Amsterdam Dog-Friendly Travel: What To Do?

Published on 6 January 2023 at 12:55


Amsterdam Travel: Is it Dog-Friendly?

Is Amsterdam pet friendly? Yes, Amsterdam is generally a very dog-friendly city, and it is easy to travel with a dog in Amsterdam. Many hotels, restaurants, and other public places in Amsterdam welcome dogs, and there are also many dog-friendly parks, canals, and other outdoor spaces where you can enjoy time with your dog.

 

When traveling with a dog in Amsterdam, it is a good idea to keep your dog on a leash and under control at all times, as this is required by law in many public places. You should also be prepared to clean up after your dog, as this is also required by law in many places.

 

It is also a good idea to research the specific destinations you will be visiting in Amsterdam to see if they have any additional requirements or restrictions for pets. By following these guidelines and being a responsible pet owner, you and your dog can have a great time exploring all that Amsterdam has to offer.

 


Where Are Dogs Allowed in Amsterdam?

Dogs are generally allowed in Amsterdam and are welcome in many public places. However, it is important to note that there are some restrictions and requirements for dogs in Amsterdam.

 

According to the Amsterdam city website, dogs are allowed in most public areas, including parks, streets, and squares, as long as they are on a leash and under control at all times. Dogs are also allowed on public transportation, but they must be kept on a leash and are not allowed on seats.

 

Dogs are not allowed in some public places, such as playgrounds, sports fields, and some outdoor cafes. It is always a good idea to check the specific rules and requirements for the places you will be visiting with your dog. By following these guidelines and being a responsible pet owner, you and your dog can have a great time exploring Amsterdam.

 


Can Dogs Go on Public Transport in Amsterdam?

Small pets are allowed free of charge in a dog carrier or on your lap. There are no specifications on the size of the pet and the dimensions of the bag, basket or cage. They are not allowed to occupy a seat.

 

Dog day pass
If you travel with a larger dog, the Dog Day Pass is compulsory. This is on sale for €3.30 as a mobile ticket at NS, in the NS ticket machine and other outlets.

 

Please note! Are you travelling with alternative transport used during works? Then, in principle, taking a dog on coach buses is not allowed. An exception is made for guide dogs.

 


#5 Best Things To Do When Visiting Amsterdam With Dogs

Amsterdam is a very dog-friendly city to do things with your dog. Here are some ideas for things you and your dog can do in Amsterdam:

 


#1 Explore Popular Tourist Attractions of Amsterdam

When taking your dog to Amsterdam there are a couple of dog-friendly hot-spots that you need to visit. 

 

  1. Historic Canals: tilt your heads to crooked houses on the canals of Amsterdam. The canals are an integral part of the city's identity. With 90 islands and 1.500 bridges spanning nearly 500 acres, Amsterdam is a canal city. Mostly constructed during the 17th Century or the Golden Age of the city, these canal abodes were once homes to the wealthy Dutch;
  2. Dam Square: visit the Dam Square to play tourists in Amsterdam. the Dam Square is one of the most famous visited places in the city of the Netherlands. The 200 meter square was initially built as a dam on the Amstel River. It's also home to the 17th Century neoclassical Royal Palace, the former grand residence of the Dutch Royal family and once the largest secular building in Europe;
  3. The Jordaan: The Jordaan is possibly Amsterdam's most famous and romantic neighbourhood. Once a typical working-class neighbourhood with a colourful past, it is now wildly popular with visitors and residents alike due to its picturesque canals, small shops and cosy streets and alleys;
  4. De Pijp: In the lively student neighbourhood De Pijp, you can wander around for hours, with all its lovely terraces, truly every imaginable cuisine and heaps of cafés. From the neatly raked Sarphatipark to the famous Albert Cuyp market, people from all parts of the world live side by side in this old working-class neighbourhood today;
  5. Red Light District: It is very likely that you have heard about this neighbourhood and to be frank, everything you have heard is probably true. From brothels to sex shops to museums, the Amsterdam Red Light District has it all. But contrary to what a lot of people might think, the Amsterdam Red Light District has a very friendly atmosphere and isn't as dangerous as it used to be.

 


#2 Visit a Dog-Friendly Park in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has many beautiful parks where you and your dog can spend some time together. Here are some dog-friendly parks in Amsterdam where you and your dog can spend some time together:

 

  1. Vondelpark: Vondelpark is the most famous city park in the Netherlands. The park is located in the middle of the city. Amsterdammers and tourists alike love going there. The park opened in 1865 and has been a national monument since 1996;

  2. Sarphatipark: Sarphatipark is a real city park. It is a green haven in the middle of the busy De Pijp district. Sarphatipark has a playground and a play forest. There is also a place for volleyball, basketball and table tennis. There are lawns for sitting and a large pond. Marsh plants keep the water in the pond clean. There are berry bushes and herbs in several places in the park;

  3. Westerpark: West of the Jordaan is the sparkling Westerpark neighbourhood. The name of this area comes from the modern park, where the cultural mecca in and around the Westergas provides vibrant energy. In Cultuurpark Westergas you will find trendy cafés, fine eateries, galleries, a cinema and a variety of clubs;

  4. Erasmuspark: The Erasmus park is located on the Jan van Galenstraat in Amsterdam West. The park's design was inspired by Piet Mondrian's paintings. Erasmus Park is a great place to exercise. There is a path around the park where you can run. There is a sports field with goals and fitness equipment. For children, there is a playground with a large sandpit. There are also chess tables in the park. You can relax on the lawns or in the pretty flower garden with long benches. By the water is a small café. In summer, there are sometimes concerts in Erasmus Park.

