A trip across the border with a four-legged friend is a dream for many. I recently packed my bags and set off with my dog for an urban adventure through the heart of Europe. The world of travel is changing fast. It is estimated by experts that the global pet industry will reach a value of $500 billion by 2030. Additionally, a survey from 2025 showed that 27% of pet owners took their animals on a main holiday for the very first time that year. Germany is a top choice for this kind of journey. It is a land of beer and big cathedrals. It is also a land of strict rules. However, it is one of the most welcoming places for pets once you know the ropes. I explored three major cities on this trip. First of all, I visited Cologne. Later, I spent time in Stuttgart. Finally, I finished my tour in Ulm.
If you want to find the best Dog Friendly Hotels in Cologne, Stuttgart, and Ulm, you have come to the right place. I will share my personal story and all the tips I gathered along the way. This guide will help you navigate the rules and find the perfect dog friendly hotel germany offers for your next big trip.
The Rules of the Road in Germany
Before I talk about the hotels, we must discuss the law. Germany loves its rules. You cannot just show up and wing it. First, your dog must have a microchip that meets ISO Standard 11784 or 11785. If the chip is different, you must carry your own scanner. On top of that, you need an EU Pet Passport or an official health certificate. Your dog must have a rabies shot at least 21 days before you travel. Do not forget that other shots like Distemper and Parvo are also required within the last 12 months.
Once you are in the country, you will notice that people take dog ownership seriously. Every dog must be registered in the Hunderegister. If you skip this, you could face a fine of up to €10,000. There is also a dog tax called Hundesteuer. In some cities, this costs about €120 per year for the first dog. Additionally, many states require Hundehaftpflicht, which is dog liability insurance. It covers you if your pup knocks over a cyclist or causes an accident.
The streets are very clean here. You must pick up after your dog. If you do not, locals will call you out. Plus, the fines range from €10 to €150. Germany also has Ruhezeit, or quiet hours. These usually run from 10 PM to 6 AM. Persistent barking during these times can lead to a visit from the authorities. Though it sounds like a lot of work, these rules make the country very safe and pleasant for everyone.
First Stop: Cologne and the Majestic Rhine
I arrived in Cologne by train. The ICE trains are fast and comfortable. If your dog is small and fits in a carrier, it travels for free. Larger dogs need a ticket, which is often half the price of a human fare. They must also wear a muzzle and stay on a lead while on the train. My first view of the city was the massive Cologne Cathedral. It sits right next to the station. The square was full of smells and sights that my dog loved.
Finding a Dog Friendly Hotel Cologne
I looked for a place to stay that was close to the action. I found that there are 155 pet friendly properties in this city alone.
The art’otel Cologne is a fantastic choice for those who love style. It is located just a 10-minute walk from the city centre. They have a great pet programme. I paid a fee of €15 per day for my dog. They provided two bowls in the room, one for food and one for water. The staff told me that I could leave my dog in the room if I stayed inside the hotel, but I had to use a special pet door hanger. However, I could not leave the dog alone if I left the hotel grounds.
Another high-end option is the Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom. It has a review rating of 9.6 out of 10. They provide food and water bowls to make your pet feel at home. It also has a beautiful terrace where you can relax after a long walk. If you are on a budget, look at the Buchholz Downtown Hotel. It has an 8.6 rating and does not charge any pet fees. This is rare and very helpful for long trips.
Urban Adventures in the City
We spent our afternoon exploring the Old Town. The cobbled streets are perfect for a stroll. We even took a tourist train from the cathedral to the river front. Later, we walked along the Rhine River promenade. The views are stunning.
I highly recommend a boat trip on the Rhine. The KD Lines boats leave every morning at 9:30 AM. The trip to Konigswinter takes about four hours. It is a long journey, so you should exercise your dog before you board. Once we arrived, we hiked up the Drachenfels hill. The road is very steep. There is a funicular service that is dog friendly if you do not want to walk. The views from the summit are worth every step. You can see all the way back to Cologne from the top.
Second Stop: Stuttgart and the Green Hills
The next leg of my journey took me to Stuttgart. This city is a haven for dog owners. It has 238 dog-friendly parks and over 223 hiking trails. The local transport system, the VVS, is very easy to use. You can take a dog with you at any time on their trains and buses.
Choosing a Stuttgart Dog Hotel
I stayed at the EmiLu Design Hotel in the heart of the city. They gave us a warm welcome. I booked the dog treatment, and the staff brought a dog basket and a water bowl straight to my room. We stayed in an Urban Room, which was about 20 to 27 square meters. It had a great view of the city. Dogs are even allowed in their in-house Restaurant Fritz.
If you want a more traditional stay, the Maritim Hotel Stuttgart is a solid pick. It has an 8.2 rating. They have a heated indoor pool and a spa. Additionally, some reports suggest that dogs can stay for free there, which is a huge plus.
For a more modern vibe, try Aloft Stuttgart. It has a 9.2 rating. It is located in the Stuttgart-Nord district near the Milaneo shopping centre. They provide food and water bowls for furry guests. They also have a rooftop garden, though you should check if dogs can go up there.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
Stuttgart is famous for its rolling hills and vineyards. We walked the Stuttgart Wine Trails. The views are breathtaking. We also visited the Schlossgarten and the Friedhofspark. These are local favourites for socializing and roaming.
If you have a high-energy dog, you must visit the Höhenpark Killesberg. It has an animal meadow that children and dogs both enjoy. For a real escape, head to the Schönbuch Nature Park nearby. It is a massive green space where you can get lost in nature for hours.
