Farm Holidays with Pets in Italy

Info and Description

Holidays with pets in Italy: pet-friendly accommodations, rules, and how to choose.

Short definition

A pet-friendly accommodation is a tourist accommodation—a farmhouse, B&B, vacation home, villa, residence, or apartment—that allows pets to accompany guests, with defined rules to ensure the animals' well-being and respect for other travelers. In 2024, over 10 million Italian families own at least one pet (37.7% of the total), and more than 8 million Italians choose to bring their pets on vacation every summer. The demand for pet-friendly accommodations is constantly growing: globally, travel with pets has increased by 92% in the last three years.

(Sources: ISTAT – Pets in Italy, Year 2024; Coldiretti/Ixè; Airbnb, 2025)

In short

Pet-friendly accommodations on Agriturismo.net are characterised by:

• acceptance of dogs, cats and other pets accompanying guests

• large outdoor spaces for walking and playing (gardens, fields, woods, paths)

• coexistence rules defined to respect other guests

• available types: farmhouses, B&Bs, holiday homes, villas, residences and apartments

Costs and seasonality:

• pet supplement: between €5 and €25 per night per animal (variable by size)

• pet-friendly facilities apply an average 20–30% markup on the basic rate

• peak seasons for stays with pets: Spring and Autumn

Explanation

Pets in Italy: a growing phenomenon

According to ISTAT 2024 data, over 10 million Italian families—37.7% of the total—have at least one pet, with an estimated total of approximately 25.5 million animals in Italian homes. Dogs and cats are the most common pets: 22.1% of families have at least one dog and 17.4% have at least one cat. According to ASSALCO, in 2024, the total number of dogs and cats exceeded 20 million. The Eurispes 2025 Report records further growth: 40.5% of Italians report owning a pet, up from 37.3% in 2024. The bond with one's pets is directly reflected in travel choices: according to an Ipsos survey, 79% of Italian owners consider their pet part of the family, a percentage that rises to 85% among Millennials.

(Sources: ISTAT – Pets in Italy, Year 2024; ASSALCO 2024; Eurispes, Italy Report 2025; Ipsos)

Pet-friendly tourism in Italy: data and trends

Pet tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments of the Italian and global hospitality industry. Worldwide, pet travel has increased by 92% over the past three years. Every summer, approximately 8 million Italians travel with their pets; nearly one in two Italians (49%) chooses to bring their pet on vacation. Of those who would like to travel with their pet, 14% decline because their chosen accommodation does not allow pets: a significant share of demand not yet met by accommodation options. Italy ranks first in Europe for pet-friendly accommodations, and Rome is among the five most booked European cities by pet-friendly travelers in the first quarter of 2025.

(Sources: Coldiretti/Ixè; Sara Assicurazioni Observatory; Quattrozampeinfiera 2024 Observatory)

Farm holidays: the preferred choice for travelling with pets

Among accommodation types, agritourism remains the top choice for those traveling with pets: over 60% of Italy's approximately 26,000 agritourisms accept pets, thanks to the availability of open spaces, surrounding nature, and a rural setting naturally suited to pet needs. The large green spaces, trails through fields and woods, and the distance from urban centers make agritourism the ideal solution for dogs of any size. B&Bs, vacation homes, villas, and apartments in rural or semi-hilly settings complete an increasingly diverse offering, with properties offering dedicated services such as fenced areas, dog showers, and pet welcome kits.

(Sources: Coldiretti/Ixè)

Market data and trends (Agriturismo.net)

Analyzing the offer of pet-friendly accommodations on Agriturismo.net:

• 62% of the properties on the portal accept pets

• 68% of the farmhouses on the portal are pet-friendly

• 38% of pet-friendly facilities also offer catering services

(Sources: Based on data from Agriturismo.net)

Practical part

How to choose a pet-friendly property

• Check pet policies before booking: not all pet-friendly properties accept pets of all sizes. Some only allow small dogs, others have restrictions on the number of pets per stay.

• Ask about outdoor spaces: green areas, gardens, or accessible paths are essential for dogs. Check if there are fences or open spaces in the immediate vicinity.

• Check the pet fee: Pet-friendly properties often charge an additional fee per night or per stay. Some include it in the rate, others only disclose it at the time of booking.

• Inform the facility in advance: communicating the presence and size of your pet is essential to receive the most suitable accommodation and verify actual availability

• Evaluate the type of accommodation: farmhouses in rural settings are ideal for medium and large sized dogs; B&Bs and holiday homes may be more suitable for small pets or cats.

• Consider proximity to beaches, parks and nature trails: Many pet-friendly properties are located near dog-friendly beaches, nature parks or pet-accessible hiking trails.

