I remember the first time I decided to take my furry companions on a cross-country journey to Europe. It sounded a bit mad when my girlfriend first suggested it. We have two dogs, a Swedish Vallhund named Oakley and a Clumber Spaniel named Marcey. We found that Reims is a great city to visit with your dog, and the region is full of adventures to share with your pet. This city in the Grand-Est region is famous for its history and, of course, the bubbly drink we all love. You can explore the city and the countryside together. It is a family destination that will bring everyone together. I want to share my experience so you can have a stress-free trip to this dog-friendly paradise.
Pet Travel Local Laws and Etiquette in Reims
You must follow specific rules to enter France from outside the European Union. My dogs needed a working microchip before they received their rabies vaccination. This chip must be ISO-compliant and usually has 15 digits. If your pet has a chip that is not ISO-standard, you must bring your own scanner.
A current rabies vaccination is mandatory. You must wait at least 21 days after the shot before you can travel. If the vaccine is a primary shot, it is only valid for one year under EU rules, even if it is a three-year vaccine in your home country.
You also need the right paperwork. For travelers from the UK, an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is required. This document must be issued by an official vet within 10 days of your travel date. It remains valid for four months for travel within the EU. If you are coming from the US, your health certificate must be endorsed by the USDA.
Local etiquette is also important. I noticed that most people in Reims expect dogs to be on a short lead in public spaces. You should always pick up after your pet. I stayed at a hotel where they provided a “do not disturb” sign to let staff know dogs were in the room. It is the little things that make you feel welcome.
Where to Stay with Your Dog in Reims
I found several fantastic places to stay in and around the city. The Appart’City Confort Reims Centre is a very comfortable apartment hotel. They welcome you and your dog right in the center of the city. They charge a supplement of about €15 per night for each pet.
If you want something more luxury, you should look at Sacy Castle. This is a high-end hotel with a spa located in the middle of the vineyards. They accept all dogs and even cats. The welcome there is very attentive.
For a more standard stay, the Hotel IBIS Epernay city center is nearby. They allow dogs of all sizes and breeds. They only charge €5 per night per animal. I always make sure to contact the hotel before I book to ensure they have space for my pups.
Where to Eat with Your Dog in Reims
I love that French culture is so welcoming to pets in restaurants. You will find that your dog is often allowed to dine with you, especially if there is a terrace or outdoor garden. One of my favorite stops was Café Clicquot. This is the outdoor terrace of the Veuve Clicquot house. They brought water for my dog immediately. We had a spectacular burger there with our champagne.
You can also visit the terrace of the restaurant Le Refectoire at Vranken Pommery. If the terrace is closed, they might let you sit at the bar inside if your dog is small and well-behaved. I also recommend Le Wine Bar in the city. The owner, Nicholais, is an absolute gem and very hospitable. They serve great small bites like burger sliders and Croque Monsieur sandwiches.
Other dog-friendly spots include Le Gaulois, Le Tablier, and L’Edito. I also found 231 East Street, Flaveur, and Sacre Brunch to be very welcoming. It is always best to ask before you enter, but most places with outdoor seating are happy to have you.
Where to visit in Reims
The city is full of monuments that you must see. You cannot take dogs inside the Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Reims, but you can admire the outside. This 13th-century monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has exactly 2,303 statues to look at. I recommend walking around the facades to see the complex architecture.
The Porte de Mars is another great site. It is the widest Roman arc in the world. You can also visit the St. Remi Basilica or the Cinema-Opera. These buildings have remarkable architecture that is worth a look from the street while you walk your dog.
If you need a break, head to the Reims Tourism Office near the Cathedral. They have water bowls for dogs and might even give you a bag of treats. This office is very helpful for finding pet-friendly paths.
Top Activities and Sightseeing With Dog
A visit to a champagne cellar is a must. Most major houses do not allow dogs inside the caves, but there are exceptions. We booked a tour at GH Martel. They allow dogs on the tour because the modern production has moved elsewhere. We walked down into the cellars and saw the 3rd-century chalk quarries. It was a very laid-back and enjoyable experience.
You can also visit De Cazanove for a tour with your dog. If your dog is small enough to fit in a bag, Mumm might allow them on a tour too. For a more active day, I recommend the Harlin Père et Fils Champagne Cellars in Mareuil-le-Port. They are QUALIDOG certified and have two resident dogs, Gaïa and Sky, who love to meet visitors.
I also suggest a walk through the vineyards. Many smaller growers outside the city are very welcoming to pets. You can try Champagne Le Gallais in Boursault. They offer dog-friendly tours in a 16th-century manor house.
Best Dog Parks and Outings
I found several beautiful green spaces in Reims. The Parc de Champagne is the biggest one. It covers 216,000 square meters. There is a dedicated dog area where your pets can run around freely. It is a very pleasant place to walk and relax.
The Square de la Patte d’Oie is a fenced park near the city center. It is great for walking your dog freely, though they are not allowed in the children’s play areas. I also liked the Hautes Promenades, which is located right in the center.
