Things to do with your dog in Barcelona

Things to do with your dog in Barcelona | PetAir UK

Are you planning a trip to Barcelona and want to explore the city with your furry friend? Look no further! Barcelona offers a variety of pet-friendly activities and destinations where you and your beloved pet can create unforgettable memories. Let’s dive into some of the best places to visit and things to do with your pet in this vibrant city:

Dog-Friendly Beach at Llevant Beach:

Located at the very end of Llevant Beach, this tiny section is a haven for pet owners and their furry companions. With a fenced-off area on the sand and buoys in the water to ensure safety, dogs can frolic and play freely while enjoying the refreshing Mediterranean breeze. There’s even a water fountain for dogs to stay hydrated. While it’s a bit further from the bustling Barceloneta beaches, Llevant Beach is still easily accessible from the city center, making it a convenient spot for a beach day with your pet.

Pet-Friendly Public Transportation:

Traveling around Barcelona with your pet is a breeze thanks to the pet-friendly policies on buses and the metro. Pets are allowed on buses and the metro as long as they are kept in a suitable carrier. Additionally, dogs can travel on the metro without a carrier, but they must be leashed and muzzled at all times. Just ensure that your pet is microchipped and that their documents are up to date. While pets are not permitted on the metro during busier times, exploring Barcelona’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods with your furry companion is both convenient and enjoyable.

Alfresco Dining and Pet-Friendly Restaurants:

Barcelona’s Mediterranean climate makes it the perfect destination for outdoor dining year-round. Many pavement cafés and terraces welcome pets, allowing you to enjoy delicious cuisine while soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. During the winter months, outdoor terraces are equipped with heaters to keep you and your pet warm and cozy. Additionally, several pet-friendly restaurants in Barcelona even offer special menus for pets, ensuring that your furry friend can dine in style alongside you.

Pet-Friendly Shopping Centers:
Explore Barcelona’s shopping scene with your pet in tow at pet-friendly shopping centers such as Westfield Glòries, Las Arenas, Westfield La Maquinista, and Maremagnum. While some shops within these centers may allow pets at the discretion of the shop owner, you can always enjoy dining alfresco at the restaurant terraces with your four-legged friend by your side.

Barcelona truly embraces pet-friendly living, offering a wealth of opportunities for you and your furry companion to explore and enjoy the city together.

Planning a trip with your beloved pet can be both exciting and overwhelming. There are travel regulations and safety considerations to keep in mind, but that’s where PetAir, the experts in pet relocation services, comes in. We understand the unique challenges that come with travelling with pets and are dedicated to ensuring their well-being throughout.

Where to take your dog in Malta

Where to take your dog in Malta | PetAir UK

From dog-friendly beaches and parks, to historic sites and nature trails, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Malta. This European archipelago is brimming with Mediterranean charm and is a great destination for dog lovers.  

Two Buoys

This Australian-inspired cafe overlooking the bay in St Julian’s is a popular breakfast & brunch spot. The fresh, vibrant dishes include items like pancakes, salads, steak, tacos & burgers. The staff are very pet-friendly and dogs will be well looked after. Please note that the cafe is closed on Mondays.

Zonqor Point

This dog-friendly beach in Marsascala is said to be one of the largest on the island. Although the terrain here is rocky, it is still easy to get onto the beach. Access to the sea is manageable for humans and dogs thanks to a series of ladders and handrails. 

dog friendly malta

Nadur and Rihan Valley Circular hike

This easy circular trail takes around 1.5 hours to complete. It’s a popular route for mountain biking, hiking and bird watching but it remains fairly quiet year-round. Dogs are permitted on this route and are allowed to be off-leash in some areas.

Żabbar dog park

This dog park opened in 2019 after an $80,000 investment from the local council. Dogs can enjoy the numerous agility facilities featured in this fully fenced dog park. There are plenty of trees in the park to provide shade and benches for humans to rest on. 

PetShopMalta.com

This online pet shop also has a physical location in Swatar. Open during the week from 8am-7pm and until lunchtime at the weekend, this pet shop offers all you could ever want for your four-legged friends. From food to toys to home accessories, the shop also has an onsite groomers to keep your pets looking great too.

