🐾 Introduction
More and more pet parents are realizing that Europe isn’t just for romantic getaways and cultural deep-dives—it’s also a dream destination for dog lovers! From Parisian parks to Berlin beer gardens, the continent is increasingly welcoming to four-legged explorers. But traveling with your dog in Europe requires thoughtful planning. That’s where this 2025 guide comes in: to help you prepare for border crossings, pack smartly, and sniff out the most dog-friendly cities along the way.
📋 Dog Travel Rules in Europe
Before packing your pup’s passport, it’s essential to understand the EU pet travel requirements. Regulations can differ by country, so always double-check before you go.
1. EU Animal Health Certificate
If you’re traveling to the EU from a non-EU country, your pet will need an EU Animal Health Certificate issued by an official veterinarian within 10 days before entry. It remains valid for 4 months of travel within the EU.
➡️ Official EU Pet Travel Info
2. Microchipping
All traveling dogs must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit chip, inserted before rabies vaccination.
3. Rabies Vaccination
Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old and have a valid rabies vaccination. A 21-day waiting period applies after the shot if it’s your dog’s first time.
4. Tapeworm Treatment
If you’re visiting Finland, Ireland, Malta, or Norway, dogs must be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus) 1–5 days before entry.
5. Airline and Train Pet Policies
Rules vary by operator. In general:
- Airlines: Most allow small dogs in the cabin in a soft carrier. Larger dogs must travel in the hold.
- Trains (like SNCF, ÖBB, DB, Trenitalia): Often allow leashed dogs or those in a pet carrier; larger dogs may require a half-price ticket or muzzle.
🏙️ The Most Dog-Friendly Cities in Europe (2025 Ranking)
Here are the Top 10 Dog-Friendly Cities in Europe, ranked by overall accessibility, pet-friendly infrastructure, and real traveler experiences.
1. Berlin, Germany
- Google Maps
- Berlin boasts hundreds of dog parks, wide sidewalks, and dogs are welcome in most restaurants and cafes.
- Dog highlight: Volkspark Friedrichshain – large off-leash areas and scenic picnic spots
“Our rescue pup had the best time in Berlin! So many friendly dogs and the beer gardens didn’t blink when we brought her in.” – Max, 🇬🇧 from London
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Google Maps
- Known for its relaxed vibe, dogs are allowed on public transport and in most shops.
- Dog highlight: Vondelpark – central, huge, and dog-friendly
“The tram drivers always smiled at our husky. Amsterdam loves dogs!” – Sophie, 🇺🇸 from Chicago
3. Barcelona, Spain
- Google Maps
- With dog-friendly beaches and green space, Barcelona is ideal for urban pups.
- Dog highlight: Parc de la Ciutadella – leash-free zones and lots of locals with dogs
“We brought our Labrador to Park Güell and the locals were so friendly. Everyone had a dog and there were water fountains everywhere!” – Emily, 🇺🇸 visiting Barcelona
4. Paris, France
- Google Maps
- Dogs are seen everywhere—from metro stations to Michelin-starred café terraces.
- Dog highlight: Parc Monceau – calm, shady, and elegant
“Had coffee every morning at a dog-friendly café near Rue Cler. Our poodle was treated like royalty!” – Hannah, 🇨🇦 from Toronto
5. Vienna, Austria
- Google Maps
- Public transport and parks are dog-friendly, with lots of free waste bag stations.
- Dog highlight: Prater Park – vast trails and space to run
“Vienna has leash-free forests just outside the city. It’s a dream for dogs who love to hike!” – Rudi, 🇩🇪 from Munich
6. Copenhagen, Denmark
- Google Maps
- Compact, clean, and with many pet-friendly shops.
- Dog highlight: Søndermarken Park – popular with dog owners and has wooded areas
“So clean and dog-friendly. The parks were peaceful and everyone had a pooch!” – Lea, 🇸🇪 from Stockholm
7. Lisbon, Portugal
- Google Maps
- Steadily becoming more dog-friendly with new pet cafés and beaches
- Dog highlight: Monsanto Forest Park – huge, green, and perfect for adventurous pups
“Lisbon is hilly but amazing for dogs. Ours loved the forest trails above the city.” – Nathan, 🇦🇺 from Sydney
8. Rome, Italy
- Google Maps
- History meets hospitality. Dogs are welcome in many piazzas and cafes.
- Dog highlight: Villa Doria Pamphili – Rome’s largest landscaped park
“Our beagle had a blast chasing pigeons near the Colosseum (on leash, of course!).” – Rachel, 🇺🇸 from NYC
🎒 Practical Tips for Traveling Europe with Your Dog
1. Keep Digital & Paper Records
Always carry your pet’s documents in paper and digital formats (e.g., scanned passport, health certificate).
2. Bring Familiar Dog Food
If your dog is sensitive to changes, pack enough of their regular food or research brands available locally.
3. Check Public Transport Rules
Bring a soft carrier or leash + muzzle (for bigger dogs) when riding trains or metros.
4. Know Local Dog Laws
Many countries require leashes in public areas. Check if dog beaches are open (some have seasonal rules).
5. Book Pet-Friendly Accommodations Early
Use filters on booking sites like Booking.com or Airbnb to select “pet allowed” stays.
6. Prepare for the Weather
Bring dog booties for hot pavement in summer or rain gear for northern countries.
7. Be Respectful of Local Etiquette
Always clean up after your dog and don’t assume indoor places allow pets—ask first!
✈️ Ready to Explore Europe with Your Dog?
With the right documents, preparation, and a tail-wagging attitude, traveling through Europe with your dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. From sun-drenched plazas in Spain to alpine trails in Austria, every destination becomes more meaningful when you have your best friend by your side.
👉 Ready to plan your next adventure? Discover dog-friendly hotels, cafés, and more across Europe on DogCityGuide.com!
