For those who cannot bear to leave their four-legged pal behind, they’ll discover that there are few more dog-friendly or pet-friendly holiday destinations than Italy. Lots of businesses and attractions allow your furry family member to come along with you and we have plenty of pet-friendly vacation rentals in Italy here at Italy Villas so don’t compromise, enjoy your well-earned getaway and bring your pet along with you to be part of those precious memories...
Getting Into Italy
For those trying to enter Italy with a pet, there are simply some guidelines and requirements necessary to be admitted. However, as long as you have those organised, you should not have any problem brining your pet with you into Italy.
If you are coming from an EU country with your dog you will need to ensure:
- that your pet is microchipped.
- that you have a pet passport.
- that your pet has a valid rabies vaccine.
If you are coming from outside the EU with your pet, then there may be some additional steps to keep in mind:
- depending on the country that you are coming from you may also need a rabies antibody titration test 30 days after your dog is vaccinated for rabies (if they have just been vaccinated for the first time) but no less than 3 months before arrival in Europe.
- for more detailed info from the EU, see this page.
Pet-Friendly Villas
Once you’ve figured out your arrival, the next most important thing is where you will be staying.
Thankfully, we have over 2,000 pet-friendly vacation rentals in Italy located all across the country. This means that you should have no problem finding a property in your desired location and to suit your needs that will also accept your pet.
Bringing Your Pet Into Italian Businesses
Eateries
If you are looking to grab a bite with your pet in tow, you shouldn’t have much of a problem. Some businesses may have a “No Dogs” sign in the window but many restaurants and cafes will allow your pal to come along with you without an issue. While some places will also allow dogs indoors, it is generally easier for everyone if you can take a seat outside. If in doubt, simply ask the waiter upon approach as it is usually expected to be seated by a member of staff anyway.
Shops
It is not uncommon to see dogs in clothing, beauty, and other sorts of shops in Italy. Again, asking or scoping a place out to see if you see others with dogs is a good way to get a lay of the land.
Some grocery stores even allow you to enter with your dog, something that is unusual in other parts of Europe.
Public Transportation
Dogs are also allowed on most kinds of public transportation in Italy but with some considerations:
- Muzzles are required for buses but this is often not enforced. Just make sure you have one at the ready, should you need it.
- Leashes are required.
- Smaller dogs can be carried.
- It is also a good idea to keep your dog’s paperwork on you at all times, should you need it.
- For Trenitalia trains small dogs go free with a carrier on all classes of train. Larger dogs must be leashed and muzzled and require a small additional fee as a special dog ticket (between one and five euros).
- Larger dogs may be restricted on local transport options (buses, metros, trams) in some cities so check before you plan day-trips!
- Dogs and other pets are also allowed on vaporetti if you are visiting Venice and can be brought along for free, but should be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle. Small dogs or cats should be carried or kept in a pet carrier, and larger dogs must stay on the floor.
Attractions
While not allowed in all attractions, it is not uncommon for dogs to be allowed entry into archaeological sites in Italy such as Pompeii, some gardens like the Villa D’Este and some parks (though not all!), hiking trails, many beaches, and historic city or town centres. Again, checking online before arrival for specific attractions will help you avoid disappointment but you should find plenty to do with your furry pal!
So, book your pet-friendly holiday rental in Italy and plan a trip with the whole family.