Pet Mania Dog Bakery

This family-owned bakery specialises in all-natural homemade dog treats. Containing no soy, corn or wheat and without added preservatives, sugar and salt, these treats are a great choice for your four-legged friend. If you’re looking for a special way to celebrate an occasion with your dog, this is the place to go. 

So whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Malta.

New government deal has made it easier to take your pet to Northern Ireland

New government deal has made it easier to take your pet to Northern Ireland | PetAir UK

If you want to take your pet to Northern Ireland, a new government deal potentially has just made it much easier. Though this will be subject to the NI government agreeing to the proposals.

What was the old deal?

A previous deal made by former Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, meant that pet transportation from the UK to Northern Ireland was a difficult and arduous task. It created a “hard border” between Northern Ireland and the UK. As such, the Northern Ireland Protocol meant that the country was subject to the rules of the EU Single Market. This meant that businesses would have to fill out complex customs declarations. This increased the costs of importing and exporting goods. Current Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, told the Independent:

“Core to the problems with the protocol was that it treated goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland as if they were crossing an international customs border.”

Under the previous deal, if you were travelling with pets from Great Britain, there was a long list of requirements to ensure that you complied with the EU Pet Travel Scheme. This included tapeworm treatment, pet passports and a rabies vaccination. As well as “a single use EU animal health certificate confirming microchip and vaccinations”. The health certificate alone would set you back around £180 as it required an official veterinarian for sign off.

take your pet to Northern Ireland

What does the new treaty cover?

But following a recent meeting between the Prime Minister and the European Commission President, The Windsor Framework may now replaced the old Northern Ireland Protocol. The new policy should allow free-flowing trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. It also aims to fix the practical problems that the old treaty created for the people and businesses of Northern Ireland. As well as benefitting pet owners, it reduces the costs and paperwork of importing and exporting for food retailers and for families sending parcels to loved ones.

What do I need to take my pet to Northern Ireland now?

Under the new treaty, pet travel has been made much simpler. Owners will no longer need a pet passport or have to pay for costly health treatments or certifications. Owners travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain won’t need to do anything. British pet owners will only need to ensure that their pet is microchipped in order to visit Northern Ireland. This is a legal requirement for dogs in the UK already. Therefore it should not incur any additional costs for dog travel. Pet owners are also able to sign up online for a travel document that will be valid for life. The document will also be built into the booking systems for flying with pets or taking the ferry. 

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told Parliament:

“A pet owner travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland just needs to make sure that their pet is microchipped and then they will simply need to tick a box when booking their travel.”

Where to take your dog in Greece

Where to take your dog in Greece | PetAir UK

If you’re thinking of travelling with dogs, you’d be hard pushed to find a better location than Greece. The ancient nation boasts beautiful landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of pet-friendly places to visit. Whether you stick to the mainland or explore one of the many islands, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Greece. 

Hike in Keri, Zakynthos

Although this 5km loop is considered moderately challenging, you’ll be richly rewarded with some truly stunning views! Starting off in the picturesque village of Keri, you’ll meander uphill through farmland, surrounded by olive trees, grapes and goats. The route will then take you along the coastline to one of the most popular viewpoints on the island and along to Keri lighthouse. Dogs are welcome to join you for this hike and are permitted to be off-leash in some areas.

Peach Boy, Thessaloniki

This dog-friendly coffee shop is trendy and sleek and the perfect spot to get your caffeine fix. There are two locations in Thessaloniki. The menu features bagels, cinnamon buns and açai bowls. They also serve Okiedoggie treats for your four-legged friends.

taking your dog to greece

Philopappos Hill, Athens

With incredible views across to the Parthenon and the Acropolis, the view from Philopappos Hill is hard to beat. The walk features several archaeological sites of interest, including the Philopappos monument, which dates back to 114 A.D. As you make the short walk to the summit, the narrow cobblestone alleys wind through a dusty landscape of olive trees and pines. It’s easy to see why this is one of the city’s most popular dog walking spots! The great thing about pet travel is that you get to share these experiences with your furry friend.

Venetsanos Winery, Santorini

Carved into the hillside, this dog-friendly winery offers stunning views over the caldera cliffs and Aegean Sea. Enjoy a wine tasting and some light food in the Main Hall Terrace or spend the evening dining on the sunset terrace. Booking is advisable however as it can get very busy. 

