I have spent years exploring the world, but nothing beats the joy of a long summer in the Mediterranean with my best four-legged friend. Last year, I decided to pack our bags and head to the Ionian Islands. My main goal was to find out if Pet Friendly Corfu was a real thing or just a travel myth. I can tell you now that it is one of the most beautiful and welcoming places for dog owners. The lush green trees and the blue water make it a dream. I will share everything I learned about Exploring Corfu With Your Dog so that you can have a smooth trip too.
Is Greece Dog Friendly?
Many people ask me, is greece dog friendly? I used to wonder about this myself before I started traveling there often. The truth is that Greece has changed a lot in recent years. At one time, dogs were not allowed at many sites. However, the rules changed in 2023 to make things much better for us. Now, you can take your dog to about 120 less busy archaeological sites across the country. You just need a short leash of one meter or a carrier.
Greek people generally love animals. You will see stray cats and dogs everywhere, which is a bit sad, but the locals often feed them. Most restaurants with outdoor seating will welcome your pup with a smile and maybe even a bowl of water. Greece is definitely becoming a top spot for pet lovers.
Can I Take My Dog on Holiday to Greece?
You might be asking, can i take my dog on holiday to greece? The answer is a big yes! But you must follow the rules. First of all, your dog needs a microchip. After the chip is in, your dog must get a rabies vaccination. You have to wait at least 21 days after the shot before you can travel. This is very important. I once saw a traveler get stuck because they did not wait long enough.
If you live in the European Union, you need an EU Pet Passport. It is a blue book that your vet gives you. It costs between €20 and €70 on average. If you come from the United Kingdom or the United States, you need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or a similar official paper. These papers prove your dog is healthy and safe to travel. Finally, always keep these documents with you because ferry workers and police might ask to see them.
Getting to the Island: The Ferry Experience
I chose to take the ferry to Corfu because it felt like a grand adventure. Most Greek ferry companies allow pets, which is great news. However, you must register your dog when you book your own ticket. Most of the time, pet tickets are free of charge, but the company still needs to know your dog is coming.
I traveled with a company that required me to choose a “travel option” for my dog. You can pick a pet-friendly cabin, a kennel, or just keep them on the deck with a leash. Large dogs usually have to stay in the kennels or on the deck. On the contrary, small dogs under 10 kilograms can often stay in a carrier.
The Greek law says that ships over 25 meters must have one cage for every 200 passengers. I found the deck to be the best spot. The wind in my dog’s fur and the smell of the salt sea were perfect. Just remember that dogs are usually not allowed in indoor areas like bars or restaurants on the ship.
Finding the Perfect Pet Friendly Hotel Corfu
Once we arrived, I had to find a place to stay. I was happy to see many options for a pet friendly hotel corfu. We stayed at a lovely resort called Domes of Corfu. It is right on the beach and they were so kind to my dog. Additionally, I saw other great spots like Mr & Mrs White Corfu Couples Retreat, where dogs stay for no extra fee.
If you prefer more space, you can look for villas or Helena Apartments & Villas. Many villas have fenced gardens. This is perfect if your dog likes to run around while you drink your morning coffee. On top of that, some hotels even give you a “welcome pack” with a pet bed and bowls. Therefore, you do not have to pack your whole house!
Exploring Corfu Old Town: The 4 Paws Tour
One of my favorite memories is a special tour we took. It is called the “City with 4 Paws” tour. It is a guided walk through the old town of Corfu. Friendly guides and rescue dogs lead the way. It is such a unique way to see the city.
The tour lasts about 45 minutes. We met at the Pentophanaro (5 Lamps) in Kapodistriou. We walked through Esplanada Square and the Liston promenade. The guide told us stories about the old buildings while the dogs led the way with happy tails.
The best part is that 10% of the money goes to help local stray animals. It feels good to give back to the island. My dog loved meeting the other pups. It was a relaxed and joyful moment.
Corfu Toddler Friendly Holidays and Family Fun
I noticed many families traveling with both dogs and small children. Corfu is excellent for corfu toddler friendly holidays. The beaches have soft sand and the water is very shallow in many places. This makes it safe for a toddler and a dog to splash together.
Places like Sidari and Kavos have plenty of shops and food that kids like. Many of the parks, such as Bosketos Park, are great for a family picnic. You can let the kids play while the dog rests in the shade of a big tree. Similarly, the local “City with 4 Paws” tour is very family-friendly and children love the rescue dogs.
Hiking the Famous Corfu Trail
If you love nature as much as I do, you must try the Corfu Trail. It is a huge path that goes from the south to the north of the island. It is about 180 kilometers long in total. I did not do the whole thing, but we walked several sections.
The trail is organized into 12 sections. We started with the first section from Kavos to Lefkimi. It is about 14.5 kilometers long and takes around 6 hours. We walked past an old deserted monastery and through quiet olive groves. It was so peaceful.
Later, we tried the path from Liapades to Agios Georgios. This section is shorter, about 11.5 kilometers. The views of the Paleokastritsa bay from the cliffs are breathtaking. My dog was a champ and handled the rocky paths well. Just make sure you bring plenty of water for your pup. The Greek sun is very strong.
Dog Friendly Beaches in Corfu
No trip to Corfu is complete without beach time. I was thrilled to find so many dog-friendly beaches. Technically, dogs are allowed on all beaches in Greece. However, you must be polite. I always pick a quiet spot away from other swimmers so no one feels uncomfortable.
Paradise Beach is a top choice. It has crystal-clear water and a resort vibe. We also loved Arkoudilas Beach in the south. It is surrounded by high cliffs and is often very quiet. My dog had so much space to run on the sand.
Other great spots include:
- Agia Triada in Paleokastritsa.
- Agios Georgios on the western coast.
- Mon Repos in Corfu City.
