Traveling Europe With Your Dog? These 10 Countries Roll Out the Red Carpet

A joyful traveler walking with their golden retriever along a cobblestone European street

Imagine strolling through charming cobblestone streets with your furry best friend by your side, dining al fresco at pet-welcoming cafes, or exploring breathtaking mountain trails without leaving your pup behind. Europe is full of unforgettable adventures, and some countries make it delightfully easy to share them with your dog.

Whether you’re planning a full Eurotrip or just dreaming of a dog-friendly escape, this list of the top 10 most dog-loving European countries will help you find the perfect destination where tails can wag freely and memories are made together. From cozy dog-friendly lodges to parks and public transport that welcome pets with open arms, these places treat your pup like part of the family.

Let’s explore where your next paw-some adventure could take you!

1. France – Where Dogs Are Treated Like Royalty

A small dog resting under a round café table in Paris, with croissants, coffee, and a view of the Eiffel Tower blurred in the background.

France isn’t just the land of fine wine and romantic getaways, it’s also one of the most dog-loving countries in Europe. From Parisian boulevards to sun-soaked southern villages, dogs are a welcome part of everyday life here. The French don’t just tolerate pets; they genuinely embrace them.

Dog-Friendly Accommodations

Whether you’re planning a chic city break or a countryside escape, you’ll find an abundance of hotels, Airbnbs, and even boutique guesthouses that welcome dogs. Many places offer amenities like dog beds, food bowls, and even pet-sitting services. In rural areas, charming farm stays often encourage off-leash roaming and outdoor play, perfect for energetic pups who love to explore.

Welcoming Cafés and Parks

One of the most delightful parts of traveling in France with a dog? Being able to take them almost anywhere. Dogs are commonly seen relaxing under café tables as their humans sip espresso or enjoy a leisurely glass of wine. Many restaurants will offer water bowls and treat dogs like honored guests.In cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux, you’ll find spacious parks with dedicated dog zones, wide walking paths, and plenty of shade. The French countryside is also full of peaceful trails and river walks ideal for sniff-filled strolls.

2. Germany – Clean, Organized, and Totally Dog-Friendly

A hiker with a dog walking through a forest trail in the Black Forest.

Germany is a dream destination for dog lovers who enjoy structure, nature, and easy access to pet-friendly spots. Known for its efficiency and cleanliness, it’s also one of the most accommodating places in Europe when it comes to traveling with dogs.

Plentiful Dog-Friendly Trails

If your pup loves to hike, Germany will feel like paradise. From the scenic Black Forest to the rolling hills of Bavaria and the lakes around Berlin, the country is packed with marked trails that welcome dogs. Many paths offer water sources, rest stops, and gorgeous views, ideal for long walks and full-day adventures.Even in urban areas, green spaces are abundant, with designated areas for dogs to run off-leash and socialize with local pups.

Pet-Friendly Public Transport

Getting around Germany with a dog is refreshingly simple. Most public trains, trams, and buses allow dogs, especially if they’re on a leash or in a carrier. Larger dogs may need a discounted pet ticket, but they’re rarely turned away. Some long-distance train lines even provide pet-friendly compartments to make travel more comfortable.Many stations and stops have grassy areas nearby, and German pet etiquette is strong, clean, respectful, and well-organized.

3. Italy – A La Dolce Vita for You and Your Dog

A dog splashing in shallow turquoise water on a dog-friendly beach in southern Italy

In Italy, dogs are more than pets, they’re part of the famiglia. Whether you're wandering through historic streets, lounging on a beach, or enjoying an outdoor meal, you’ll notice pups are just as welcome as their humans. With its laid-back vibe and love of the good life, Italy is perfect for a relaxed, pet-friendly getaway.

Many Dog-Welcoming Beaches

Sun, sea, and sandy paws? Yes, please. Italy offers numerous designated “bau beaches” (dog beaches) along its stunning coastlines, from Tuscany to Puglia and Sardinia. These beaches often provide water bowls, shaded spots, and sometimes even showers and agility areas for dogs. You and your pup can swim together, relax under an umbrella, and soak up that Mediterranean sun.

Pet-Friendly Hotels and Restaurants

Italians adore dogs, and it shows in their hospitality. You’ll find pet-friendly stays at every price point, from luxurious villas to cozy agriturismos. Many accommodations will greet your dog with a treat, and some even offer pet menus or welcome baskets.When it comes to dining out, alfresco tables are a common sight and dogs are typically welcomed with a smile. Don’t be surprised if the waiter brings your pup a bowl of water before taking your order.

