Solo

Going solo doesn’t necessarily mean traveling without company, especially when your dog is part of the journey. Some destinations make it easy to mix walks, cultural discoveries, and moments of relaxation with your animal. Others primarily offer wide open spaces, beaches, or scenic routes where a four-legged companion really matters. Here are seven ideas for destinations where traveling solo with your dog can be particularly enjoyable, according to journalist Becca Blond, who has roamed the world with her dog Poppy.

European cities where dogs easily fit in

Barcelona presents a compelling option for those who want to combine an urban stay with seaside excursions. With Antoni Gaudí’s architecture, lively neighborhoods, and the Ramblas, the Catalan capital offers numerous walking opportunities. Dogs can especially enjoy Playa de Llevant, one of the city’s beaches accessible to them. From June to September, AquaPark Canino also offers two pools, outdoor spaces, and a restaurant that welcomes owners accompanied by their animal.

Another European destination renowned for its dog-friendly hospitality is Italy, which lets you enjoy a blend of big cities, villages, and rural landscapes. In Rome as in Tuscany, dogs can accompany their owners on many outings. Vineyards, in particular, offer a chance to discover another facet of the country. Near Florence, the Il Borro estate, owned by the Ferragamo family, is among the addresses tested and approved by the expert.

Further north, Berlin stands out for its especially accommodating stance toward animals. Dogs can use public transport and are welcomed in many bars. Tempelhofer Feld, a former airport runway turned into a vast public space, also gives them more freedom. A feature that can greatly simplify organizing a stay when traveling alone and constantly balancing the needs of one’s animal.

Beaches, wide spaces, and iconic routes to change the air

For nature lovers, Alaska offers a dramatically different backdrop. From Anchorage, renting a car allows you to head north and reach the Denali National Park area. However, note that dogs are not allowed on most park trails, primarily to limit disturbances to wildlife. The nearby Denali State Park is more permissive and allows you to traverse the Curry Ridge Trail with your pet.

A change of scene awaits with Aruba in the Caribbean. The island welcomes many travelers accompanied by their dog, and several beaches are accessible to animals. In San Nicolas, Baby Beach can be suitable for dogs wary of water thanks to its shallow, calm waters. The island also offers a vibrant artistic scene through its numerous mural paintings.

In the United States, California’s Highway 1 is particularly well suited for a road trip. Between the cliffs of Big Sur, the Pacific landscapes, and stops such as Carmel or Santa Cruz, this route offers plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the scenery with your dog.

Finally, New Orleans presents a more urban alternative. The city features dog-friendly bars in the French Quarter and cafes with terraces where you can settle in with your animal. A way to discover the music and ambiance of the city without having to leave your companion at the hotel.

Before leaving, it is best to plan the trip carefully: food, water, a leash, medical documents, and a first-aid kit should be part of the essentials. With an itinerary tailored to you and stops checked in advance, traveling solo with your dog becomes, more than anything, another way to discover the world!