Italy’s best pet-friendly properties

A cave hotel in the town that was used as the backdrop to Wonder Woman, traditional Trulli houses and tropical walled gardens. On paper, these properties might not sound like the obvious place to stay with a pet but, according to international travellers, these are the best pet-friendly properties in Italy.*

Pietra Pesara in Locorotondo, Apulia

Located in the south of Italy, Locorotondo is known for its collection of traditional Trulli houses. These dry-stone huts are topped by grey brick cones, often with white symbols painted on them, and it’s possible to spend the night in one. Pietra Pesara is a Trulli house and the most highly rated pet-friendly accommodation in Italy, partly thanks to the surprisingly spacious bedrooms that give your pet room to run around, and the free parking options.

L’Affaccio Dell’Abate in Matera, Basilicata

The unusual cave-buildings of Matera’s Old Town have provided the backdrop for dozens of films, and the opportunity to see your pet walking through the streets of Themyscira or Ancient Rome is not to be passed up. Luckily, L’Affaccio Dell’Abate is right next to this cinematic backdrop. Inside you’ll find high-ceilings and pale stone create a sense of space; while thoughtful touches like fresh flowers and breakfast on the balcony make it feel like a home-away-from-home.

Gli Avi in Casamassima, Apulia

An agricultural commune less than 30-minutes drive from the coast; Casamassima is perfect for travellers looking to experience all the culinary delights of southern Italy. Eat your fill of freshly caught oysters, orecchiette pasta and the doughnut-like zeppola, while your pet looks lovingly and longingly on, before retiring to Gli Avi. These self-catered apartments have individual balconies, overlooking the Old Town, and are ideal for enjoying a glass of the local vintage in the sun – pets will appreciate the sunspot too.

Casa Mayka in Catania, Sicily

Highly-strung pets and their owners will appreciate the calm atmosphere at Casa Mayka. Despite being centrally-located in one of Sicily’s busiest cities, this self-catered apartment is very peaceful and offers all the comforts of home. A screened, leafy terrace makes having breakfast outside a soothing, restorative way to the start the day. Meanwhile inside, the artfully arranged living areas make Casa Mayka a pleasure to return to after a day of sightseeing.

B&B Il Giardino di Villa Anna in Trecase, Campania

Life at B&B Il Giardino di Villa Anna is carefully arranged to help travellers make the most of Italy’s glorious warm weather. Start your day by tucking into a sweet Italian breakfast in the walled leafy garden, then head over to the the nearby Vesuvio National Park to explore the volcanic landscape. End the day by making use of the B&B’s outdoor grill and admiring the villa views over the Bay of Naples while your pets play in the garden.

L’Acero in Baveno, Piedmont

The canary-yellow villas at L’Acero come with access to a big garden, complete with views of Lake Maggiore and plenty of chew toys for playful pups. There are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants in the nearby town of Baveno and colourful décor makes the villas a fun place to relax. Your pets will be equally happy burning off excess energy in the garden or napping after a long walk in the communal lounge.

Casa Contini in Matera, Basilicata

Finding pet-friendly accommodation inside a UNESCO World Heritage Site can be a challenge. Thankfully, Italians adore their pets and the second Matera property on this list is one of the town’s historical cave buildings. Casa Contini is a well-lit and extremely comfortable apartment, that manages to feel spacious, despite the rocky ceilings, so you and your pet can feel snug in harmony. Every modern convenience is accounted for and waking up in a luxury cave is a truly unique experience.

Al Castello in Gravedona, Lombardy

The sweet Italian breakfast at Al Castello is fit for the Queen of Hearts herself and will set you and your pet up for a marvellous day exploring. Soft custard-filled buns are decorated with sliced strawberries which jostle for space alongside homemade fruit pies, piping-hot cappuccinos and organic pet food for hungry pups. The rest of this rustic accommodation is just as aesthetically pleasing as the breakfast; with sloping wooden ceilings, hand-embroidered bed linen and artful lighting

La terrazza sulle vigne B&B in Corte Franca, Lombardy

Everything about this luxurious B&B is carefully thought out; from the layout of the rooms, designed to maximise the natural light, to the fresh flowers and homemade jams at breakfast. Guests at La terrazza sulle vigne B&B praise the elegant décor, the hospitality, and the opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside on foot, by bike, or even via boat. And pets quite like it all too.

*These properties were the most highly rated by Booking.com customers as ‘pet friendly’ in Italy.