Whatever you like doing, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Greece.

Where to take your dog in Munich

Where to take your dog in Munich | PetAir UK

If the thought of Munich immediately conjures up images of beer and lederhosen, you’re not alone. While Munich is world-famous for its annual Oktoberfest and is home to many of the countries largest breweries, there’s so much more to discover here in this Bavarian city. With its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant culture, Munich is an ideal destination for dog-lovers.

The 1972 Olympic Games declared the dachshund as the official mascot and it has become a symbol for the city. So it’s no surprise that Munich is one of the most dog-friendly cities in Germany. With many restaurants welcoming pups and loads of green space for running around, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Munich.

Englischer Garten

Translated as ‘English Garden’, this 910 acre park in the centre of the city is a great dog-friendly place for your dog to get some air. Dogs are permitted to be off their leash in the park and can even enjoy a refreshing swim in the canal. It’s also the home of Mini Hofbräuhaus which serves some excellent refreshments.

Hellabrunn Zoo

If you fancy introducing your pup to some other four-legged species, why not visit the zoo? They’ve got a fantastic range of animals from Asian elephants to gorillas. Dogs must be kept on a leash while inside the zoo and they aren’t permitted into the animal houses. You may only take one dog per visitor.

Walk the banks of the Isar

The Isar river offers a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city. This 6km loop trail takes you through the meadows and forest that line the river – you can even pop in for a dip to cool off! It’s a popular route so you’ll need to be mindful of cyclists and other path users.

Hofbrauhaus

This 400 year old beer hall has a colourful and exciting history. Lenin and Mozart are said to have been regular customers here. Hitler gave his first speech to the National Socialist Party within these very walls. These days, it sits as one of the city’s main tourist attractions and serves up a raft of delicious beers and traditional Bavarian cuisine. It’s very dog-friendly and staff will offer water and fuss over your four-legged friends as you dine.

So whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Munich.

Where to take your dog in Toulouse, France

Where to take your dog in Toulouse, France | PetAir UK

Situated in the picturesque southwestern region of the country, Toulouse offers a delightful mix of rich history and vibrant culture. Known as the ‘La Ville Rose’ thanks to its unique churches built of blushing pink bricks and terracotta shop fronts, Toulouse is a picture postcard wonderland. 

With more than 80 dedicated dog-friendly spaces, the city of Toulouse is a great place to take your dog in France. So whatever you enjoy doing, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Toulouse, France.

The Twin Bridges walk

This 5km circular walk is located north-west of central Toulouse. Starting from the Avenue de l’Ancien Vélodrome, this easy route takes you along the banks of the tree-lined La Garonne canal as well as through some more urban areas. Dogs are welcome to join you but must be kept on a lead.

Maskotte

This concept pet store is located in the centre of Toulouse and is open from 10am-7pm Tuesday-Saturday. (Please note that they also close for lunch!) As well as offering a fantastic range of quirky and unique items for cats & dogs, the shop also features a self-service grooming area. Opened in April 2023, owner Flovia provides excellent customer service as you browse their collection of ‘well thought out, beautiful and fun’ gifts and products for your pet.

dog friendly toulouse france

Jardin Royal

This park is 1.7 hectares of peace and tranquility in the south easy of the city. Created in 1754, it was the first public garden in the city. It is free to enter and features a range of exotic tree species, a pretty bridge and a lake with a duck house in the centre. You can also find a statue celebrating The Little Prince in memory of its author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. There are two designated dog areas within the park.

Place du Capitole

Take a leisurely stroll around the Place du Capitole, the iconic main square of Toulouse. You’ll need to keep your dog on a leash as you navigate the bustling streets and soak in the atmosphere. Spend the afternoon exploring the local shops, cafes and restaurants. Find a nice spot with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a drink or a light lunch with your pet by your side.

Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Toulouse, France.

Where to take your dog in Germany

Where to take your dog in Germany | PetAir UK

Germany is a country that conjures up a lot of inspiring imagery in the mind of a hopeful traveller. With fairytale castles hidden in deep wooded forests, and cities containing palaces and other cultural delights, it’s a feast for the senses. And a feast for the stomach too! Known for incredible beer, sausages and rich, hearty cuisine, you certainly won’t go hungry when you visit! Although recent studies reveal that cats are the most popular pet in Germany, you can be sure that your dog will also receive a warm welcome. Dogs are welcome on most forms of public transport and are expected to be on their best behaviour at all times! Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Germany.

