I still remember the first time I saw the sun hit the jagged peaks of the Dolomites with my furry best friend by my side. It was a moment of pure magic. I used to think that a high-end vacation meant I had to leave my dog at a kennel. However, I was completely wrong. Italy is one of the most dog-friendly countries in the entire world. From the high mountains of the north to the sparkling waters of the lakes, you can find a world of comfort for both you and your pet. I am so excited to share my favorite Luxury Dog Friendly Hotels in Northern Italy with you today.
First things first: Getting your dog to Italy
You must plan ahead if you want to bring your dog to Europe from the United States. First of all, your pet must have a working microchip. This transponder is usually 15 digits long. You must make sure the vet scans this chip before they give any rabies shots. If the timing is wrong, the vaccine does not count under European Union rules. Your pet must also wait at least 21 days after a primary rabies shot before they can travel.
Additionally, you will need a special health certificate. An accredited veterinarian must issue this, and the USDA must endorse it with an ink signature. I learned that a “non-commercial” certificate is best if you travel within five days of your pet. This document stays valid for 30 days after the vet signs it. Plus, you must arrive in the EU within 10 days of the USDA endorsement. It sounds like a lot of work. The reward is a tail-wagging adventure through the Italian Alps.
The Dolomites: 5-Star comfort in the clouds
My journey began in the Dolomites. The air is crisp and the views are better than any postcard. I stayed at the Alpin Garden Luxury Maison in Ortisei, Val Gardena. This is a true luxury dog-friendly hotels option for those who want to feel like royalty. Therefore, I was not surprised to see a dog named Snowy at the entrance. He is a member of the family there.
I found that the hotel charges €40.00 per day for your four-legged friend. You must bring your own dog basket and blanket. However, your dog cannot go into the wellness area. I appreciated that I could bring my dog to certain tables in the restaurant if I booked ahead for an extra €10.00. The region is perfect for long walks across Alpine pastures. On top of that, the fresh mountain air makes both humans and dogs sleep like logs.
Later, I visited the Faloria Mountain Spa Resort in Cortina. This hotel is a perfect place for a pet to play. They offer rooms with direct access to a garden. Their resident dog, Arturo, greets guests with a welcome kit. It is so nice to see a place that values “well educated canines” as much as human guests.
If you want something even more private, you should look at Chalet Purmontes. This place has private pools that stay warm all year long. It blends timeless design with the natural landscape. I also suggest COMO Alpina Dolomites on the Seiser Alm. It has ski-in/ski-out access in the winter. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy a professional massage while your pet rests in a room with temperature-controlled floors. These are truly some of the best dog friendly hotels italy has to offer.
Transitioning to the Italian Lakes
The mountains are majestic. However, the lakes have a different kind of charm. I moved south toward the water. I found that Lake Garda is a dream for pet owners.
Lake Garda: A playground for paws
I stopped at a place called Restel de Fer in Riva del Garda. This is a 4-star “dog-friendly Locanda”. The owners, Marco and Chiara, really make you feel at home. I was impressed by the “dog welcome kit” they put in the rooms. This kit includes a small sofa and bowls for water and food. Therefore, your dog has its own dedicated corner.
The hotel charges €20 per day for small to medium-sized dogs. I loved that we were just a “stone’s throw” from paths surrounded by greenery and the lake. First of all, you should check out the private garden for a peaceful morning. Similarly, there are many wonderful places for taking a walk nearby.
One guest named Erna said the following about the hotel: “The hotel is family run and the owners, Marco and Chiara really made us feel welcome”. On top of that, another guest named Poyke Bro mentioned that the staff are “amazing helpful” and the breakfast is excellent. I also found a Country Hotel near Lake Garda that is a luxurious oasis of peace. It has a spa and a pleasant garden with a swimming pool. It is perfect for those who want a quiet retreat.
Lake Como: Luxury by the water
I cannot talk about dog friendly hotels italy without mentioning Lake Como. This is the most glamorous lake in the world. It is a paradise for A-list celebrities and their pets. I visited The Grand Hotel Tremezzo, which is an art nouveau masterpiece. They offer the warmest hospitality to all guests, including dogs.
