The essentials to know
- Dog mess must be picked up, or you risk a fine.
- In Catalonia, it's also compulsory to rinse away dog urine on public streets with soapy water.
- Microchipping has been compulsory nationwide since Law 7/2023 on animal protection and welfare came into force.
- An up-to-date rabies vaccination is required across most of Spain.
- Train (Renfe): dogs under 10 kg are allowed in the cabin in a carrier bag (a specific ticket is required, around $11, or free depending on the fare class). GBP prices are converted from EUR at an approximate rate (27 Aug 2026) — to be reconfirmed before publication. Since July 2026, dogs up to 40 kg are allowed on all trains (AVE, Alvia, Intercity, Euromed and Avlo) for a supplement of around $43, occupying a dedicated seat.
- Most municipalities have at least one dog-friendly beach. Check with the local tourist office, or search "playa perro" on Google Maps.
What to take into account
What sets a genuinely pet-friendly destination apart from a mere marketing claim is a documented municipal policy, rather than a handful of isolated hotels. Valencia launched its "Viajar Juntos es Mejor" campaign in 2019, with a dedicated website listing pet-welcoming hotels, restaurants, transport options and venues. Gijón has established itself as the national benchmark thanks to the #GijonYesMiCan campaign: more than 40 adapted green spaces, a dog beach (Rinconín), and a pet-friendly establishment for every 2,000 residents. Madrid has the largest number of pet-accepting hotels and establishments in the country, driven by chains such as NH and Petit Palace. Barcelona has its own dedicated dog beach (Llevant) and extensive green spaces.
Comparing destinations
| Destination | Ideal for | What sets it apart | Dog beach | Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valencia | The first official pet-friendly move | Dedicated municipal campaign since 2019 | Playa de Pinedo, La Torreta | Well connected |
| Gijón (Asturias) | National benchmark, everyday life with a dog | More than 40 adapted green spaces | Playa del Rinconín | Air and rail links from major cities |
| Madrid | The widest hotel choice | The largest number of pet-friendly hotels in the country | No beach (inland city) | Main air hub |
| Barcelona | City plus beach with your dog | Dedicated Llevant beach | Playa de Llevant | International airport |
Best-suited destinations
Valencia
The first official moveSpain's pioneering city for a structured pet-friendly policy, with a dedicated dog beach at Pinedo.
Madrid
The widest choiceThe city with the largest number of pet-accepting establishments, with several hotel chains committed to the cause.
Barcelona
City plus beachLlevant beach and extensive green spaces make this a comfortable urban destination with a dog, on top of its cultural offering. Find all the practical details in our complete Barcelona guide.
Gijón
National benchmarkLocated in Asturias, outside the destinations usually covered by this guide, but repeatedly cited as Spain's most dog-friendly city.
Practical tips
- Always check the hotel's conditions before booking: weight and breed limits, supplements, and access to communal areas.
- Check dog beach opening times: some are only accessible during certain seasons or time slots.
- Bring your pet's health record and microchip documentation, including a photo on your phone.
- Plan ahead for long train journeys: book the pet ticket in advance, as places are limited.
Hotels that meet the criteria
To choose a hotel suited to travelling with a pet, check that it ticks these boxes before you book: a stated "pets allowed" policy, with a maximum weight if applicable, access to communal areas with your pet (not just the room), proximity to a park or dog beach, and no excessive supplement.
Three examples that meet these criteria, in Valencia, Gijón and Madrid:
