Europe is one of the most pet-welcoming destinations in the world, but not every hotel that calls itself "pet-friendly" actually is.
Here's how to find accommodation that genuinely welcomes your dog or cat, and what to watch out for.
⚠️ "Pet-Friendly" Doesn't Always Mean What You Think
The phrase "pet-friendly" is unregulated.
Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Airbnb all let properties self-tag as pet-friendly without verification, which means a listing could be anything from a five-star hotel with a dedicated pet concierge to a place that grudgingly accepts a dog after a large deposit.
So how do you tell the difference ?
Three indicators that a hotel is genuinely pet-welcoming: the hotel mentions specific pet amenities (bowls, beds, treats) on its website, the pet fee is reasonable (€10–25 per stay, not €75+), and the staff response to your pre-booking email is enthusiastic rather than hesitant.
🐱 Traveling with a Cat ? Always Ask Explicitly
Most "dog-friendly" hotels also accept cats,but this isn't always advertised.
About 80% of dog-accepting hotels will also welcome cats with prior notice.
Never assume: always mention your cat when booking and get written confirmation.
🏨 Best Booking Strategies
Use specialist platforms
General booking sites mix truly pet-friendly properties with those that simply tolerate animals. Dedicated platforms like BringFido filter properties specifically for pet travelers and include real reviews from guests who traveled with their pets.
Chain hotels are a safe bet
Chain hotels offer the most reliable pet-friendly experience because they apply the same policy across every property. Brands like Hilton, Kimpton, and 25hours have solid reputations for welcoming pets across Europe.
Book early and confirm everything in writing
Pet-friendly rooms are limited at most properties. Book as early as possible, and always confirm the pet policy, fees, and any restrictions in writing before you arrive.
💶 What to Budget For
Pet fees in Europe vary widely, from free to €35 or more per night.
Many luxury hotels offer special beds, menus tailored to pet needs, toys, and walking routes, but always inform the hotel in advance about your pet to ensure the best possible welcome.
Some hotels also require a refundable deposit, especially for larger dogs.
Factor this into your budget when planning.
🐾 Tips for a Smooth Stay
- Never leave your pet unattended in the room without checking the hotel policy first — many properties prohibit this.
- Request a ground-floor or corner room for easier outdoor access and less noise disturbance for neighbors.
- Bring a familiar blanket or toy, and consider Adaptil or Feliway sprays to help anxious pets settle in a new environment.
- Always carry your pet's health documents — some hotels may ask to see a current health certificate including microchip number and vaccination record.
Not sure where to start looking ?
Finding the right pet-friendly hotel is just one piece of the puzzle when traveling to Europe with your dog or cat.
At Papattes en Vadrouille, we handle the research so you don't have to, from accommodation to transport, documents to destination tips.
👉 Get in touch and let's plan your perfect European trip together.
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