Dog-Friendly Ferries to Europe with DFDS
Planning a trip to Europe with your dog? Our ferries to Europe provide a comfortable journey for all the family with fantastic daily entertainment, excellent restaurants and pet-friendly amenities on board. We also offer overnight sailings to give you full flexibility. So, bring your vehicle and as much luggage as you like, and enjoy your journey.
Travel to Europe quickly and comfortably with our ferries to France. Our Dover to Calais, Dover to Dunkirk and Newhaven to Dieppe routes arrive close to popular sites and cities, with easy motorway links so you can begin your onward journey right away.
If you're travelling to Holland or Belgium, our Newcastle to Amsterdam route is perfect for exploring northern Europe.
What Makes a City Dog-Friendly?
Taking your dog to Europe? From visiting a pet-friendly café to walking in the park, there are a few things to consider when you're picking the perfect pet-friendly destination.
Parks and Green Spaces Giving your pooch plenty of space to play during your city break is crucial. Look for cities with ample parks and green spaces. Some cities even have dedicated dog parks, or at least sections of public parks where your dog is allowed off the lead to sniff and play.
Pet-Friendly Accommodation Before you book your pet-friendly trip, double-check that pets are allowed to stay at the accommodation you're interested in booking. Pet-friendly accommodation provides specific amenities for your furry friends, like pet beds, feeding bowls and play areas.
Dog-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants It's increasingly common to see dogs at your favourite cafes and restaurants. Before you visit a new city, make sure that your dog will be allowed to go with you on your adventures. Check in advance to find pet-friendly options when it comes to eating in cafes and restaurants so that you aren't limited.
Top Dog-Friendly Cities in Europe
Paris, France
Paris is famous around the world for its architecture, cuisine and culture, but did you know it's one of the most dog-friendly cities in Europe? Not only are Parisians dog lovers, but the city is very welcoming to dogs in lots of different spaces. There are many dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in Paris where you can make the most of wine, cheese, and patisserie in the company of your dog.
Dogs aren't allowed in museums, churches and some parks, but you can still enjoy the attractions of Paris with your furry friend. Try a relaxing walk in the Champ de Mars beneath the Eiffel Tower, and wait for sunset to see the lights come on! Small dogs are allowed on the Metro, so don't be afraid to broaden your horizons and explore the city even further with your pooch in tow. If you'd rather stick to car travel, read more about driving in France in our handy guide.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dogs are a big part of life in Amsterdam, whether in a box on a bike or travelling on public transport. Dogs are welcome in many of the city's iconic cafes and restaurants, and they will enjoy strolling along the canals as much as you will! The city also has plenty of green spaces and enclosed dog parks where dogs can run around safely off the lead.
Dogs can travel for free on public transport, aside from trains, where there's a small fee. Your dog also won't be allowed to enter galleries or museums, but don't worry – some pet-friendly accommodations offer dog-sitting services, so you can leave your dog at the hotel if there's anything you want to explore.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is the perfect place for a short break with your dog. It’s full of quaint, cobbled streets and plenty of things to see and do on foot. Bruges is a popular city for pet owners, so you'll see lots of cafes and restaurants that are open to locals and tourists with dogs. Dogs are even allowed on walking tours of the city, so they don’t have to miss out while you explore!
You can enjoy a pleasant walk along the ramparts to Bruges Windmill, but you might have to leave your pet behind if you want to head inside famous attractions like the Belfry or the Basilica. Book a space for your dog on a canal boat tour of the city, or give your pooch a taste of Belgian dog beer at The Doghouse. Dogs are allowed to travel on public transport, but if you're taking a car, brush up on everything you need to know about driving in Belgium.
Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is a great destination for pet lovers who want to enjoy some quality time with their dogs. Dogs are welcome in most places in Brussels, from picturesque parks and gardens to breweries, so it's easy to let your furry friends tag along for all your adventures.
Discover a diverse range of dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in Brussels, from quaint cafes where you can watch the world go by to bars and restaurants that welcome dogs, too. Take your pup for a walk around the Bois de la Cambre to soak in the city's nature, or stroll down the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grand Place to admire the beautiful architecture. Dogs are also allowed on buses, trams and trains in Brussels, so don't miss out on exploring the city!
Tips for Travelling with Your Dog in Europe
There's nothing more exciting than going on holiday with your pet! While you're looking forward to your adventure, make sure you're fully prepared to travel in Europe with your pet. Start by brushing up on the rules for driving in Europe so you don't face any surprises when you begin your trip.
Preparing for the Trip
From microchipping rules to EU dog passports, follow government advice for travelling abroad with your pet before and during your trip. Check that your pet's vaccinations are up to date, including a mandatory rabies vaccine for dogs travelling to Europe. You should also check the laws for pets in your destination – in some cities, pets over a certain size must wear a muzzle in public, while others don't allow pets on public transport. Read up on pet travel before you set off to ensure you have a stress-free trip.
Finding Pet-Friendly Transportation
Travel to Europe on a DFDS ferry with your pet. You may choose to leave your pet in your vehicle for the journey or book a space in our pet-friendly cabins if your crossing is longer. Pet-friendly cabins are available on selected DFDS ferries to give your pet space to relax with you. There are also designated areas on DFDS ferries where you can take your pet for a walk so they can stretch their legs on the journey.
Our routes
Newhaven to Dieppe With our Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossing, you can arrive in France in 5 hours. Enjoy excellent facilities while you sail, including restaurants and an onboard shop.
Dover to Calais Hop aboard our most popular ferry crossing, Dover to Calais, and arrive in France in just 100 minutes. There are many ways to spend time on board, from dining to duty free shopping.
Dover to Dunkirk With a journey time of just 2 hours, our Dover to Dunkirk ferry crossing gives you access to Belgium, France, Holland and more. Enjoy dining and duty free shopping on board.
