I recently took a trip that changed how I think about vacations. I traveled to a beautiful city in the west of Poland. This city is called Wroclaw. It is famous for its bridges and its history. I did not go alone. I took my dog with me. I found that Pet Friendly Travel in Wroclaw, Poland is not only possible but it is very fun. I want to share my story and my guide with you. You might wonder, is poland dog friendly? I can tell you from my experience that it is. The people are kind. The parks are large. The cafes often have water bowls waiting.
First of all, I had to plan how to get there. I live far away, so I looked at flights. I asked myself what airlines fly to wroclaw poland and allow pets. I found that LOT Polish Airlines and KLM are two choices people often use. I learned that small dogs between 5 and 10 kilograms can sometimes stay in the cabin. However, larger dogs must travel in the cargo hold. This can be a bit scary for the pup. Therefore, I made sure to get a transport box that was well ventilated and large enough for my dog to stand up and turn around in. Plus, I did some training at home to help my dog feel safe in the box.
The closest airport to wroclaw poland is the Wroclaw Copernicus Airport. It is very close to the city center. This makes the start of the trip easy. Though I flew, some people choose to drive. I met a traveler named John who drove his camper all around Poland. He said that traveling to poland with dog is a great way to see the country. Additionally, I heard about people taking the Eurotunnel from the UK to France and then driving to Poland. It is a long drive. However, it lets you keep your dog by your side.
The Rules of the Road: Legal Requirements
I had to follow many rules before I could enter the country. Poland is part of the European Union. Therefore, it follows standard EU rules for pets. My dog needed a microchip first. This chip must meet ISO Standard 11784 or 11785. It is a tiny piece of tech that stays under the skin. It has 15 digits. Later, my dog needed a rabies vaccination. This is very important. I had to wait at least 21 days after the shot before we could travel.
I also needed a special document. It is called an EU Health Certificate. An accredited vet must sign it. Then, the government must stamp it. If you come from the UK, you need an Animal Health Certificate. This document is valid for four months of travel within the EU. I also carried my dog’s vaccination records just in case. On top of that, I made sure my dog was not on the banned list. Poland does not allow certain breeds like the American Pitt Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, or Tosa Inu. You must check this list before you go.
Where to Stay: Pet Friendly Hotels
I needed a place to sleep where my dog was welcome. I found many hotels in wroclaw that allow pets. First, I looked at the Monopol Hotel. It is a very fancy place. It allows dogs of any size for no extra fee. Similarly, the Hotel Stara Garbarnia is pet friendly and does not charge extra. I also found the Mojito Apartments – Botanica. These are great if you want more space.
I also looked at the Hotel GEM. They have specific rules. They only take small to medium pets up to 20 kilograms. You must tell them you are bringing a pet when you book the room. They might charge an extra fee. Also, you must show a vaccination certificate. One rule I found interesting was about cleaning. The staff will only clean your room if you are there or if the dog is out of the room. If you leave your dog alone, you must put a sign on the door handle. If you bring a pet without telling them, they can fine you 500 PLN.
Later, I saw that pet friendly warsaw is also a great option if you visit the capital. There are many warsaw in hotels that allow pets there as well. In fact, about 59% of hotels in Krakow allow pets. Poland is becoming a leader in pet friendly poland travel.
Exploring the City: Travel in Wroclaw
Once I settled in, I wanted to see the sights. Travel in Wroclaw is a joy with a dog. First of all, the public transport is great. Dogs can ride on trams and buses for free in Wroclaw. This is a big win for the budget. However, your dog must be on a leash. Large dogs must wear a muzzle. Though my dog is small, I kept a leash on him at all times. I also used an app called Jakdojade to find the best routes. It is very helpful and comes in English.
A city of magic. That is how I describe Wroclaw. I spent a lot of time in the Market Square. It has beautiful pastel buildings. My dog loved the stroll. We also visited Ostrow Tumski, which is the oldest part of the city. It is very quiet and has lovely river views. Additionally, I took my dog to see the Wroclaw Cathedral. You can sit outside and enjoy the view of the Odra River.