At that time, I was happy to find they do not charge a pet fee. They accept both small and big dogs. They even have a special “dog-kit” waiting for your pet upon arrival. If you want to spend some time alone at the spa, the concierge can arrange dog walking or dog sitting services. Additionally, they can arrange any special food your dog might need if you ask.
Gradually, I found my way to the Parco San Marco Lifestyle Beach Resort. This place is fast becoming one of the most pet-friendly hotels in Europe. It has 111 suites and apartments inside a huge subtropical park. It even has a 3000 m² private beach. First of all, your room comes with dog bowls and beds. You can even ask for a room with garden access. On top of that, there are bag dispensers and different paths for daily walks throughout the grounds. They even offer guided hikes where dogs are welcome.
Venice: A city built on 118 islands
Venice is a place like no other. I was worried that a city with no cars and many bridges would be hard for a dog. However, it is actually quite easy if you know the tricks. I stayed at the Hotel Principe, which is a 4-star hotel on the Grand Canal.
They have a “Dog welcome kit” that costs 15 euros per day. It comes with bowls, a hygiene mat, and waste bags. Additionally, they work with the Urban Canine Center. This means you can get access to a dog daycare, a dog sitter, or even private training lessons. I think this is a great service for a busy city. Therefore, you can enjoy your getaway without worrying about your pet.
Later, I checked out the Belmond Hotel Cipriani on Giudecca Island. This hotel feels like a world away from the crowds. It has the largest private swimming pool in central Venice. They welcome small pets in the rooms. They provide a pet bed and a water bowl for your stay. However, your pet must be leashed in public spaces and cannot enter the pool or restaurants.
Venice has over 400 pedestrian bridges. Therefore, you will be doing a lot of walking. First of all, you should avoid the city during the peak summer months. The crowds are massive and the heat can reach over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. I found that walking my dog at 8:30 am or after 9 pm was much better. On the contrary, the city is very quiet in the winter.
I was surprised to find that dogs are allowed on water transportation for free. This includes the vaporettos or water buses. You can even take your dog on a gondola. However, a gondola ride can cost 80 euros for just 30 minutes. I preferred to just watch them from the side of a canal.
Dining with your dog in Northern Italy
One of my favorite things about Italy is the food. I am happy to report that dogs are usually allowed inside restaurants. There are at least 1189 restaurants in Italy that are ranked high for being “dogs allowed”. This is a huge number!
I visited Le Calandre in Rubano, which has a perfect rating of 100. The chef, Massimiliano Alajmo, makes amazing creative dishes. Similarly, Da Vittorio in Brusaporto also has a 100-point rating. They use the best ingredients for every single dish. On top of that, Ristorante Reale in Castel di Sangro offers a unique gastronomic experience. These places are part of the luxury hotels for dogs experience because you do not have to leave your friend behind while you eat fine food.
In Venice, I loved the neighborhood of Dorsoduro. It is a university district with a local feel. You can find authentic restaurants without the high “tourist” prices. Additionally, Santa Croce is a great neighborhood for walking your dog because it has less foot traffic. I found a few small parks there too, like Giardini Papadopoli.
The new frontier of pet hospitality
I recently learned about a new role in luxury hotels called the Pet Concierge. This is a person who takes care of everything for your animal guest. They can recommend scenic walks or even book spa treatments for animals. They might even organize a dog-friendly gourmet picnic. Therefore, the hotel treats your dog as a real guest with its own needs and preferences.
Luxury used to be about being formal and exclusive. However, today it is about relationships. I agree with Giulia Bianchi, the founder of a Pet Concierge service, who said: “True luxury does not exclude. It includes”. It is a wonderful feeling to walk into a lobby and see a dog wagging its tail on the polished marble floor.
Finally, I want to mention the Dog Relais at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport. If you are flying in or out of the country, this is a lifesaver. It is a 40-room hotel just for dogs. They have temperature-controlled floors and private gardens. They even play ambient music at night to help the dogs relax. They offer grooming, massages with arnica cream, and aromatherapy with lavender. On top of that, they have premium rooms where you can do a video call with your dog and toss them a treat through an app. This shows how much Italy loves its pets.