4. The Netherlands – Easygoing Vibes and Pup-Perfect Parks

A Dutch cityscape with a canal, bicycles, and a small dog sitting in a bike basket

If you’re looking for a destination that combines relaxed urban energy with plenty of green space, the Netherlands is a top pick. Known for its laid-back lifestyle and love of outdoor living, it’s a wonderful place to explore on two feet, and four paws.

Dog-Friendly City Parks

Dutch cities may be compact, but they’re full of lush parks where dogs can stretch their legs. Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam all feature expansive green spaces, including off-leash zones and dog-walking trails. In Vondelpark (Amsterdam’s crown jewel), pups are allowed off-leash in many areas and will meet plenty of local friends.Even smaller towns have charming parks or river walks where dogs are warmly welcomed.

Easy-Going Pet Policies

Dogs are often allowed on public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Smaller dogs ride free in carriers, and larger pups are welcome with a low-cost ticket. Dutch culture places a high value on respectful pet ownership, so as long as your dog is leashed and well-behaved, they’re likely to be accepted just about anywhere.Many cafes and shops also allow dogs inside, especially in beach towns or residential neighborhoods. Don’t be surprised to see dogs lounging in store doorways or enjoying lunch at their owner’s feet.

5. Switzerland – Alpine Adventures With Your Four-Legged Explorer

A scenic shot of a dog and its owner overlooking a breathtaking mountain view near a Swiss lake

Switzerland is a haven for nature lovers, and that includes your dog. With its pristine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and endless hiking trails, this country offers a peaceful, refreshing getaway where your pup is more than welcome to tag along.

Scenic Dog-Friendly Hiking Routes

Whether you're trekking through the Swiss Alps or strolling beside a glassy lake, Switzerland’s natural beauty is unmatched. Dogs are allowed on nearly all hiking trails and walking paths, many of which are well-marked, safe, and clean. In summer, you’ll find alpine meadows perfect for sniffing and running; in winter, snow-covered trails offer a magical walk for dogs who love the cold.Bonus: many mountain cable cars and gondolas allow dogs (sometimes for free or with a small fee), making it easy to reach those jaw-dropping viewpoints together.

Pet-Friendly Hotels

Switzerland’s hotels, especially those in mountain towns and lakeside villages, often go above and beyond for pets. Many accommodations provide water bowls, welcome treats, and maps of nearby dog-friendly trails. Some luxury lodges even offer in-room pet services or dog spa packages (yes, really).Restaurants with outdoor seating are generally happy to welcome dogs, especially in resort areas where pets are seen as fellow adventurers.

6. Spain – Sun, Sangria, and Plenty of Tail Wags

A dog lying in the shade of a beach umbrella on a sandy Spanish beach, with sunglasses, a water bowl, and a relaxed owner reading beside them

Spain’s warm hospitality extends to its furry visitors too. With a growing number of dog-friendly beaches, relaxed dining culture, and year-round sunshine, it’s an excellent pick for a vacation that’s both vibrant and paw-sitively welcoming.

Increasing Number of Dog-Friendly Beaches

Spain has been steadily expanding its list of playas caninas, dog beaches that allow pets to run, swim, and play freely. You’ll find some of the best ones along the Costa Brava, Costa del Sol, and the Balearic Islands. These beaches often have clear signage, waste stations, and sometimes even shaded lounging areas for pets.Your dog can cool off in the waves while you soak up the sun—pure bliss.

Welcoming Outdoor Dining Spots

Thanks to Spain’s café culture and beautiful weather, outdoor terraces are everywhere, and dogs are almost always welcome. From seaside tapas bars to cozy mountain village cafés, your pup can relax beside you as you sip sangria and sample local bites.Many restaurants will offer water for dogs without being asked, and locals are usually happy to greet friendly four-legged guests.

7. Austria – A Fairytale Escape for You and Your Pup

A serene alpine meadow with a golden retriever trotting along a trail

With its storybook villages, crisp mountain air, and picture-perfect lakes, Austria offers a peaceful, pet-welcoming escape that feels straight out of a dream. It’s a fantastic destination for dogs who love the outdoors and travelers who appreciate clean, dog-friendly infrastructure.

Beautiful Dog-Friendly Hiking Areas

Austria is a paradise for active dogs. The Austrian Alps are crisscrossed with scenic trails ranging from gentle valley walks to challenging alpine climbs. Dogs are allowed on most trails and in many national parks, as long as they’re leashed and you follow posted guidelines.Summer is perfect for wildflower-strewn hikes, while autumn brings golden forests that are a sensory playground for pups. Even winter travel can be magical, with many snowshoe trails open to dogs.

