I dream about the sun. I dream about the blue sea. Most of all, I dream about my dog running on a golden beach. For many travelers like us, family is not complete without our furry friends. I moved to this beautiful island, and I want to share everything I learned about the Top Dog Friendly Accommodations in Cyprus. This island is the birthplace of Aphrodite. It has ancient streets and olive groves. It is a paradise for people and pets.
First of all, I must tell you that planning is the most important part of this journey. You cannot rush this. I started my discussion with the vet several months before my travel date. You need a clear timeline. The rules for the Republic of Cyprus in the south and Northern Cyprus are different. I will explain the south first because it follows European Union rules.
The Essential Checklist for Your Best Dog Hotels Cyprus Trip
I learned quickly that paperwork is a big deal here. Your pet needs a 15-digit microchip. This chip must be ISO 11784 or 11785 compliant. You must get the chip before the rabies vaccination. This is a rule you cannot break. My dog was at least 12 weeks old when he got his shot. After that, I had to wait 21 days before we could fly. This waiting period is non-negotiable.
If you come from a country like the United Kingdom or the United States, you need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). You must get this within 10 days of arrival. Additionally, you must notify the District Veterinary Officer at the airport at least 48 hours before you land. They check your papers when you arrive. I paid a small inspection fee at the airport. Therefore, you should keep some cash ready.
I must warn you about banned breeds. Cyprus does not allow Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosas, Dogo Argentinos, or Fila Brasileiros. This includes crossbreeds too. If you have a different breed, you are good to go!
Flying High: My Experience with Cyprus Airways
I chose Cyprus Airways for our flight. They are based in Larnaca. Small dogs can travel in the cabin with you. My dog and the carrier together had to weigh less than 10 kg (22 lbs). The carrier size limit is 17 x 14 x 8 inches. On top of that, the pet must be at least 105 days old.
If your dog is bigger, they must go in the checked baggage area. I made sure my crate was IATA-compliant. It must have enough room for the dog to stand and turn around. I felt better knowing the staff at the cargo department were helpful. However, I still felt a little nervous until we landed.
Paphos: The King of Pet Friendly Hotels Cyprus
Paphos is a dream. I stayed at some of the most luxurious places there. Anassa is a resort in Polis Chrysochous with an Excellent rating of 9.5. It looks like a traditional Cypriot village with white walls and blue trim. They allow dogs up to 12 kg. I paid a fee of €100 per booking. They even gave my dog a gift basket and a place to sleep. We walked on the nature trails nearby. The view of the sea from our private balcony was perfect.
Almyra is another favorite. It has a Very Good rating of 8.6. I loved the sleek, modern design. The best part? They have doggy room service. I am serious! They also have a pet park. Similarly, the Annabelle hotel is nearby and very welcoming to dogs. It has an Excellent rating of 8.9. These hotels are close to walking routes and the sea.
If you want a place where dogs stay free, you must check out the Aphrodite Beach Hotel. It has a rating of 9.3. The owners are very animal-friendly. They even support local animal rescues. My dog loved the nearby beaches and walking areas. On the contrary, some luxury resorts have strict weight limits, so always ask first.
Luxury and Nature at Minthis Resort
I visited Minthis Resort and felt like I was in a movie. It has a 9.4 rating. The suites have earth tones and marble finishes. I had a private terrace with views of the mountains. There are nature trails for long walks. Gradually, I realized that this is the perfect place for a mature traveler who wants peace. Also, the Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort in Pegeia is incredible. It has an Excellent 9.4 rating. It sits on a peninsula with huge windows and sea views. My dog and I enjoyed the lush hills and olive trees.
Hidden Gems: Pet Friendly Accommodation Cyprus in the Mountains
Sometimes you want to escape the heat. I headed to the Troodos Mountains. Kakopetria is a beautiful village with stone houses and narrow streets. I walked with my dog along the River Karkotis. The air was fresh. The trees were green.
I stayed at a Cozy Glamping Cabin in Arakapas. It has a total size of 2153 square feet. The guests rated it 9.6 out of 10. I had the entire place to myself. There is a kitchen, a garden, and a swimming pool. I sat on the terrace and looked at the city view while my dog played in the garden. The owner, Mike, was very friendly. Plus, the night sky was so clear that I could see the Milky Way. It was a very quiet and peaceful getaway.
Another unique spot is Yurts in Cyprus. They have authentic Mongolian yurts. The grounds are huge and unfenced. My dog loved the freedom. It is a sustainable and off-grid place. First of all, it feels like a real adventure. Later, you realize how relaxing it is to be away from the crowds.