DogTap, Berlin

From master brewers, BrewDog, DogTap Berlin is the Scottish brewery’s European HQ. And it’s a beer-drinking dog-owners paradise. With freshly brewed beer on tap and a huge menu catering for all dietary needs, you could spend an entire day here with no problem. There’s an interactive beer museum on site, as well as a bowling alley, beer school, mini golf and shuffle board. And the best part, there’s a dog park! It’s completely fenced off so you can enjoy your brew knowing that your four-legged friend is safe and happy.

Nanstein Castle Ruins, Landstuhl

This 3-mile circular hike in west Germany takes you around not one, but two historical ruins. A UNESCO site, the Palatinate forest is a biosphere reserve featuring dense forests and was the first of its kind in Europe. Starting from the community centre in the town of Landstuhl, you’ll pass the medieval ruins of Nanstein Castle, which was originally built around 1152 for King Frederick I. You’ll then pass the Roman ruins of Heidenfelsen and the Pagan springs. Dogs are welcome to join you on this route and may be off-leash in some areas. Although it’s a short route, and described as ‘family-friendly’, it’s also considered moderately challenging due to the hilly terrain.

dog friendly germany

Amelie’s Wohnzimmer, Frankfurt

This cute & quirky cafe in Frankfurt has a bright, creative menu featuring hearty breakfast dishes, soups, stews and daily specials made using local ingredients. It’s child-friendly, pet-friendly and has plenty of vegan and vegetarian options available. The cafe will give your dog some water and even treat them to a slither of sausage.

Dog Christmas Market, Hamburg

Yes, you read that correctly. Hamburg has its very own dedicated dog Christmas market. The ‘Hamburger Hundeweihnachtsmarkt’ features numerous stalls selling various doggy treats, gifts and goodies. It’s the perfect place to pick up a present for your pooch, or the dog lover in your life. There’s a dog photographer onsite to snap the perfect picture and plenty of food and drink stands to keep you well fed and watered!

Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Germany.

Where to take your dog in Ireland

Where to take your dog in Ireland | PetAir UK

With its lush landscapes, rich history and dog-friendly culture, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Ireland. With 25% of households owning a pet dog, you’ll find the Emerald Isle very welcoming to your four-legged friend. Explore the birthplace of Oscar Wilde and discover the many medieval castles dotted around the countryside, knowing that a pint of Guinness awaits at the local pub. 

Devil’s Glen walk, County Wicklow

This circular 5 mile walk in County Wicklow, just south of Dublin, has it all. Beautiful woodlands, stunning hilltop views and a waterfall to top it all off! This moderately challenging loop takes around 2.5 hours to complete and is mostly a well-trodden, popular path using some access roads. Dogs are welcome and can be off-leash in some areas.

The Secret Garden, Galway

This family-owned tea shop is about as cute and cosy as they come. There are over 100 different varieties of tea on offer and a menu of delicious cakes to choose from, with plenty of vegan and gluten free options too. There is a charming outdoor courtyard strung with fairy lights to relax in.

Where to take your dog in Ireland

Johnstown Castle, Wexford

This gothic-revival castle is set on an 120-acre estate in Wexford. The fairytale-esque castle dates back more than 800 years and features wood panelling, crystal chandeliers and an 86-metre servants passageway. The ornamental gardens are stunning and make for a lovely afternoon strolling around the lake admiring the follies and statues. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. The cafe, shop, visitor centre and gardens allow dogs inside but the castle and museum do not.

The Harbour Bar, County Wicklow

Established in 1872, this local institution has a history as varied and colourful as its interior. Open from 12pm daily, with a busy schedule of ever-changing live acts, it really is a vibrant venue. As you’d expect from an Irish pub, there’s a roaring fire, cosy armchairs and board games galore in ‘The Good Room’, a quieter ‘snug’ area and an outdoor heated beer garden where your dog can join you for a pint. They serve food from 1pm-9pm daily, offering classic fish and chips and hearty toasties.

Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Ireland.

