Camping with a dog in Italy

Table of contents:

• 1. Camping with a dog in Italy - what makes Italy perfect for it

• 2. Finding dog-friendly pitches in Italy with VanSite

  • 2.1. Map & filter

  • 2.2. Reviews and chat function

  • 2.3. Camping in Italy with a dog right by the sea

• 3. 10 pitches for camping with your four-legged friend in Italy

  • 3.1. Abruzzo: Camp Oliveto

  • 3.2. Molise: Di Vito Oliveti & Vigneti

  • 3.3. Calabria: Krimisa Sosta Camper

  • 3.4. Veneto: Garten in Italien

  • 3.5. Trentino: Camping Le Marocche

  • 3.6. Tuscany: Agri-birrificio Agrisosta

  • 3.7. Tuscany: Camping with Teti and Tosca

  • 3.8. Marche: Azienda Agraria Bartolacci

  • 3.9. Piedmont: Il Passatempo di Enrica al Castello di Vettignè

  • 3.10. Abruzzo: Tenuta Re.Sa.Be.

• 4. 5 campsites in Italy for campers with dogs

  • 4.1. Veneto: Marina di Venezia Camping Village

  • 4.2. Lake Garda: Camping La Quercia

  • 4.3. Tuscany: Camping Village Le Capanne

  • 4.4. Dolomites: Camping Vidor

  • 4.5. Trentino: Camping Al Sole

• 5. Entry requirements, safety and rules for a holiday in Italy with your dog

  • 5.1. Everything about entry requirements

  • 5.2. Leash and muzzle

  • 5.3. What applies on the beach

• 6. Travelling with a dog in a motorhome or caravan

  • 6.1. Tips for the journey

  • 6.2. Packing list

• 7. FAQs - Camping with a dog

  • 7.1. What is the most beautiful campsite in Italy?

  • 7.2. Is camping in Italy expensive?

  • 7.3. What are the most dog-friendly regions of Italy?

Why Italy is perfect for camping with a dog

Italy is made for camping with a dog: mild temperatures, plenty of nature and hosts who dogs not just tolerate but often genuinely welcome. In addition to dog-friendly campsites, there are also many dog beaches in Italy that are a real highlight: at designated sections your four-legged friends run free and splash around, and in the early morning or evening many stretches of coast invite relaxed walks.

What else does a successful camping holiday with a dog in Italy need? The right pitch. Whether right by the sea, in the mountains or in a secluded rural spot: with VanSite you find dog-friendly  pitches with shade and water access right in the middle of nature.

In this post we show you how to find such spots quickly. We also introduce you to 15 selected spots and campsites in Italy and give you all the important tips on getting there, equipment and the rules for your holiday with your four-legged friend in Italy.

How to find dog-friendly pitches on VanSite

Using filters & map

With the free VanSite app or via the website, you find dog-friendly options for camping across Italy in just a few clicks.

Just enter your desired destination and the dates, use the map or list view and set a suitable selection of filters, for example "Dogs allowed" under "Equipment". You can also sort results by price or rating.

Read reviews & contact hosts

Use the many reviews from VanSite campers who were there before you. That quickly gives you a feel for how dog-friendly the spot really is, including hints about shaded spots, water points or whether the grounds are fenced.

And if you still have questions, for example about leash rules on site or whether there are dog beaches nearby, you can easily contact the host directly after booking. The built-in chat with translation function makes sure you can communicate without any friction.

Staying right by the sea with your dog

A pitch near the sea has its own special charm: in the morning you take the dog for a walk on the beach, in the evening you listen to the waves and in between you spend time with the whole family.

On VanSite you can use the filters "Dogs allowed" and "Sea" to search specifically and see matching spots on the map. That way you find hosts where your dog is welcome and camping by the sea is easy. Or take a look right here:

Top 10 VanSite pitches for camping with a dog in Italy - Dolce Vita in the heart of nature

At VanSite you'll find spots that suit you and your dog - close to nature, away from the crowds. Whether you care about facilities like electricity, WiFi or a playground  for  kids or prefer to be self-sufficient out in nature: here you can camp camp just the way you like.

In the spot descriptions you'll also find information about the surroundings - with useful details on distances to beautiful coves, small towns or cultural attractions like museums. That way you'll already know what you can experience together during your stay.

We've put together 10 particularly beautiful and dog-friendly VanSite spots in Italy for you.

