There’s nothing like a city break with your best friend—even better if they’re four-legged and furry!
Travelling with your pup in tow is our favourite way to explore a new place, and Australia’s cultural capital is a city unlike any other. From street art to multi-cultural cuisine, there’s no shortage of opportunities for an adventure when travelling with your pet in Melbourne. With our years of experience in dog transport and local knowledge in dog-friendly travel spots in Melbourne, we’ve covered some of the top local spots to check out with your travel companion.
Pet Friendly Accommodation in Melbourne
Once you’ve booked your international or domestic pet flights to Melbourne, you’ll want to find a place to stay with your pooch. There are ample accommodation options here that welcome dogs, from luxury hotels towering over the city to quiet Airbnbs in the ‘burbs. Some spots may have few-to-no restrictions, while others may not be so keen on canines in common areas. Be sure to read the fine print so you know exactly what the pet policies are.
You can take a look at popular accommodation sites like Booking.com for pet-friendly accommodation in Melbourne showcasing apartments, and hotels all across the city. For more glamping or camping style accommodation in Melbourne or even in wider Victoria you can also look at available rooms on Visit Victoria’s pet friendly accommodation page.
Scenic Dog Friendly Walks in Melbourne
The Tan
With so many beautiful parks around the city, you’ll be just as excited to strap on your dog’s lead and go for a walk as they are! South of the Yarra River, a stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, or ‘The Tan’, as the locals call it, feels like stepping into a fairytale. With pathways through wide-open grassy areas, along trickling waterways, and through enchanting forest-like corners, this is the perfect spot for an on-leash morning or afternoon walk.
Northside steps
Just north of the city, both Flagstaff Gardens and Carlton Gardens also make for charming walks with plenty of on-leash exploration potential. For a lead-free runaround, head a little further north to Fitzroy’s Edinburgh Gardens. Nearly half of the park’s 24 hectares are designated off-leash, so your pup can wander freely.
Dog-Friendly Melbourne Beaches
Melbourne locals will tell you all about the city’s “four-seasons-in-a-day” weather, but when the sun shines, there’s no better place to be than the beach. Grab your towel, swimmers, doggy bags, and don’t forget to slip, slop, slap before you hit the sand.
Brighton Beach
The Brighton Bathing Boxes are on most Melbourne itineraries, and the good news is that your dog is welcome on the beach, though they must stay within a fenced stretch of shoreline.
St Kilda Beach
Further up the coast towards the CBD, St Kilda West Dog Beach is another dog-friendly beach (as the name suggests). Your furry friend can also explore some of the surrounding beaches on-leash, but it’s crucial to double-check the restrictions. Some beaches enforce different rules depending on the season to protect local wildlife. While you’re in St Kilda, be sure to check out the newly-opened pier. Your dog can walk the length of the pier with you and enjoy the fresh sea air on their lead.
Altona Dog Beach
To the north, Altona Dog Beach is a popular spot for zoomies in the sand. With shallow waters, off-leash freedom, soft sand and great scenic views, Altona beach is a locally-loved area to unwind by the shore. To avoid the busiest times, try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Dog-Friendly Morning Markets in Melbourne
Slow things down and see what’s in store at some of Melbourne’s best dog-friendly markets.
A weekend in St Kilda
St Kilda has two great options: The Veg Out Farmers’ Market on the first Saturday of each month, and the Esplanade Market on Sundays. Start your weekend by stocking up on fresh produce and adding some doggy treats to your shopping list. On Sunday, stroll through the stalls to browse artwork, hand-crafted trinkets, and artisanal treats. If you’re feeling lucky, enter your pooch in the Puppy of the Day contest—who knows, this could be the start of their internet fame!
Abbotsford Farmers’ Market
If you’d prefer a more relaxed experience over living in the limelight, head north of the Yarra River to the Abbotsford Farmers’ Market, held on the second Saturday of each month. Set within the gardens of the historic convent, you and your pal can meander around the grounds, enjoying a scenic escape without leaving the city.
Melbourne’s Dog-Friendly Food Scene
Melbourne is home to a growing number of dog-friendly restaurants where your pet can join you as long as they’re leashed and well-behaved.
Grazeland
Self-described as a “playground for foodies,” Grazeland is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. This massive food market showcases the best of Melbourne’s diverse food scene, and your four-legged companion can tag along for the fun.
North Melbourne Food Hotspots
Welcome to Thornbury is a food hotspot with a rotating lineup of food trucks and outdoor seating where your dog can chill while you indulge. Welcome to Brunswick is another trendy dog-friendly on Melbourne’s north side.
Mornington Peninsula Roadtrip-Worthy Eats
If you’re heading out of the city, down the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, Miss Drew’s Bakery and Dog Cafe is just as delightful as it sounds. It’s a paradise for dogs, offering puppuccinos to pair with pup cakes, treats, and other dog-friendly delicacies. The menu may not be as appetising to humans, so grab a bite from a nearby coffee shop before you arrive at Miss Drew’s for a truly unique dining experience!
Travel With Confidence in Melbourne with Jetpets’ Dog Transport Services
Plan your trip to Melbourne with confidence by working with the CEIV accredited team at Jetpets. Our team knows everything there is to know about overseas and interstate dog transport services, as well as travelling with your dog all around Australia, so contact us today to get the ball rolling on your next adventure!