• Respect the property's rules: each property has its own rules of coexistence. Respecting them guarantees a peaceful stay for all guests, both humans and animals.

• Ask the owner: Have any questions? Before booking, write directly to the property by entering your request without obligation using the "Ask the owner" button on the page of the property you are interested in.

FAQ

What types of accommodations accept pets on Agriturismo.net?

On Agriturismo.net, you can find pet-friendly farmhouses, B&Bs, vacation homes, villas, residences, and apartments. Farmhouses are the most suitable accommodation for medium and large dogs, thanks to their spacious outdoor spaces. Vacation homes and B&Bs offer more flexibility for stays in seaside or mountain locations.

How many Italians take their pets on holiday?

Approximately 8 million Italians take their pets on vacation every summer. Nearly one in two Italians (49%) chooses to bring their pets along on their travels. Of those who would like to travel, 14% decline because their chosen accommodation does not allow pets.

(Sources: Coldiretti/Ixè; Sara Assicurazioni Observatory)

What is the average supplement for pets in accommodation facilities?

Pet-friendly accommodations typically charge a supplement of between €5 and €25 per night per pet, depending on their size. Owners of non-hotel accommodations typically add a 20–30% surcharge on the base rate for stays with pets to cover additional cleaning and maintenance costs.

(Sources: Lodgify, 2025)

What is the best time for a holiday with pets?

Spring and autumn are the best seasons: mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and enjoyable outdoor activities for dogs and owners. Summer is still very popular, especially in accommodations with access to dog-friendly beaches or in mountain and hill areas where the heat is more bearable.

Is Italy a pet-friendly country?

Yes, Italy ranks first in Europe for pet-friendly accommodations, with 39% of properties accepting pets, higher than the global average of 27%. Rome is among the five most booked European cities by travelers with pets in the first quarter of 2025.

(Sources: Airbnb, 2025)

Are there dog-friendly beaches in Italy?

Yes, the number of dog-friendly beaches (dog beaches) is constantly growing throughout Italy, offering amenities such as play areas, dedicated showers, direct access to the sea, and veterinary care. Some pet-friendly facilities are located in the immediate vicinity of these beaches and are the ideal solution for a seaside vacation with your dog.

Can I take my cat on holiday to a farmhouse?

Yes, many accommodations also accept cats, although the selection is slightly more limited than that for dogs. It's always advisable to explicitly state this when booking and check whether the accommodation offers safe environments for felines (fenced gardens, protected balconies, suitable indoor areas).

Do I need to bring documents for my pet?

When traveling in Italy with dogs and cats, you must have an updated health record and the legally required microchip. For stays in accommodations with other animals (such as agritourism), it's recommended that you have up-to-date vaccinations, especially rabies. For travel abroad or with restricted breeds, check the specific regulations.

Are pet-friendly properties suitable for families with children?

Yes, pet-friendly farms and rural accommodations are particularly suitable for families with children and pets. The presence of open spaces, the surrounding nature, and the opportunity for children to socialize with animals make these accommodations an ideal choice for families. Some also offer activities such as an educational farm or horseback riding stable.

What happens if my pet causes damage to the property?

Most pet-friendly properties require a security deposit or include a specific clause in their rules for any damage caused by animals. It's always a good idea to read the rules before your stay and contact the property directly if you encounter any problems.

Sources

Pets in Italy, Year 2024 – ISTAT

How many pets are there in Italy? – ASSALCO 2024

Italy Report 2025 – Eurispes (from Vet33)

Pet Travel: A Growing Trend on Airbnb, Up 90% in Three Years – Airbnb, 2025

On vacation with pets, 8 million Italians travel with them – Coldiretti/Ixè (from Farmacista33)

Agritourism Businesses in Italy, Year 2024 – ISTAT

Are you also an animal lover and would never part with your trusty four-legged friend?

If you really don't want to entrust your lovingly cared-for year-round pets to relatives or friends, even for short periods, don't worry: on Agriturismo.net you can find pet-friendly B&Bs, holiday homes, villas and farmhouses , connecting you with establishments that share your passion for four-legged friends!

All you need to do is follow a few simple rules to ensure your peace of mind and respect for other guests, so you can enjoy the company of your dog or cat without any worries and in complete relaxation.

Get ready for some fun-filled adventures in the countryside, letting your little ones sniff out the environment and get to know it, breathing in the fresh air with you and playing with it nonstop.

Continue to take care of your four-legged friends and let them participate in your break time, organize your pet-friendly farm holiday with us!

If you haven't yet adopted a puppy, due to lack of space and time, but still want to enjoy the company of animals, perhaps together with your little ones, no problem: here is our selection of farms with educational farms or farms with riding stables !