Camp Oliveto - Tortoreto (Abruzzo)

Tucked between olive groves and hills, this host offers plenty of peace and a short drive to the sea. A morning walk with the dog on the beach, then an afternoon trip inland - the area is easy to explore without driving far.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Sandy beach Tortoreto Lido - approx. 5 min drive

• Old town Tortoreto - approx. 10 min

• Gran Sasso National Park - approx. 40 min

To Camping Oliveto

DI VITO OLIVETI & VIGNETI - Campomarino (Molise)

A pitch on a small family winery with plenty of space, shade under trees and the coast just nearby. While the dog dozes in the grass, you can taste your way through the olive oil and wine.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Sandy beach Lido di Campomarino - approx. 5 min drive

• Old town Campomarino - approx. 10 min

• Port town Termoli - approx. 20 min

To the winery camping with four-legged friend

Krimisa Sosta Camper - Ciro Marina (Calabria)

A small pitch right by the sea, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The spot is fenced and very peaceful - well suited for dogs that love being outdoors. The nearest beach is just a short walk away, and you can also reach the centre with restaurants and shops quickly.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Beach Punta Alice - approx. 800 m

• Centre of Ciro Marina - approx. 5 min drive

• Museo Civico Archeologico Ciro - approx. 10 min drive

To the spot surrounded by olive groves

Garten in Italien - Guarda (Veneto)

Here you take a holiday in the garden surrounded by fields, trees and the Po embankment. For shorter trips into the surroundings the hosts are happy to give tips, whether cycling paths, riverside or cultural sights.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Po cycling path - directly adjacent

• River section Po di Volano - approx. 5 min drive

• Old town Ferrara - approx. 30 min drive

To the garden holiday with four-legged friend

Camping Le Marocche - Cavedine (Trentino)

This spot sits quietly on the edge of a small wine village, between lake and rock. On one side the Lago di Cavedine, on the other the mountains, and the Lake Garda is not far either (approx. 20 min drive). If you're travelling with a dog, you can set off straight away: small paths, wide views and a lake within reach.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Lago di Cavedine - approx. 10 min on foot

• Climbing area Marocche - approx. 5 min drive

• Trento - approx. 30 min drive

To Camping Le Marroche

Agri-birrificio Agrisosta - Bibbiena (Tuscany)

This spot is on a small farm with a brewery, out in the green, with views over fields and hills. If you like, try the house-brewed beer, walk with the dog through the meadows or follow one of the forest trails that start right at the site.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Brewery & farm shop on site

• Casentino National Park - approx. 20 min drive

• Bibbiena (old town & shopping) - approx. 10 min drive

To the spot in Tuscany

Campen mit Teti und Tosca - Castelfranco Piandisco (Tuscany)

A small spot near Florence on the edge of the Seven Bridges Trail. Between old trees and wide views over the landscape, you can breathe easy here. The warm hosts are happy to give tips for day trips in the area.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Cliffs of Valdarno - approx. 10 min drive

• Train station Figline Valdarno - approx. 15 min drive

• Florence - approx. 45 min drive

To the spot on the Seven Bridges Trail

Azienda Agraria Bartolacci - San Costanzo (Marche)

This spot sits above the coast, between old vines and olive trees. Campers here have the views of the landscape and the quiet all to themselves - out on small paths with the dog, and at noon maybe a slice of fresh pizza from the farm's own oven.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Beach at Fano - approx. 25 min drive

• Castle of Mondavio - approx. 15 min drive

• Cycling route Monte dei Rossi-Montemaggiore - approx. 10 min drive

To the spot in San Costanzo

Il Passatempo di Enrica al Castello di Vettigne - Santhia (Piedmont)

Here you camp an hour west of Milan in a medieval village with generous lawn areas for van and tent. Enjoy breakfast with a historic atmosphere and try the seasonal produce from the garden.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Castello di Vettigne - right on site

• Santhia (shopping & market) - approx. 10 min drive

• Nature reserve Baraggia di Rovasenda - approx. 25 min drive

To the spot in Santhia

Tenuta Re.Sa.Be. - Pianella (Abruzzo)

This spot sits quietly on a large estate, surrounded by meadows and fields. Stop by the equestrian facility, enjoy the views or take a dip in the pool in the afternoon.

Distances to nearby highlights:

• Adriatic beach at Montesilvano - approx. 30 min drive

• Apennines / Gran Sasso National Park - approx. 35 min drive

• Centre of Pianella - approx. 5 min drive

To the spot on the estate

5 dog-friendly campsites

Image by Jimmy Conover on Unsplash |

Whether family, larger group or longer stay in the Summer Holidays: Sometimes campsites with extra facilities and activities fit better with your own travel plans.

The reasons for choosing this option are varied: some specifically look for dog showers, childcare or activities like dog training schools. Others prefer the option of staying in a camping accommodation like a mobile home.

So if you prefer a traditional campsite for your camping holiday, we have selected five campsites for you that are particularly dog-friendly.

Marina di Venezia Camping Village - Cavallino Treporti (Veneto)

This large campsite right on the Adriatic Sea (Cavallino Treporti) has its own beach area for dogs, dog showers and opportunities for walks between the sea and pine forest. The site is one of the campsites with a particularly extensive range of dog facilities in Veneto.

Distance from Frankfurt am Main: approx. 900 km

Camping La Quercia - Lazise (Lake Garda)

Directly on the lake shore, with plenty of shade on green grounds. From the campsite to Verona it's only a 20-25 minute drive. Dogs are welcome, there are designated areas, making it a good base for a break with your four-legged friend at Lake Garda.

