allow dogs for no extra charge, including Guest House Dasos Kynthos in Brussels and The Bank 1869 in Bruges. Other affordable options include B-Aparthotel Moretus in Antwerp and The Doghouse Bruges, which both charge a nominal fee of approximately €10 per night.
Is Belgium a dog-friendly country?
Yes, Belgium is considered an easy European country for pet travel due to its welcoming attitude and numerous pet-friendly establishments. The country has high pet ownership rates, and many public spaces and transportation networks are designed to accommodate animals.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Belgium?
Many restaurants and cafés allow well-behaved dogs inside, though it is standard practice to confirm with staff before entering. Dogs are very commonly welcomed on outdoor terraces, and some chains, like EXKi, specifically allow pets to sit on the floor away from food counters.
Is Brussels ok for dogs?
Brussels is excellent for dogs, offering various pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, and green spaces like the Bois de la Cambre. Notably, dogs of all sizes can travel for free on Brussels’ public transport (STIB), though larger breeds may require a muzzle.
How to avoid hotel pet fees?
The best way to avoid fees is to book stays at accommodations that specifically advertise dogs stay free, such as Guest House Dasos Kynthos or The Bank 1869. Additionally, joining loyalty programs like ALL – Accor Live Limitless can provide members with discounts of up to 10% on their overall stay.
What is a dog passport?
An EU pet passport is a mandatory identification document for travel between EU countries, which can be obtained from any authorized vet. It contains the pet’s description, microchip code, and official animal health records, such as rabies vaccination details.
Concluding words
Belgium stands out as a premier European destination for pet owners, offering a seamless blend of nature and historic urban charm from Brussels to Bruges. Whether you are seeking a luxury stay in a historic canal-side house or a budget-friendly apartment where dogs stay for free, the country provides diverse lodging for every traveler. With pet-friendly public transport, a welcoming dining culture, and extensive trails through the Ardennes, visiting Belgium with your dog is both convenient and highly rewarding.