Where to take your dog in Austria

Pet travel and relocation | PetAir UK

A glorious mix of historical cities and natural playground, Austria has something for everyone. Spend the day soaking up the history and culture of Salzburg and Vienna or have an adventure in the mountains. Situated in the Eastern Alps, the natural playground offers a wealth of hiking, biking, river rafting, skiing or snowboarding. Public transport in Austria is super dog-friendly so you’ve got no excuse not to explore a little (or a lot!). Whatever you’re into, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Austria.

Cafe Sacher, Vienna

If you’ve started researching a trip to Vienna at all then it’s likely you’ve already come across Cafe Sacher. It’s home to the original Sachertorte, the chocolate cake famously created for Prince Metternich in 1832. Housed inside Hotel Sacher, the entire establishment is dog-friendly and open from 8am-8pm daily. 

Dog beach at Lake Hallstatt 

This town looks like it’s come straight from a postcard and is a great place to explore with your dog. Originally a salt mining town, this picture-perfect destination offers plenty of leisure activities. The dog beach area is located between Hallstatt and Obertraun and has a public toilet for humans and a waste station for dogs. It’s a fantastic place to cool off in the refreshing lake water with your pup.

where to take your dog in austria

Hohe Tauern National Park

This national park is home to Austria’s highest peak. Additionally, it’s the largest protected area in the Alps. It’s full of dog-friendly accommodation and the website has a great list of dog-friendly lakes where you can go for a swim. If hiking is your thing, there’s a 9.2km easy loop near Matrei that allow dogs off-leash in some areas. 

Zum Zirkelwirt, Salzburg

Looking for traditional Austrian food in a relaxed, rustic setting that serves fantastic beer? This is it, and it’s dog-friendly to boot. Fill your belly with Weiner Schnitzel or beef goulash with dumplings while sipping a delicious, local draft beer. 

So whatever you enjoy doing, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Austria.

We can assist with taking pets to Austria and make it a hassle-free experience for you. Find out more here and get in touch today.

Where to take your dog in Venice, Italy

Where to take your dog in Venice, Italy | PetAir UK

The city of Venice is built on a lagoon, connected by a series of canals. It’s known around the world for its waterways which act as roads around the city. Filled with incredible architecture, the entire city appears to be crafted from marble. Dine on indulgent seafood while sipping Prosecco, or work your way through a table of lavish small plates, known as chiccetti. It’s a truly enchanting city. Dogs travel free on the boats that wind the canals so you can explore it to your heart’s content. You’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Venice, Italy.

Bacarretto

This cosy Sicilian restaurant serves the most incredible food. The menu changes daily to make the most of the freshest ingredients available. You can expect to find traditional pasta dishes as well as a range of small chiccetti dishes. The ceiling is decorated with the artwork of children who have dined there. Dogs are also welcome to join you. 

Parco delle Rimembranze

This large, scenic park is away from the hustle and bustle of the busy tourist spots. Located by the waters edge in the east of the city, on the island of Sant’Elena. The park offers stunning views of Bacino di San Marco. As the name suggests, this remembrance garden has been planted with trees that each commemorate a fallen solider from World War II. The park has a children’s play area as well as several sports courts. It is a popular place for dog walkers and joggers.

where to take your dog in venice, italy

Celeste pet shop

Open since 2015, Celeste is tucked down a small side street and stocks everything you could need for your four-legged friend. Don’t be fooled by the small interior, inside you’ll find food, bedding, clothing, collars and grooming supplies.

Lido di Venezia

This barrier island is famous for hosting the annual Venice Film Festival but it’s also home to 11km of stunning beaches. Although there are designated dog beaches, the locals don’t seem to take much notice. You’ll also find some hotels and resorts offering access to their own private beaches with agility courses and dog showers available. 

Walk around Dorsoduro

The area of Dorsoduro is home to the university campus and as a result, offers a more authentic Venetian neighbourhood feel. It’s home to some great bars as well as some more casual restaurants where you can enjoy fantastic food without the tourist price tag. This 5km easy out-and-back route will take around an hour to complete and offers some fantastic views at the far point.

So whatever you enjoy, you’ll find plenty to do with your dog in Venice, Italy.

Looking to take your pet to Italy? Find out all the information you need here and get in touch today!