Best Dog Vacations – If you don’t leave your pets when you go out to eat or for a walk with friends, why leave them when you go on vacation? After all, they need as much relaxation as you do, without losing you!
Below we have compiled the best destinations where you can have the most fun with your furry friends. Discover our dog-friendly getaways for your next vacation!
Best Dog Vacations
In Europe, some destinations stand out as particularly dog-friendly, offering a warm welcome to their furry companions and their owners. While the level of dog acceptance can vary, some regions stand out for offering pet-friendly amenities and accommodations, making them top options for travelers looking for pet-friendly vacation spots. Here are the best options:
Best Off The Beaten Path Pet Friendly Trips
Slovenia, located between Italy and Croatia, is a fascinating European destination known for its scenic natural beauty, such as Lake Bled, beautiful castles, outdoor adventures, rich history, prolific wine culture, and a pet-friendly environment. Traveling with your dog in Slovenia is easy, as many accommodations, restaurants and outdoor spaces are pet-friendly.
To ensure a hassle-free trip, get a valid canine distemper vaccination certificate for your dog, keep your pet on a leash in public areas, and be prepared to clean up after yourself. However, you should research specific destinations for additional pet rules.
Croatia, especially Crikvenica, has a dog-friendly coastal paradise. The special dog beach welcomes all breeds to have fun by the sea and make potential friends. Then treat your pup to a dog-friendly beer while you enjoy the sunset. The dog-friendly charm of Croatia guarantees an unforgettable vacation for you and your furry friend.
Another coastal region, Istria, offers beautiful nature, historic cities, ancient architecture and pristine beaches, and is also very pet-friendly: most stays are pet-friendly accommodations. Transit in Croatia can be complicated due to limited train services and uncertain bus policies regarding dogs. While some journeys go smoothly, others can leave you stranded if drivers refuse pets. Despite the challenges, Croatia is still worth a visit, just be prepared for potential traffic issues.
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Ticino, in southern Switzerland, is generally considered a dog-friendly destination. The region offers many outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes that are ideal for exploring with your furry friend. Many parks, trails and green spaces in Ticino welcome dogs and offer many opportunities to enjoy walks, hikes and nature together, such as the Path of Olives in Lugano.
In addition to outdoor activities, Ticino also offers pet-friendly accommodation, restaurants and cafes where dogs are often welcome. However, it is recommended to check with individual properties about their pet policies before visiting.
Although Ticino is dog friendly, it is essential to pay attention to local rules and etiquette when taking your dog to public places. This can include keeping your dog on a leash in certain areas, cleaning up after him and being respectful of other visitors and animals.
The Côte d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, offers a mixed experience for travelers with dogs. While some areas and facilities are dog-friendly, others may have restrictions or limited accommodations for pets.
Traveling With Your Pet
In cities such as Nice, Cannes and Antibes you will find some parks, beaches and walking areas where dogs are allowed, but it is essential to check local regulations and signs for specific rules. Some beaches may have designated areas where dogs are allowed, while others may not allow dogs at all.
Many hotels on the Côte d’Azur do not allow pets, although some make exceptions for small dogs or charge an additional fee for cleaning. Likewise, restaurants and cafes may have outdoor tables where dogs are allowed, but it’s always best to ask in advance. However, these vacation rentals ensure the comfort of your furry friends.
Our advice: experience the stunning beauty of Millionaires’ Bay in Antibes. Arrive early at 8am for leisurely hours on the calm waters.
Italy is generally considered a dog-friendly country. Italian culture tends to be pet friendly and you will find that many accommodation, restaurants, cafes and shops allow well-behaved dogs, especially in outdoor areas.
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Dogs are welcome in almost all outdoor areas in Italy: in the background, the picturesque city of Lucca
Italy offers many dog-friendly cities and fantastic holiday destinations such as Lucca and Lake Como to enjoy a holiday with your four-legged friend. Some cities even have designated dog parks where dogs can run and play. However, it is essential to know local regulations regarding dogs in public spaces, as regulations may vary by region.
Many beaches in Italy have specific regulations for dogs, and some allow dogs at certain times of the year or in designated areas. In addition, some beaches have facilities such as dog showers and waste bins to accommodate pet owners.
