🐾 Traveling to Belgium with Pets
Pet-Friendly Belgium
Belgium is exceptionally welcoming to pets, especially dogs. From historic canals in Bruges to urban parks in Brussels, pets are integrated into daily life. Most hotels, restaurants, and public transport accommodate well-behaved animals, making Belgium one of Europe's most pet-friendly destinations.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
EU Pet Passport
Dogs, cats, and ferrets from EU countries need an EU Pet Passport with microchip identification.
Passport must include rabies vaccination records (at least 21 days before travel) and veterinary health certificate.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be current and administered at least 21 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; check expiry dates on certificates carefully.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; bring microchip reader confirmation if possible.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside EU need health certificate from official veterinarian and rabies antibody test.
Additional 3-month waiting period may apply; check with Belgian embassy in advance.
Restricted Breeds
Belgium bans certain fighting breeds like Pit Bull Terriers and Tosa Inus; others may require special permits and muzzle/leash mandates.
Check regional rules as Flanders and Wallonia have varying restrictions on aggressive breeds.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents have different entry rules; check with Belgian authorities.
Exotic pets may require CITES permits and additional health certificates for entry.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Belgium on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Brussels & Bruges): Many 3-5 star hotels welcome pets for €10-25/night, offering dog beds, bowls, and nearby parks. Chains like Ibis and NH Hotels are reliably pet-friendly.
- Coastal Hotels & B&Bs (Ostend & Knokke): Beachfront accommodations often welcome pets at no extra charge, with direct access to dog-friendly beaches. Perfect for seaside holidays with dogs.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo listings frequently allow pets, especially in rural areas. Entire homes offer more freedom for pets to roam and relax.
- Farmstays (Ardennes): Family farms in Wallonia welcome pets and often have resident animals. Ideal for families with children and pets seeking authentic rural experiences.
- Campsites & RV Parks: Nearly all Belgian campsites are pet-friendly, with designated dog areas and nearby trails. Coastal sites in Flanders are especially popular with pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end hotels like Hotel Amigo in Brussels offer VIP pet services including gourmet pet menus, grooming, and walking services for discerning travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Ardennes Hiking Trails
Belgium's Ardennes forests are dog heaven with thousands of pet-friendly trails in the High Fens and Semois Valley.
Keep dogs leashed near wildlife and check trail rules at nature reserve entrances.
Beaches & Coast
Many Flemish beaches like Ostend and De Panne have designated dog swimming areas and off-leash zones.
Coastal promenades offer pet-friendly sections; check local signage for seasonal restrictions.
Cities & Parks
Brussels' Cinquantenaire Park and Brussels Park welcome leashed dogs; outdoor cafés commonly allow pets at tables.
Bruges' historic center permits dogs on leash; most outdoor terraces welcome well-behaved pets.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Belgian café culture extends to pets; water bowls outside are standard in cities.
Many Brussels and Antwerp coffee houses allow dogs inside; ask staff before entering with pets.
City Walking Tours
Most outdoor walking tours in Brussels and Ghent welcome leashed dogs at no extra charge.
Historic centers are pet-friendly; avoid indoor museums and churches with pets.
Boat Trips & Canals
Many Belgian canal boats allow dogs in carriers or leashed; fees typically €5-10.
Check with specific operators; some require advance booking for pets during peak seasons.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (SNCB): Small dogs (carrier-sized) travel free; larger dogs need half-price tickets and must be muzzled or in carriers. Dogs allowed in all classes except dining cars.
- Buses & Trams (Urban): Brussels and Antwerp public transport allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs €2.50 with muzzle/leash requirement. Avoid peak commute times.
- Taxis: Ask driver before entering with pets; most accept with advance notice. Bolt and Uber rides may require pet-friendly vehicle selection.
- Rental Cars: Many agencies allow pets with advance notice and cleaning fee (€30-80). Consider SUVs for larger dogs and Ardennes trips.
- Flights to Belgium: Check airline pet policies; Brussels Airlines and Ryanair allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Brussels Airlines, KLM, and Air France accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for €50-100 each way. Larger dogs travel in hold with veterinary health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour emergency clinics in Brussels (Clinique Vétérinaire des Grands Prés) and Antwerp provide urgent care.
