New York might seem intense, but it’s surprisingly well-equipped for pet travellers. From Central Park’s off-leash hours to dog-friendly hotel chains and pup-permitting patios, the city is full of surprises. Whether you’re brunching in Brooklyn or catching sunset views from the High Line, NYC knows how to treat a good dog. Dogs in carriers are allowed on the subway and buses, and off-leash hours in Central Park are a daily highlight for local pups.

Few cities do glamour and canine comfort quite like Nice. Leashed dogs are welcome along the Promenade des Anglais, and the city’s sea-facing cafés often provide water bowls without being asked. Public beaches with dog zones and dog-welcoming vineyards just outside town complete the picture. Take your walkies down flower-lined lanes of the Old Town or shaded parks like Mont Boron.

Valencia balances relaxed beach culture with vibrant city energy. Let your dog off-lead in the massive Turia Gardens or join locals for a sunset stroll at Playa Canina. With mild weather year-round and pet-welcoming eateries, Valencia makes sure everyone in the pack feels at home. The sprawling Turia Gardens even host dog meetups, and Playa Canina is fully leash-optional during off-peak hours.

Rovinj is a coastal town where meandering cobbled alleys meet aquamarine sea - and dogs are as welcome as the tourists. Many of the beaches here offer pet-friendly zones, and restaurants tucked into pastel-coloured buildings are known to sneak your pup a treat. Nearby islands like Red Island allow dogs on ferries and have trails perfect for canine exploration. Pula Airport is the closest international gateway to Rovinj, just 40 minutes away by car. Most major airlines flying into Pula are pet-friendly - but always double-check their specific cabin and cargo policies in advance. From the airport, your best bet is to pre-book a pet-friendly taxi or private transfer.

Brighton blends pebble beaches, bohemian charm and boundless pet-friendly energy. Stroll the vibrant promenade with your pup, pop into one of the city’s many dog-welcoming cafés, or explore the rolling South Downs just inland. Independent shops often leave water bowls out, and locals won’t blink at a dog in a boutique. Dogs ride free on local buses and trains, and the Volk’s Electric Railway is famously pup-friendly. Brighton is just under 30 minutes by train from Gatwick Airport – the closest major international hub. Most trains to Brighton from Gatwick are pet-friendly, so you can hop aboard with your four-legged companion at no extra charge. For the smoothest ride, avoid peak commuter times and aim for a direct Thameslink or Southern service.

Ljubljana may be small, but it’s mighty when it comes to pet-friendly travel. The whole city feels like a park - green, slow-paced, and open. Dogs are welcome on buses, in cafés, and even on paddle boards along the Ljubljanica River.

A charming under-the-radar gem, Grosseto sits quietly on the edge of Tuscany’s Maremma region - perfect for long countryside walks and beachside romps. With sprawling nature reserves, uncrowded coastlines, and a laid-back rhythm, it’s ideal for pets who prefer sniffing olive groves to navigating crowds. Think slower pace, sun-warmed stone streets. The Maremma Regional Park offers leash-optional hiking zones and dog-friendly beaches like Marina di Alberese. Rome Fiumicino (FCO) is the nearest major international airport to Grosseto – around 2 hours by car or direct regional train. It’s well-connected and offers several pet-friendly flight options, especially within Europe. From FCO, you can take a Trenitalia regional train straight to Grosseto (pets are allowed in carriers, or on a lead with a muzzle for larger dogs).

Austria’s second city is a walkable mix of medieval charm and green thinking. From Schlossberg hilltop hikes to riverside rambles, Graz offers gentle adventure with a side of schnitzel. Leashed or muzzled dogs ride local transport with half-fare tickets, and pet-friendly B&Bs are common in the old town.

With miles of pet-friendly waterfront, clean public parks, and dog-designated beaches, Toronto is a quiet superstar for pet travel. Dogs are welcome on public transport (with a leash), and local breweries often roll out water bowls alongside the IPAs. Bonus points for polite locals. Leashed pets are allowed on Toronto Transit, and the city’s dog-designated beaches have rinse stations for muddy paws.

Frankfurt is sleek, tidy, and surprisingly good with dogs. Public transport is pup-welcome, green spaces are plentiful, and even upscale cafés might nod to your furry co-pilot. Whether exploring river walks or the massive Grüneburgpark, you’ll find that Germans take their pet hospitality just as seriously as their punctuality. Frankfurt’s transport system allows leashed dogs with a reduced fare, and upscale hotels often offer pet welcome kits.

When you’re travelling with your pet, a little prep goes a long way. These items have been selected to help ensure your journey is smooth, safe, and stress-free – for both of you.