Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most relaxed and dog-friendly cities. With its parks, canals, cozy cafés, and open-minded culture, it’s a wonderful place to explore with your furry friend, as long as you follow the local rules.

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🌤 Overview

• Dogs are welcome in most parks, cafés, and public areas across the city.

• They can travel on public transport (trams, metro, ferries) with a leash and sometimes a muzzle.

• Many hotels and restaurants are pet-friendly, but always confirm before visiting.

• The city has specific off-leash zones known as “losloopgebieden”.

• Picking up after your dog is mandatory; fines can reach over €140.

 

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🦮 Rules and Regulations

• Dogs must be on a leash in public areas, except in clearly marked off-leash zones.

• Muzzles are required only for dogs considered dangerous or as instructed by authorities.

• Public transport: dogs are allowed on trams, buses, and metro lines with a leash; small dogs in carriers travel free.

• Ferries (across the IJ River) are free for pedestrians and dogs; leashes are required.

• Fines: failing to clean up waste or letting your dog off-leash in restricted areas can cost between €90 and €150.

• Identification: all dogs must have a microchip and wear a tag with the owner’s details.

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🌳 Best Parks and Walks

• Vondelpark: Amsterdam’s most famous park, with wide open lawns and off-leash areas.

• Westerpark: Trendy and social, surrounded by dog-friendly cafés.

• Oosterpark: Calm and spacious, perfect for relaxed walks.

• Rembrandtpark: Less crowded, great for large dogs to stretch their legs.

• Amsterdamse Bos: A massive urban forest south of the city with lakes, trails, and multiple dog zones.

 

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🚆 Getting Around with Your Dog

• Trams & Metro: dogs are welcome on a leash; small dogs in carriers travel for free.

• Buses: allowed with a leash.

• Ferries: free and commonly used by locals with dogs; a fun experience for pets!

• Bikes: only recommended for small dogs using a secure bike basket or trailer.

 

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🍽️ Dog-Friendly Cafés and Restaurants

Amsterdam is packed with cafés and restaurants that love dogs:

• Café de Ceuvel (Amsterdam-Noord): sustainable, waterside spot with outdoor seating for pets.

• Foodhallen: indoor food market with pet-friendly zones.

• Brouwerij ’t IJ: windmill brewery with a spacious terrace and water bowls for dogs.

• Pllek: riverside restaurant with a beach-like vibe where dogs can lounge in the sand.

Most outdoor terraces welcome dogs; always check before entering indoor spaces.

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🗓 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

 

Day 1
Morning: Walk through the canals of Jordaan and enjoy breakfast at a terrace café.
Afternoon: Relax at Vondelpark and meet local dogs.
Evening: Dinner at Foodhallen.

 

Day 2
Morning: Take the free ferry to Amsterdam-Noord and stop by Café de Ceuvel.
Afternoon: Explore the canals on a dog-friendly boat tour.
Evening: Have a relaxed dinner at Brouwerij ’t IJ next to the windmill.

 

Day 3
Morning: Long walk through Amsterdamse Bos.
Afternoon: Stroll and shop in De Pijp or the Nine Streets.
Evening: Watch the sunset by the river at Pllek.

 

⚖️ Fines and Practical Advice

• Not picking up waste: a fine of about €140.

• Off-leash outside designated areas: a fine of around €90.

• Use a short leash in busy zones.

• Always carry poop bags, water, and snacks.

• Use a muzzle if your dog is reactive or large.

• Respect park signs and public cleanliness rules.

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🧭 Extra Tips

• Carry your dog’s passport, vaccination record, and microchip details at all times.

• Download apps like BringFido or PetFriendly to find hotels and restaurants.

• Avoid rush hour on public transport.

• Never leave your dog tied outside shops.

• Enjoy the calm, open spirit of Amsterdam, your dog will love it too!