🐾 Traveling to Netherlands with Pets
Pet-Friendly Netherlands
The Netherlands is exceptionally welcoming to pets, especially dogs. From canal paths to coastal beaches, pets are integrated into daily life. Most hotels, restaurants, and public transport accommodate well-behaved animals, making the Netherlands 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 Dutch embassy in advance.
Restricted Breeds
No federal ban on breeds, but some municipalities (Amsterdam, Rotterdam) restrict certain dogs.
Breeds like Pit Bull Terriers may require special permits and muzzle/leash mandates.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents have different entry rules; check with Dutch 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 the Netherlands 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 (Amsterdam & Rotterdam): 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.
- Canal Houses & Cottages (Utrecht & Haarlem): Historic accommodations often welcome pets at no extra charge, with direct access to walking paths. Perfect for urban holidays with dogs in scenic surroundings.
- 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 (Agritourism): Family farms in Gelderland and Friesland welcome pets and often have resident animals. Ideal for families with children and pets seeking authentic rural experiences.
- Campsites & RV Parks: Nearly all Dutch campsites are pet-friendly, with designated dog areas and nearby trails. Coastal sites in Zeeland are especially popular with pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end hotels like Pulitzer Amsterdam offer VIP pet services including gourmet pet menus, grooming, and walking services for discerning travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Cycling & Walking Paths
The Netherlands' extensive network of pet-friendly paths in the Veluwe and dunes.
Keep dogs leashed near wildlife and check path rules at national park entrances.
Beaches & Dunes
Many North Sea beaches have designated dog swimming areas and off-leash zones.
Zandvoort and Scheveningen offer pet-friendly sections; check local signage for restrictions.
Cities & Parks
Amsterdam's Vondelpark and Rotterdam's Kralingse Plas welcome leashed dogs; outdoor cafés commonly allow pets at tables.
Utrecht's old town permits dogs on leash; most outdoor terraces welcome well-behaved pets.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Dutch café culture extends to pets; water bowls outside are standard in cities.
Many Amsterdam coffee houses allow dogs inside; ask staff before entering with pets.
City Walking Tours
Most outdoor walking tours in Amsterdam and Rotterdam welcome leashed dogs at no extra charge.
Historic centers are pet-friendly; avoid indoor museums and churches with pets.
Boat Tours & Ferries
Many Dutch ferries and 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 (NS): 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 first-class quiet zones.
- Buses & Trams (Urban): Amsterdam and Rotterdam public transport allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs €2-4 with muzzle/leash requirement. Avoid peak commute times.
- Taxis: Ask driver before entering with pets; most accept with advance notice. Uber and Bolt 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 countryside trips.
- Flights to Netherlands: Check airline pet policies; KLM and Transavia 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: KLM, Lufthansa, and British Airways 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 Amsterdam (Dierenkliniek Amsterdam) and Rotterdam provide urgent care.
Keep EHIC/travel insurance covering pet emergencies; vet costs range €50-200 for consultations.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pets Place and Dierdomein chains across the Netherlands stock food, medicine, and pet accessories.
Dutch 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 Pawshake operate in the Netherlands 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. Coastal dunes may allow off-leash if under voice control away from wildlife.
- Muzzle Requirements: Amsterdam and some municipalities require muzzles on certain breeds or large dogs on public transport. 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 beach 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.
- National Parks: Some trails restrict dogs during bird nesting season (April-July). Always leash pets near wildlife and stay on marked paths.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Netherlands
Netherlands for Families
The Netherlands is a family paradise with safe cities, interactive museums, coastal adventures, and welcoming culture. From windmill villages to theme parks, kids are engaged and parents relaxed. Public facilities cater to families with stroller access, changing rooms, and children's menus everywhere.
Top Family Attractions
Efteling Theme Park (Kaatsheuvel)
Fairytale theme park with rides, shows, and magical forests for all ages.
Tickets €40-45 adults, €35-40 kids; open year-round with seasonal events and food stalls.
Artis Zoo (Amsterdam)
Historic zoo with animals, planetarium, and interactive exhibits in city center.
Tickets €25 adults, €20 kids; combine with aquarium for full-day family outing.
Madurodam (The Hague)
Miniature park showcasing Dutch landmarks with interactive elements kids love.
Tickets €20 adults, €15 kids; educational fun with scale models and activities.
NEMO Science Museum (Amsterdam)
Interactive science center with hands-on experiments and rooftop playground.
Perfect for rainy days; tickets €17.50 adults, free for kids under 4.
Keukenhof Gardens (Lisse)
World-famous tulip gardens with themed displays and outdoor playground.