Keep EHIC/travel insurance covering pet emergencies; vet costs range €50-200 for consultations.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet stores like JMT and Maxi Zoo chains across Belgium stock food, medicine, and pet accessories.
Belgian pharmacies carry basic pet medications; bring prescriptions for specialized drugs.
Grooming & Day Care
Major cities offer pet grooming salons and daycare for €20-50 per session or day.
Book ahead in tourist areas during peak seasons; many hotels recommend local services.
Pet-Sitting Services
Rover and local services operate in Belgium for pet-sitting during day trips or overnight stays.
Hotels may also offer pet-sitting; ask concierge for trusted local services.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in urban areas, public parks, and protected nature zones. Ardennes trails may allow off-leash if under voice control away from wildlife.
- Muzzle Requirements: Certain breeds or large dogs require muzzles on public transport in Brussels and Flanders. Carry a muzzle even if not always enforced.
- Waste Disposal: Poop bags and disposal bins are ubiquitous; failure to clean up results in fines (€50-500). Always carry waste bags on walks.
- Beach & Water Rules: Check coastal signage for dog-allowed sections; some beaches ban pets during peak summer hours (10am-6pm). Respect swimmers' space.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets welcome at outdoor tables; ask before bringing indoors. Dogs should remain quiet and seated on floor, not chairs or tables.
- Nature Reserves: Some trails restrict dogs during bird nesting season (April-July). Always leash pets near wildlife and stay on marked paths.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Belgium
Belgium for Families
Belgium is a family paradise with safe cities, interactive museums, coastal adventures, and welcoming culture. From chocolate factories to medieval castles, kids are engaged and parents relaxed. Public facilities cater to families with stroller access, changing rooms, and children's menus everywhere.
Top Family Attractions
Atomium & Mini-Europe (Brussels)
Iconic atom-shaped structure with panoramic views and miniature landmarks of Europe next door.
Tickets €16-20 adults, €10-13 kids; interactive exhibits and models delight all ages.
Sea Life Blankenberge
Underwater aquarium with sharks, penguins, and touch pools on the Belgian coast.
Tickets €20-25 adults, €15 kids; combine with beach day for full family outing.
Plopsaland De Panne
Theme park with rides based on Belgian TV characters, roller coasters, and shows.
Family tickets available; suitable for kids 3-12 with indoor areas for rainy days.
Gravensteen Castle (Ghent)
Medieval fortress with torture museum, audio tours, and castle walls kids love to explore.
Tickets €12 adults, €7 kids; interactive history brings the past to life.
Choco-Story Brussels
Chocolate museum with tastings, demonstrations, and history of Belgian cocoa.
Tickets €10-12 adults, €7 kids; hands-on workshops for budding chocolatiers.
Bellewaerde Park (Ypres)
Theme park with animal park, roller coasters, and water rides in Flanders.
Family-friendly activities with safety gear provided; suitable for kids 4+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Belgium on Viator. From chocolate tours to coastal adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Brussels & Bruges): Hotels like Novotel and NH Collection offer family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for €100-180/night. Amenities include cribs, high chairs, and kids' play areas.
- Coastal Family Resorts (Ostend): Beach resorts with childcare, kids' clubs, and family suites. Properties like Thermae Palace cater to families with entertainment programs.
- Farm Holidays (Ardennes): Rural farms across Wallonia welcome families with animal interactions, fresh produce, and outdoor play. Prices €50-100/night with breakfast included.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering rentals ideal for families with kitchens and washing machines. Space for kids to play and flexibility for meal times.
- Youth Hostels: Budget-friendly family rooms in hostels like those in Brussels and Ghent for €60-90/night. Simple but clean with kitchen access.
- Castle Hotels: Stay in converted castles like Château de la Hulpe for fairytale family experience. Kids love medieval architecture and surrounding gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Brussels with Kids
Atomium, Mini-Europe, Comic Strip Museum, and Bois de la Cambre park picnics.
Manneken Pis visits and waffle tastings make Brussels magical for children.
