Dog-friendly destinations, accommodation and beaches: everything for the perfect holiday with your four-legged friend.
Particularly dog-friendly destinations are Denmark and the Dutch North Sea coast with long beaches, the Black Forest, Tyrol, Lake Garda, the Croatian coast and Rügen on the Baltic Sea. For travel within the EU your dog needs an EU pet passport, a microchip and a valid rabies vaccination; holiday homes with a fenced garden are the most relaxed accommodation.
Having your dog on holiday means more than just logistics. It means shared beach walks at sunrise, hikes through untouched nature and the happy face of your four-legged friend when they see the sea for the first time. No pet sitter, no guilty conscience – instead shared adventures that strengthen the bond.
However, travelling with a dog requires a bit more planning: entry requirements, EU pet passport, dog-friendly accommodation and the right travel first-aid kit. Those who prepare will be rewarded with an unforgettable holiday that is equally relaxing for humans and animals.
This guide shows you the seven best dog-friendly destinations in Europe, gives you all the important tips on entry, health and equipment and helps you plan the perfect holiday with your dog.
From Danish sandy beaches to Tyrolean mountain hikes – these destinations are perfect for holidays with your four-legged friend.
Denmark is the dream destination for dog owners. Endless sandy beaches, designated dog beaches, and in winter (October to March), dogs are allowed to run freely on almost all beaches. Additionally, there is a huge selection of dog-friendly holiday homes with fenced gardens.
The Black Forest is a paradise for hiking with dogs. Well-marked hiking trails lead through forests, over heights, and to waterfalls. Many inns and holiday apartments are dog-friendly, and dogs can splash around at lakes and streams. No entry requirements as it is domestic.
At Lake Garda, there are several official dog beaches (Spiaggia per Cani), such as in Toscolano-Maderno, Peschiera, and Brenzone. Plus, a Mediterranean atmosphere, mild temperatures, and numerous hiking routes in the hinterland. Italy requires an EU pet passport and a valid rabies vaccination.
Croatia has significantly improved in recent years: Many official dog beaches along the coast, crystal-clear water, and affordable prices. Particularly Istria and the Kvarner Bay are dog-friendly. An EU pet passport and rabies vaccination are mandatory, and dogs must be leashed in towns.
The Netherlands is extremely dog-friendly. At many beaches, dogs are allowed to run freely all year round, especially in the off-season. The Dutch take their dogs everywhere – to cafés, shops, and even public transport. Short travel time from Northern Germany.
Tyrol is perfect for mountain hikes with dogs. Well-marked paths, mountain streams for drinking and cooling off, and many alpine huts that welcome dogs. Pleasant temperatures at altitude in summer. An EU pet passport is required, but there is no muzzle requirement on hiking trails.
Rügen offers designated dog beaches, the impressive Jasmund National Park, and kilometres of coastal walks. Many holiday apartments and homes are dog-friendly. As a domestic destination, there are no entry requirements at all – ideal for a spontaneous short trip.
From entry requirements to health precautions – how your dog travels safely and stress-free.
For travel within the EU, the blue EU pet passport is mandatory. It contains the microchip number, vaccination records, and veterinary details. The passport is issued by any veterinarian. Without a passport, entry may be denied or quarantine imposed.
The rabies vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before entry and must not be expired. Many countries do not accept titre testing as a substitute. It is best to check the vaccination status with the veterinarian 4–6 weeks before the trip.
Each country has its own rules: Some require additional treatments against tapeworms (e.g. Finland, Ireland, Norway), others have specific breed restrictions (e.g. Denmark). Always check the current regulations of the destination country in advance.
In some countries and regions, muzzle requirements apply on public transport, at beaches, or generally in towns. Austria, Italy, and Spain have some strict regulations. Always have a well-fitting muzzle on hand.
Dogs tolerate heat worse than humans. Avoid midday heat, walk early in the morning and late in the evening, and always carry water. Hot asphalt can burn paws – perform the hand-back test. Don't forget leishmaniasis protection in the Mediterranean region.
Tick and flea protection, bandaging material, disinfectant spray, diarrhoea medication, and the number of a veterinarian at the holiday location. When travelling to the Mediterranean region: discuss leishmaniasis protection (Scalibor collar or spot-on) with the veterinarian.
What your dog needs on vacation – so you don't forget anything important.
Holiday home, hotel, or campsite – what to consider when booking.
Campsites are often the most dog-friendly option: plenty of space, nature right at your doorstep, and other dog owners as neighbors. Many sites have their own dog showers and dog play areas. However, leash laws apply almost everywhere on the campsite.
4 free HolidayGenie tools help you plan: Holiday Finder, Budget Calculator, Packliste and Reise-Roulette. They run directly in your browser and complement the destination tips on this page.
Frequently asked questions
The best destinations in Europe for a holiday with a dog are Denmark with endless sandy beaches where dogs may run free in winter, the Black Forest with hundreds of kilometres of dog-friendly hiking trails, the Netherlands with its very dog-friendly culture, Tyrol for mountain hikes and the German Baltic coast (e.g. Rügen). In southern Europe, Lake Garda and the Croatian coast have official dog beaches.
Yes, the blue EU pet passport is mandatory for travel within the EU. It contains your dog’s microchip number, all vaccination records and vet details, and any vet can issue it. Without a valid passport, entry may be refused or quarantine imposed. In addition, the rabies vaccination must have been given at least 21 days before entry and must not have expired. Some countries such as Finland and Norway also require a tapeworm treatment.
Holiday homes with a fenced garden are the best choice for dog owners, with a huge selection especially in Denmark and the Netherlands. Detached houses in secluded locations avoid stress with neighbours due to barking. Campsites offer lots of space and nature, and many have dog showers and play areas. Hotels often allow dogs for an extra 10–25 euros a night, but not all have suitable exercise areas. Check other dog owners’ reviews before booking.
Small dogs up to about 8 kg may travel in a carrier in the cabin on most airlines. Larger dogs travel in the air-conditioned hold in special transport crates. Costs range from 35 to 300 euros depending on airline and route. For short distances within Europe, travelling by car is much less stressful for the dog. Some short-nosed breeds (pugs, bulldogs) are not allowed to fly with some airlines because they can develop breathing problems.
The best dog beaches in Europe are in Denmark, where dogs may run free on almost all beaches from October to March. The Netherlands has year-round dog beaches, and many coasts allow dogs off the lead in the off-season. Italy has official dog beaches (spiaggia per cani) on Lake Garda and the Adriatic. Croatia has numerous designated dog beaches along the coast, especially in Istria. In Germany, Rügen and the Baltic coast have dedicated beach sections for dogs.
If you like Holidays with Dogs, you may also enjoy Family Holidays, Camping and Nature Experiences. For every holiday type we show the best destinations with travel season, budget and insider tips.
Find dog-friendly destinations and plan the perfect holiday for humans and dogs.