Charming Village Houses and Agrotourism
I love the traditional stone houses. Aperanti Agrotourism in Pera Orinis is a classic choice. It is near the Pediaios River. I took lovely walks in the countryside with my dog. I ate delicious homemade dishes made with organic vegetables. Tzionis Petroktisto Holiday Stonehouse in Lympia is another pet-friendly retreat. They allow dogs of any size for no additional fee. I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere near the Larnaca Marina.
Casavero Traditional Guesthouse in Oroklini is also special. It is a listed building with local art. There are amazing trails on top of the hill for you and your dog. Additionally, Vouni Lodge in the foothills of the mountains offers rustic apartments with views of the coastline. They allow dogs of any size for free. Therefore, you can save money and still have a great time.
Heading North: Dog Friendly Hotels Cyprus in the TRNC
Traveling to Northern Cyprus is a different experience. The rules are more strict. You must get a mandatory import permit from the TRNC Veterinary Department. You also need a rabies antibody titer test from an EU-approved lab, no matter which country you come from. The result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.
I found some lovely places in the north. Revaklı Ev Guest House in Rizokarpaso is an old monastery with a beautiful courtyard. It has a Superb rating of 9.3. The views of the sea and garden are stunning. Grand Sapphire Resort in Iskele is a more modern choice. It has an Exceptional rating of 9.8. The apartments are high quality and have huge pools.
If you need a hotel for dogs cyprus while you explore, the north has great boarding services. Petline Hotel in Kyrenia starts at $35 per night. They offer real-time video updates so you can see your dog. Happy Tails Pet Boarding is another option at $40 per night. They have a mobile app and memory foam bedding for the pets. These facilities are climate-controlled to keep pets cool in the heat.
Sandy Paws: The Best Dog Beaches
I spent many afternoons at the beach. Potamia Beach in Kapparis is an official dog-friendly beach. They even have free sunbeds and umbrellas. I saw many dogs swimming and washing in the sea. However, you must keep your dog on a lead for safety. You also must carry their vaccination papers with you.
Other official dog beaches include Gliki Nero in Paralimni and Kassianes (Spiros Beach) in Larnaca. I also visited a beach near Pissouri. Some people say these beaches are a bit rocky or remote. Though I found them to be a great way to let my dog enjoy the water. Private villas often have their own beach areas too. Villa 1 Sandy Beach Villas in Polis has a private beach and a 9.8 rating. Similarly, Villa Saraliana has a private beach area for dogs to enjoy the sea.
Dining Out: Dog Friendly Cafes and Restaurants
Cyprus is very welcoming when it comes to food. Most places with summer terraces will let your dog join you. In Nicosia, I visited The Workshop and Golden Tiger. In Limassol, the Shakespeare Gastropub is a popular choice. Larnaca has a place called Refuel that even offers special ice cream for dogs. Imagine that! My dog loved it.
In Paphos, I enjoyed a meal at Malu Bistro and Meraki Market Café. Finally, in the north, Celebi Garden Hotel has a super cute resident dog and amazing views. I learned so much about the local plants and animals there. Always look for the outdoor seating areas. On the top of that, some places like The Swan Pub in Akrotiri even have a special Dog Bar corner.
Laws and Fines: Staying on the Right Side of the Rules
I must tell you about the local laws. Dog ownership is a serious responsibility here. You must register your dog at the local municipality. The annual license fee is €20.50 for most dogs. However, the fee for “dangerous” breeds is much higher at €170 to €171.
Fines can be very expensive. If you walk your dog without a leash in a public place, you might pay €300. If you do not clean up after your dog, the fine is also €300. Not having a license can cost you €200. Therefore, you must follow the rules. I always carry waste bags and keep my dog on a lead. It is just easier for everyone.
Additionally, you must have a “Beware of Dog” sign at the entrance of your home. It should have a picture of a dog. I saw these signs everywhere. It is part of the island etiquette.
Health and Safety in the Sun
The Mediterranean climate is beautiful but can be dangerous. Leishmaniasis is a serious threat on the island. It is a parasite spread by sand flies. Studies show that about 14.9% of Cypriot dogs have antibodies for it. I use a special repellent collar and spot-on treatments from my vet. Prevention is a necessity.