Finally, always check the sand temperature. If it is too hot for your feet, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. I usually visit the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat.
Dangerous Animals in Corfu and Safety Tips
I want you to be aware of some things for safety. People often ask about dangerous animals in corfu. You should know that there are some poisonous snakes on the island. They usually hide in tall grass or rocks. I always keep my dog on a leash when we are hiking in wild areas.
Additionally, some hikers have seen many spiders on the Mount Pantokrator loop. If you do not like spiders, you might want to pick a different path. On top of that, you must protect your dog from mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. These can carry diseases like Leishmania. Talk to your vet about a good collar or drops before you go.
Dealing with Stray Cats and Dogs
You will see many stray cats in Corfu. They are at the restaurants, the ruins, and in the streets. My dog usually wants to chase them, so I have to hold the leash tight. Once, on Santorini, a cat actually attacked a dog because it was protecting its kitten. It is best to keep your distance.
There are also stray dogs, but they are often quite calm. If your dog is not friendly with other dogs, be extra careful. There are local groups like CARE that help these abandoned animals. They have a shelter near Sidari. It is heartening to see people working hard to help them.
Dining Out with Your Dog
Eating out is one of the best parts of being in Greece. Most cafes and restaurants have large outdoor terraces. I never had a problem sitting outside with my dog. Some places even have water bowls ready.
Though outdoor dining is easy, indoor dining is usually not allowed for health reasons. I prefer being outside anyway. The atmosphere is much better. Just make sure your dog is well-behaved and stays under the table. Bringing a small mat for them to lie on is a good idea.
Public Transport and Taxis
Moving around the island can be tricky without a car. Dogs are allowed on public buses, but they usually must be in a carrier bag. If your dog is large, it might be harder to get on the bus.
Taxis are an option, but it depends on the driver. Some drivers love dogs, and others do not want them in the car. I always ask nicely before I try to get in. There is also a service called i-pet taxi in Athens, but in Corfu, you might need to call ahead to find a willing driver. Renting a car is truly the easiest way to explore.
Important Paperwork Recap
I can not stress this enough: check your paperwork!
- Microchip first, then rabies shot.
- Wait 21 days after the rabies shot before travel.
- EU Pet Passport is for EU residents.
- Animal Health Certificate is for those from the UK or US.
- Rabies boosters must stay up to date.
If you come from the UK, your old pet passport is no longer valid. You must get an AHC within 10 days of your travel date. It is a bit of a hassle, but it is worth it to have your pup with you.
Practical Tips for a Great Trip
Here are some final tips from my own experience.
- Bring a portable water bowl. Your dog will get thirsty often in the heat.
- Pack a muzzle. Even if your dog is friendly, some ferries or public places might require one.
- Learn some Greek. Not everyone speaks English in the small mountain villages. A “kalimera” (good morning) goes a long way.
- Carry cash. Small tavernas and shops in remote areas often do not take cards.
- Watch the heat. Never leave your dog in a parked car. The Greek sun can turn a car into an oven in minutes.
FAQ
Is Corfu dog friendly?
Yes! This lush island is a dream for your pup because it is full of green spaces and shady olive groves. Pet Friendly Corfu offers endless spots for a morning walk or a long run on the sand.
Is Corfu nicer than Crete?
Both islands are great for pets. Crete is the largest island and offers huge spaces with many tavernas that provide water bowls. However, Corfu is famous for being very green and has the long Corfu Trail for hikers.
Do dogs roam freely in Greece?
You will see stray dogs at some archaeological sites and on city streets sometimes. Most of these dogs are calm, but you should keep your own pup on a firm leash to stay safe.
Is Greece a pet friendly country?
Is greece dog friendly?
It is not the top choice in Europe yet, but the situation is getting better for travelers and their pets. Many hotels and cafes now welcome four-legged guests with open arms.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Greece?
You can bring your dog to outdoor seating areas at most cafes and tavernas. On the contrary, indoor dining is usually forbidden for health reasons. Always ask the staff before you sit down.
What not to do in Corfu?
Never leave your dog in a parked car because the heat can be deadly in the sun. Also, do not let your dog drink saltwater from the sea. Watch out for dangerous animals in corfu like snakes that hide in tall grass during hikes.
Is Corfu expensive or cheap?
You can find reasonably priced hotels and guesthouses on the island. Some local tours, like the walk with rescue dogs, offer excellent value for about $32.50.
Where is the prettiest part of Corfu?
Many people love the historic Old Town with its narrow streets. Similarly, the white cliffs and clear water at Cape Drastis are stunning to see.
Which is the prettiest Greek island?
Santorini is famous for its blue roofs and iconic sunsets. On the contrary, Corfu is known for its incredible green nature and millions of olive trees.
Can I take my dog on a ferry in Greece?
Yes, you can. You must register your dog when you book your ferry ticket, and large dogs usually stay on the deck or in a kennel.
Is Greek ok for dogs?
Greece is a fantastic destination for pet lovers because it has many parks and outdoor cafes. The locals are generally very welcoming to animals.
Can I take my dog to Corfu?
Can i take my dog on holiday to greece? Yes, you can because the island is perfect for nature-loving pets. Your dog will love the warm water and the quiet mountain paths.
Where do stray dogs sleep at night?
Some strays find a home at the CARE shelter near Sidari in the north of Corfu. Others stay near public buildings or in the town squares where locals feed them.
Concluding words
I have shared my best tips for Exploring Corfu With Your Dog. This island is a true gem for pet owners who love nature and history. You must follow the rules for passports and ferries, but the effort is worth it.
Your dog will enjoy the sandy beaches and the mountain trails. Therefore, you should start planning your trip to Pet Friendly Corfu today. Pure joy. What a trip. It was a total blast. Trust me on this one. You will love it!
