When it comes to travel, the world is becoming increasingly friendly for our furry companions. Whether it’s dedicated cafes, luxurious hotels, or spacious parks, some cities go the extra mile for our whiskered wanderers.
If you’re a cat lover planning your next adventure, here are 10 cat-friendly cities that will make your kitty purr with joy.
1. Tokyo, Japan: Purr-fectly Playful
Tokyo isn’t just the land of anime and technology; it’s a paradise for cat enthusiasts. The city’s cat cafes, such as the famous Calico Cat Café, allow visitors to unwind with a cup of coffee while surrounded by playful felines. But it doesn’t stop there—Tokyo is home to the charming “Cat Island” of Tashirojima, a short boat ride away, where cats outnumber humans. (ref)
For those who prefer city vibes, the city has cat-themed merchandise stores like “Nyankodo” and unique cat sanctuaries. With the growing number of pet-friendly accommodations, Tokyo is quickly cementing itself as the cat capital of the world.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Cats on the Canals
Famous for its canals and cycling culture, Amsterdam is also a haven for cat lovers. The city’s De Poezenboot, or “The Cat Boat,” is a floating cat sanctuary that’s been providing a safe space for stray and abandoned cats since the 1960s. Visitors are welcome to tour the boat and interact with the feline residents. (ref)
Amsterdam also boasts several cat cafes, including the cozy Kattencafé Kopjes. The city’s progressive pet laws and abundance of parks make it an ideal place for traveling with pets.
3. San Francisco, USA: Fur-tastic in the Fog
San Francisco’s tech scene might be cutting-edge, but it’s the city’s love for cats that sets it apart. KitTea, the city’s first cat café, provides a sanctuary for both felines and visitors seeking a calming cup of tea. Furthermore, the annual CatCon festival in nearby Pasadena is a must-visit for fans of feline culture.
San Francisco has multiple cat-friendly hotels and an array of picturesque parks. And if that’s not enough, visit the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, where your kitty can join you for a stroll on the cat-friendly walkways.
4. Paris, France: Purr-is
The City of Light shines even brighter for cat lovers. Paris is home to the quirky Le Café des Chats, where guests can dine surrounded by adopted rescue cats. Beyond this, the city’s bistros often have outdoor seating where well-behaved kitties are welcome.
The classic Parisian attitude extends to pets, with several luxury hotels offering five-star services for four-legged guests. Take a scenic stroll along the Seine with your kitty, or head to one of Paris’s picturesque gardens for some feline-friendly outdoor time.
5. Singapore: Catwalk Capital
Singapore stands out for its strict cleanliness standards and cat-friendly amenities. Cat cafes like The Cat Café and Meomi Cat Café offer cozy settings where both humans and felines can relax. Furthermore, Singapore’s Cat Welfare Society has been instrumental in promoting responsible pet ownership.
Travelers can find plenty of pet-friendly accommodations and nature parks with designated pet areas, making it easy to explore the city-state with your feline friend.
6. Istanbul, Turkey: City of Cats
Known as the “City of Cats,” Istanbul is a place where cats are revered and protected. Stray cats roam freely through neighborhoods, and many locals and shopkeepers provide food, water, and shelter for them. The heartwarming documentary “Kedi” beautifully captures the city’s cat culture.
Visitors can explore the ancient Hagia Sophia and see the resident cats basking in the sun. Many restaurants and cafes offer outdoor seating where well-behaved kitties are welcome.
7. Rome, Italy: Roman Meow-numents
Rome’s ancient streets are home to thousands of cats, many of which live in the Roman ruins of Largo di Torre Argentina. This archaeological site doubles as a sanctuary for stray cats, with volunteers caring for the resident felines.
Several Roman hotels and vacation rentals are pet-friendly, offering comforts for your kitty after a day of exploring the city’s cat-themed attractions, like the Romeow Cat Bistro, where cats mingle freely.
8. Portland, USA: Paws-itively Portland
Portland, known for its quirky charm, is also a cat lover’s dream. Purringtons Cat Lounge provides a safe space for adoptable cats while offering guests a cozy café environment.
Portland’s penchant for sustainability extends to its pet-friendly parks and accommodations. In addition, the city’s annual Furball gala shows just how much Portland loves its feline friends.
9. Berlin, Germany: Berlin Meow-ments
Berlin is not only a hub for culture and creativity but also a city where cats thrive. Pee Pees Katzencafé is a local favorite, and several animal welfare organizations actively work to promote feline adoption. The city’s liberal attitude ensures numerous cat-friendly apartments and hotels.
Take a stroll with your kitty along the East Side Gallery, or relax in one of Berlin’s many green spaces, where leashed cats are welcome.
10. Melbourne, Australia: Meow-lbourne Magic
Melbourne’s pet culture has a distinct feline flair. Cat cafés like Cat Café Melbourne offer a peaceful escape for cat lovers, while the city’s numerous parks and pet-friendly accommodations provide plenty of opportunities for kitty exploration.
Melbourne’s local community often hosts pop-up events, fostering a vibrant, inclusive pet culture. Whether it’s cat yoga classes or pet markets, this city provides endless entertainment for humans and felines alike.
Whether you’re seeking bustling urban adventures or serene canal-side strolls, these 10 cities offer a range of cat-friendly experiences that will leave both you and your furry friend purring with delight. So pack your bags, grab your kitty’s leash, and set off on a pawsome adventure to one of these feline-friendly destinations!
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.