Holiday home with dog in Tuscany
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Tuscany is easily accessible from Germany by car and is therefore ideal for a holiday with your dog. Many holiday homes, agriturismos, and apartments welcome dogs – often for an extra charge. Here you can read what to look for when searching for a holiday home that allows dogs and which areas are particularly suitable.
Holiday home with dog: Quick checklist
- Clarify beforehand: Are dogs allowed, how many, what size, and what is the extra charge or additional cleaning fee?
- Eingezäuntes Grundstück is worth its weight in gold – in the countryside there are grazing animals, wildlife and roads
- Shade and cool soils: It gets hot in summer; stone houses and trees help.
- Proximity to dog beach or hiking trails check
- Papers: EU pet passport, microchip, valid rabies vaccination
How to find the perfect holiday home that welcomes dogs
What you should pay attention to when booking
- Written permission to dog: Make sure you get confirmation that your dog is welcome – even if the ad says "Pets on request".
- Garden and fence: Ask if the property is fully fenced. Many country houses are situated in open areas within olive groves.
- Pool: In most holiday resorts, dogs are not allowed in the pool; in resorts with multiple apartments, leash rules often apply on the premises.
- Other animals: Agriturismi farms often have farm dogs, cats, chickens or horses – check in advance whether this is suitable for your dog.
- Subsurface: Terracotta and stone floors are cool and easy to clean; stairs without railings can be difficult for older dogs.
- Veterinarian nearby: Make a note of the nearest veterinary practice (veterinario) while you are there.
On Booking.com , you can narrow your search in Tuscany using the "Pets allowed" filter. General tips on location, additional costs, and regions can be found under Rent a holiday home in Tuscany.
The best areas for holidays with a dog
Hill country: Chianti, Val d'Orcia and Casentino
In the Chianti region between Florence and Siena, country lanes wind through vineyards and olive groves – ideal for long morning walks. However, it gets very hot there at midday in summer. The higher elevations are cooler and more wooded, such as the Casentine Forest National Park in the east or the Garfagnana region north of Lucca.
Coast: Dog beaches nearby
During the bathing season, dogs are prohibited on most beaches, including those on the island of Elba . They are allowed on designated dog beaches (spiaggia per cani, dog beach), for example, the Dog Beach in San Vincenzo on the Etruscan Coast. Those planning a seaside holiday should choose a vacation rental near a dog beach. Outside of peak season, the rules are often more relaxed – pay attention to the signs on the beach.
Cities and excursions
In cities like Florence , Pisa , or Siena, dogs must be kept on a leash (max. 1,5 m), and a muzzle is essential. Dogs are generally not allowed in museums and churches. Therefore, plan your city visits for early morning or, in very hot weather, leave your dog in the cool of your holiday home.
Entry requirements and rules for dogs in Italy
For entry into Italy, your dog needs a microchip, an EU pet passport, and a valid rabies vaccination; the initial vaccination must have been administered at least 21 days before travel. In Italy, dogs must be kept on a leash (maximum length 1,5 m) in public places, a muzzle is mandatory, and you are required to pick up after your dog. You can find all the details about travel, train journeys, dog-friendly beaches, and coping with the heat in our guide, " Traveling to Tuscany with Your Dog ." Those who prefer to travel by campervan or tent will find tips under " Camping with a Dog in Tuscany ."
Frequently asked questions about holiday homes with dogs in Tuscany
Does it cost extra to bring a dog to the holiday home?
Often, yes. Many landlords charge an extra fee per day or stay, or an additional cleaning fee. Inquire before booking.
Are dogs allowed on the beach in Tuscany?
During the bathing season, dogs are usually only allowed on designated dog beaches. The rules are set by each municipality and are posted on signs at the beach.
What documents does my dog need for Italy?
Microchip, EU pet passport and a valid rabies vaccination, which must have been administered at least 21 days before travel for the initial vaccination.
Is there a leash and muzzle requirement in Italy?
In public places, dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 1,5 meters. You must carry a muzzle with you to put on your dog if necessary.
Which areas of Tuscany are suitable for traveling with a dog?
For hiking, the hilly countryside and the wooded mountain areas are ideal; for beach holidays, places near a dog beach are recommended, for example on the Etruscan coast.