For a longer hike, you can try the Reims green flow. This is a 24km long route that lets you discover the city and the region. You can also explore the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park. They have trails like the Ardre Loop circuit, which is a 40km loop where dogs are allowed on a leash.
Best Dog Friendly Beaches
Reims is an inland city, so there are no ocean beaches here. However, there are some water features in the parks. The Square de la Patte d’Oie has water points that attract ducks in the summer.
If you travel to other parts of France during your trip, keep in mind that some beaches do not allow dogs from July to August. Always check the local rules before you head to the sand. For our stay in Reims, we stuck to the lush green parks and the river paths.
Transportation Tips
I found that getting around Reims is quite easy. The city is very walkable, so you might not even need public transport. However, if you do use the tram, you must know the rules. Small dogs in a bag or basket are allowed on Reims trams. They must not represent a danger to other users.
Unfortunately, large dogs are generally not allowed on the trams in Reims. If you have a bigger dog, you can use Uber Pet or call a taxi and let them know you have a dog.
For longer trips, the SNCF trains are great. Small pets in a carrier travel for a fixed fare of about €10. Large dogs must be on a lead and muzzled. They also need a ticket, which you can book on the SNCF Connect website or app. Guide dogs always travel for free and do not need a muzzle if they are used to traveling without one.
Veterinary Services and Emergencies
I always make sure I know where the nearest vet is located. In Reims, the CHV AniCura Pommery is a top-tier animal hospital. It is located at 226 boulevard Pommery. They are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergencies.
They have 12 consultation rooms and 6 operating blocks. If your pet has a problem, you can call them at 03 26 85 85 85. I found their staff to be very professional. They even have specialists in dermatology, neurology, and surgery. It gives me peace of mind to know they are there if Oakley or Marcey needs help.
Packing List for Dogs
I never leave home without a solid kit for my dogs. You should pack their ISO-compliant microchip information and all vaccination records. I also bring a sturdy lead and a muzzle, as these are required on trains and some public areas.
Do not forget their regular food. I learned that you cannot bring meat-based dog food from the UK into the EU due to post-Brexit rules. You should buy food once you arrive in France. I also bring a non-spill water bowl and their favorite blanket or toy to help them feel at home in new places. A GPS tracker for the collar is also a great idea in case they get loose in a new park.
Best Times to Visit in Reims
Reims is beautiful all year round. The city has different guides for autumn, spring, summer, and winter. I personally love the spring and autumn when the weather is mild for walking.
The Christmas Market in late November and December is a magical time to visit. It is held near the Porte de Mars and the Hautes Promenades. However, the summer is also great for enjoying the outdoor terraces at the champagne houses. Just remember that the parks can be busy during major events like the Musical Flâneries festival.
Dog-Friendly Campsites in Reims
If you prefer the outdoors, there are several options for camping. The Reims Tourist Office lists campsites and caravan parks in the area.
I found the Village of Gîtes Au Soleil in Picardy to be a good option nearby. They allow up to two dogs per rental. Another great choice is the Le Lac d’Ailette – Center Parcs in Chamouille. They are QUALIDOG labeled and welcome pets in their holiday residences. It is a wonderful way to enjoy the nature of the region with your dog.
Maps and Itineraries (3 days)
I have put together a simple three-day plan for a perfect trip to Reims.
Day 1: City Sights and Parks Arrival in Reims and check-in at Appart’City Confort Reims Centre. Take a morning walk to the Square de la Patte d’Oie to let the dogs stretch their legs. In the afternoon, walk past the Cathedral and visit the Porte de Mars. Have dinner at L’Edito, which is very dog-friendly.
Day 2: Champagne and Vineyards Book a morning dog-friendly tour at GH Martel to see the caves. For lunch, head to Café Clicquot for a burger and some bubbly on the terrace. In the afternoon, drive out to Harlin Père et Fils for an estate visit where your dogs can meet the resident pups.
Day 3: Nature and Hiking Spend the morning at Parc de Champagne. Let the dogs run in the dedicated dog area. In the afternoon, explore a section of the Reims green flow or the Regional Natural Park. Grab a casual bite at BiboVino Wine Bar before you head home.
Budgeting and Cost-Saving Tips
I always look for ways to save a few euros. Walking is the best way to see the city and it costs nothing. Many of the best sites, like the Cathedral and the Porte de Mars, are free to view from the outside.
If you travel by train, book your pet ticket at the same time as yours to get the €10 fixed fare. Buying a pet ticket from the train manager later can cost €20 or more. For champagne, I found that buying bottles from smaller houses like GH Martel is much cheaper than the big names like Veuve Clicquot. Also, check if the Reims Epernay Pass can save you money on transport and entries.
Day Trips from Reims with Dog
There are many great places just a short drive away. Epernay is very close and is home to many famous champagne houses. You can walk down the Avenue de Champagne with your dog.
