Top pet-friendly destinations in Spain
Spain offers a wealth of destinations that are perfect for holidays with your pet. From bustling cities to tranquil coastal towns, here are some of the best places to consider:
- Barcelona: A city that effortlessly blends history, culture and modernity, Barcelona is incredibly pet-friendly. Many of its beaches, such as Playa de Llevant, have designated pet areas. Park Güell, with its whimsical architecture by Gaudí, allows pets on a lead and is the perfect spot for a scenic walk. The city also has many pet-friendly cafes and restaurants, particularly in the Gothic Quarter and El Born.
- Madrid: The Spanish capital is home to extensive parks and green spaces where pets are welcome. El Retiro Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is ideal for long walks. The city also has an abundance of pet-friendly hotels and restaurants. On Sundays, visit the Rastro flea market, where pets are more than welcome to accompany you as you browse.
- Valencia: Known for its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences and beautiful Turia Gardens, Valencia is a great destination for pet owners. The city's beaches, such as Playa Can in Pinedo, are pet-friendly at certain times of the year. Valencia also has many pet-friendly restaurants, especially in the trendy Ruzafa district.
- Costa del Sol: Stretching along the Andalusian coast, the Costa del Sol is famous for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches. Towns such as Marbella and Malaga offer many pet-friendly hotels and apartments. Many beaches, such as Playa El Castillo in Fuengirola, have areas where pets are allowed all year round.
- Costa Brava: This rugged coastline in Catalonia is perfect for adventurous pets. The region offers stunning coastal paths, charming fishing villages and pet-friendly beaches such as Playa de la Rubina in Empuriabrava. Stay in one of the many pet-friendly hotels or villas dotted along the coastline.
- Ibiza: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Ibiza is also surprisingly pet-friendly. The quieter northern part of the island is ideal for a peaceful retreat with your pet. Many hotels and villas allow pets, and there are plenty of pet-friendly beaches and parks to explore.
A family holiday isn't a family holiday without your pet.
Pet-friendly accommodations in Spain
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay with your pet, Spain offers a variety of options to suit all budgets and preferences:
- Luxury hotels: For those looking to splurge, many luxury hotels in Spain offer top-notch pet services. Properties such as the Hotel Suites Albayzin del Mar 4* in Almuñécar, Costa Tropical is a great option in the south of Spain.
- Boutique hotels: Smaller, boutique hotels often offer a more personalised experience for you and your pet. Places like the Only YOU Boutique Hotel in Madrid and the Hotel Do Placa Reial in Barcelona are known for their pet-friendly policies and unique charm.
- Self-catering apartments: If you prefer the flexibility of self-catering, there are many pet-friendly apartments available on Jump2spain.com. These are ideal for longer stays and provide the comfort of a home away from home for you and your pet. We recommend the Puerta del Sur Apartments in Seville!
- Rural retreats: For a tranquil escape, consider staying in a rural retreat or farmhouse. Regions such as Andalusia and Catalonia have many pet-friendly rural properties, often set in picturesque landscapes perfect for outdoor activities.
- Hotels with great family discounts: This is the ultimate combination, a hotel that is both family-friendly and pet-friendly. The Hotel Alua Tenerife offers incredible discounts for kids!
Activities and Attractions for You and Your Pet
Spain's diverse landscapes and rich culture mean there's no shortage of activities to enjoy with your pet:
- Beach days: Spain is home to many pet-friendly beaches where your pet can frolic in the surf. In addition to Playa de Llevant in Barcelona, other notable pet-friendly beaches include Playa El Cable in Marbella and Cala del Xarco in Alicante.
- Nature walks and hikes: From the Pyrenees to the Sierra Nevada, Spain offers a variety of walking trails that are perfect for exploring with your pet. The Montseny Natural Park near Barcelona and the Caminito del Rey in Malaga are just a few examples of pet-friendly hiking spots.
- City parks: City parks such as Madrid's Casa de Campo and Valencia's Turia Gardens offer plenty of space for pets to run and play. These parks often have designated dog areas and are a great place to meet other pet owners.
- Cultural visits: Many cultural sites in Spain are pet-friendly, especially outdoor attractions. The Alhambra in Granada allows pets in its gardens, and many historic towns such as Ronda and Segovia are ideal for exploring with your pet.
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Pet-friendly dining
Eating out with your pet is easy in Spain thanks to the many pet-friendly cafés and restaurants:
- Outdoor terraces: In most cities, you'll find that pets are welcome on outdoor terraces. This is common in places like Barcelona's Gracia district and the bustling squares of Madrid.
- Pet-friendly cafés: Some cafés go above and beyond to welcome pets, providing water bowls and treats. Notable examples include Café Mür in Madrid and La Esquina in Barcelona.
- Specialized restaurants: Some restaurants cater specifically for pet owners, allowing pets in and offering pet menus. In Seville, you can visit El Perro y La Galleta, a restaurant renowned for its pet-friendly policy.
Tips for safe travel with your pet
It is important to ensure your pet's comfort and safety when travelling. Here are some tips:
Before you travel:
- Check with your vet: Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and has a clean bill of health.
- Pet passport: For international travel, make sure your pet has a pet passport and meets all entry requirements for Spain.
- Packing essentials: Bring your pet's favourite toys, bedding and sufficient food and water for the holiday.
While travelling:
- Car travel: Use a pet seat belt or secure crate to keep your pet safe in the car.
- Air travel: Check the airline's pet policy. Some airlines allow pets in the cabin if they meet size requirements, while others may require pets to travel in the cargo hold.
- Public transport: In Spain, pets are usually allowed on trains and buses if they are in carriers. Always check the pet policy of the transport company.
At your destination:
- Acclimatize slowly: Allow your pet to become accustomed to the new environment gradually.
- Establish a routine: Try to maintain your pet's regular feeding and walking schedule to reduce stress.
- Local vets: Research local vets in case of an emergency.
Find great hotels for travelling to Spain with your pet with Jump2spain.com. Whether you're relaxing on the beach, hiking scenic trails or dining in a cosy café, Spain has something for everyone. Let us help you find the best deals on pet-friendly hotels and plan the perfect trip to ensure a seamless holiday.