Tips for your Italian pet adventure
I have learned a few lessons from my travels. First of all, always ask the hotel about their specific pet policy before you book. The term “dog-friendly” can mean different things to different people. Ask about the pet fee, the allowed dog size, and what essentials they provide. Additionally, spring and autumn are the best times to visit. The temperatures are agreeable for long walks.
On top of that, remember that your dog must usually be on a leash in common areas. Some hotels might ask you to use a muzzle for certain breeds or in crowded places. Therefore, always carry one with you just in case. Finally, be responsible and clean up after your pet. This keeps the hotels and parks beautiful for everyone.
Italy is a place where nature and luxury come together. I have seen 42 hectares of vineyards at Casa di Langa in Piedmont. I have enjoyed a 50-minute spa session there while my dog rested in our room. I have eaten at Oro, a Michelin-starred restaurant at the Cipriani, while looking at the Venice lagoon. Gradually, I realized that the best part of these luxury experiences was having my dog there to share them.
Northern Italy offers everything a traveler could want. You can find high-end resorts in the mountains or cozy agriturismos near the lakes. An agriturismo is a working farm that rents out rooms or apartments. It is a great choice if your dog needs a lot of space to run around. Similarly, some of these farms even have woodland areas where dogs can run off the leash.
I hope this guide helps you plan your next trip to the best dog friendly hotels italy. Whether you are looking for a spa resort or a quiet country house, there is a perfect spot waiting for you and your pet. I am already planning my next visit. The wagging tail of my dog as we walk through a mountain meadow is the only review I need.
Traveling with a pet is like bringing a piece of home with you; it turns a beautiful destination into a shared memory that stays in your heart forever.
FAQ
Is northern Italy dog friendly?
Italy is one of the most dog-friendly countries in the entire world. You will find that the northern regions like the Dolomites are absolutely ideal for your pet. Additionally, many high-end resorts offer fresh mountain air and alpine pastures for long walks.
Which hotel chain is the most dog friendly?
The Mandarin Oriental is famously called a Pet Palace. Similarly, chains like Belmond and COMO provide elite services such as embroidered cushions and gourmet menus. These brands compete to offer the best Instagrammable perks for your animal.
What is the most dog friendly city in Italy?
Venice is a top choice for pet owners. Your dog can ride the vaporettos or water buses free of charge. However, you should visit during the quiet winter months to avoid the massive tourist crowds.
Can dogs go to Lake Como?
Yes. Lake Como is a tranquil paradise for A-list celebrities and their pets. The Grand Hotel Tremezzo even provides a special dog-kit upon arrival. Plus, many apartments near the lake offer amazing views and garden access.
Do hotels let you leave your dog in the room?
Rules vary by hotel. San Luis Resort says a dog may not be left alone unless it is secured in a properly designed kennel. Additionally, most hotels require you to be present if housekeeping is servicing your room.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
Val Gardena in the Dolomites is a perfect spot for mountain lovers. Similarly, Lake Garda has specialized “dog-friendly Locandas” like Restel de Fer. These places offer private gardens and welcome kits.
How to travel with a 70 lb dog?
You should find hotels that accept big dogs, such as the Grand Hotel Tremezzo or Mandarin Oriental. Also, check for domestic flights that now allow large pets in the cabin. Always confirm size limits with the hotel before you book.
Is Italy very dog-friendly? I
t is incredibly welcoming. Dogs are usually allowed inside restaurants while you eat. On top of that, there are over 1,189 restaurants in Italy that have high rankings for being pet-friendly.
Which dog is famous in Italy?
The Lagotto is famous for finding truffles in the forest. Additionally, many luxury hotels have famous resident dogs like Snowy at the Alpin Garden or Arturo at the Faloria Resort. A true heart on four legs.
Concluding words
Northern Italy is a dream destination for travelers who refuse to leave their pets behind. You can enjoy 5-star luxury from the peaks of the Dolomites to the shores of Lake Garda. These hotels provide everything from Pet Concierges to gourmet menus and private gardens.
Therefore, you can experience the beauty of Italy with your best friend right by your side. It is a trip that turns a simple vacation into a shared memory for life.
