Barcelona is a truly dog-friendly city. Not only does its mild climate invite you to explore its streets and squares in the open air, but dogs are also allowed on certain forms of public transport, provided you follow the relevant conditions. You will also find plenty of restaurants where you will both receive a warm welcome. And that is before we even mention all the activities you can enjoy together during your getaway. Here are just a few examples:

Barcelona takes giving dogs the freedom to run around very seriously. That is why many parks have dedicated areas for dogs, as well as numerous shared-use areas for people and their pets, where dogs can also be let off the lead at certain times of day. If we had to choose one, we would recommend Park Güell. You can visit much of the park and its regulated area with your pet, provided they are kept on a lead. However, dogs are not allowed in areas such as Plaça de la Natura, the Hypostyle Room, the Dragon Stairway, the Austria Gardens or the Laundry Room Portico. Another place well worth visiting is Parc del Guinardó, which combines woodland with beautifully maintained gardens dotted with fountains, and has the added advantage of rarely being too crowded.

Remember this name: Llevant Beach. Why? Because during the bathing season, it has a designated area for dogs. Covering around 1,500 square metres, the area is open to dogs that have been microchipped. We are not sure who will enjoy it more: your dog, running around, rolling in the sand and splashing in the water, or you, watching them have such a wonderful time. The area also has a drinking fountain and shower for dogs. Outside the bathing season, dogs are allowed on the city’s other beaches, subject to the dates and restrictions established by the local authorities.

More and more of Barcelona’s museums and cultural attractions are welcoming dogs. One example is Poble Espanyol. This open-air attraction, famous for bringing together buildings representing traditional architecture from across Spain, allows pets to enter provided they are kept on a lead.

And it is not just a question of visiting buildings with pet-friendly outdoor areas. How would you feel if we told you that you and your dog could explore Casa Batlló together? From the entrance hall to the rooftop, taking in iconic spaces such as the loft and the main floor along the way. You simply need to meet two requirements: staff must approve your pet’s admission, and you must agree to supervise them at all times.

Whether aboard a sailing boat or catamaran, enjoying an onboard activity such as a tapas workshop or snorkelling, or simply watching the sunset with a gin and tonic in hand, there is always something special about admiring Barcelona’s skyline from the sea. Several companies offer trips departing from the city’s port and allow dogs on board. Check their conditions before booking, as these may vary depending on the company, vessel and chosen activity.

Knowing where you are going to stay is just as important as deciding what to do with your pet — if not more so. Finding a pet-friendly hotel is becoming easier and easier. Finding a great pet-friendly hotel that looks after your comfort, understands that your companion also deserves high-quality food and pays attention to every last detail is a little more challenging. At Sercotel Ámister Art Hotel, Sercotel Caspe, Sercotel Arrahona Sabadell, Sercotel Ciutat de Montcada, Sercotel Cornellà Barcelona, Sercotel Barcelona El Prat, Sercotel Kalma Sitges, Sercotel Porta Barcelona and Sercotel Sant Boi, we take care of all these things. We could say that you will feel right at home, but chances are you will feel even better.