Fireworks can be fun for humans… and absolute chaos for dogs.
If your pup turns into a trembling burrito every time the sky goes boom, here’s a clever Switzerland-style workaround: head to Zurich Airport.
Airports are generally a no-fireworks zone (safety rules), and the buildings/hotels are built to be well insulated, which means a real-life “quiet mode” for sensitive dog ears.
Switzerland and much of Europe are full of fireworks on the 31st of December, and finding a quiet place of refuge is an absolute must for many dog owners!
Why Zurich Airport can feel calmer on New Year’s Eve
A fireworks-free area
Because fireworks and airports don’t mix, the airport area is typically much quieter than residential neighborhoods on big firework nights like New Year’s and 1st Aug (Swiss National Day)
Quiet buildings + thick walls
Airport hotels are designed for comfort despite planes—meaning soundproofing and insulation are often better than in a typical apartment or older hotel.
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The Circle hotels: the comfy option 🛏️🐶
Dog owners have been using Zurich Airport as a calmer base around loud dates like New Year’s Eve and August 1st—and the hotels at The Circle have leaned into it with dog-friendly stays.
You’ll find dog-welcoming hotels right by the airport (at The Circle). Some New Year’s offers are marketed for staying calm on loud nights—think: quiet rooms, easy access, and a less “explosive” environment overall.
(Always check the specific hotel’s pet policies before booking: number of dogs per room, size/weight limits, and fees can vary.)
Airport rest zones: the flexible option 😴🚿
If you don’t want an overnight stay, Zurich Airport also offers short-stay options (such as dayrooms/restrooms and showers). This can be handy if you just want a calm break for a few hours.
This isn’t only a Switzerland thing: it happens elsewhere in Europe too 🇪🇺
Zurich isn’t the only place people do this. Across Europe, many dog owners use airports and airport hotels as a fireworks-avoidance strategy—because the “no fireworks near aviation” logic applies widely, and airport buildings are often built with stronger sound insulation.
So if you’re not near Zurich: checking your nearest major airport’s hotel area can be a surprisingly solid Plan B.