Our tip: Enjoy a scenic boat trip with your dog on Lake Como, Italy. Discover its charming streets and impressive views. Dogs usually travel free on ferries, but must be leashed and muzzled if they are large.
The Best Dog Friendly Vacation Destinations
Private boat rentals range from $400 to $3000, while public tours offer more affordable options. Anchor the boat to swim in the lake, preferably in the morning or after 2:00 p.m.
1. Long walks: Dogs love to explore new gardens, parks and paths. Take them for long walks to burn off energy and let them discover new aromas.
2. Visit pet-friendly places: Many tourist spots offer dog-friendly areas, including beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor restaurants. Include your pup in your holiday activities.
3. Try new activities: Experiment with activities such as river cruises, kayaking or paddleboarding. Many tour operators allow dogs to participate, providing mental stimulation for your pet and creating lasting memories.
The Most Unbelievable Vacation Experience For Your Dog Is Right On Your Doorstep!
4. Bring his favorite toy: Grab your dog’s favorite toy for comfort and entertainment. Bring chew toys, puzzles and interactive toys for mental stimulation during downtime.
5. Rest and relaxation: While your dog is active, it is essential that he has time to rest and relax. Dogs enjoy lounging in the sun, taking naps, or snuggling with you. Plan moments of relaxation to make the vacation enjoyable for you and your furry friend.
From pet play and agility fields to private areas equipped with pet bowls and luxury welcome kits for your furry companion, these beach destinations have thought of it all. Read on and learn about these amazing European destinations that have the most pet-friendly beaches!
In Croatia, beautiful Crikvenica Beach is a pet-friendly destination, with places like Monty’s Dog Beach and Bar offering unique creations like ice cream and herbal tea to refresh your dog, as well as places to stretch their paws next to sun loungers. ! Other popular holidays in Croatia with separate sections for your pet include Štinjanska Bay in Pula, Brajdica in Rijeka and Kasjuni Beach in Split.
Tips For The Best Pet Friendly Beach Vacations
Crete is not only a paradise for your well-being and relaxation, but it is also a space for your pets to run freely and bathe in the sea. Some pet-friendly beaches in Crete include the attractive pink sand beach of Elafonisi and the less popular Stavros beach with a rugged coastline and low tide perfect for exploring with your dog off-leash.
On the Côte d’Azur, where the coastline is dotted with iconic beaches from all over the world, beaches from Villeneuve Loubet and Cagnes Sur Mer to Menton welcome your pets. The quiet village of Villefranche Sur Mer also has a dedicated dog beach and is a blessing for pet owners on holiday with their four-legged babies. So enjoy the warm sun and beauty of the French Riviera with your pets. If yours is particularly energetic, don’t forget to bring a ball!
Pet-friendly beaches deserve special mention, such as Spiaggia di Pluto, for being the largest dog beach in Italy. Located in Bibione, Veneto, this beach has large umbrellas and sunbeds for the two of you to enjoy the relaxing waves and relaxing sun. Spiaggia di Levante in Caorle, Veneto, is dog-friendly and offers facilities such as waste disposal stations and showers.
Another beach worth mentioning is Dog Beach in San Vincenzo, Tuscany. Also known as the “dog free beach”, this pet-friendly destination has facilities such as separate pet kennels, dog trainers, pet stores and even veterinarians. Bau Beach in Forte dei Marmi welcomes dogs and offers special places to play and swim. It is equipped with facilities such as showers, trash bags and drinking fountains.
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Baba Beach is another great pet-friendly Italian beach in Alassio, Liguria, with a lounge bar and cafe with a private area for your pets to enjoy with parasols with misters, maxi dog cushions and a sumptuous welcome pack for your pet.
In general, all these beaches allow pets freely from October to April, but in all these destinations you have to leave your little friend when the beaches are full and look for him when he does his business there.
The rules for traveling with pets in Europe, especially dogs and cats, were changed on January 1, 2021. It is essential to understand and comply with the new regulations before planning a vacation. But the most important factor to consider is the well-being of your pet when you decide to bring it in or leave it in good care.
Rules for