Flanders with Kids
Bruges canal boat tours, Plopsaland theme park, Bellewaerde animal adventures, and coastal beaches.
Child-friendly bike rides and chocolate factories keep families entertained.
Antwerp with Kids
Zoo with exotic animals, MAS museum playground, chocolate museum, and Meir shopping street.
Harbor boat trips and park play areas with urban wildlife spotting.
Coast Region (Ostend & De Panne)
Sea Life aquarium, beach tram rides, sandcastle building, and kite festivals.
Easy coastal paths suitable for young children with scenic picnic spots.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 6 travel free; ages 6-11 get 50% discount with parent. Family compartments available on SNCB trains with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Brussels and Bruges offer family day passes (2 adults + kids) for €13-17. Trams and metros are stroller-accessible.
- Car Rentals: Book child seats (€5-10/day) in advance; required by law for kids under 135cm. SUVs offer space for family gear.
- Stroller-Friendly: Belgian cities are highly stroller-accessible with ramps, elevators, and smooth pavements. Most attractions provide stroller parking.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Nearly all restaurants offer children's portions with frites, pasta, or meatballs for €5-10. High chairs and coloring books commonly provided.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Traditional estaminets welcome families with outdoor play areas and casual atmosphere. Brussels' Grand Place has diverse food stalls.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Delhaize and Carrefour stock baby food, diapers, and organic options. Markets offer fresh produce for apartment cooking.
- Snacks & Treats: Belgian waffle stands and chocolate shops offer treats; perfect for keeping kids energized between meals.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in shopping centers, museums, and train stations with changing tables and nursing areas.
- Pharmacies (Apotheek): Stock baby formula, diapers, and children's medications. Staff speak English and assist with product recommendations.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels in cities arrange English-speaking babysitters for €15-20/hour. Book through concierge or local services online.
- Medical Care: Pediatric clinics in all major cities; emergency care at hospitals with pediatric departments. EHIC covers EU citizens.
♿ Accessibility in Belgium
Accessible Travel
Belgium leads in accessibility with modern infrastructure, wheelchair-friendly transport, and inclusive attractions. Cities prioritize universal access, and tourism boards provide detailed accessibility information for planning barrier-free trips.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: SNCB trains offer wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps. Book assistance 24 hours ahead; staff help with boarding at all stations.
- City Transport: Brussels' metro and trams are wheelchair-accessible with elevators and low-floor vehicles. Audio announcements aid visually impaired travelers.
- Taxis: Accessible taxis with wheelchair ramps available in cities; book via phone or apps like SNCB. Standard taxis accommodate folding wheelchairs.
- Airports: Brussels and Ostend airports provide full accessibility with assistance services, accessible toilets, and priority boarding for passengers with disabilities.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Atomium and Brussels museums offer wheelchair access, tactile exhibits, and audio guides. Elevators and ramps throughout.
- Historic Sites: Bruges canals have accessible boat tours; Ghent's old town largely accessible though cobblestones may challenge wheelchairs.
- Nature & Parks: Coastal parks provide accessible paths and viewpoints; parks in Brussels fully wheelchair-friendly with accessible play areas.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-June) and summer (July-August) for mild weather and festivals; autumn for fewer crowds.
Shoulder seasons (May, Sept) offer comfortable temperatures, though rain is common year-round.
Budget Tips
Family attractions often offer combo tickets; Brussels Card includes transport and museum discounts.
Picnics in parks and self-catering apartments save money while accommodating picky eaters.
Language
Dutch (Flanders), French (Wallonia), and German in east; English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Learn basic phrases; Belgians appreciate effort and are patient with children and visitors.
Packing Essentials
Layers for variable weather, comfortable shoes for cobblestones, and rain gear year-round.
Pet owners: bring favorite food (in case unavailable), leash, muzzle, waste bags, and vet records.
Useful Apps
SNCB app for trains, Google Maps for navigation, and Rover for pet care services.
STIB and De Lijn apps provide real-time public transport updates.
Health & Safety
Belgium is very safe; tap water drinkable everywhere. Pharmacies (Apotheek) provide medical advice.
Emergency: dial 112 for police, fire, or medical. EHIC covers EU citizens for healthcare.