{"id":8941,"date":"2024-03-18T13:55:57","date_gmt":"2024-03-18T03:55:57","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.travelnuity.com\/?p=8941"},"modified":"2024-03-18T13:56:00","modified_gmt":"2024-03-18T03:56:00","slug":"dog-friendly-portugal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelnuity.com\/dog-friendly-portugal\/","title":{"rendered":"Dog-Friendly Portugal: Travelling in Portugal with a Dog"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

I really enjoyed my visit to Portugal back in 2017 with my dog, but I can’t wait to return to this European<\/a> country, for two reasons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Firstly, we visited in March, a month that delivers a mixture of cold, rainy days and sunny, warm ones. We didn\u2019t see Portugal in the best weather, and it was far too early to hit the beaches. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Secondly, since I visited Portugal, the law has changed to now allow dogs inside of restaurants and cafes, making it far more dog-friendly. (Particularly on those cold, rainy days!) <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s all the tips that you need for a fun vacation in Portugal along with your dog.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Travelling to Portugal with a Dog<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you are flying to Portugal from outside of the European Union, you need to notify the local authorities of the arrival of your pet. This applies to both cats and dogs, including service dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is required to send your pet’s documentation at least 48 hours before your arrival. A charge of \u20ac40.52 for one pet and \u20ac81.04 for two or more pets applies for the veterinary examination, except for assistance dogs. For more information, including the forms and email addresses, see the government website<\/a> (translate using the buttons in the top right corner). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Otherwise, the standard rules apply for dogs arriving in Portugal, the same as for other EU countries<\/a>. The standard rules also apply to dogs travelling to Portugal from another country in the EU, with a microchip, valid rabies vaccine and pet passport required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dining Out in Portugal with a Dog<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As I mentioned above, the rules for dining at restaurants and cafes in Portugal with a dog changed not longer after our visit, in late 2017. When we visited, there was a strict ban in place against dogs being allowed inside restaurants and cafes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although we did come across one restaurant in Lisbon without outdoor seating that accommodated us by seating us at the entry way, almost outside… And there were plenty of awnings for outdoor dining in the rain, although I\u2019m not sure if there were any outdoor heaters for chilly days.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Portuguese dining in Lisbon, at the restaurant where we managed to be almost outside with our dog<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

However, the situation is now in line with many other countries in Europe<\/a>, leaving the decision as to whether dogs are allowed inside up to the owners, as long as animals are kept out of food preparation areas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

I’ve heard from more recent travellers that it’s still not that common for pets to dine inside with their owners. But it’s always worth asking at the entry, and if they say yes it’s not breaking the rules! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taking a Dog on Public Transport in Portugal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The situation with dogs on public transport in Portugal is better than in neighbouring Spain<\/a>. Often larger dogs as well as small dogs are allowed on trains and other forms of transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, note that the following breeds of dogs are regarded as dangerous<\/a> in Portugal, and are not allowed on public transport: Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Tosa Inu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dogs on Trains in Portugal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Trains in Portugal are operated by Comboios de Portugal. The rule<\/a> for the majority of trains, including intercity and regional trains, plus urban trains in Lisbon, Porto and Coimbra, is that both small pets in a box are allowed, as well as larger dogs on a short leash and wearing a muzzle<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n