I also went on a hunt for dwarfs. There are hundreds of small bronze statues hidden all over the city. They started appearing in 2005. Some are very small. One dwarf I saw was even shorter than my dog! It is a fun game to see how many you can find while you walk.
Eating Out: Dog Friendly Dining
I was worried about food. I heard that some places in Poland might not like dogs inside. However, my experience was very good. I found many dog friendly restaurants in Wroclaw.
One of my favorites was Bułka z Masłem. It is a green and cozy place. They have a secret garden in the back. They serve great breakfast and burgers. Most importantly, they have a special menu for dogs! My dog felt like a king. Another great spot is Art Café Kalambur. It is a unique two-story bar and coffee shop where leashed dogs are welcome inside.
I also visited Czarna Magia. It is near the Market Square. You can sit inside or on their green patio with your pup. If you like Italian food, try Emily. They have outdoor tables where you can enjoy pizza and pasta. For a local vibe, I went to Szynkarnia. It is a pub with a paved patio. They serve craft drinks and flatbreads. Finally, I ended one evening at Hala Targowa. It is a large food hall with many vendors. They have dog-friendly seating options.
Green Escapes: Parks and Playgrounds
My dog needs to run. Luckily, dog walking in Wroclaw is full of variety. The city has many parks and fenced playgrounds. First of all, I visited Psia Łąka. It is the largest dog park in the city. It covers 7000 square meters. It has natural logs and fences. It is a paradise for dogs that need space.
On top of that, I went to Park Stanisława Tołpy. It has a 1500 square meter playground with an obstacle course. It has slalom poles and balance beams. My dog had so much fun there. Similarly, Park Grabiszyński has a 700 square meter zone with tunnels and ramps.
I also enjoyed the walking trails. The Kilimandżaro Trail is great for active pairs. You walk along a canal and can even climb a small hill. The Opatowicka Trail offers views of the river and islands. I also took a walk in the Japanese Garden. Dogs are welcome there for calm strolls. It costs about 15 PLN to enter. Later, we walked through Szczytnicki Park. It is a massive green space perfect for a picnic.
Shopping with Your Furry Friend
I needed to buy some souvenirs. I was happy to find that some shopping malls in Wroclaw allow dogs. Pasaż Grunwaldzki is very special. You can shop in over 100 stores there with your dog. Wroclavia also allows pets. However, the rules say you must carry small pets in your hands or a bag. Larger dogs must be on a leash and controlled. You should not use the escalators with your pet for safety.
Additionally, Galeria Dominikańska and Renoma are listed as places you can enter with a dog. Though the mall might allow dogs, individual stores have their own rules. I always looked for a sticker on the window or asked a guard.
Health and Safety: Veterinary Care
I always worry about emergencies. What if my dog gets sick? I was relieved to learn that Wroclaw is a center for animal health. There is a 24-hour animal clinic at the Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences. They have an intensive care unit. This clinic uses very advanced technology. They have a system for treating poisonings and kidney issues. No other clinic in this part of Europe has this equipment.
The city and the university worked together to build this. The project cost over half a million zloty. I felt safe knowing such experts were nearby. They even offer discounts for some residents, which shows the city cares about animals. If you need a vet, you can also find 24-hour services in nearby towns like Nisko or Trzebnica. Some vets even do home visits.
A Sample 3-Day Itinerary
I want to give you an idea of how to spend your time. Here is a plan based on what I did.
Day 1: The Old Town
- 9:00 AM: Eat breakfast at Cafe Prowincja. It is in the city center. The pastries are fresh.
- 10:30 AM: Walk to the Market Square. Look at the colorful buildings.
- 12:00 PM: Have lunch at Beer & Wine House. It is very welcoming for families and dogs.
- 2:00 PM: Explore Ostrow Tumski. It is very peaceful.
- 4:30 PM: Visit the Wroclaw Cathedral area.
- 6:00 PM: Dine at Chata Wroclawska. They serve hearty Polish food.