Distance from Frankfurt am Main: approx. 750 km

Camping Village Le Capanne - Bibbona (Tuscany)

The campsite offers fenced areas for dogs, dog showers and plenty of shade. Walking paths start directly at the site, in the surrounding area there are several options for eating out. The location between the coast and the hilly landscape is well suited for quiet outings with a dog.

Distance from Frankfurt am Main: approx. 1,100 km

Camping Vidor - Family & Wellness Resort - Pozza di Fassa (Dolomites)

This campsite is in the Dolomites, with direct access to hiking trails and plenty of space for active dogs. There are designated dog areas, off-leash runs and a quiet surroundings. Those who want to camp with their dog in the mountains will find a suitable base here.

Distance from Frankfurt am Main: approx. 820 km

Camping Al Sole - Lake Ledro (Trentino)

This site is directly on Lake Ledro and also has many shaded areas. Dogs are allowed at the lake at designated spots, in the surrounding area there are hiking trails and walks.

Distance from Frankfurt am Main: approx. 700 km

Dogs in Italy: Entry, rules & safety

Entry requirements: EU pet passport, microchip & vaccinations

For your camping holiday with a dog in Italy you don't need much paperwork: EU pet passport, microchip to ISO standard and a valid rabies vaccination - that's about it. The important thing is that the vaccination is at least 21 days old, so plan ahead. For puppies: don't travel until all necessary vaccinations are done.

Anyone coming from a non-EU country needs a EU health certificate. A quick check with the vet, documents packed - and off you go towards dolce vita with your four-legged friend.

Leash & muzzle requirements by region - what applies where?

In Italy the rule for camping with a dog is: leash on, muzzle with you. That's the basic principle. The leash should be no longer than 1.5 m, the muzzle doesn't need to be worn at all times but should be within reach.

On public transport, in town centres or at events, the muzzle may be mandatory. Exact rules are set by each municipality - it's best to check briefly with your host in advance what applies at your destination.

Camping with a dog in Italy - dog beach: what should you know?

Italy is considered dog-friendly, but at the beach there are regional differences. Especially in the high season (July to August), dogs are often only allowed at the water early in the morning or in the evening.

Outside of season things are more relaxed, and in many places you'll now find designated beaches with shaded spots, fresh water and plenty of space. Signs on site often help.

Tip: Look out on site for signs reading "spiaggia per cani". They show you where officially designated dog beaches start and where your dog is welcome.

Travelling with a dog in a motorhome or caravan

Travel tips: breaks, water and safe restraint in the vehicle

Long drives to Italy can be tiring for dogs. A few simple tricks make the journey in a motorhome or caravan relaxed anyway: plan regular breaks so your dog can relieve itself, stretch its legs and drink.

Make sure there is adequate restraint in the vehicle, e.g. with a harness, transport crate or a secured retreat. Fresh water should always be within easy reach, as should a favourite toy or a blanket. That way the holiday starts in a relaxed way right from the journey.

Packing list and gear for campers with dogs

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Good preparation makes all the difference. With the right gear your camping holiday with a dog in Italy not just stress-free but also safe and comfortable. These things definitely belong in your luggage:

• Lead - ideally a short one, plus a long line for more freedom of movement

• Muzzle - required in some regions and on public transport

• EU pet passport - including valid rabies vaccination

• Travel first-aid kit - with tick remover, disinfectant and a first-aid set

• Food and snacks - ideally the usual food from home

• Water and food bowls - ideally collapsible for travel

• Resting spot or blanket - provides security and comfort, even on unfamiliar ground

• Poo bags - for clean walks

• Toys - to unwind after long drives or active days

• Dog blanket - keeps the dog warm in cool weather (a cooling blanket can help in strong sun)

That way you're well prepared for camping with your furry friend.

In our blog post Camping packing list for all campers you'll find more practical tips so nothing important gets forgotten on the road.

 FAQs about camping with dogs in Italy

What is the nicest campsite in Italy?

What the "nicest" campsite for camping in Italy depends entirely on what you're looking for: sea, mountains or a lakeside spot? On VanSite you can sort by reviews and quickly find spots that other campers with dogs rated particularly highly.

Is camping in Italy expensive?

Camping in Italy can vary a lot in cost, depending on where you are, when you travel and how much comfort you want. At large sites you pay significantly more in high season, often with an extra charge for the dog.

With nature-based pitches like those on VanSite you start from around 13 euros per night and are often right in the middle of nature.

Where is Italy most dog-friendly?

Plenty of nature and good walking and hiking routes can be found in, for example, South Tyrol, Tuscany or at Lake Garda. On the Adriatic coast there are great options too, like the Pluto beach in Bibione with its own dog area, shaded spots and direct access to the water.

On VanSite you can filter specifically for such regions in Italy and find the right paradise for you and your dog.

Note: The content of this blog post has been prepared with the greatest care. However, information can change over time. We accept no liability for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of the information provided.