Dog-Friendly Public Spaces

From Vienna to Salzburg, Austria’s cities offer well-kept green spaces where dogs are welcome to play. Designated “Hundezonen” (dog zones) are common, featuring fenced-off areas, water fountains, and waste bins.You’ll also find a growing number of pet-friendly cafés, shops, and hotels throughout the country. Public transport is dog-friendly too, just be sure to bring a leash and a muzzle for larger breeds, as required by local law (though it’s often loosely enforced for calm dogs).

8. Portugal – Coastal Charm and Laid-Back Pet Vibes

A relaxed outdoor café in Lisbon with a dog at the feet of its owner. Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a bowl of water on the ground create a welcoming vibe

Portugal is the kind of place where time slows down, and that’s perfect when you’re traveling with a dog. With its golden beaches, charming towns, and mild climate, Portugal offers a relaxed, pet-friendly experience that’s easy to fall in love with.

Dog-Friendly Beaches and Parks

Portugal has been making strides in becoming more pet-inclusive, especially when it comes to its beautiful coastline. Several beaches now welcome dogs, particularly during the off-season, and some, like Praia dos Pescadores in Algarve, even allow pups year-round.In cities like Lisbon and Porto, you’ll find green spaces with shaded paths, off-leash zones, and water fountains made just for dogs. It’s the kind of place where your dog can enjoy a mix of ocean breezes and city strolls in the same day.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Whether you’re booking a beachside Airbnb, a rustic vineyard retreat, or a chic city hotel, you’ll find plenty of options that welcome dogs. Many listings now highlight pet-friendly features, like fenced gardens, tiled floors for cooling off, or proximity to scenic walking routes.Portuguese hosts are often genuinely dog-loving and may go out of their way to make your pup feel at home.

9. Sweden – Nature, Tranquility, and a Big Heart for Dogs

A Swedish forest with tall birch trees and a dog sniffing around a mossy trail

If you’re dreaming of peaceful forests, shimmering lakes, and long summer days, Sweden is your dog’s kind of paradise. This Scandinavian gem is deeply connected to nature, and that love extends to pets, who are often treated like family.

Numerous Dog-Friendly Nature Areas

Sweden is packed with wide-open spaces where dogs are not only allowed but encouraged. Thanks to Allemansrätten, the Right of Public Access, you and your pup can roam freely through most natural areas, as long as you respect the environment.You’ll find stunning off-leash trails, dog-welcoming campgrounds, and quiet lakes perfect for a splash or canoe ride. Even in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, nature is always nearby with parks and green belts that feel like mini wilderness escapes.

Pet-Friendly Hotels

Swedish hospitality is famously thoughtful, and many hotels and lodges offer dedicated pet packages. That might include a dog bed, food bowls, and even complimentary treats. Boutique stays in the countryside or along the archipelago are especially likely to welcome pets with open arms.Public transport, including ferries and trains, also allows dogs with minimal restrictions, just leash up and enjoy the ride.

10. United Kingdom – Rolling Hills, Cosy Pubs, and Pup-Loving Culture

A muddy countryside path with rolling green hills and a border collie bounding ahead

Few places make traveling with your dog feel as natural, and delightful, as the UK. From lush countryside walks to historic towns full of charm, the UK is full of places where your dog is not only allowed but genuinely welcomed.

Dog-Friendly Pubs and Parks

The UK is famous for its dog-friendly pub culture. Whether you're in a sleepy village or a bustling city, chances are you’ll find a local pub where your pup can join you by the fireplace while you enjoy a pint. Many pubs even offer “dog menus,” treats behind the bar, and a scratch behind the ears from the staff.Public parks are equally accommodating. London alone has hundreds of green spaces like Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath, with designated off-leash areas and water access. Across the country, the scenery is just as stunning, from the Lake District’s rugged trails to the coastal paths of Cornwall.

Numerous Walking Trails

This is where the UK truly shines. With thousands of miles of public footpaths and trails, you’ll never run out of places to explore. Dogs are welcome on most walking routes, and countryside signage often notes whether fields contain livestock (where leashing is required).Popular long-distance trails like the Cotswold Way or South West Coast Path are perfect for slow travel with your furry friend, offering cozy stops in pet-friendly inns along the way.

Ready to Pack Your Bags (and the Treats)?

A dog with travel essentials and a map with travel destinations

Traveling through Europe with your dog isn’t just possible, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world. These ten dog-loving countries offer more than just pet-friendly accommodations; they open the door to shared adventures, scenic walks, and memories that’ll have both you and your pup wagging your tails long after the trip ends.

Whether you’re dreaming of beach days in Spain, alpine hikes in Switzerland, or pub lunches in the English countryside, there’s a perfect spot out there for you and your four-legged travel buddy.

So grab that leash, pack a few essentials, and start planning your next European escape, one where your dog is welcome every step of the way.