Day 2: Culture and Nature
- 9:00 AM: Start with pancakes at Turtle Cafe.
- 10:30 AM: Go to the Japanese Garden. It is very calm.
- 12:30 PM: Have a picnic in Szczytnicki Park.
- 2:30 PM: Visit Centennial Hall. It is a UNESCO site with big green areas.
- 4:30 PM: Walk along the Oder River.
- 6:00 PM: Eat at Kuchnia Wrocławska. They have outdoor seating for you and your dog.
Day 3: Interactive Fun
- 9:00 AM: Get croissants at Caffe Venezia.
- 10:30 AM: Visit Hydropolis. It is about water. Dogs are allowed in outdoor areas.
- 2:30 PM: Return to Szczytnicki Park for more play time.
- 4:30 PM: See the Wroclaw Fountain show. It has lights and music.
- 6:00 PM: Conclude your trip at Hala Targowa.
Important Tips for Your Trip
I learned a few lessons during my stay. First of all, always bring bags to clean up after your dog. It is the law. If you do not, you might get a fine. Additionally, carry a water bowl and some food with you. Though many cafes are nice, it is good to be prepared.
I also noticed that people in Poland often keep their dogs on a lead. Some owners might seem a bit nervous if your dog is off-leash. Therefore, I kept my dog close in crowded areas. Also, remember that dogs are not allowed in the Wroclaw Zoo. I had to plan around that. Most travelers and the official guides say they are not. Always check the latest rules.
Finally, if you plan to visit National Parks, be careful. Some parks like the Tatra National Park have a full ban on dogs. However, most parks allow them if they are leashed and muzzled. Wroclaw is much more relaxed than the mountains.
FAQ
Is Wroclaw dog friendly?
Yes, Wrocław is considered one of Poland’s most dog-friendly cities, featuring numerous scenic walking trails, dedicated dog parks like Psia Łąka, and many welcoming cafes and restaurants.
Can I travel to Poland with my dog?
Yes, you can travel to Poland with your dog provided they have a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and an EU pet passport or EU health certificate.
Is Warsaw dog friendly?
Yes, Warsaw is dog-friendly, particularly its restored Old Town, which is an ideal area for strolling with a pet. Additionally, dogs travel for free on public transport in Warsaw.
Can you fly dogs in the cabin in Poland?
Small dogs, typically between 5–10 kg, can travel in the cabin with certain airlines. Larger dogs that are not assistance animals must travel in the cargo hold in a well-ventilated transport box.
Are dogs allowed on trains in Poland?
Dogs are generally welcome on trains as long as they are on a lead and muzzled. Small dogs in carriers usually travel for free, while larger dogs require a travel ticket.
Does Polish Airlines allow pets?
Yes, LOT Polish Airlines is specifically mentioned as an airline that accepts dogs for travel.
How to fly with a dog?
To fly with a dog, you must provide a well-ventilated transport box large enough for the dog to stand and turn around. You should also check the specific pet policies of your chosen airline before booking.
Is Poland good for dogs?
Poland is an accessible destination for dog owners, though it has some restrictions, such as limited access for dogs in certain national parks like Tatra National Park and some indoor dining areas.
How do I bring my dog to Poland?
To bring a dog to Poland, you must ensure they are microchipped, have a valid rabies vaccination, and possess the required EU pet passport or health certificate.
Which airlines permit dogs?
Airlines such as LOT Polish Airlines and KLM are known to accept dogs. Most low-cost airlines do not permit dogs other than assistance animals.
Concluding words
Wrocław is a premier destination for pet-friendly travel, offering a vast array of green spaces, river embankments, and specialized dog playgrounds like the 7000 m² Psia Łąka. Travelers can navigate the city easily with their pets using free public transport and stay in a variety of welcoming hotels and apartments.
While visitors must adhere to official EU entry requirements—including microchipping and rabies vaccinations—the city’s welcoming culture and pet-centric amenities, such as 24-hour emergency clinics and dog-friendly cafes, ensure a comfortable experience for both humans and their furry companions.