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Both small and large dogs are allowed on urban trains in Porto<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Small pets can travel for free, while larger dogs can travel for free on the urban trains, half-price ticket on Regional and InterRegional trains, and full-price ticket on Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains. For larger dogs, you also need to carry their vaccination card and valid license (or presumably your pet passport).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note that on the Celta train from Porto to Vigo in Spain only smaller pets up to 10kg in a box are allowed. The box should be no larger than 60 x 35 x 35cm, with a device to “store and remove waste” – I’m not sure what is meant!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Sud Expresso and the Lusit\u00e2nia Comboio Hotel sleeper trains the previously terminated in Lisbon ceased during March 2020 and have not been reinstated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dogs on Local Transport in Lisbon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the metro in Lisbon, the rules<\/a> that apply are similar to those for urban trains. Dogs need to either be in a container or on a short leash and wearing a muzzle<\/a>. No ticket is required, but you should carry the dog’s vaccine record and municipal license (if applicable). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If taking a bus or tram in Lisbon, operated by Carris, their website<\/a> stipulates that only pets that can be carried in an appropriate carrier, which can be carried as “hand luggage”, are permitted on board.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Trams in Lisbon<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Dogs on Long-Distance Buses in Portugal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The rules are more generous when it comes to long-distance buses in Portugal than in many other countries, at least domestic buses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the coaches operated by Rede in Portugal (except international services), small dogs in an appropriate cage are allowed on board in the passenger area, with the purchase of an animal ticket. The maximum dimensions of their carrier should be 35 x 40 x 26cm. For full details, read here<\/a>. Rede buses are particularly popular for trips to the Algarve Coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dog-Friendly Accommodation in Portugal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

According to the research that I did on the percentage of pet-friendly hotels in European cities<\/a>, Lisbon in Portugal almost came at the bottom. Only 6% of hotels were marked as allowing pets, with only Dublin ranking lower. Although at least that was still 40 out of a rather large 661 hotels, guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While we were in Portugal, we didn\u2019t actually look into staying in hotels, but instead found some wonderful Airbnbs<\/a>. We mainly stayed in apartments, including a ground-floor apartment on the outskirts of Lisbon with a large backyard – perfect for our dog! <\/p>\n\n\n

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The backyard in our Lisbon Airbnb<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

In the Douro Valley we also stayed in a delightful cottage surrounded by vineyards and complete with an open-fire. You may need to dig, but there are some great dog-friendly options for accommodation.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Schnitzel enjoying the open fire-place at our cottage in the Douro Valley<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Dog-Friendly Sightseeing in Portugal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While in Portgual, consider including some of these dog-friendly sightseeing options in your itinerary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Wander the Streets of Lisbon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a difficult decision to make, but Lisbon narrowly wins out for my choice of favourite city in Portugal, probably due to the beautiful weather than we had during our visit. <\/p>\n\n\n

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Enjoying the view in Lisbon on a sunny spring day<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n
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And the actual view!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Don\u2019t miss the narrow laneways of the Alfama neighbourhood or the Miradouro de Recolhimento lookout. Be prepared for plenty of hills, unless you resort to the trams (of which the most crowded are best avoided when you are carrying a dog). <\/p>\n\n\n

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Beautiful tiled buildings in Lisbon<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

2. Taste some Port in Porto<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The northern city of Porto is synonymous with port, the fortified wine named after the city. To visit one of the historical port caves and enjoy a tasting head to the south side of the Douro River to Vila Nova de Gaia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

We enjoyed an entertaining visit and a delicious tasting at Augusto\u2019s, a boutique merchant in the district. Our small dog was welcomed to join us on the excellent tour.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Port tasting in Porto with Schnitzel<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n
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The ports up for tasting<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Unfortunately, I’ve since heard from other visitors with dogs that dogs are no longer allowed inside on indoor tours or inside port wine tasting rooms. Double check, but perhaps instead consider a port wine tasting on one of the dog-friendly riverside terraces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Cross Over the Lu\u00eds I Bridge in Porto<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To walk between the centre of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, it\u2019s best to take the Lu\u00ees I Bridge. This historic bridge is one of the most famous landmarks of Porto.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Lu\u00ees I Bridge in Porto<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

This arched bridge is unusual in that on the low-level there is a road, while the upper-level carries the metro. It\u2019s possible as a pedestrian to cross on both levels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The lower level has the narrower footpath, while the upper footpath is wider and offers better views. Just keep your dog on a short leash or carry them in our arms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Afterwards, continue through the narrow and romantic alleyways of Porto and admire the many historic buildings. <\/p>\n\n\n