The city is very accessible. I used the VVS Mobil app to find my way around. You can buy day tickets on your phone. A single zone day ticket for an adult costs about €7.00. It is a very green and cheap way to see the whole region.
Third Stop: Ulm and the Highest Spire
My final stop was Ulm. It is a charming city in Baden-Württemberg. It is home to the Ulmer Münster, which has the highest church tower in the world at 161.53 meters. The area around the Minster is perfect for picnics, and pets are welcome in the surrounding park areas.
The Best Dog Friendly Hotels in Ulm
I found several great spots here. The Motel One Ulm is right across from the cathedral. It has a very cool design inspired by Albert Einstein. The hotel has a rooftop bar with a stunning view of the Minster. While they do not have on-site parking, the location is unbeatable for sightseers.
I also looked at the LAGO hotel und restaurant am see. It is located inside the Friedrichsau Park. This is an idyllic spot directly by a lake. They provide water and food dishes in the room upon arrival. The park itself has numerous paths along lush meadows where your dog can let off steam.
The Maritim Hotel Ulm is another excellent choice with an 8.8 rating. They go above and beyond for pets. They provide toys and blankets in addition to food and water bowls. It is located right on the Danube River. You can take long, scenic walks along the water right from the hotel entrance.
If you prefer a more personal touch, the Best Western Plus Atrium Hotel welcomes pets for a fee of €10 per day. They can even provide a dog bowl if you ask at the reception. Their gourmet restaurant, Siedepunkt, is a great place for humans to eat regional and international dishes.
Riverside Relaxation
We spent a lot of time by the Danube waterfront. It is a very peaceful place to unwind. I also visited the Wilhelmsburg Fortress. The gardens there are sprawling and offer a panoramic view of the river.
Ulm is a very walkable city. However, if you are tired, you can use the tram. There is a tram stop right outside the LAGO hotel that takes you to the city centre in 5 minutes. Just remember the public transport rules. Small dogs in carriers travel free, and larger dogs need a ticket and a muzzle.
Crossing Borders: A Note on the Region
While I focused on Germany, I know many of you like to travel further. If you are heading west, you might look for a dog friendly hotel belgium. The journey from Cologne to places like Leuven or Brussels is very easy by train. The rules for pets in the EU are similar across borders, which makes multi-country trips much simpler.
Germany is also a great starting point for the rest of Western Europe. You can reach Paris or Strasbourg in a couple of hours. The Schengen Agreement means there are usually no border controls between these countries, but you should always carry your dog’s passport just in case.
Practical Tips for Your Urban Adventure
Planning is the key to a happy dog and a happy owner. Here are some extra things I learned on my trip:
- Check Breed Restrictions: Germany has a nationwide ban on some breeds like Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers. Always check the rules before you bring your dog into the country.
- Public Transport Etiquette: Well-behaved dogs are highly valued. If your dog is aggressive or loud, you could face fines.
- Food and Water: While hotels often provide bowls, you should bring your own food. You know what your pet likes best. Plus, sudden changes in diet can lead to messy accidents in the room.
- Quiet Hours: Remember the Ruhezeit. If your dog barks a lot at night, your neighbours have a legal right to complain.
- Veterinary Care: The standard of care is very high in Germany. Many vets in big cities speak English. I always keep a list of nearby clinics on my phone.
FAQ
What is the most dog friendly city in Germany?
Many people consider Berlin to be a top choice because it is one of the most dog-friendly cities in Europe. However, Stuttgart is also a major contender because it features over 238 parks and 223 hiking trails for pets. You will find that most large German cities offer a very high standard for pet owners.
Is Cologne, Germany dog friendly?
Yes, Cologne is pet friendly and acts as a haven for dog lovers. It offers 155 pet-friendly properties and many scenic areas for walks along the Rhine.
Is Stuttgart dog friendly?
Stuttgart is a vibrant city that warmly welcomes dogs and their owners. It boasts an array of outdoor spaces and community meet-ups for canine lovers. 238 dog-friendly parks make it a perfect spot for your next trip.
Where to go in Germany with a dog?
You should visit Berlin’s Tiergarten, the Stuttgart Wine Trails, or the Danube waterfront in Ulm. Cologne’s Old Town and the Stadtwald forest are also excellent choices for a stroll. Germany has a diverse landscape that suits every type of pup.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Germany?
Dogs are generally allowed in most restaurants and cafes, especially those with outdoor seating. It is common to see a dog sit quietly under a table while the owner eats. Plus, you should ask the staff before you enter just to be polite.
Is Cologne ok for dogs?
Cologne is more than okay; it is a great city for pets with many riverfront attractions and parks. You can even take your dog on a boat cruise along the Rhine.
Is it safe to walk in Cologne at night?
Germany is a very safe country where crime rates are low. The centre of Cologne feels secure and relaxed for residents and visitors alike. You can feel comfortable on your evening walks.
How do I travel with my dog to Germany?
First of all, your dog needs a microchip and an EU Pet Passport or official health certificate. Your pet must also have a rabies vaccination at least 21 days before you arrive. Additionally, ensure you carry all original documents during your journey.
Concluding words
Germany is a fantastic place for an urban adventure with your pet. I found that cities like Cologne, Stuttgart, and Ulm offer world-class Dog Friendly Hotels and endless green spaces. Though you must follow strict laws like the Hundesteuer and Ruhezeit, the rewards are worth the effort. You can stay in luxury at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst or enjoy the lake at LAGO hotel. Pack your bags and head to Germany for a trip you and your dog will never forget.
