ThePlaceToDog
The complete guide

Going out with your dog in France

Going out with your dog means choosing places that truly welcome them: no "no dogs" sign at the entrance, with a water bowl, shade and a friendly welcome. ThePlaceToDog brings together 1802 dog-friendly addresses tested and rated by owners, all across France.

1802
listed places
52
cities covered
11
regions
100 %
100% free

Where to go with your dog

Each category groups places selected for how they genuinely welcome dogs, with the rules you need to know before you head out.

Walks and hikes with your dog in FranceWalks & hikesDog-friendly beaches in FranceBeachesRemarkable gardens open to dogsRemarkable gardensLakes and swimming spots for dogs in FranceLakes & waterways

The most dog-friendly cities

Find the best addresses for your dog in the most well-covered cities.

Marseille20 placesNice18 placesLe Havre17 placesLimoges14 places13e arrondissement, Paris (75)12 places16e arrondissement, Paris (75)12 placesMontpellier12 places14e arrondissement, Paris (75)11 places19e arrondissement, Paris (75)11 places20e arrondissement, Paris (75)11 placesToulon11 places15e arrondissement, Paris (75)10 placesAuvergne-Rhône-Alpes10 places12e arrondissement, Paris (75)9 placesPetit-Caux9 placesSenonches9 placesRennes8 placesBédoin7 placesGuillestre7 placesMoustiers-Sainte-Marie7 placesRouen7 places5e arrondissement, Paris (75)6 places8e arrondissement, Paris (75)6 placesChâteaudun6 places

Explore by region

Normandie147 placesProvence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur119 placesBretagne100 placesNouvelle-Aquitaine79 placesOccitanie52 placesPays de la Loire25 placesHauts-de-France22 placesGrand Est18 placesAuvergne-Rhône-Alpes17 placesÎle-de-France16 placesCentre-Val de Loire15 places

Going out with your dog: frequently asked questions

How do I know if a place truly accepts dogs?

A genuinely dog-friendly place says so clearly, provides a water bowl and welcomes your dog indoors or on the terrace with no hidden conditions. On ThePlaceToDog, each listing details the rules observed on site (lead, indoor access, accepted sizes) based on feedback from owners.

Are dogs allowed in restaurants in France?

No national law bans dogs from restaurants: the decision rests with the manager. Most establishments accept dogs kept on a lead, especially on terraces. Assistance dogs are admitted everywhere by law.

Do dogs always need to be kept on a lead?

In towns and most public places, a lead is compulsory. In natural areas, it is often required from 15 April to 30 June to protect wildlife, and year-round in nature reserves. Each listing notes the local rule where known.

Can I take my dog to the beach?

Many beaches ban dogs during peak season (often 1 June to 30 September) but allow them for the rest of the year. Some beaches remain accessible all year round, sometimes in a dedicated area. Our beaches category lists those that welcome dogs and specifies the periods.

What documents do I need to travel in France with my dog?

For travel within France, your dog must be identified (microchip or tattoo) and up to date with vaccinations, including rabies if travelling. Keep the health record to hand. For accommodation, always mention your dog at the time of booking.

Do public transport services accept dogs?

Small dogs in a carrier bag are generally admitted free of charge. Larger dogs travel on a lead and muzzled, with a reduced-fare ticket on SNCF trains. Rules vary by urban network: check with the local operator.

How do I find accommodation that accepts dogs?

Filter by dog-friendly accommodation and always confirm at the time of booking: conditions, any supplement and the number of animals accepted vary between establishments. Our accommodation listings note dog-friendly status when confirmed by owners.

Is ThePlaceToDog free?

Yes, ThePlaceToDog is entirely free, with no subscription or advertising. The site and app list dog-friendly places in France thanks to contributions from owners, who add, rate and verify addresses.