Tickets €20 adults, €9 kids; enchanting spring experience with boat tours.
Bike Parks & Adventure (Veluwe)
Family cycling trails, treetop walks, and zip lines across Dutch forests.
Family-friendly activities with bike rentals provided; suitable for kids 4+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across the Netherlands on Viator. From canal cruises to tulip field tours, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Amsterdam & Rotterdam): Hotels like Novotel and Holiday Inn offer family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for €120-200/night. Amenities include cribs, high chairs, and kids' play areas.
- Holiday Parks (Zeeland & Gelderland): All-inclusive parks with childcare, kids' clubs, and family bungalows. Properties like Center Parcs cater exclusively to families with entertainment programs.
- Farm Holidays (Boerderijvakanties): Rural farms across the Netherlands welcome families with animal interactions, fresh produce, and outdoor play. Prices €60-120/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 (Stayokay): Budget-friendly family rooms in hostels like those in Amsterdam and Utrecht for €70-100/night. Simple but clean with kitchen access.
- Windmill Cottages: Stay in historic windmills like those in Zaanse Schans for unique family experience. Kids love the 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
Amsterdam with Kids
NEMO museum, Artis Zoo, Vondelpark playgrounds, and canal boat rides.
Bike tours with child seats and ice cream at traditional parlors make Amsterdam magical for children.
Rotterdam with Kids
Maritime Museum, Miniworld Rotterdam, playgrounds, and harbor boat tours.
Child-friendly architecture tours and Maas River activities keep families entertained.
The Hague with Kids
Madurodam miniature park, Scheveningen beach, and Mauritshuis museum.
Beach playgrounds and easy cycling paths with coastal wildlife and family picnics.
Coastal Region (Zeeland)
Delta Works engineering marvel, sandy beaches, and water parks.
Boat rides and easy hiking trails suitable for young children with scenic picnic spots.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 4 travel free; ages 4-11 get 50% discount with parent. Family compartments available on NS trains with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Amsterdam and Rotterdam offer family day passes (2 adults + kids) for €15-20. Trams and metros are stroller-accessible.
- Car Rentals: Book child seats (€5-10/day) in advance; required by law for kids under 135cm. Family cars offer space for gear.
- Stroller-Friendly: Dutch 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 Kindermenu with pancakes, pasta, or fries for €6-12. High chairs and coloring books commonly provided.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Traditional eetcafés welcome families with outdoor play areas and casual atmosphere. Amsterdam's Albert Cuyp Market has diverse food stalls.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Albert Heijn and Jumbo stock baby food, diapers, and organic options. Markets offer fresh produce for apartment cooking.
- Snacks & Treats: Dutch bakeries offer stroopwafels, poffertjes, and chocolate; 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 €15-25/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 Netherlands
Accessible Travel
The Netherlands leads in accessibility with flat terrain, 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: NS trains offer wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps. Book assistance 24 hours ahead; staff help with boarding at all stations.
- City Transport: Amsterdam's trams and buses are wheelchair-accessible with low-floor vehicles and audio announcements. Elevators in metro stations.
- Taxis: Accessible taxis with wheelchair ramps available in cities; book via phone or apps like 9292. Standard taxis accommodate folding wheelchairs.
- Airports: Amsterdam Schiphol and Rotterdam airports provide full accessibility with assistance services, accessible toilets, and priority boarding for passengers with disabilities.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Parks: NEMO and Vondelpark offer wheelchair access, tactile exhibits, and audio guides. Elevators and ramps throughout.
- Historic Sites: Zaanse Schans has accessible paths; Amsterdam's canals largely accessible though some bridges may challenge wheelchairs.
- Nature & Beaches: National parks provide accessible trails and viewpoints; Zandvoort beach fully wheelchair-friendly with beach wheelchairs.
- 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-May) for tulips and mild weather; summer for beaches and festivals.
Shoulder seasons (March, Sept-Oct) offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and comfortable cycling weather.
Budget Tips
Family attractions often offer combo tickets; I amsterdam City Card includes transport and museum discounts.
Picnics in parks and self-catering apartments save money while accommodating picky eaters.
Language
Dutch is official; English widely spoken in tourist areas and with younger generations.
Learn basic phrases; Dutch people appreciate effort and are patient with children and visitors.
Packing Essentials
Layers for changeable weather, comfortable shoes for walking and biking, and rain gear year-round.
Pet owners: bring favorite food (in case unavailable), leash, muzzle, waste bags, and vet records.
Useful Apps
NS app for trains, 9292 for public transport, and Rover for pet care services.
Google Maps and Fiets app provide real-time navigation and bike route updates.
Health & Safety
The Netherlands 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.