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Wandering through the alleyways of Porto<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

4. Explore the Douro Wine Region<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The famous port wines (plus a variety of whites and reds) are grown upstream from Porto in the renown Douro wine region. <\/p>\n\n\n

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The gorgeous Douro Valley<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

The town of Peso da R\u00e9gua with its wine museum is a good base to use to explore the region. Spend a couple of days visiting vineyards, driving to scenic points and enjoying the fine restaurants in the region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s best to make an advance booking for visits to wineries. We were lucky when we popped into Sandeman\u2019s that they were about to start a tour for another couple, plus our dog was allowed to join us.<\/p>\n\n\n

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At Sandeman’s in the Douro Valley<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

5. Taste a Portuguese Tart<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can\u2019t visit Portugal and not enjoy a Portuguese Tart (or two, or more\u2026) One of the most popular bakeries serving these tarts is Past\u00e9is de Bel\u00e9m in the Lisbon district of Bel\u00e9m. The queues are often long, but move faster than you expect. <\/p>\n\n\n

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Past\u00e9is de Bel\u00e9m in Lisbon<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

You probably need to leave your pup outside for a moment, just long enough to buy a takeaway box. Then head to the Park de Bel\u00e9m across the road or walk to Bel\u00e9m Tower. Although it\u2019s probably best you don\u2019t share any with your dog, they\u2019re too good!<\/p>\n\n\n

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A crisp Portuguese tart, ready to be devoured!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

6. Take a Day Trip to Cascais<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the most popular day trips when in Lisbon is to head to Sintra, with its many palaces including the colourful Pena Palace. However, dogs aren\u2019t permitted, including in the parks, so for a dog-friendly day trip instead take the train to the beachside suburb of Cascais. <\/p>\n\n\n

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The harbour in Cascais<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Dogs travel for free on the train, just make sure they have a leash and muzzle if they aren\u2019t in a carrier bag. The train arrives close to the beach and harbour. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Head out for a wander through the streets then over to the coastline with its parks and coves, perhaps walking all the way to the Boca do Inferno, a natural sea archway.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Exploring the coastline in Cascais<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

7. Take a Day Trip to Guimar\u00e3es<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

From Porto, an ideal day trip is to head to historic Guimar\u00e3es on a day trip. Home to many well-preserved medieval buildings, the town is regarded as the birthplace of Portugal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the highlights of a visit is Guimar\u00e3es Castle, standing on a hill-top above the town. I believe we were permitted to bring our dog along inside – not that there is much to see. <\/p>\n\n\n

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The exterior of Guimar\u00e3es Castle<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Oliveira Plaza in the heart of the town is also charming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Hit the Beaches of the Algarve<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The beaches in the Algarve region are some of the best in all of Europe, and I can\u2019t wait to return and hit them up. However, what about dogs, are they allowed on the beaches?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The rule in Portugal is that dogs are not allowed on \u201cconcessioned beaches\u201d (i.e. those with beach beds and the like) with lifeguards, during the bathing season. This starts anytime between Easter and May, depending on the beach, and lasts through to October. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the other hand, at non-concessioned beaches and where there are no signs prohibiting them by the local council, dogs should be allowed right throughout the year. However, I\u2019ve heard reports that many beaches in the Algarve region have signs prohibiting dogs, plus these beaches are typically difficult to access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I’ve heard reports from other visitors that some of the few year-round dog-friendly beaches include Praia do Barranquinho, Praia do Martinhal and Praia do Pinhao. So, head to one of these beaches, or instead visit the beaches of the Algarve with your dog outside of the summer season, such as during the often warm days of March and April. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is a growing demand for dog beaches in Portugal, with two opening in recent years (North Sand Portinho Beach in Peniche, north of Lisbon, and Coral Beach at Viana do Castelo, on the far northern coast). Perhaps, a dog beach might soon be declared on the Algarve coast?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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