I also recommend a trip to Mareuil-le-Port. The Champagne Harlin estate there is very welcoming to pets. You can take a walk in the heart of their lands with your four-legged companion. Another fun stop is Hautvillers, the village of Dom Pérignon. The countryside views are stunning and perfect for a long walk.
Pet Health and Wellness Tips
I always keep an eye on my dogs’ health while we travel. Ensure they stay hydrated, especially when visiting places like Champagne Harlin where they provide fresh water for pets.
You should also check for ticks and parasites after walking in the high grass of the Natural Park. If you are returning to the UK, your dog must have a tapeworm treatment. A vet in France must give this treatment between 1 and 5 days before you arrive back in the UK. They must record the date and time on your Animal Health Certificate.
Sustainability Tips for Eco-Conscious Pet Travelers
I try to be kind to the environment when I travel. Use public transport like the electric city buses when possible, provided your dog is in a carrier. Walking is even better for the planet and your dog will love the smells of the city.
Always use biodegradable waste bags for your dog. I noticed that parks like Parc de Champagne are very clean, so please help keep them that way. You can also choose to stay in gites or guest houses that support local tourism and often have more green space for your pets.
Seasonal Events and Festivals for pet in Reims
I love the festive spirit in Reims. The Reims Christmas Market is a huge event with many stalls. While it can be crowded, it is a fun place to walk your dog and soak up the atmosphere.
In the summer, the Musical Flâneries features outdoor picnic concerts in the Parc de Champagne. Your dog can join you for a picnic while you enjoy the music. There are also photo exhibitions in the parks during the warmer months. Just be aware of the crowds and make sure your dog is comfortable with the noise.
I hope this guide helps you plan an amazing trip. Reims is a city that truly embraces the bond between humans and their dogs. I know Oakley and Marcey cannot wait to go back! Enjoy the bubbly and the beautiful French streets.
FAQ
What to do in Reims with a dog?
You can walk past the grand Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Reims and the St. Remi Basilica to admire the art from the street. The Porte de Mars is a great Roman arc to see during a stroll. You should also visit the Parc de Champagne, which is a massive green space where your pet can run. Many people enjoy the Reims green flow, which is a 24km long route for walking.
Is Champagne France dog friendly?
Yes, it is a very welcoming region for pets. You will find that France is often called the most dog-friendly country on the planet. There are many bars, parks, and hotels in the area that love to host dogs.
Is Le Havre dog friendly?
This city does not provide the best welcome for dogs. Trams and buses in Le Havre do not allow large or medium-sized pets on board. You may find it harder to move around there with a big dog.
Where is the most dog friendly place in France?
France as a whole is incredibly kind to pets. Cities like Strasbourg, Bordeaux, and Avignon are very advanced because they allow large dogs on their trams and buses. These cities make it easy to travel with a pet of any size.
Are dogs allowed in supermarkets in France?
Hygiene rules usually keep pets out of food preparation and shopping areas. While a few local stores might be loose with the rules, most grocery stores do not allow them inside. You should look for signs at the entrance.
Is the Veuve Clicquot tour worth it?
You cannot take a dog inside for the tour or the gift shop. The Café Clicquot terrace is very nice and they bring water to your dog. However, the gift shop prices are often higher than what you find in other stores.
Do French hotels accept dogs?
Most hotels in France are happy to accept dogs. You usually have to pay a small nightly fee, which often ranges from €5 to €15. You should always contact the hotel before you book to confirm their pet policy.
What are the new rules for taking a dog to France?
Your dog must have an ISO-compliant microchip and a rabies vaccination. You must wait at least 21 days after the shot before you travel. You also need an Animal Health Certificate issued within 10 days of your arrival in France.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in France?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in restaurants and cafes. It is very common to see them at sidewalk tables. You should always ask the owner for permission before you enter with your pet.
How do French feel about pets?
French people are very fond of dogs. They are very tolerant and often treat pets like family members. This makes the country a top choice for pet travelers.
What city loves dogs the most?
Cities like Lyon, Saint-Étienne, and Avignon are very welcoming. These places allow all dogs on public transport if they are on a lead and muzzled. This shows a high level of respect for pet owners.
Can I take my dog to France on the Eurotunnel?
This is a very popular and easy way to travel from the UK. Your dog stays in the car with you during the crossing. It is much simpler than trying to fly with a pet.
Can dogs go on beaches in France?
Many beaches allow dogs to visit. However, you must be careful during July and August because some beaches ban dogs during the busy summer months.
Concluding words
Reims is a wonderful place for you and your dog to visit together. You can admire the history of the Cathedral and walk through the huge Parc de Champagne. It is important to have your Animal Health Certificate and rabies shot records ready before you go. Most cafes and hotels in the city will be glad to see your pet.
You should plan your transport carefully because large dogs cannot use the local trams. This city offers a perfect mix of culture and fun for every pet lover. So much to see. A true joy for the whole family.
