More travellers than ever bring the dog along — and some places make it genuinely easy, with pets welcome on trains, in cafes and on the trails. These nine are the most four-legged-friendly.
1. Switzerland
Possibly the most dog-friendly country in Europe: dogs ride trains, cable cars and boats (often with their own ticket), and the alpine trails are made for them. Bring proof of vaccination and a muzzle for public transport, which some cantons require.
2. Italy
Dogs are part of the family here — welcomed on patios, in many shops, and on regional trains. The Italian Lakes and smaller hill towns are especially relaxed. Beaches vary, so look for a spiaggia per cani (dog beach).
3. Germany
Famously dog-friendly: pups join you in restaurants, beer gardens and on public transport, usually without fuss. Berlin and Munich both have huge parks and off-leash areas. A valid EU pet passport or equivalent makes travel seamless.
4. Austria
Vienna is a dream for dog owners — coffee houses, parks and trams all accommodate them. The Alps offer endless summer hiking with your dog. Dogs need a ticket on public transport and sometimes a muzzle.
5. The Netherlands
Flat, bike-friendly and welcoming, with dogs allowed in many cafes and on trains. Amsterdam’s parks and the wide beaches near The Hague are great for runs. Off-season, most beaches drop their leash rules entirely.
6. France
Dogs accompany their owners to cafe terraces and many restaurants as a matter of course. The countryside — Provence, the Dordogne — is ideal for a road trip with a pet. Carry their paperwork; checks happen at borders.
7. The Lake District, England
A walker’s and dog’s paradise: fells, lakes and famously dog-friendly pubs with water bowls at the door. Many cottages and inns welcome pets. Keep dogs on leads around grazing sheep in spring.
8. Slovenia
Compact, green and easygoing, with dog-friendly trails around Lake Bohinj and the Julian Alps, plus relaxed cafe culture in Ljubljana. Trains and buses accept dogs. A great low-key alternative to busier Alpine countries.
9. San Diego, USA
One of the most dog-friendly cities in America: off-leash beaches (Coronado, Ocean Beach), dog-welcoming patios and a mild climate year-round. Many hotels actively cater to pets. Check beach leash hours, which shift by season.
Before you go
Sort vaccinations, microchipping and the right pet passport or health certificate well in advance — requirements differ by country and are strict at borders. Then pack water, a familiar blanket, and plenty of patience.
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Every destination here is chosen from first-hand visits and independent research — Packzup runs no sponsorships or paid placements.
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Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.