The summer heat is another risk. I avoid walking my dog during the hottest part of the day. I always carry a bottle of water. Gradually, I learned that early morning and late evening are the best times for exercise. In rural areas, you must watch out for snakes and poisoned bait. Finally, the standard of veterinary care in Cyprus is very high. There are many modern clinics with 24-hour services. Many vets speak English and other languages.
Transporting Your Dog Around the Island
I found that having a car is almost a requirement if you have a dog. Intercity buses have very strict rules. They only allow small pets under 8 kg in a small carrier. Only one pet is allowed per bus. Taxis are more flexible, but you must book in advance. Large dogs in taxis must be muzzled and on a leash. I prefer driving myself so I can stop whenever my dog needs a break.
If you drive to Northern Cyprus, your southern insurance is not valid. You must buy extra insurance at the crossing point. The roads in the north are sometimes less maintained, so be careful. I always check the weather before heading to the mountains because of torrential rain or snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotel chain is the most dog friendly?
I found that the Thanos Hotels group is the most welcoming for pet owners in Cyprus. This group includes luxury spots like Anassa, Almyra, and Annabelle. They offer special services like doggy room service and gift baskets. Additionally, they provide access to nature trails and walking areas right on their grounds.
Is Cyprus dog friendly?
The island of Cyprus is very pet friendly and offers many places where you can stay and eat with your dog. You will find official dog beaches and many restaurants with outdoor terraces that welcome pets. However, you must follow strict laws regarding leashes and cleanliness to avoid high fines. First of all, the culture here values responsible ownership.
Which is the best area to stay in Cyprus?
The Paphos region is the top choice because it has over 200 dog friendly hotels cyprus options. You can find high-end resorts in Polis Chrysochous or Peyia that cater specifically to pets. Similarly, the Troodos Mountains are perfect if you want to walk through forests and traditional villages. Also, Larnaca offers great beach access and pet-friendly cafes.
Can I take my dog to live in Cyprus?
You can certainly move to Cyprus with your dog to live here permanently. You must complete all the import steps like microchipping and rabies shots first. After you arrive, you must register your dog at the local municipality to get an annual license. Therefore, you should prepare all your paperwork several months before your move.
Can I leave my pet alone in a hotel room?
Most hotels in Cyprus do not allow you to leave your pet unattended in the room. For instance, the Natura Beach Hotel explicitly forbids this in its policy. You should always check with the hotel concierge to see if they offer pet-sitting services instead. Plus, some luxury hotels can help you arrange these services through their staff.
How to travel with a 70 lb dog?
A dog that weighs 70 pounds must travel as freight or checked baggage because it exceeds the cabin limit. Cyprus Airways allows animals and carriers up to 32 kg (70.5 lbs) to travel in the baggage hold. If the total weight is more than that, you must use the cargo department. You must also ensure the crate is IATA-compliant and large enough for the dog to stand up.
What is the best place to vacation with dogs?
The area of Polis Chrysochous is a wonderful spot for a vacation with your dog. It features the Anassa resort and the Aphrodite Beach Hotel, which both have excellent ratings. On top of that, the region offers private villas with private beach areas where dogs can swim in the sea.
How much do airlines charge to fly a dog?
Airlines like Cyprus Airways charge a separate fee for pets that varies depending on your flight route. You must apply for pet transport at least 24 hours before you leave. Additionally, you may have to pay inspection fees when you land at the airport in Cyprus. Therefore, I recommend you call the airline early to get an exact price.
Are Cane Corso allowed in Cyprus?
The Republic of Cyprus does not list the Cane Corso as a banned breed. The only prohibited breeds are Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosas, Dogo Argentinos, and Fila Brasileiros. This rule also applies to any crossbreeds of these four types. Therefore, your Cane Corso should be allowed as long as it meets health rules.
Does Cyprus Airways allow dogs in cabin?
Small cats and dogs can travel in the cabin with Cyprus Airways. The total weight of the pet and the carrier must not be more than 10 kg (22 lbs). The pet must be at least 105 days old to fly this way. Also, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
Concluding words
I believe Cyprus is a perfect Mediterranean escape for any dog owner who is willing to plan ahead. You can enjoy the luxury of Paphos resorts or find peace in a mountain cabin in Arakapas. This island offers a great mix of pet friendly accommodation cyprus and welcoming restaurants for you and your furry friend. However, you must follow all the rules for microchips, vaccinations, and local licenses to ensure a happy trip.
I know that you will love the golden beaches and the fresh air of the olive groves. You should start your paperwork today to make this dream vacation a reality. Finally, I wish you and your pet a wonderful stay in the beautiful land of Aphrodite.