  5. Oosterpark: For more than 100 years, Oosterpark has been a place for residents and visitors of Amsterdam Oost to relax, play sports and meet. Oosterpark has wide paths for walking. It is also a great place to play sports. There is a tennis court and a sports field with artificial grass. Around the pond there are many nice places to sit and picnic. For children, there is a nature playground and, in summer, a large paddling pool. There is also a skate park. Oosterpark often hosts fun events and festivals. The music dome hosts small performances in spring and summer.

 


#3 Take a Walk Along The Canals of Amsterdam, Golden Age

Taking a stroll along the canals of Amsterdam with your dog can be a fun and enjoyable activity for both of you. You pass all the canal palaces that mattered in the Golden Age. Past lovely places like the Noordermarkt and the 9 streets. And past no fewer than 6 museums. Great trip!

 

Amsterdamse Grachtengordel: Built during the Golden Age (1600-1700), Amsterdam's ring of canals grew over the centuries to become one of the most unique places in the world. The network of different waterways was created at the time to drain and reclaim land for expansion of the city. While the ring of canals was initially built for practical reasons, later the area grew into a distinctive environment. Wealthy financiers from the trading world put money into building properties along the canals. The Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht were born.

 

The ring of canals and stately mansions characterise Amsterdam's city centre. Not for nothing was the 17th century called the Golden Age. The commercial city of Amsterdam grew and prospered. Rich merchants had their trading houses and merchant houses built along the canals. Especially on the Herengracht and Keizersgracht, you will find true palaces along the wide canals. This walk leads you through the historical heart of Amsterdam, where, with a little imagination, you can imagine yourself back in the Golden Age.

 

This 8-kilometre city walk can be walked with the accompanying guide. The guide provides lots of information about the special buildings you pass during the walk. Wander along the canals and discover the stories behind the facades, such as the House with Heads, squatting complex 'De Groote Keijser' and the Pulitzer hotel. Also visit the 9 streets, Noordermarkt and De Waag on Nieuwmarkt. You will also pass a number of museums located in canal houses, such as Museum het Grachtenhuis and the Van Loon Museum. Willem van Loon was founder of the VOC.

 

 


#4 Go Shopping With Your Dog in Amsterdam

There are many dog-friendly streets in Amsterdam where you can shop with your dog. Some popular options include:

 

  1. Haarlemmerstraat: This street is known for its independent boutiques and vintage stores. It's a great place to find unique items and there are plenty of dog-friendly storefronts.

  2. Nine Streets: Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the Nine Streets are a great place to shop with your dog. This area is known for its trendy boutiques and independent stores, as well as its many cafes and restaurants that welcome dogs.

  3. De Jordaan: This historic neighborhood is known for its narrow streets and small, independent stores. It's a great place to wander with your dog and discover some hidden gems.

  4. Albert Cuypstraat: This street is known for its bustling outdoor market, which is a great place to shop for fresh produce, flowers, and other goods. Many of the stalls are dog-friendly and there are also plenty of dog-friendly stores in the surrounding area.

  5. Frederiksplein: This square is surrounded by dog-friendly stores and cafes, making it a great place to spend the day with your furry friend.

 

Here are 5 tips for going shopping in Amsterdam with your dog:

 

  1. Keep your dog on a leash and under control at all times: It is important to follow the leash laws in Amsterdam to ensure the safety of your dog and other people.

  2. Be prepared to clean up after your dog: It is required by law to clean up after your dog in public places in Amsterdam.

  3. Research dog-friendly stores and shopping centers: Many stores and shopping centers in Amsterdam welcome dogs, but it is a good idea to do some research to find the best options for you and your dog.

  4. Plan ahead: It is a good idea to plan your shopping route in advance and to make sure you have all the necessary supplies for your dog, such as water and treats.

  5. Follow the rules: Some stores and shopping centers may have specific rules for dogs, so it is important to familiarize yourself with these rules and to follow them.

 


#5 Enjoy a Drink at a Dog-Friendly Cafe

Amsterdam has many outdoor cafes that welcome dogs, so you can enjoy a drink or a snack with your dog by your side. Here are some of the best dog-friendly cafes in Amsterdam where you and your dog can enjoy a drink or a snack together:

 

  1. The Old Dutch: This charming cafe in the Jordaan neighborhood welcomes dogs and offers a variety of drinks and snacks.

  2. De Plantage Koffiehuis: This cozy cafe in the Plantage neighborhood welcomes dogs and offers a variety of drinks and snacks.

  3. The Hoxton: This trendy hotel and cafe in the De Pijp neighborhood welcomes dogs and offers a variety of drinks and snacks.

  4. Pluk: This cute cafe in the Oud-West neighborhood welcomes dogs and offers a variety of drinks and snacks.

  5. The Fat Dog: This casual cafe in the De Pijp neighborhood welcomes dogs and offers a variety of drinks and snacks.

 

By doing some research and planning ahead, you can find the perfect cafe for you and your dog to visit in Amsterdam.

 


Important Preparation When Visiting Amsterdam

There are a few things to consider when visiting Amsterdam with your dog. First, it is important to note that dogs are not allowed in most public places in Amsterdam, including parks, squares, and playgrounds. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as designated dog parks and certain areas of the Vondelpark. It is also a good idea to keep your dog on a leash when in public, as this is required by law in the Netherlands.

 

In addition, there are a few other things to keep in mind when visiting Amsterdam with your dog:

  • You will need to bring proof of vaccination with you, as well as a current dog license if your dog is required to have one.

  • If you are staying in a hotel or vacation rental, be sure to check the pet policy before booking. Many places in Amsterdam do not allow pets.

  • It is a good idea to bring a supply of food and water for your dog, as well as any necessary medications.

  • Finally, be sure to clean up after your dog when in public, as this is required by law in the Netherlands.

 

Overall, it is possible to visit Amsterdam with your dog, but it is important to be mindful of the rules and regulations in place to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry companion.

 


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